Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier

In a commanding showing, the English national team secured a further victory versus their opponents, with a number of squad members turning in standout displays during the match.

First-choice Lineup

The goalkeeper Not a save required during the opening 45 before tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding intervention against Qazim Laci highlighted sharp game intelligence. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated in a central role to begin with then shifted to the flank after Saka came on. Seven

The defender Pushed up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for before. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball with the experiment discontinued by the interval. 6

Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, as always, but may be a replacement for Stones at the back instead of paired with him. A loose distribution after the break almost led to an opener for the visitors. 6

The young full-back Another confident display by the rising star after his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever backheel over the Albania defence. The left-back spot is firmly his already. 7/10

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. A bit careless in possession though his inswinging corners were a threat. An effective tempo-setter for the manager to call upon against sides that sit back. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six

The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Had license to move on the left only to be offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a deserved break around the 60-minute point. Six

The star midfielder Operated in a high role down the right and also put in dirty work. Displayed flashes of quality but mishit an effort wide. Replaced late on for Rogers, his competition, after being booked. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s best chance before halftime, his effort well saved by the Albanian keeper. As a teammate holding position, he had to provide width down the right side but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

Harry Kane The match-winner netting 77th and 78th strikes at international level. His first a classic poacher’s finish while the second a superb headed goal following a clever run off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. Eight

The attacker Found it tough to influence play from the left. Had a good opening following a pass from a teammate but the keeper made the save. Rashford produced a bigger effect after coming on. 5

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and combined effectively with Kane in more familiar role, Six
  • Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner led to the opener, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Active upon introduction and set up the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
  • Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Looks established already, Six
  • Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Not enough time to make an impact, 6
Ronald Cox
Ronald Cox

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