Player Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
In a impressive performance, the English national team secured one more triumph against their opponents, with a number of players turning in memorable displays on the pitch.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform in the first half before tested from an opponent's curled attempt. His sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker showed his anticipation. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Challenged by the opposition's biggest threat in their forward. Started in a central role to begin with but moved wider after a teammate entered the fray. 7
John Stones Pushed into midfield when in possession, something he's known for in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant in possession and the tactic discontinued after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, per usual, but may be a replacement to Stones at the back rather than his partner. A loose pass after the break nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly A further assured showing from the rising star after his initial appearance versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous flick over the Albania defence. The role looks secure already. 7
The newcomer A debut start with the national team. Somewhat careless in possession but his dangerous corners were a threat. A handy pace-controller for the coach to call upon against teams who drop deep. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and free-kicks created chances. Had license to drift in left midfield only to be offside upon receiving in front of goal. Awarded a deserved break around the 60-minute point. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced position on the right while also put in dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but mishit a shot wide. Substituted late on by Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, he had to provide width out wide although his balls from wide areas varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner with his 77th and 78th goals at international level. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and his next a classy header having drifted away off his defender. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in future competitions with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Had a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder however Strakosha kept it out. Rashford had a greater influence in his place. 5/10
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined effectively with the striker in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic when brought on and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, Six