Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a commanding performance, the English national team wrapped up a further triumph against their opponents, featuring multiple squad members turning in memorable performances throughout the game.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform during the opening 45 before called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker showed excellent anticipation. 6/10

The debutant Tested against Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Played more centrally initially then shifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. Seven

John Stones Moved into midfield on the ball, as he has done before. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession with the approach discontinued after the break. Six

Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, typically, perhaps is a replacement for his teammate in defense rather than alongside him. A loose distribution after the break almost led to a goal from Albania. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly One more composed performance from the youngster after his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite flick over the Albania defence. The left-back spot is firmly his so soon. 7

The newcomer His maiden beginning for his country. A bit sloppy when playing out but his whipped set-pieces caused problems. A useful tempo-setter available to the coach to utilize versus defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed tackle. 6

Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to roam in left midfield but was offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Granted a deserved break after an hour. 6

The star midfielder Played in a forward spot out wide while also put in defensive duties. Demonstrated moments of class but scuffed a shot wide. Replaced in the closing stages for a teammate, his rival, after being booked. 7/10

The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot well saved by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate hanging back, he had to provide width on the right but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. 6

Harry Kane The match-winner with his two more strikes at international level. The opener a typical opportunist's goal and the second an excellent finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. Eight

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by Bellingham yet Strakosha kept it out. Rashford made much more of an impact when substituted. 5/10

Replacements

  • Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, Six
  • Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the breakthrough, Six
  • Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and set up the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established already, Six
  • Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10
Michelle Woodard
Michelle Woodard

A software engineer and retro computing enthusiast who restores vintage computers and writes about their historical significance.