Player Evaluations: England Win Secured by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier
During a commanding display, England secured one more victory versus their opponents, with a number of players producing memorable performances during the match.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Not a save to perform in the first half until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge on Qazim Laci highlighted sharp reading of the game. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Played through the middle initially then shifted out wide once a teammate came on. 7
John Stones Advanced forward on the ball, something he's known for before. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play and the approach discontinued at half-time. Six
The tall defender A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, per usual, but may be an alternative for his teammate in the backline as opposed to paired with him. A loose distribution after the break nearly resulted in the first goal for the visitors. 6
The young full-back Another composed display from the rising star after his first cap versus Serbia. A teammate failed to make the most of a clever backheel over the opposing backline. The role is his to lose already. 7/10
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Slightly careless on the ball however his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A handy tempo-setter for the boss to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. Six
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed freedom to drift down the left flank yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a merited break on the hour mark. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced role out wide and also put in defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance but mishit an attempt high. Replaced late on by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his effort smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted late in the match. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th goals at international level. The opener a classic poacher’s finish and his next an excellent header having drifted away off his defender. Now 32, he continues to improve with the national team have every chance in future competitions with him up top. Eight
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play out wide. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder yet the keeper kept it out. His replacement made much more of effect when substituted. Five
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright connecting effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Energetic when brought on and provided the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, Six
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six