Squad Evaluations: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier
Throughout a dominant display, the English national team secured another victory versus Albania, with several squad members delivering standout performances on the pitch.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform before the break until forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined by Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Started through the middle early on then shifted to the flank once Saka entered the fray. 7
John Stones Moved into midfield when in possession, as he has done previously. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession with the approach was shelved by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be a replacement to his teammate at the back as opposed to paired with him. One wayward distribution later in the match almost led to the first goal from the visitors. Six
The young full-back One more confident performance by the 20-year-old following his first cap against another side. Saka failed to make the most of a gorgeous flick behind the Albania defence. His position is firmly his already. 7/10
The newcomer His first start for his country. A bit careless when playing out but his whipped set-pieces caused problems. An effective tempo-setter available to the coach to have against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed tackle. 6
Declan Rice Set-pieces on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Had room to drift on the left but was in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced spot down the right while also contributed with the hard yards. Displayed moments of class and scuffed an attempt high. Withdrawn towards the end for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening of the first half, his shot smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide but his crosses from wide areas were inconsistent. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his two more finishes for his country. His first a trademark close-range tap-in and his next a superb headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder yet Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of effect in his place. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up effectively with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner led to the breakthrough, 6
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and set up the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, 7
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6