Player Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding display, England wrapped up one more victory versus their opponents, with multiple squad members turning in memorable performances throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save to make before the break until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. A sliding intervention against Qazim Laci highlighted sharp game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Tested by Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Started through the middle to begin with but moved wider after a teammate entered the fray. Seven
John Stones Pushed into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. At times was too casual in possession with the approach was shelved after the break. 6
The tall defender Always dangerous from dead balls, per usual, perhaps is another option for Stones at the back instead of his partner. One wayward ball later in the match nearly resulted in an opener from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further confident showing by the rising star after his debut versus another side. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a gorgeous backheel behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot looks secure already. 7/10
The newcomer His maiden beginning for his country. A bit sloppy when playing out however his dangerous set-pieces posed a danger. A useful pace-controller available to the coach to utilize against defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless foul. 6
The midfielder Deliveries from corners and free-kicks were dangerous. Had room to drift in left midfield only to be offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned substitution on the hour mark. Six
The star midfielder Operated in an advanced position on the right and put in dirty work. Demonstrated flashes of quality and mishit an effort over. Substituted late on by Rogers, his competition, after being booked. 7
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate hanging back, he had to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas were inconsistent. Replaced late in the match. Six
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals at international level. The first a classic opportunist's goal while the second a classy headed goal having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game on the left flank. Had a good opening after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper made the save. Rashford produced a bigger effect after coming on. 5
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner led to the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Active after coming on assisting the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the far post, Seven
- Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6
- Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10