Player Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a dominant showing, the English national team wrapped up a further win against their opponents, with multiple squad members turning in notable displays on the pitch.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform in the first half until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged by the opposition's main danger through Hoxha. Operated in a central role early on later drifted wider once a teammate came on. 7/10
The defender Pushed up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for before. On occasion lacked urgency in possession and the experiment abandoned by the interval. 6/10
The tall defender Always dangerous from dead balls, typically, but may be an alternative to his teammate in defense as opposed to his partner. One wayward pass after the break almost led to an opener for the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back A further composed performance from the 20-year-old after his initial appearance versus Serbia. Saka failed to make the most of a clever backheel behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure at this stage. 7/10
The newcomer His first start for his country. A bit sloppy in possession but his dangerous corners posed a danger. A handy pace-controller for the coach to call upon versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. 6/10
The midfielder Crosses from corners and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed license to move in left midfield but was in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Granted a merited rest after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Operated in a high position on the right while also put in dirty work. Showed moments of class and dragged a shot wide. Withdrawn in the closing stages by Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7
The winger Had the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah staying deep, he had to provide width on the right yet his deliveries from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The first a typical opportunist's goal and his next an excellent header having drifted away off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering with the national team have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. 8
The attacker Struggled to make an impact from the left. Had a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham yet Strakosha kept it out. His replacement made much more of an impact when substituted. 5/10
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright and combined effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery created the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Energetic upon introduction assisting the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10
- Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10