Squad Assessments: England Win Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding display, England wrapped up one more win versus Albania, with several players delivering memorable displays on the pitch.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Not a save required before the break but then called into action by an opponent's curling effort. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged against the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Operated more centrally initially then shifted wider once Saka was introduced. 7
The defender Pushed into midfield on the ball, something he's known for before. At times lacked urgency when carrying play with the approach was shelved at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, typically, could serve as another option to his teammate in defense as opposed to alongside him. One wayward distribution after the break almost led to a goal for the visitors. Six
Nico O’Reilly One more assured showing by the 20-year-old following his first cap versus another side. Saka was unable to take the most of an exquisite backheel behind the Albania defence. The role is his to lose already. 7
The newcomer A debut start for his country. A bit careless on the ball however his inswinging deliveries caused problems. A useful game manager for the coach to utilize against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a rash foul. 6/10
Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to roam on the left only to be offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved rest after an hour. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in a high position on the right and also did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed flashes of quality and scuffed an attempt high. Replaced in the closing stages by Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his shot excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah staying deep, he had to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. 6
The captain The decisive figure scoring 77th and 78th strikes at international level. The first a typical poacher’s finish and the second an excellent finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact from the left. Had a good opening after being played in from a teammate yet Strakosha denied him. Rashford produced a bigger an impact after coming on. 5
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and linked up well with the striker in more familiar role, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery provided the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively after coming on and set up Kane’s second with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established already, Six
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10