Squad Assessments: England Win Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
During a impressive showing, the English national team wrapped up one more win against Albania, with a number of squad members delivering memorable displays on the pitch.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make before the break but then tested from an opponent's bent shot. A sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker highlighted his anticipation. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Tested by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Operated in a central role early on later drifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. 7
The defender Pushed into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done in the past. On occasion lacked urgency when carrying play with the experiment discontinued by the interval. 6
The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, per usual, could serve as an alternative for Stones in the backline instead of alongside him. A loose ball in the second half almost led to a goal from Albania. Six
The young full-back One more composed performance from the rising star after his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a clever touch over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his so soon. 7/10
The newcomer His first start with the national team. Slightly sloppy on the ball though his whipped corners caused problems. An effective pace-controller for the boss to call upon against sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless challenge. 6/10
Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed license to move down the left flank but was offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a merited substitution after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced spot down the right and also contributed with dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but mishit a shot wide. Withdrawn late on for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Had England’s top opening before halftime, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah holding position, he had to stretch the play down the right side although his balls into the box varied in quality. Replaced late in the match. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes for his country. His first a typical poacher’s finish and the second an excellent headed goal having drifted away off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play out wide. Had a good opening following a pass from a teammate however the keeper kept it out. Rashford had a greater an impact in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp and combined well with the striker in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Active when brought on assisting the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, 7/10
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6/10