Squad Assessments: England Win Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
During a commanding showing, England wrapped up another victory versus their opponents, with a number of squad members delivering notable performances on the pitch.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make in the first half until forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge against Qazim Laci demonstrated his anticipation. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined against the opposition's biggest threat in Hoxha. Played through the middle initially then shifted out wide once Saka came on. 7
John Stones Moved forward with the ball at his feet, a familiar role before. Sometimes was too casual in possession with the approach discontinued at half-time. Six
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be a replacement for his teammate at the back instead of alongside him. A careless ball in the second half came close to the first goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly One more composed performance by the 20-year-old after his debut versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever flick over the opposing backline. His position looks secure already. Seven
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit sloppy on the ball though his dangerous corners posed a danger. A useful pace-controller available to the coach to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Cautioned after a reckless challenge. Six
The midfielder Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks created chances. Was given room to move down the left flank but was in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Given a deserved rest on the hour mark. 6
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward role out wide and contributed with dirty work. Showed flashes of quality and mishit an attempt wide. Substituted towards the end by a teammate, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his strike excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate hanging back, he was forced to provide width out wide yet his deliveries into the box varied in quality. Taken off with 15 to go. Six
Harry Kane The decisive figure netting two more goals at international level. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish and his next a superb header after peeling away off his defender. At 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Had a presentable chance when set up from a teammate however Strakosha made the save. Rashford produced a bigger effect when substituted. 5/10
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined effectively with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert but his corner led to the breakthrough, 6
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction and provided the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6