Squad Evaluations: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
In a commanding showing, England secured one more win against their opponents, featuring a number of squad members producing standout displays throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required in the first half but then tested from an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Examined against Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Started more centrally early on but moved to the flank once a teammate was introduced. Seven
John Stones Pushed forward when in possession, something he's known for in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant in possession and the approach was shelved by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, as always, but may be a replacement to his teammate in the backline rather than alongside him. One wayward distribution in the second half nearly resulted in the first goal from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another assured performance from the youngster following his initial appearance against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of a clever flick behind their defense. The role is his to lose so soon. 7/10
The newcomer His first start for his country. Slightly loose in possession however his dangerous corners were a threat. A handy tempo-setter for the boss to call upon versus teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Had room to move down the left flank but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Granted a deserved rest after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward position down the right while also did plenty of dirty work. Showed glimpses of brilliance and dragged an attempt wide. Replaced towards the end by Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening before halftime, his effort excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide although his balls into the box varied in quality. Taken off with 15 to go. Six
Harry Kane The decisive figure netting two more goals at international level. The first a trademark opportunist's goal and his next an excellent header after peeling away off his defender. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England stand a real opportunity next summer with him up top. Eight
The attacker Found it tough to influence play from the left. Had a decent opportunity after being played in from a teammate yet the keeper kept it out. Rashford had a greater effect in his place. 5/10
Replacements
- Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up effectively with the striker in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner provided the opener, Six
- Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively when brought on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10