Player Ratings: The Three Lions Win Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
In a impressive showing, England clinched one more triumph versus Albania, with several players producing notable performances during the match.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Had little to do to make before the break before tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. A sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker showed excellent reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged against the opposition's main danger through Hoxha. Started in a central role to begin with but moved wider after Saka came on. 7
John Stones Moved into midfield with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. At times seemed hesitant in possession with the experiment was shelved at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, perhaps is another option for his teammate at the back rather than his partner. A careless distribution after the break nearly resulted in a goal from Albania. 6/10
The young full-back A further confident performance from the rising star after his first cap versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a gorgeous touch over their defense. The left-back spot is his to lose at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. Slightly sloppy in possession though his dangerous set-pieces posed a danger. A useful game manager for the manager to have against sides that sit back. Shown a yellow after a reckless foul. 6
Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and free-kicks caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to roam down the left flank only to be offside as the pass came in front of goal. Given a deserved rest on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Functioned in an advanced spot on the right and contributed with dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and mishit a shot over. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort excellently kept out by the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to stretch the play on the right yet his deliveries from wide areas were inconsistent. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring two more goals at international level. The first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a superb header after peeling away off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in by the midfielder yet Strakosha made the save. His replacement made much more of effect after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright and combined effectively with the striker in more familiar role, Six
- Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery provided the first goal, 6
- Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively when brought on and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to affect things, Six