Squad Ratings: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a commanding display, England clinched a further victory versus Albania, with a number of squad members turning in notable displays during the match.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make before the break until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding tackle on Qazim Laci highlighted sharp reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Challenged against Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Started in a central role initially but moved wider once a teammate entered the fray. 7
John Stones Advanced forward on the ball, as he has done before. At times seemed hesitant in possession with the tactic discontinued after the break. 6
The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, typically, could serve as another option for Stones in defense rather than alongside him. A loose pass in the second half almost led to an opener from Albania. 6/10
The young full-back One more assured performance from the rising star following his initial appearance against another side. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a clever touch behind their defense. The role is firmly his already. 7
Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat careless when playing out though his inswinging set-pieces posed a danger. A useful game manager for the coach to have versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow after a reckless tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and free kicks were dangerous. Had freedom to move down the left flank only to be in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned rest after an hour. Six
The star midfielder Functioned in a forward role on the right and contributed with the hard yards. Displayed flashes of quality but scuffed an effort over. Withdrawn late on for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance in the opening period, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah staying deep, he was forced to provide width on the right but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Taken off with 15 to go. 6
Harry Kane The decisive figure netting two more strikes at international level. His first a classic close-range tap-in while the second a superb headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he continues to improve and the side have every chance in future competitions with him up top. 8
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact when substituted. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up well with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery led to the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Energetic upon introduction and set up Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
- Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established at this level, 6/10
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six