Player Evaluations: England Victory Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

Throughout a impressive showing, the English national team clinched one more triumph versus Albania, with a number of players delivering memorable performances on the pitch.

First-choice Eleven

The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform before the break but then tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding intervention on Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent anticipation. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested against the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Started more centrally initially later drifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. 7/10

John Stones Moved forward when in possession, as he has done in the past. At times was too casual in possession and the approach discontinued at half-time. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, could serve as an alternative to Stones at the back instead of paired with him. A loose pass in the second half nearly resulted in an opener for the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly A further composed showing from the youngster following his initial appearance against another side. A teammate failed to make full advantage of an exquisite flick over the Albania defence. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. Slightly loose in possession though his whipped corners posed a danger. A handy game manager for the manager to call upon versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a rash tackle. 6/10

The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Was given freedom to roam in left midfield only to be in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Awarded a well-earned rest on the hour mark. 6

Jude Bellingham Played in a high position down the right while also put in the hard yards. Showed moments of class but dragged a shot high. Replaced late on by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. Seven

The winger Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate holding position, he was forced to provide width out wide but his crosses from wide areas were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. Six

Harry Kane The decisive figure netting two more strikes in an England shirt. The first a classic poacher’s finish while the second a classy finish with his head having drifted away off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. Eight

The attacker Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder yet Strakosha made the save. Rashford had a greater effect after coming on. 5

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Appeared sharp connecting well with the striker in a natural spot, Six
  • Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances although his set-piece provided the opener, Six
  • Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and provided the second goal with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established already, 6/10
  • Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Not enough time to make an impact, 6
Ashley Romero
Ashley Romero

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