Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a impressive showing, England secured another win versus their opponents, featuring a number of squad members delivering memorable displays throughout the game.
Starting Eleven
The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform before the break but then called into action by an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker showed sharp anticipation. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Tested against Albania’s biggest threat in their forward. Operated through the middle initially later drifted to the flank after Saka came on. 7
John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for in the past. Sometimes was too casual on the ball with the experiment abandoned by the interval. Six
The tall defender A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, per usual, could serve as a replacement for Stones at the back as opposed to his partner. One wayward pass after the break came close to the first goal for Albania. Six
The young full-back A further composed display by the 20-year-old after his debut versus Serbia. Saka failed to make full advantage of an exquisite flick over the Albania defence. His position looks secure at this stage. 7
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Slightly careless on the ball however his whipped set-pieces caused problems. An effective game manager for the coach to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Booked after a reckless foul. Six
The midfielder Set-pieces from corners and free kicks created chances. Was given room to roam on the left yet found himself offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned rest on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced role out wide and contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated moments of class but dragged an attempt high. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, it fell to him to provide width on the right but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Replaced late in the match. 6/10
The captain The match-winner netting two more finishes at international level. The first a typical opportunist's goal while the second an excellent header after peeling away off his defender. At 32, he continues to improve and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him leading the line. 8
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by Bellingham but the keeper made the save. His replacement produced a bigger influence in his place. 5
Replacements
- Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up well with the striker in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the breakthrough, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Active upon introduction and set up Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the back post, 7
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6/10