Player Ratings: England Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding performance, England wrapped up one more triumph against Albania, featuring multiple squad members turning in standout performances during the match.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding intervention against Qazim Laci highlighted his reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Operated through the middle early on then shifted out wide once Saka was introduced. Seven
John Stones Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, a familiar role before. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play and the approach abandoned at half-time. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, typically, but may be another option to Stones at the back rather than paired with him. A loose ball after the break nearly resulted in the first goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another composed showing from the youngster following his first cap versus Serbia. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of a gorgeous touch behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose at this stage. 7/10
Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat sloppy when playing out however his whipped corners posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter available to the manager to utilize against defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Deliveries from corners and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed room to roam on the left but was offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a deserved break after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in a forward spot down the right and also put in dirty work. Demonstrated moments of class but mishit a shot high. Withdrawn late on by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening of the first half, his strike well saved by Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah hanging back, he was forced to provide width down the right side yet his deliveries from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner with his 77th and 78th goals at international level. His first a classic poacher’s finish and his next a classy headed goal following a clever run from his marker. At 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8
The attacker Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder yet the keeper kept it out. His replacement had a greater effect after coming on. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a natural spot, 6
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece led to the opener, Six
- Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively after coming on and set up Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, Six