Player Evaluations: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
During a commanding performance, England secured a further victory against Albania, featuring a number of squad members turning in standout performances throughout the game.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make before the break but then forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding challenge against Qazim Laci highlighted his reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Examined against Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Started in a central role initially then shifted to the flank after a teammate came on. 7
John Stones Pushed into midfield with the ball at his feet, something he's known for in the past. On occasion lacked urgency in possession with the tactic abandoned after the break. Six
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be a replacement to his teammate at the back instead of paired with him. One wayward distribution later in the match almost led to an opener from the visitors. 6
The young full-back One more assured performance from the 20-year-old after his debut against another side. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of an exquisite touch behind their defense. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. 7
Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Slightly careless on the ball however his dangerous set-pieces were a threat. A useful game manager available to the coach to call upon against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. 6
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Had license to move down the left flank but was in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a deserved substitution after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced role down the right and put in the hard yards. Demonstrated flashes of quality and scuffed a shot over. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his effort well saved by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate holding position, he had to provide width down the right side yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure with his two more strikes for his country. The first a typical poacher’s finish and the second a superb header following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in from a teammate but the keeper kept it out. His replacement made much more of effect in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright and combined seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery provided the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Active after coming on assisting the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Too brief a spell to make an impact, 6