Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
In a commanding display, the English national team secured another victory versus Albania, with a number of squad members turning in memorable displays throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required before the break until forced to intervene from an opponent's curling effort. A sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker showed his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Examined against the opposition's main danger in Hoxha. Played in a central role early on but moved out wide once Saka was introduced. 7
John Stones Pushed forward when in possession, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play with the experiment discontinued by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is a replacement for Stones in defense rather than alongside him. One wayward ball in the second half came close to an opener from Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more assured display from the rising star after his debut against Serbia. A teammate failed to make full advantage of a clever touch behind the Albania defence. His position is his to lose so soon. Seven
The newcomer His first start for his country. Slightly careless on the ball however his inswinging corners posed a danger. A handy tempo-setter for the boss to have against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a rash challenge. Six
The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to roam down the left flank only to be offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned break after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in a high position out wide while also did plenty of dirty work. Showed flashes of quality but scuffed a shot wide. Withdrawn in the closing stages by Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7
The winger Had the team's best chance of the first half, his effort well saved from the Albanian keeper. As a teammate holding position, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Taken off late in the match. 6
The captain The decisive figure netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes in an England shirt. His first a trademark poacher’s finish while the second an excellent header after peeling away off his defender. At 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up from a teammate however Strakosha denied him. His replacement made much more of influence in his place. 5
Substitutes
- Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with the striker in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the breakthrough, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and set up Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Looks established at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Not enough time to affect things, 6