Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Win Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a impressive showing, the English national team wrapped up a further victory versus their opponents, with a number of players delivering memorable performances during the match.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform in the first half until called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. A sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker highlighted his anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against the opposition's main danger through Hoxha. Operated more centrally early on but moved to the flank after a teammate was introduced. 7
John Stones Advanced up the pitch when in possession, as he has done before. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the experiment abandoned by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as an alternative to Stones at the back rather than paired with him. One wayward pass in the second half came close to an opener for Albania. Six
The young full-back One more assured performance by the 20-year-old after his debut against Serbia. Saka was unable to take full advantage of an exquisite touch over the Albania defence. His position is his to lose already. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat sloppy in possession but his dangerous corners posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter available to the boss to utilize versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. 6
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to move in left midfield but was in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a merited substitution on the hour mark. 6
Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced position on the right and also put in defensive duties. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and mishit an attempt over. Substituted towards the end by Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's best chance of the first half, his effort smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, he had to stretch the play out wide although his balls from wide areas were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes in an England shirt. The opener a typical opportunist's goal and the second an excellent finish with his head having drifted away off his defender. At 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. Eight
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham but the keeper denied him. Rashford had a greater influence after coming on. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting well with the striker in more familiar role, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert but his corner provided the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively when brought on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, 7
- Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to make an impact, 6/10