Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a impressive performance, the English national team secured another victory against their opponents, featuring a number of squad members delivering standout performances during the match.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save required in the first half before tested by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding tackle on Qazim Laci highlighted sharp reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged against Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Started in a central role to begin with later drifted wider once Saka was introduced. Seven
The defender Moved forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play and the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6
The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, perhaps is an alternative for Stones in defense as opposed to alongside him. A careless pass in the second half nearly resulted in an opener for the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back Another confident performance by the rising star after his first cap against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of an exquisite touch over their defense. His position looks secure at this stage. 7
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. A bit careless when playing out but his dangerous deliveries were a threat. A handy pace-controller available to the coach to utilize against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed tackle. Six
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free kicks created chances. Enjoyed room to move down the left flank but was offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned break after an hour. Six
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced spot out wide and also did plenty of defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality and scuffed a shot high. Replaced late on for a teammate, his competition, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his shot smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate holding position, he had to provide width down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6
The captain The difference-maker with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals at international level. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and the second a classy finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. At 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by the midfielder but the keeper denied him. Rashford had a greater an impact after coming on. 5/10
Substitutes
- Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively and linked up effectively with the striker in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the opener, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Energetic when brought on and provided the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established at this level, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six