Player Assessments: England Win Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

During a commanding showing, the English national team secured one more triumph versus their opponents, with a number of players turning in notable displays throughout the game.

Starting Eleven

Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform in the first half until tested by an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle on Qazim Laci showed excellent game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Examined by Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Operated through the middle to begin with but moved to the flank once Saka was introduced. 7/10

John Stones Moved forward when in possession, something he's known for before. Sometimes seemed hesitant in possession and the tactic discontinued after the break. 6

The tall defender A constant threat from dead balls, typically, perhaps is an alternative to Stones at the back as opposed to alongside him. One wayward pass after the break almost led to the first goal from Albania. 6

The young full-back A further composed showing by the rising star following his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel over their defense. The role looks secure so soon. 7

The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. A bit careless on the ball though his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. A handy pace-controller available to the manager to utilize against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a rash foul. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Had room to move in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Awarded a merited rest around the 60-minute point. 6

The star midfielder Played in a forward role on the right while also did plenty of the hard yards. Showed glimpses of brilliance but dragged a shot high. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven

The winger Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his strike smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. Six

The captain The difference-maker netting 77th and 78th finishes at international level. The first a classic close-range tap-in and his next a classy headed goal following a clever run off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8

The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder however Strakosha made the save. Rashford produced a bigger influence in his place. 5

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined effectively with the striker in more familiar role, Six
  • Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the opener, Six
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction assisting the second goal with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10
  • Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10
Victor Bailey
Victor Bailey

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