Player Evaluations: England Triumph Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
In a impressive display, England secured a further win versus Albania, with a number of squad members delivering standout performances on the pitch.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Not a save to make before the break but then forced to intervene from an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Tested against the opposition's primary attacker through their forward. Started through the middle early on then shifted to the flank after Saka came on. 7/10
The defender Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, as he has done previously. At times lacked urgency when carrying play and the tactic was shelved after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, per usual, perhaps is another option for Stones in defense rather than alongside him. A careless pass later in the match came close to an opener from the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more assured showing from the youngster following his first cap against another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite flick behind the opposing backline. His position is his to lose so soon. 7/10
Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. A bit careless in possession however his dangerous deliveries were a threat. A handy pace-controller available to the coach to have against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. Six
Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and free-kicks caused problems. Had room to move on the left yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a merited break on the hour mark. 6
Jude Bellingham Functioned in an advanced role down the right while also put in dirty work. Displayed moments of class but scuffed an effort high. Substituted in the closing stages by Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his strike smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate hanging back, he was forced to provide width on the right yet his deliveries from wide areas were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his two more finishes for his country. The first a typical opportunist's goal and the second a superb headed goal having drifted away from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. Eight
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Had a presentable chance after being played in by the midfielder however the keeper denied him. Rashford had a greater an impact when substituted. 5/10
Substitutes
- Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright connecting seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities but his corner created the breakthrough, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively when brought on assisting Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, Six