Squad Assessments: England Win Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier

In a impressive performance, England clinched another victory against Albania, featuring several players producing standout performances throughout the game.

Starting Lineup

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 until called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding intervention on Qazim Laci demonstrated his reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Operated more centrally early on then shifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. Seven

John Stones Pushed into midfield when in possession, something he's known for before. At times was too casual on the ball with the experiment was shelved at half-time. 6/10

The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, as always, but may be another option to his teammate in the backline as opposed to his partner. A loose pass in the second half came close to an opener for the visitors. Six

Nico O’Reilly Another assured performance from the youngster following his first cap against another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of an exquisite backheel behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot is firmly his so soon. Seven

Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. A bit careless when playing out but his dangerous corners caused problems. An effective tempo-setter available to the boss to have versus sides that sit back. Booked for a rash challenge. 6/10

Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Had license to roam in left midfield but was offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a deserved rest on the hour mark. Six

Jude Bellingham Played in a forward spot on the right and did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and scuffed a shot wide. Substituted late on by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening of the first half, his shot excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side yet his deliveries from wide areas varied in quality. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

The captain The difference-maker netting 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish and his next a superb headed goal after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. 8/10

The attacker Struggled to get into the game out wide. Had a good opening following a pass by the midfielder but Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of influence in his place. Five

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Looked lively and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner provided the opener, 6/10
  • Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Active when brought on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross to the far post, 7
  • Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6
  • Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10
Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore

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