Player Assessments: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
Throughout a commanding performance, the English national team wrapped up a further victory versus Albania, with multiple squad members delivering notable displays on the pitch.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Not a save required during the opening 45 until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. A sliding intervention on Qazim Laci highlighted excellent anticipation. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Examined against Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Played through the middle to begin with then shifted to the flank once a teammate was introduced. 7
John Stones Pushed forward when in possession, as he has done previously. At times seemed hesitant on the ball with the approach was shelved by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, as always, could serve as a replacement to Stones at the back instead of his partner. A careless ball later in the match came close to the first goal for the visitors. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further assured display from the 20-year-old after his debut versus Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a clever flick behind the Albania defence. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Somewhat sloppy in possession but his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A useful tempo-setter for the manager to call upon against defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless foul. 6/10
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed license to drift in left midfield only to be offside as the pass came in front of goal. Given a deserved break on the hour mark. 6
Jude Bellingham Operated in a high position down the right while also put in defensive duties. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but scuffed a shot high. Substituted in the closing stages by Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The first a trademark close-range tap-in while the second an excellent finish with his head having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity next summer with him leading the line. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by the midfielder but the keeper kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact when substituted. 5
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, Six
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece led to the opener, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Lively when brought on and set up the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six