Player Evaluations: England Victory Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a commanding showing, England secured one more win versus Albania, featuring a number of players turning in memorable displays during the match.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform during the opening 45 until called into action by an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci demonstrated his reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Tested by Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Played through the middle early on later drifted wider once Saka was introduced. 7
John Stones Advanced forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for previously. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession and the tactic was shelved by the interval. 6
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, but may be an alternative for Stones in defense instead of alongside him. A loose distribution after the break came close to the first goal from the visitors. Six
The young full-back One more assured performance by the youngster following his debut against Serbia. Saka failed to make the opportunity from a gorgeous touch over their defense. His position is firmly his already. 7
Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. A bit careless on the ball however his whipped set-pieces caused problems. A handy game manager for the manager to utilize versus defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless foul. 6/10
The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks were dangerous. Was given freedom to drift down the left flank yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Granted a deserved break after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward position on the right while also contributed with defensive duties. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but scuffed a shot high. Substituted in the closing stages by Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven
The winger Had England’s best chance of the first half, his effort smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side although his balls from wide areas varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. 6
The captain The difference-maker netting two more strikes for his country. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and the second a classy headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Had a good opening after being played in from a teammate however the keeper made the save. His replacement produced a bigger effect after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Foden (for a teammate 63) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Spurned chances yet his delivery led to the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction and set up the second goal with superb cross into the area, 7/10
- Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6/10