Player Assessments: England Victory Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
Throughout a impressive showing, the English national team wrapped up a further win against Albania, featuring a number of squad members delivering memorable performances on the pitch.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Had little to do to make during the opening 45 but then tested from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by the opposition's main danger through their forward. Started through the middle early on but moved to the flank once Saka was introduced. 7
The defender Pushed up the pitch on the ball, a familiar role in the past. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the experiment discontinued by the interval. 6/10
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be an alternative for his teammate in the backline as opposed to his partner. One wayward distribution in the second half came close to the first goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another composed display by the 20-year-old after his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous touch over the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure already. 7
The newcomer His first start for his country. Somewhat sloppy when playing out though his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. A handy pace-controller for the manager to have versus sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces from corners and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed room to drift on the left only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Awarded a merited break on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Functioned in an advanced role on the right and did plenty of dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and mishit a shot high. Withdrawn late on for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s best chance before halftime, his shot excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side although his balls from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced late in the match. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his two more goals in an England shirt. His first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second a superb header following a clever run from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play from the left. Had a good opening after being played in by the midfielder yet the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater influence when substituted. Five
Replacements
- Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up well with Kane in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece provided the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively when brought on and provided the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Looks established at this level, Six
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to make an impact, 6