Squad Assessments: England Win Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a dominant showing, the English national team wrapped up one more win against their opponents, featuring several squad members delivering notable performances during the match.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 before tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge on Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined against the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Operated through the middle early on later drifted to the flank once Saka came on. Seven
The defender Advanced into midfield when in possession, as he has done in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant when carrying play with the experiment discontinued after the break. Six
Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, per usual, perhaps is a replacement to his teammate at the back rather than his partner. A loose distribution later in the match came close to the first goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another assured display by the rising star following his first cap against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. 7
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Slightly loose on the ball but his whipped deliveries posed a danger. An effective game manager available to the manager to have against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. 6
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and free kicks created chances. Was given license to drift in left midfield yet found himself offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Granted a deserved substitution after an hour. Six
The star midfielder Operated in a forward position on the right while also contributed with the hard yards. Showed flashes of quality but mishit a shot over. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening of the first half, his shot smartly stopped from the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet down the right side although his balls into the box varied in quality. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring 77th and 78th strikes in an England shirt. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and his next a superb finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder yet Strakosha denied him. His replacement had a greater effect in his place. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up well with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner led to the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active upon introduction and set up the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the far post, Seven
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6