Squad Evaluations: England Win Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier

During a impressive performance, the English national team wrapped up another triumph versus Albania, featuring a number of players delivering memorable performances during the match.

Starting XI

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make in the first half until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci showed sharp anticipation. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested against the opposition's biggest threat in Hoxha. Started through the middle early on then shifted out wide once a teammate was introduced. Seven

The defender Moved forward when in possession, a familiar role previously. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play and the experiment abandoned by the interval. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, could serve as a replacement to Stones in the backline as opposed to alongside him. A careless pass in the second half came close to an opener for the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly A further composed display by the youngster after his first cap versus another side. A teammate failed to make the most of an exquisite touch behind the Albania defence. The role looks secure at this stage. 7

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Somewhat loose when playing out however his dangerous set-pieces were a threat. A handy pace-controller for the coach to have versus teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. 6

Declan Rice Crosses from corners and free kicks were dangerous. Had freedom to roam down the left flank but was in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Granted a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. Six

The star midfielder Functioned in a high role down the right and did plenty of the hard yards. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but dragged an attempt wide. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, his competition, after being booked. 7

The winger Had England’s best chance of the first half, his shot excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate holding position, he had to provide width down the right side although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. Six

Harry Kane The difference-maker with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals in an England shirt. The first a typical poacher’s finish while the second an excellent finish with his head having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8

The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by the midfielder but Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of influence in his place. Five

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Appeared sharp and combined well with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
  • Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the breakthrough, Six
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Active after coming on assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
  • Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, Six
  • Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6
Tina Johnson
Tina Johnson

A passionate historian and collector specializing in 20th-century artifacts, with over a decade of experience in antique restoration.