Squad Evaluations: England Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a dominant showing, England secured a further triumph versus their opponents, with a number of players delivering notable displays during the match.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform before the break until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted his reading of the game. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's biggest threat in their forward. Started more centrally initially but moved wider after Saka came on. Seven
John Stones Moved forward when in possession, as he has done in the past. On occasion was too casual in possession with the approach was shelved after the break. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be another option for his teammate at the back instead of his partner. A loose distribution after the break nearly resulted in the first goal from the visitors. 6
The young full-back One more assured performance from the 20-year-old following his first cap against Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the most of a clever backheel over the opposing backline. His position looks secure at this stage. Seven
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose in possession though his whipped corners posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter available to the manager to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a rash foul. Six
The midfielder Crosses from corners and free kicks created chances. Enjoyed freedom to roam in left midfield only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a deserved rest after an hour. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward spot on the right while also contributed with defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance but dragged an attempt over. Replaced towards the end for a teammate, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s best chance before halftime, his shot smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate hanging back, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide but his crosses from wide areas were inconsistent. Replaced late in the match. 6
The captain The decisive figure netting 77th and 78th goals at international level. His first a trademark close-range tap-in and his next an excellent headed goal having drifted away off his defender. At 32, he continues to improve and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Had a good opening when set up by the midfielder however Strakosha kept it out. His replacement made much more of effect when substituted. Five
Replacements
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Looked lively and combined effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the first goal, Six
- Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Active when brought on and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Not enough time to influence the game, Six