Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
In a commanding showing, England wrapped up another triumph versus their opponents, featuring multiple squad members turning in standout displays on the pitch.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform during the opening 45 but then called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined by the opposition's biggest threat through their forward. Started more centrally to begin with then shifted to the flank after a teammate entered the fray. 7
John Stones Advanced forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for in the past. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the tactic was shelved after the break. 6
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be a replacement for Stones in defense instead of paired with him. A loose ball after the break came close to a goal from Albania. 6/10
The young full-back One more composed showing from the youngster after his initial appearance versus another side. Saka was unable to take the most of a gorgeous touch over the Albania defence. The role is firmly his already. 7/10
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. Slightly sloppy on the ball though his inswinging corners posed a danger. A useful game manager available to the coach to have versus defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six
Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed license to roam on the left yet found himself offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned break around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Played in a forward spot out wide and put in dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but dragged an effort high. Substituted towards the end for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s best chance of the first half, his strike excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. As a teammate staying deep, he was forced to provide width down the right side but his crosses from wide areas varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10
The captain The difference-maker with his two more strikes in an England shirt. The opener a classic poacher’s finish and the second a superb headed goal following a clever run from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better and the side stand a real opportunity in future competitions when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger an impact after coming on. 5/10
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up well with the striker in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner provided the opener, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and set up Kane’s second with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six