Player Evaluations: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a dominant display, England clinched a further victory versus their opponents, featuring multiple players delivering standout displays throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform in the first half before tested from an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Tested against Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Played in a central role to begin with but moved wider after Saka entered the fray. Seven
John Stones Moved up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role in the past. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball with the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be an alternative to Stones in the backline rather than paired with him. A loose distribution later in the match almost led to an opener for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further confident performance by the 20-year-old following his initial appearance against another side. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a clever touch over the Albania defence. His position is firmly his already. Seven
The newcomer His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Slightly loose on the ball though his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager available to the coach to have against sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces from corners and free kicks were dangerous. Was given freedom to move in left midfield only to be in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Granted a merited break after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in a high role down the right and also did plenty of dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but mishit an attempt over. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. 7
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to provide width out wide although his balls into the box were inconsistent. Taken off late in the match. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes in an England shirt. The opener a typical opportunist's goal and his next a classy finish with his head having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, he continues to improve and England have every chance in future competitions with him up top. 8
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact from the left. Had a decent opportunity after being played in by the midfielder however Strakosha denied him. His replacement made much more of effect in his place. 5/10
Replacements
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery led to the first goal, Six
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Lively when brought on assisting the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established at this level, 6/10
- Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to make an impact, Six