Player Ratings: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier
During a dominant display, England secured a further triumph versus Albania, with several players turning in notable performances during the match.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene from an opponent's bent shot. A sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested by the opposition's biggest threat through Hoxha. Started in a central role early on then shifted wider after Saka entered the fray. 7/10
The defender Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. At times was too casual when carrying play with the experiment abandoned after the break. 6
Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, per usual, could serve as an alternative for Stones at the back instead of paired with him. A careless distribution after the break came close to an opener from Albania. 6
The young full-back One more confident performance by the rising star following his first cap versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the most of a gorgeous touch behind the opposing backline. His position is firmly his already. Seven
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Somewhat sloppy when playing out however his whipped set-pieces posed a danger. A handy game manager available to the boss to utilize against sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless foul. Six
The midfielder Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed license to drift on the left yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a merited break after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Operated in a forward spot down the right and also contributed with defensive duties. Displayed moments of class and scuffed an attempt over. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Had England’s best chance in the opening period, his shot smartly stopped from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play on the right but his crosses from wide areas were hit and miss. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker netting 77th and 78th finishes at international level. His first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second a superb header after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. Eight
The attacker Struggled to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham but the keeper kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact when substituted. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a natural spot, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece created the breakthrough, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled at this level, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to make an impact, 6