Player Ratings: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a dominant performance, England wrapped up one more victory versus Albania, featuring several squad members turning in memorable performances on the pitch.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform in the first half but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci demonstrated his anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined by the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Started through the middle to begin with but moved to the flank once Saka came on. 7
The defender Advanced up the pitch on the ball, as he has done previously. On occasion was too casual in possession with the approach discontinued after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be an alternative to Stones at the back instead of his partner. A loose ball later in the match almost led to an opener for Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another composed display by the rising star following his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate failed to make the most of a gorgeous backheel behind their defense. The role is his to lose at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. Somewhat loose on the ball however his dangerous corners posed a danger. A handy tempo-setter available to the coach to utilize against sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. 6
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed room to drift on the left but was offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Granted a merited substitution around the 60-minute point. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward position on the right and contributed with the hard yards. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but scuffed an attempt wide. Substituted towards the end by Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. Seven
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his strike smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah holding position, it fell to him to provide width out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas varied in quality. Substituted late in the match. 6/10
The captain The match-winner scoring two more finishes at international level. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish and his next an excellent headed goal having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side stand a real opportunity in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Struggled to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by the midfielder but the keeper denied him. Rashford had a greater an impact after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active after coming on and provided the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7/10
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10