Squad Ratings: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a impressive showing, England secured another triumph against their opponents, with multiple players producing standout displays during the match.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required during the opening 45 but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's biggest threat in their forward. Played through the middle to begin with later drifted to the flank once Saka was introduced. 7/10
The defender Moved up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant in possession and the approach was shelved by the interval. Six
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, per usual, could serve as a replacement for his teammate in the backline rather than paired with him. A careless distribution in the second half nearly resulted in the first goal for the visitors. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another assured display by the rising star after his debut versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the most of an exquisite backheel behind the Albania defence. The role is firmly his already. 7
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Slightly loose on the ball but his whipped corners caused problems. An effective pace-controller for the coach to have versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a rash challenge. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and free-kicks created chances. Had license to roam down the left flank yet found himself offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a merited rest on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward role on the right and also did plenty of defensive duties. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but dragged an effort high. Replaced towards the end by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening of the first half, his strike well saved from the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate holding position, he was forced to provide width out wide but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. Six
The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The opener a trademark opportunist's goal and the second a classy header after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Struggled to make an impact out wide. Had a presentable chance when set up by Bellingham however Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of influence when substituted. 5
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece led to the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Active when brought on assisting the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the far post, Seven
- Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established so soon, 6
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Not enough time to influence the game, Six