Squad Evaluations: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifier

In a commanding display, England wrapped up another triumph versus Albania, with multiple players delivering standout performances on the pitch.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. 6/10

The debutant Challenged by Albania’s main danger in their forward. Started more centrally to begin with later drifted to the flank after a teammate was introduced. 7/10

John Stones Moved forward when in possession, something he's known for in the past. On occasion lacked urgency in possession with the tactic was shelved after the break. 6/10

Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, as always, could serve as an alternative to his teammate at the back as opposed to alongside him. A careless ball after the break almost led to the first goal from the visitors. Six

The young full-back Another assured performance by the 20-year-old following his first cap versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the most of an exquisite touch behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot looks secure already. 7

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Slightly careless in possession though his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A handy tempo-setter available to the coach to utilize against defensive opponents. Booked for a rash challenge. 6/10

The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed room to move down the left flank yet found himself offside as the pass came with a chance to score. Granted a merited break after an hour. 6/10

The star midfielder Played in a high role on the right while also put in defensive duties. Showed flashes of quality but mishit an attempt wide. Substituted late on by Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7

The winger Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot well saved from the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play out wide yet his deliveries from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. Six

The captain The match-winner scoring 77th and 78th strikes for his country. His first a trademark opportunist's goal and his next a classy header after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10

The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact from the left. Had a good opening when set up by the midfielder yet the keeper kept it out. His replacement had a greater an impact when substituted. 5

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the opener, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Lively when brought on assisting Kane’s second with superb cross into the area, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
  • Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6/10
Steven Walker
Steven Walker

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