Player Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
In a dominant performance, England wrapped up a further win against Albania, with several players turning in memorable displays throughout the game.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required in the first half until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker showed excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined by Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Started more centrally early on then shifted to the flank after Saka came on. 7/10
The defender Advanced up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for before. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession with the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is an alternative to Stones in the backline instead of his partner. One wayward pass after the break almost led to the first goal for the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more confident showing by the youngster following his debut versus Serbia. A teammate failed to make the most of an exquisite flick over the opposing backline. The role looks secure already. 7/10
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. A bit sloppy in possession however his dangerous deliveries posed a danger. An effective pace-controller available to the boss to have against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow after a reckless foul. Six
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free kicks caused problems. Had license to roam on the left yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Given a deserved rest on the hour mark. 6
Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward spot out wide and also did plenty of defensive duties. Showed flashes of quality and dragged an effort high. Replaced in the closing stages for a teammate, his competition, after being booked. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his strike smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play on the right but his crosses into the box were hit and miss. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his two more goals at international level. The first a trademark close-range tap-in and his next an excellent header having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better and the side stand a real opportunity next summer when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game from the left. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder however the keeper denied him. His replacement had a greater an impact in his place. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances yet his delivery led to the breakthrough, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively after coming on and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Not enough time to make an impact, Six