Squad Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
During a commanding showing, England secured one more win against Albania, featuring multiple players delivering standout performances on the pitch.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required during the opening 45 but then called into action by an opponent's bent shot. His sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker showed sharp game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Challenged against Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Played through the middle early on but moved out wide after Saka entered the fray. 7
The defender Moved forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for in the past. On occasion lacked urgency in possession and the experiment was shelved by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, per usual, but may be a replacement for Stones in defense as opposed to paired with him. One wayward ball after the break nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly A further confident performance by the youngster following his debut versus Serbia. Saka was unable to take the most of an exquisite backheel over the Albania defence. The role looks secure so soon. 7
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Slightly loose on the ball however his inswinging deliveries caused problems. A handy game manager available to the coach to have versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash foul. Six
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks created chances. Had freedom to move in left midfield but was in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Given a well-earned substitution on the hour mark. 6
The star midfielder Played in a forward role out wide while also put in dirty work. Demonstrated flashes of quality and scuffed an attempt wide. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Had the team's top opening in the opening period, his shot well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to provide width out wide yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals for his country. His first a trademark opportunist's goal and the second an excellent header having drifted away away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance in future competitions with him up top. Eight
The attacker Struggled to make an impact from the left. Had a decent opportunity after being played in by the midfielder however the keeper made the save. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. 5
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright and linked up effectively with the striker in a preferred position, 6
- Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, Six
- Rogers (for the star 84) Too brief a spell to make an impact, 6