Squad Assessments: England Victory Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
During a commanding display, England clinched one more victory against Albania, featuring several squad members turning in memorable displays throughout the game.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Not a save required in the first half but then called into action from an opponent's bent shot. A sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker highlighted his reading of the game. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined by Albania’s biggest threat in their forward. Started in a central role to begin with but moved out wide after a teammate came on. 7
John Stones Advanced forward when in possession, something he's known for previously. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession with the tactic discontinued after the break. 6
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as another option to Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. One wayward distribution later in the match came close to a goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another assured showing from the 20-year-old after his initial appearance versus another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of an exquisite backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot is his to lose at this stage. 7
Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Slightly careless on the ball though his inswinging corners were a threat. An effective pace-controller for the boss to call upon versus sides that sit back. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Had freedom to roam down the left flank yet found himself offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Given a deserved substitution on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced spot on the right while also contributed with defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality but dragged an attempt wide. Substituted late on by a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to provide width out wide but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced late in the match. Six
The captain The difference-maker with his two more goals at international level. The opener a typical close-range tap-in while the second a classy finish with his head following a clever run from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance next summer with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder but the keeper made the save. His replacement made much more of effect after coming on. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
- Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and provided the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Seems settled so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, Six