Squad Assessments: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifier

In a impressive showing, the English national team secured another victory against their opponents, featuring multiple players turning in notable displays on the pitch.

Starting Lineup

The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform during the opening 45 but then tested by an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. Six out of ten

The debutant Examined by the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Started in a central role to begin with then shifted wider once Saka entered the fray. Seven

John Stones Moved into midfield when in possession, something he's known for in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant when carrying play with the approach abandoned by the interval. 6/10

Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, per usual, perhaps is an alternative to his teammate in defense instead of his partner. One wayward pass after the break nearly resulted in the first goal from Albania. 6/10

The young full-back Another confident display from the 20-year-old following his initial appearance against another side. A teammate failed to make full advantage of an exquisite touch over the Albania defence. His position is firmly his at this stage. Seven

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Somewhat sloppy on the ball though his dangerous corners posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter available to the coach to call upon against defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless foul. Six

Declan Rice Crosses from corners and free-kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to drift down the left flank but was offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Granted a well-earned rest on the hour mark. 6/10

The star midfielder Played in a forward role on the right and did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but dragged a shot wide. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. As a teammate holding position, he had to offer an outlet down the right side yet his deliveries into the box were inconsistent. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

Harry Kane The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th finishes at international level. His first a typical close-range tap-in and his next a classy header having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Had a good opening after being played in from a teammate however Strakosha kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact after coming on. 5/10

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright and combined well with the striker in a natural spot, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the breakthrough, Six
  • Marcus Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Active when brought on and provided Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the far post, Seven
  • Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Looks established at this level, Six
  • Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, Six
Michael Espinoza
Michael Espinoza

Maya is a tech enthusiast and lifestyle writer with over a decade of experience in reviewing high-end products and sharing practical insights.