Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a impressive display, the English national team secured another triumph against their opponents, featuring several players producing notable displays throughout the game.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform during the opening 45 before tested by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed sharp game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s main danger in their forward. Played in a central role to begin with then shifted to the flank after a teammate came on. 7/10
The defender Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. On occasion seemed hesitant in possession and the experiment abandoned at half-time. Six
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, but may be a replacement for his teammate in the backline rather than his partner. One wayward distribution in the second half nearly resulted in the first goal for Albania. 6
The young full-back One more composed showing from the youngster following his first cap against another side. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous touch behind the opposing backline. His position looks secure so soon. Seven
The newcomer His first start for his country. A bit loose on the ball however his inswinging corners were a threat. An effective game manager for the boss to utilize versus defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed license to move down the left flank only to be in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Granted a well-earned rest after an hour. 6
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a high position on the right and put in defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance and dragged an attempt over. Replaced late on for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s best chance in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate hanging back, he was forced to stretch the play on the right yet his deliveries into the box were inconsistent. Taken off late in the match. 6
The captain The difference-maker netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes in an England shirt. The first a classic opportunist's goal and his next an excellent header after peeling away from his marker. At 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. Eight
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by Bellingham yet Strakosha denied him. Rashford had a greater an impact after coming on. Five
Replacements
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Appeared sharp and linked up well with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances but his corner led to the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively when brought on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, Seven
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, Six