Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match

In a dominant showing, the English national team wrapped up another victory against Albania, with several squad members producing notable displays during the match.

Starting XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do to make in the first half until called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent anticipation. 6/10

The debutant Challenged against the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Operated more centrally to begin with then shifted to the flank once a teammate came on. 7

The defender Moved forward when in possession, something he's known for previously. At times lacked urgency when carrying play and the approach discontinued by the interval. 6/10

Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as a replacement for Stones in the backline instead of his partner. A loose ball after the break almost led to a goal for Albania. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more confident showing from the 20-year-old after his initial appearance versus Serbia. Saka failed to make full advantage of a gorgeous backheel behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. Seven

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. Somewhat loose on the ball but his whipped set-pieces were a threat. A useful game manager for the manager to call upon versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a rash tackle. Six

The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Was given license to roam down the left flank only to be offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a merited break after an hour. Six

The star midfielder Operated in a high role down the right and also put in dirty work. Showed flashes of quality but scuffed an attempt high. Substituted towards the end by Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. Seven

The winger Had the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah hanging back, he had to provide width out wide but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. 6

The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th finishes in an England shirt. His first a typical poacher’s finish and the second a classy headed goal having drifted away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. Eight

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Had a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham but Strakosha made the save. His replacement made much more of an impact after coming on. 5/10

Bench Players

  • Foden (for a teammate 63) Looked lively and combined effectively with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the first goal, Six
  • Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively after coming on and set up Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7/10
  • Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6
Angela Miranda
Angela Miranda

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