Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier

Throughout a dominant display, England wrapped up a further victory against Albania, with a number of players delivering standout performances on the pitch.

First-choice XI

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required in the first half before called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge against Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's main danger in their forward. Started in a central role initially then shifted out wide once Saka was introduced. 7/10

John Stones Advanced into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done in the past. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the experiment discontinued after the break. Six

The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be another option for Stones at the back instead of his partner. A loose distribution later in the match came close to the first goal for the visitors. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly Another assured showing by the rising star after his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the most of a clever backheel behind the Albania defence. The role is firmly his already. 7/10

Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. A bit loose in possession but his whipped deliveries caused problems. An effective game manager available to the manager to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow after a reckless foul. 6

Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Had room to move on the left but was offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Granted a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. Six

The star midfielder Played in an advanced position down the right and contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated moments of class and dragged a shot wide. Withdrawn towards the end for a teammate, his rival, after being booked. 7

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's best chance of the first half, his strike well saved by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to offer an outlet on the right although his balls from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. Six

The captain The decisive figure scoring two more strikes at international level. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish while the second a classy headed goal after peeling away off his defender. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Had a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham but Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater effect in his place. 5

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, Six
  • Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively upon introduction and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the back post, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10
Donald Rogers
Donald Rogers

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