Squad Assessments: England Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
In a impressive performance, England secured another victory against Albania, featuring several players turning in notable displays during the match.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Had little to do required during the opening 45 until forced to intervene by an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker highlighted his reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Examined by the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Started more centrally initially but moved wider after a teammate came on. 7
The defender Moved forward on the ball, something he's known for in the past. On occasion lacked urgency in possession with the approach was shelved at half-time. Six
Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, could serve as another option for Stones in defense instead of his partner. One wayward distribution later in the match almost led to a goal from Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly A further confident showing by the youngster following his debut versus another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of an exquisite flick behind the opposing backline. His position is his to lose so soon. 7/10
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. A bit loose in possession though his whipped corners posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter available to the manager to have against sides that sit back. Shown a yellow after a reckless foul. Six
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Had license to roam on the left yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced position down the right while also contributed with defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance but mishit an effort wide. Withdrawn in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his effort excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, he had to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. The first a typical opportunist's goal and his next a superb finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side stand a real opportunity next summer when he's in the team. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford made much more of an impact in his place. Five
Replacements
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined well with the striker in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the first goal, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively upon introduction and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6/10