Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match

Throughout a impressive showing, the English national team wrapped up a further victory against Albania, with several players turning in notable displays during the match.

Starting Eleven

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required before the break before called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. A sliding intervention against Qazim Laci showed sharp anticipation. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Challenged by the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Played in a central role to begin with but moved to the flank once Saka came on. Seven

John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for previously. On occasion seemed hesitant in possession with the experiment was shelved by the interval. 6

The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as an alternative for his teammate in the backline instead of his partner. One wayward pass later in the match nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly One more assured performance from the 20-year-old following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous touch over the Albania defence. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Slightly loose in possession but his inswinging corners posed a danger. A handy tempo-setter for the coach to have versus sides that sit back. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free-kicks caused problems. Was given license to roam on the left but was offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned rest after an hour. Six

The star midfielder Operated in a forward position on the right and also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated moments of class and scuffed an effort over. Substituted late on by Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. 7/10

The winger Had England’s best chance of the first half, his strike excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. 6

Harry Kane The match-winner scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals in an England shirt. The first a classic opportunist's goal while the second an excellent header following a clever run off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play from the left. Had a good opening following a pass by the midfielder but the keeper made the save. Rashford produced a bigger effect when substituted. Five

Replacements

  • Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright connecting seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6
  • Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner created the breakthrough, 6
  • Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively when brought on assisting Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, Seven
  • Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable so soon, 6
  • Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six
Shelley English
Shelley English

A passionate traveler and writer with over a decade of experience documenting unique cultural encounters worldwide.