Squad Assessments: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a commanding display, England secured another victory against Albania, featuring multiple players producing notable performances during the match.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform during the opening 45 but then tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding intervention on Qazim Laci showed sharp anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Played more centrally initially later drifted to the flank once Saka was introduced. 7
The defender Moved into midfield when in possession, as he has done previously. On occasion seemed hesitant when carrying play and the approach was shelved by the interval. Six
The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, but may be a replacement to Stones in defense rather than alongside him. A careless pass in the second half almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more composed showing by the 20-year-old following his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a clever flick behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. Seven
The newcomer His first start for his country. Somewhat loose when playing out but his inswinging deliveries posed a danger. A useful pace-controller for the manager to utilize against defensive opponents. Booked for a rash challenge. 6
Declan Rice Set-pieces on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Was given room to move down the left flank but was offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Awarded a merited break on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced position out wide and also did plenty of dirty work. Displayed moments of class but mishit an effort over. Withdrawn late on for a teammate, his competition, after being booked. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance in the opening period, his strike well saved from the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate hanging back, he was forced to provide width on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. Six
The captain The decisive figure netting 77th and 78th finishes in an England shirt. The first a typical close-range tap-in while the second an excellent header having drifted away away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass from a teammate but Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater effect when substituted. Five
Bench Players
- Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Spurned chances yet his delivery provided the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic when brought on and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six