Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a impressive display, England clinched a further victory versus their opponents, featuring a number of players delivering notable performances throughout the game.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform in the first half until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding intervention against Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Operated more centrally to begin with but moved out wide after Saka came on. 7/10
The defender Pushed forward on the ball, a familiar role in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic was shelved after the break. Six
The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, but may be a replacement for Stones at the back as opposed to alongside him. A careless distribution after the break nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. Six
The young full-back A further assured showing by the youngster following his first cap against Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever touch behind the opposing backline. The role is his to lose already. 7
The newcomer His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Somewhat careless on the ball however his inswinging corners posed a danger. A handy tempo-setter available to the manager to call upon versus defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. 6
Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Had license to move in left midfield but was offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Granted a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward role down the right while also put in defensive duties. Displayed moments of class but scuffed an effort high. Replaced towards the end by Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to provide width down the right side although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Substituted with 15 to go. Six
The captain The match-winner with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals at international level. His first a typical close-range tap-in while the second a superb header after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him leading the line. Eight
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Had a presentable chance following a pass from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. 5
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up effectively with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities but his corner provided the first goal, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively after coming on and set up Kane’s second via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
- Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established at this level, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to affect things, 6