Squad Ratings: England Win Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
Throughout a impressive display, England secured a further victory versus Albania, featuring several players producing standout displays during the match.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required before the break until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding intervention on Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Tested against Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Operated more centrally initially then shifted wider once a teammate came on. 7
The defender Moved up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role previously. At times seemed hesitant on the ball with the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, but may be a replacement for his teammate in defense instead of paired with him. A loose distribution in the second half almost led to an opener for the visitors. Six
The young full-back A further confident display by the rising star after his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite flick over the opposing backline. The role looks secure so soon. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. A bit sloppy in possession but his dangerous set-pieces were a threat. A useful game manager available to the manager to call upon versus defensive opponents. Booked for a rash challenge. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed license to move on the left but was in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Granted a deserved substitution on the hour mark. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced position on the right while also did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed moments of class but mishit a shot over. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening of the first half, his effort well saved by the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, he was forced to stretch the play down the right side although his balls from wide areas varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. Six
The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th goals at international level. His first a classic close-range tap-in while the second a classy headed goal having drifted away from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance in future competitions with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger effect when substituted. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Looked lively and combined seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, Six
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities but his corner provided the first goal, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Lively when brought on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six