Player Assessments: The Three Lions Win Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
In a dominant showing, England secured one more triumph against Albania, featuring multiple players delivering memorable displays during the match.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Not a save to make in the first half but then called into action by an opponent's bent shot. His sliding challenge against Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested against Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Operated through the middle early on later drifted to the flank after a teammate entered the fray. 7
John Stones Moved up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role in the past. At times seemed hesitant on the ball with the experiment discontinued at half-time. Six
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, perhaps is a replacement for Stones at the back as opposed to alongside him. A loose pass later in the match almost led to a goal from the visitors. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another confident showing from the rising star following his debut against another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of an exquisite backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start with the national team. A bit careless in possession but his whipped set-pieces were a threat. A useful tempo-setter for the coach to have versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. 6
The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed room to roam on the left but was offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Awarded a merited break around the 60-minute point. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced position out wide and also did plenty of dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and mishit an attempt high. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Was presented with the team's best chance in the opening period, his strike well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate staying deep, he had to stretch the play on the right although his balls from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. 6/10
The captain The match-winner scoring 77th and 78th finishes at international level. The opener a classic close-range tap-in while the second a classy headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in from a teammate but Strakosha made the save. His replacement produced a bigger an impact after coming on. Five
Replacements
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright and linked up well with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active when brought on assisting the second goal with superb cross to the far post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established already, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10