Player Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match

During a impressive display, England secured another win versus Albania, with multiple players delivering memorable displays throughout the game.

Starting XI

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 before called into action from an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Tested by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Started in a central role initially later drifted to the flank after Saka was introduced. Seven

John Stones Moved up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play with the approach discontinued after the break. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, perhaps is an alternative to Stones in defense instead of his partner. One wayward distribution later in the match came close to an opener from Albania. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more composed display from the rising star after his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever backheel over their defense. The role is firmly his so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. A bit loose on the ball but his whipped set-pieces were a threat. A useful game manager for the coach to utilize against sides that sit back. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. Six

The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays created chances. Was given freedom to roam in left midfield only to be offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned rest after an hour. 6

Jude Bellingham Played in a high position on the right and also did plenty of defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality but dragged an attempt wide. Withdrawn towards the end by a teammate, his rival, after being booked. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening before halftime, his strike well saved from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, he had to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10

Harry Kane The decisive figure netting two more strikes in an England shirt. His first a classic close-range tap-in and his next a classy headed goal having drifted away from his marker. At 32, he continues to improve and the side stand a real opportunity next summer with him up top. Eight

The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game from the left. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by the midfielder but the keeper kept it out. His replacement had a greater influence after coming on. 5

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and combined well with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances but his corner provided the first goal, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively upon introduction assisting the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, 7/10
  • Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10
Mary Hernandez
Mary Hernandez

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