Squad Ratings: England Win Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a commanding display, England secured a further victory against their opponents, featuring several squad members delivering standout performances during the match.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 until called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding challenge against Qazim Laci demonstrated his game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Examined against the opposition's biggest threat in their forward. Played in a central role initially later drifted wider after a teammate entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Moved into midfield on the ball, as he has done previously. On occasion was too casual when carrying play with the approach abandoned by the interval. Six
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as another option for Stones in the backline instead of alongside him. One wayward distribution later in the match almost led to a goal for Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more assured showing from the rising star after his initial appearance versus another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of a clever flick over their defense. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. Seven
The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit sloppy in possession but his inswinging corners were a threat. A handy pace-controller for the manager to have against sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and free kicks caused problems. Was given license to drift on the left only to be in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a merited break after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Operated in a high position on the right and also put in defensive duties. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but mishit an attempt wide. Substituted late on for a teammate, his rival, after being booked. 7
The winger Had England’s top opening in the opening period, his strike smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he had to provide width down the right side although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted with 15 to go. 6
Harry Kane The match-winner netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes at international level. His first a typical close-range tap-in and the second a superb header following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. Eight
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Had a presentable chance after being played in from a teammate however Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater an impact after coming on. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery led to the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively upon introduction and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established at this level, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6