Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
During a impressive performance, England clinched a further win against their opponents, featuring a number of squad members turning in standout performances during the match.
Starting Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save to make during the opening 45 but then tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated through the middle early on later drifted out wide once Saka was introduced. 7
The defender Advanced up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role before. At times lacked urgency when carrying play and the tactic was shelved at half-time. 6
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, per usual, perhaps is another option to Stones in the backline rather than his partner. A careless pass later in the match nearly resulted in the first goal for the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another composed showing by the rising star following his first cap versus Serbia. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. Seven
The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. Somewhat loose on the ball however his inswinging corners caused problems. A handy game manager available to the boss to have versus teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. Six
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free kicks caused problems. Was given room to move in left midfield only to be offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Operated in an advanced spot out wide while also contributed with the hard yards. Showed glimpses of brilliance but mishit an effort high. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to provide width out wide but his crosses from wide areas varied in quality. Substituted late in the match. Six
The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th finishes in an England shirt. The first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second a classy finish with his head following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact from the left. Had a good opening when set up by Bellingham however the keeper kept it out. His replacement made much more of effect when substituted. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece created the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active after coming on and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, 7/10
- Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to influence the game, 6