Squad Assessments: England Victory Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier

In a impressive display, England secured another win versus Albania, with several players turning in standout performances on the pitch.

First-choice Eleven

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform in the first half before called into action by an opponent's curling effort. His sliding intervention against Qazim Laci highlighted excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested against Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Operated through the middle early on but moved out wide once a teammate was introduced. 7

The defender Advanced forward with the ball at his feet, as he has done in the past. On occasion lacked urgency when carrying play with the approach was shelved by the interval. 6

The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, per usual, perhaps is a replacement for his teammate in the backline instead of his partner. A careless ball later in the match nearly resulted in a goal from the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly Another composed performance by the 20-year-old following his initial appearance against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite touch over their defense. The role is his to lose already. Seven

The newcomer A debut start with the national team. A bit loose in possession though his inswinging set-pieces posed a danger. A handy game manager for the manager to have against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. 6

Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and set-plays caused problems. Was given room to drift down the left flank but was offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved rest after an hour. Six

Jude Bellingham Played in a forward spot down the right and put in defensive duties. Demonstrated flashes of quality and scuffed a shot over. Withdrawn towards the end for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's best chance before halftime, his strike well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah holding position, he was forced to stretch the play on the right although his balls into the box varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. Six

Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring two more finishes for his country. The first a classic poacher’s finish while the second an excellent headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. Eight

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper denied him. Rashford produced a bigger effect when substituted. Five

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the opener, 6
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction assisting the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled already, 6/10
  • Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to affect things, Six
Johnny Olson
Johnny Olson

A senior software architect with over 15 years of experience in cloud computing and agile methodologies, passionate about mentoring developers.