Squad Ratings: England Triumph Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
In a impressive performance, the English national team secured another triumph against Albania, featuring a number of players producing notable performances on the pitch.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do required during the opening 45 until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. A sliding tackle on Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Challenged against the opposition's biggest threat through Hoxha. Started through the middle to begin with but moved to the flank once a teammate came on. 7/10
The defender Moved forward when in possession, something he's known for before. On occasion was too casual on the ball with the experiment was shelved after the break. Six
Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, as always, perhaps is an alternative for his teammate in the backline rather than alongside him. One wayward distribution later in the match almost led to an opener from Albania. 6
The young full-back A further assured display from the youngster after his debut against another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of a clever flick behind their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. 7
The newcomer His first start with the national team. Slightly sloppy when playing out though his dangerous corners caused problems. A useful pace-controller available to the coach to have against sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. Six
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Was given room to move in left midfield only to be offside upon receiving in front of goal. Given a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Played in an advanced position out wide while also put in defensive duties. Demonstrated moments of class but mishit an effort high. Withdrawn late on for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance in the opening period, his shot smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries from the touchline varied in quality. Substituted late in the match. 6/10
Harry Kane The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th goals at international level. His first a typical poacher’s finish while the second a superb headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity next summer when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a good opening when set up by Bellingham yet Strakosha made the save. His replacement produced a bigger influence when substituted. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined well with the striker in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Lively after coming on assisting the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, 7/10
- Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Looks established already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six