Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
In a commanding performance, the English national team clinched another victory versus Albania, with a number of squad members delivering memorable displays during the match.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required in the first half before forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention against Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested by the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Operated in a central role early on but moved out wide after Saka was introduced. Seven
John Stones Advanced into midfield when in possession, something he's known for before. Sometimes was too casual on the ball with the experiment was shelved at half-time. 6/10
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as an alternative to his teammate in defense rather than paired with him. One wayward distribution later in the match nearly resulted in an opener for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further assured performance from the rising star after his first cap versus another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous touch over the Albania defence. The role is firmly his already. Seven
Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose in possession though his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager for the coach to have against teams who drop deep. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6
The midfielder Deliveries from corners and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed room to roam on the left but was in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Granted a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Functioned in an advanced position on the right and put in dirty work. Showed glimpses of brilliance but dragged a shot wide. Substituted late on for Rogers, his competition, after being booked. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance of the first half, his strike smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to provide width down the right side yet his deliveries from wide areas were inconsistent. Taken off late in the match. 6
The captain The difference-maker netting 77th and 78th finishes for his country. His first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a classy finish with his head following a clever run from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him up top. Eight
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Had a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham yet Strakosha made the save. His replacement made much more of an impact when substituted. Five
Bench Players
- Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery provided the opener, 6
- Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Lively upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6