Player Assessments: England Victory Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
In a commanding display, England secured another victory against their opponents, with multiple players delivering notable displays during the match.
Starting Eleven
The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform before the break until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci highlighted excellent anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Examined against the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Started in a central role initially then shifted wider once Saka came on. 7/10
John Stones Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, as he has done in the past. On occasion was too casual when carrying play with the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as another option for his teammate in the backline rather than his partner. A careless ball later in the match almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly A further confident display from the rising star after his initial appearance against Serbia. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of a clever backheel over the Albania defence. The left-back spot is firmly his already. Seven
The newcomer His maiden beginning for his country. Somewhat sloppy on the ball though his whipped corners caused problems. A handy game manager available to the manager to utilize versus sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a rash tackle. 6
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free kicks created chances. Was given freedom to move down the left flank yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Operated in a high role down the right and also did plenty of defensive duties. Demonstrated moments of class but mishit an attempt high. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort well saved by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to provide width out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas varied in quality. Substituted late in the match. 6
The captain The match-winner with his two more strikes at international level. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and the second a superb headed goal having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in future competitions with him up top. Eight
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in from a teammate yet the keeper kept it out. His replacement made much more of effect after coming on. Five
Bench Players
- Foden (for a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively after coming on and provided the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10