Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match

In a commanding performance, England clinched a further victory versus their opponents, featuring several squad members delivering memorable performances on the pitch.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Not a save to perform before the break but then tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci highlighted sharp reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Challenged against Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Played more centrally initially later drifted to the flank after Saka was introduced. Seven

John Stones Advanced into midfield on the ball, a familiar role before. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic discontinued by the interval. Six

Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, per usual, could serve as an alternative for Stones in the backline as opposed to alongside him. A careless ball in the second half nearly resulted in the first goal for Albania. 6/10

The young full-back A further confident showing from the youngster after his initial appearance versus another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous touch behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. 7

The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat careless on the ball but his whipped deliveries posed a danger. A handy tempo-setter available to the manager to call upon against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. 6

Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays created chances. Had freedom to drift down the left flank only to be in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Given a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6

Jude Bellingham Played in a high spot out wide and also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but mishit an effort wide. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, his competition, after being booked. Seven

The winger Had England’s best chance of the first half, his strike smartly stopped from the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to offer an outlet on the right but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

Harry Kane The decisive figure netting two more goals in an England shirt. His first a trademark close-range tap-in and the second an excellent header following a clever run off his defender. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders in future competitions with him up top. Eight

The attacker Found it tough to get into the game out wide. Had a good opening when set up from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford made much more of effect in his place. 5/10

Replacements

  • Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined well with the striker in a preferred position, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Spurned chances but his corner created the first goal, 6
  • Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively upon introduction and provided the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, Seven
  • Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6
Gregory Johnson
Gregory Johnson

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