Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a dominant performance, the English national team clinched a further triumph versus Albania, featuring multiple players producing memorable performances on the pitch.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save to make in the first half but then forced to intervene from an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested by Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Played in a central role to begin with then shifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. 7/10
The defender Advanced into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done in the past. Sometimes was too casual in possession with the experiment discontinued at half-time. Six
The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, but may be an alternative to Stones in the backline rather than alongside him. One wayward pass later in the match nearly resulted in the first goal from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another confident showing from the 20-year-old following his first cap against another side. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of a gorgeous flick behind the opposing backline. The role is his to lose already. Seven
Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose in possession but his inswinging deliveries were a threat. A useful game manager for the boss to have versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed tackle. Six
The midfielder Crosses from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Had license to move down the left flank only to be offside as the pass came in front of goal. Granted a well-earned rest on the hour mark. 6
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward spot down the right while also put in the hard yards. Showed glimpses of brilliance but mishit an attempt high. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike well saved by Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. 6
The captain The difference-maker with his 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The opener a typical poacher’s finish while the second a superb headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. Eight
The attacker Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder but the keeper kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger effect after coming on. Five
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting well with the striker in a preferred position, 6
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities but his corner created the first goal, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively upon introduction and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled at this level, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10