Player Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match

In a dominant display, England clinched a further win versus Albania, featuring a number of squad members turning in notable performances throughout the game.

First-choice Eleven

Dean Henderson Had little to do required during the opening 45 but then tested from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. A sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed sharp game intelligence. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Started more centrally initially but moved wider once a teammate entered the fray. Seven

John Stones Advanced into midfield with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. On occasion lacked urgency when carrying play and the experiment abandoned by the interval. Six

Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, per usual, could serve as another option for Stones in defense as opposed to paired with him. A loose distribution in the second half almost led to a goal for Albania. 6

The young full-back One more confident display from the 20-year-old after his initial appearance against another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel over their defense. His position is firmly his already. 7

The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. A bit sloppy in possession however his inswinging corners caused problems. A handy pace-controller for the manager to utilize versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. 6/10

The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to move on the left only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a merited break after an hour. Six

The star midfielder Functioned in a forward position down the right and did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed moments of class and mishit a shot wide. Substituted towards the end by a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7

The winger Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his shot well saved by the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, he had to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. Six

Harry Kane The match-winner netting 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and his next an excellent headed goal having drifted away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8/10

The attacker Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder yet Strakosha made the save. Rashford had a greater influence when substituted. Five

Substitutes

  • Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up effectively with the striker in a preferred position, 6
  • Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece created the first goal, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Energetic upon introduction and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the far post, 7
  • Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established already, Six
  • Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six
Matthew Lynn
Matthew Lynn

Urban planner and writer passionate about sustainable city design and community-focused development projects.