Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
Throughout a dominant display, the English national team wrapped up another victory versus Albania, featuring multiple players turning in notable displays during the match.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Not a save to make in the first half before tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle on Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Examined against Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Played more centrally early on later drifted to the flank after Saka came on. 7
John Stones Moved up the pitch when in possession, as he has done before. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball with the tactic discontinued at half-time. Six
Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, perhaps is an alternative to his teammate in defense instead of his partner. A careless distribution later in the match came close to a goal from Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another composed display from the rising star following his first cap versus Serbia. Saka failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite touch behind their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his already. Seven
Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. A bit loose when playing out but his dangerous corners were a threat. An effective tempo-setter available to the manager to call upon against sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash challenge. 6
The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and free kicks created chances. Was given freedom to move in left midfield but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a merited rest after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in a forward spot out wide and did plenty of defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality but dragged a shot over. Substituted in the closing stages by a teammate, his competition, after being booked. Seven
The winger Was presented with the team's top opening of the first half, his strike smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah holding position, he was forced to stretch the play out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. Six
The captain The decisive figure netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. The first a trademark close-range tap-in while the second a classy finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team stand a real opportunity next summer with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity following a pass by the midfielder however the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater effect in his place. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up well with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
- Saka (for the winger 63) Missed opportunities but his corner created the first goal, 6
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction assisting the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established already, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Not enough time to affect things, Six