Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Win Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
In a commanding display, the English national team wrapped up a further triumph against Albania, with multiple squad members delivering memorable displays during the match.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Not a save required in the first half but then called into action by an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker demonstrated sharp anticipation. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested against Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Operated in a central role early on then shifted to the flank once Saka came on. Seven
The defender Moved up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role previously. At times was too casual on the ball and the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, typically, but may be an alternative for his teammate in the backline as opposed to alongside him. A loose pass later in the match came close to the first goal from the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly A further assured performance from the 20-year-old following his debut versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of a clever touch behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot is his to lose at this stage. 7
Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Somewhat loose on the ball but his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A handy game manager for the manager to call upon versus defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed license to move down the left flank but was in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced spot on the right and contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated flashes of quality but dragged an effort over. Substituted late on by Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Was presented with the team's best chance before halftime, his shot well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah hanging back, he had to stretch the play out wide although his balls into the box were inconsistent. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
The captain The match-winner netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. The opener a classic poacher’s finish and the second a superb headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. Eight
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact from the left. Had a good opening following a pass by Bellingham yet Strakosha denied him. His replacement had a greater influence after coming on. 5
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Spurned chances but his corner provided the first goal, 6
- Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively when brought on assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Seems settled so soon, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Not enough time to make an impact, 6/10