Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
In a dominant display, England clinched another victory versus their opponents, featuring multiple squad members producing memorable performances throughout the game.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Had little to do required before the break until called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge on Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent anticipation. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Operated more centrally to begin with then shifted wider once Saka was introduced. 7
The defender Advanced up the pitch with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. On occasion was too casual when carrying play with the approach was shelved at half-time. 6/10
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be another option for his teammate at the back rather than paired with him. A loose pass in the second half came close to a goal for the visitors. Six
The young full-back A further assured performance by the rising star after his first cap versus Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a clever flick over their defense. His position looks secure already. Seven
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat careless on the ball but his inswinging corners caused problems. A useful pace-controller available to the manager to utilize versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed room to drift down the left flank only to be in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned rest after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward position down the right while also contributed with defensive duties. Demonstrated flashes of quality and mishit an effort high. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort smartly stopped from the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate holding position, he had to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Substituted late in the match. 6
The captain The difference-maker netting two more finishes at international level. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and the second an excellent header having drifted away off his defender. At 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. Eight
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity after being played in from a teammate but Strakosha made the save. Rashford had a greater an impact after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Appeared sharp and combined seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross to the far post, 7
- Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, Six