Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
During a dominant performance, England clinched one more triumph versus Albania, with a number of players turning in standout performances on the pitch.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to make before the break but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested by the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Played through the middle to begin with later drifted out wide once Saka entered the fray. 7/10
The defender Moved up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role in the past. At times seemed hesitant on the ball and the approach discontinued at half-time. Six
The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, typically, but may be another option to his teammate in defense as opposed to alongside him. A careless distribution later in the match came close to a goal from Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more confident display from the rising star following his debut versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever backheel behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure already. Seven
Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. A bit sloppy on the ball though his whipped corners posed a danger. An effective game manager for the manager to call upon against sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Was given freedom to roam in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Granted a merited substitution after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in a high position on the right while also put in defensive duties. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but scuffed an effort over. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7
The winger Was presented with the team's top opening of the first half, his shot excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he had to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner with his two more strikes at international level. The first a classic close-range tap-in and his next a classy finish with his head following a clever run off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford had a greater influence after coming on. 5/10
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up effectively with the striker in a natural spot, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery led to the breakthrough, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction assisting the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable already, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10