Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier

During a commanding display, England clinched one more triumph against Albania, with several squad members producing notable performances throughout the game.

Starting XI

Dean Henderson Not a save to make during the opening 45 before tested by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker showed excellent reading of the game. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Examined by the opposition's main danger through their forward. Operated through the middle initially but moved out wide after a teammate entered the fray. 7

John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, a familiar role previously. On occasion was too casual in possession with the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6

Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, typically, but may be another option for Stones in the backline instead of alongside him. One wayward pass later in the match almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6/10

The young full-back One more assured display from the youngster after his initial appearance against another side. A teammate failed to make full advantage of a clever backheel over their defense. The role is his to lose already. 7/10

Adam Wharton His first start for his country. Somewhat loose on the ball though his inswinging corners were a threat. A useful tempo-setter available to the coach to utilize versus sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. Six

The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed room to roam down the left flank but was in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Given a merited substitution after an hour. Six

The star midfielder Functioned in a high position on the right while also put in the hard yards. Showed moments of class but scuffed an effort high. Replaced towards the end by Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. 7/10

The winger Had England’s best chance in the opening period, his shot well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate holding position, he had to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Taken off late in the match. 6

The captain The match-winner with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals at international level. The opener a classic poacher’s finish and his next a superb header having drifted away from his marker. At 32, his form is unwavering with the national team stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him leading the line. 8/10

The attacker Struggled to influence play on the left flank. Had a good opening when set up by the midfielder but Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of an impact after coming on. 5

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively connecting effectively with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the opener, 6
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Lively upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with superb cross into the area, 7/10
  • Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6
  • Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10
Johnny Castillo
Johnny Castillo

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