Player Evaluations: England Win Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
Throughout a commanding display, England clinched another triumph versus their opponents, with several players delivering notable performances throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required during the opening 45 before tested from an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed his game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Tested by the opposition's main danger through Hoxha. Operated more centrally to begin with then shifted out wide after Saka entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Moved forward on the ball, as he has done before. At times was too casual in possession and the approach was shelved by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat at set pieces, as always, could serve as a replacement for Stones in defense as opposed to paired with him. A loose distribution after the break almost led to the first goal from Albania. Six
The young full-back Another confident showing from the youngster following his first cap versus Serbia. Saka failed to make the opportunity from a clever touch over their defense. His position looks secure already. 7
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Somewhat sloppy when playing out however his dangerous corners posed a danger. An effective game manager for the coach to have versus defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. 6
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed room to move on the left yet found himself offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a deserved rest after an hour. 6
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward role out wide while also contributed with dirty work. Displayed flashes of quality and dragged an effort high. Withdrawn late on by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening before halftime, his effort smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. As Quansah holding position, it fell to him to offer an outlet on the right although his balls from wide areas were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. 6
The captain The difference-maker netting two more finishes at international level. His first a typical poacher’s finish and his next a classy header having drifted away away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. Eight
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Had a presentable chance when set up from a teammate but the keeper denied him. His replacement made much more of effect after coming on. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the opener, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively upon introduction and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball into the area, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established at this level, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, Six