Squad Evaluations: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier
In a impressive display, the English national team wrapped up a further win versus Albania, featuring a number of players turning in standout performances throughout the game.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Had little to do to make before the break but then forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Challenged against the opposition's primary attacker through their forward. Played through the middle to begin with then shifted wider after a teammate was introduced. 7/10
The defender Pushed forward with the ball at his feet, as he has done previously. On occasion seemed hesitant in possession and the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, typically, could serve as a replacement for Stones in defense as opposed to his partner. One wayward ball later in the match nearly resulted in an opener for the visitors. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another assured performance by the youngster after his first cap against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of a clever flick over the opposing backline. The role is firmly his so soon. 7
The newcomer His first start with the national team. A bit loose on the ball however his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. An effective tempo-setter available to the coach to utilize against sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless foul. 6/10
Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Was given license to drift down the left flank yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a merited break after an hour. Six
The star midfielder Played in a forward position down the right and did plenty of the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class but scuffed a shot high. Substituted towards the end for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Had England’s top opening before halftime, his shot smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah staying deep, he had to offer an outlet on the right yet his deliveries from wide areas were inconsistent. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
The captain The match-winner with his two more strikes at international level. The first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a superb header having drifted away from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham but Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of an impact after coming on. 5
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
- Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances but his corner created the opener, Six
- Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the back post, 7/10
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established at this level, 6
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6