Player Evaluations: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a dominant display, England wrapped up one more triumph against Albania, with several players turning in notable displays throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Had little to do required in the first half but then tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker showed his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Examined by the opposition's primary attacker through their forward. Started through the middle to begin with but moved out wide once Saka entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Advanced up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role previously. At times was too casual when carrying play with the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, typically, perhaps is a replacement to Stones in defense instead of paired with him. One wayward pass in the second half nearly resulted in an opener for the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more confident display from the rising star following his debut versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of an exquisite flick behind the opposing backline. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7
The newcomer His maiden beginning for his country. Slightly loose in possession however his dangerous deliveries were a threat. A handy pace-controller available to the boss to utilize against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a rash foul. 6/10
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Was given room to move in left midfield but was offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a high role on the right and did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed flashes of quality and mishit an effort over. Replaced in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. Seven
The winger Had the team's best chance of the first half, his effort excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate hanging back, he was forced to provide width out wide but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. Six
The captain The decisive figure scoring 77th and 78th strikes in an England shirt. The first a typical close-range tap-in and his next an excellent finish with his head following a clever run away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him up top. 8
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. His replacement made much more of influence when substituted. 5
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with the striker in a preferred position, Six
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances but his corner led to the opener, 6
- Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Lively upon introduction assisting the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7/10
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10