Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
During a dominant performance, England clinched one more victory versus Albania, featuring a number of squad members delivering standout performances throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do to make in the first half before tested by an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker highlighted his game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined by the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Operated more centrally early on later drifted to the flank after a teammate came on. 7
John Stones Pushed up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role before. At times lacked urgency when carrying play and the tactic discontinued at half-time. 6
The tall defender Always dangerous from dead balls, as always, could serve as a replacement for his teammate in defense as opposed to his partner. A loose pass after the break almost led to a goal for Albania. Six
The young full-back A further assured display from the youngster following his first cap versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7/10
Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. Slightly careless on the ball however his whipped deliveries posed a danger. A useful pace-controller for the boss to call upon versus defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless tackle. Six
Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and free-kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to roam down the left flank but was offside as the pass came with a chance to score. Granted a deserved substitution on the hour mark. 6/10
The star midfielder Operated in a forward role out wide while also put in defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality but scuffed an attempt wide. Withdrawn late on for Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Had England’s best chance before halftime, his shot excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah holding position, he had to stretch the play on the right but his crosses from wide areas were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner with his 77th and 78th goals at international level. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and his next a superb header after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, his form is unwavering with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact from the left. Had a good opening after being played in from a teammate but Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater influence after coming on. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp and combined well with the striker in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively after coming on and provided Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to influence the game, Six