Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a commanding display, England clinched one more win versus Albania, with several players delivering notable performances throughout the game.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required before the break until forced to intervene by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding challenge on Qazim Laci highlighted excellent anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged by the opposition's biggest threat in their forward. Played in a central role early on but moved wider after a teammate was introduced. 7
John Stones Moved forward when in possession, a familiar role previously. At times was too casual when carrying play and the tactic discontinued after the break. Six
The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, typically, perhaps is another option to Stones in the backline rather than his partner. A loose distribution after the break nearly resulted in the first goal for Albania. 6/10
The young full-back One more confident display by the 20-year-old after his debut versus another side. Saka failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite backheel behind the opposing backline. His position is his to lose at this stage. 7/10
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy when playing out though his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. A useful pace-controller for the boss to call upon against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow after a reckless challenge. 6
The midfielder Crosses from corners and set-plays created chances. Had license to roam down the left flank only to be offside as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a merited rest around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced role down the right and also did plenty of dirty work. Displayed flashes of quality but scuffed an effort over. Replaced late on for a teammate, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening in the opening period, his shot smartly stopped from the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah hanging back, he had to stretch the play on the right but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Substituted late in the match. 6
The captain The match-winner with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals in an England shirt. The opener a typical poacher’s finish while the second a superb header having drifted away away from the opposition. At 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to get into the game from the left. Had a good opening when set up by Bellingham yet the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater effect after coming on. 5/10
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the opener, Six
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Energetic when brought on assisting the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, 7
- Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to influence the game, Six