Player Evaluations: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

In a dominant display, the English national team clinched a further win versus Albania, with a number of players producing notable displays during the match.

First-choice Eleven

The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform before the break before tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker demonstrated his reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested against the opposition's main danger in Hoxha. Operated more centrally early on later drifted out wide once Saka came on. 7

John Stones Moved into midfield with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession and the experiment discontinued after the break. Six

Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, but may be another option for Stones at the back rather than paired with him. One wayward pass after the break came close to the first goal for Albania. 6

Nico O’Reilly Another assured showing by the 20-year-old after his debut against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a gorgeous flick over the opposing backline. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. 7

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. A bit loose when playing out though his whipped deliveries caused problems. An effective tempo-setter for the coach to call upon versus defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. Six

Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and free-kicks caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to roam on the left but was in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6

Jude Bellingham Functioned in an advanced role on the right and contributed with defensive duties. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and mishit an effort wide. Replaced late on by a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7

The winger Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his effort smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side although his balls from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. Six

Harry Kane The difference-maker netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes in an England shirt. The opener a typical opportunist's goal and his next a classy finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. At 32, he continues to improve and England stand a real opportunity next summer with him leading the line. 8

The attacker Struggled to influence play out wide. Had a good opening after being played in from a teammate however Strakosha denied him. Rashford had a greater effect when substituted. 5

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery led to the first goal, 6
  • Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively upon introduction and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the far post, 7
  • Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6
  • Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to affect things, 6
Brian Rose
Brian Rose

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