Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

During a commanding display, England clinched one more triumph against Albania, featuring several squad members turning in standout displays on the pitch.

First-choice XI

The goalkeeper Not a save to make in the first half before called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle on Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Played in a central role initially but moved to the flank after a teammate was introduced. 7/10

The defender Pushed forward when in possession, a familiar role before. Sometimes was too casual when carrying play with the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6

Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is a replacement for Stones in defense as opposed to paired with him. A loose pass in the second half almost led to an opener from Albania. 6/10

The young full-back A further confident display from the rising star following his first cap versus Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a clever touch behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose already. 7

Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. Slightly loose on the ball however his whipped deliveries posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter for the manager to have versus sides that sit back. Shown a yellow after a reckless foul. 6

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Enjoyed license to move in left midfield but was offside upon receiving in front of goal. Granted a deserved break on the hour mark. 6/10

The star midfielder Functioned in a forward role down the right while also put in dirty work. Showed glimpses of brilliance but dragged a shot over. Substituted in the closing stages by a teammate, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening in the opening period, his strike smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah holding position, he was forced to provide width out wide although his balls into the box varied in quality. Replaced late in the match. Six

The captain The difference-maker netting 77th and 78th strikes at international level. The opener a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a superb header having drifted away away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders in future competitions with him up top. 8

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play out wide. Was presented with a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate yet the keeper denied him. Rashford had a greater influence when substituted. 5/10

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with the striker in a preferred position, Six
  • Saka (for Eze 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery created the first goal, 6
  • Rashford (for the attacker 75) Active when brought on assisting Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7
  • Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established already, 6
  • Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, Six
Joseph Harris
Joseph Harris

A film critic and entertainment journalist with over a decade of experience covering Hollywood and indie cinema.