Player Evaluations: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
In a impressive showing, England clinched one more victory versus their opponents, with a number of squad members delivering notable performances during the match.
Starting Eleven
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform in the first half until forced to intervene by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding tackle against Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Examined against the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Played in a central role to begin with later drifted to the flank once Saka came on. Seven
The defender Pushed forward with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. At times seemed hesitant in possession with the approach abandoned by the interval. Six
Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, as always, but may be another option for Stones at the back rather than alongside him. A careless ball later in the match came close to the first goal from Albania. Six
The young full-back A further confident performance from the rising star following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite touch behind their defense. His position is his to lose at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. Somewhat loose when playing out though his inswinging corners posed a danger. An effective game manager for the boss to call upon against sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless challenge. 6
The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and free-kicks were dangerous. Had room to move on the left yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Given a merited substitution on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward position down the right and also contributed with defensive duties. Demonstrated moments of class but dragged an effort wide. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's top opening of the first half, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to provide width out wide although his balls from the touchline varied in quality. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th goals at international level. His first a classic poacher’s finish and his next a superb finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper made the save. Rashford had a greater effect in his place. 5
Bench Players
- Foden (for a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and combined well with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Spurned chances but his corner provided the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and set up the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Looks established so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6/10