Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Win Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a dominant showing, the English national team clinched one more triumph versus Albania, with a number of players turning in memorable performances throughout the game.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Had little to do to make during the opening 45 until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge against Qazim Laci showed excellent anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against the opposition's main danger in their forward. Operated through the middle early on later drifted wider after Saka entered the fray. 7
John Stones Moved into midfield when in possession, a familiar role in the past. At times lacked urgency when carrying play and the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, could serve as an alternative to his teammate in the backline rather than paired with him. One wayward distribution in the second half almost led to an opener for Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another composed performance from the 20-year-old following his debut versus another side. A teammate was unable to take the most of a clever touch over their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his already. 7
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. A bit careless on the ball however his dangerous deliveries posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter for the manager to call upon against defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six
The midfielder Deliveries from corners and free-kicks created chances. Had room to drift on the left but was in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned rest after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Played in a high spot on the right and put in defensive duties. Displayed moments of class but dragged an attempt over. Substituted in the closing stages for a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening of the first half, his shot smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah holding position, he had to stretch the play out wide yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes at international level. The first a trademark opportunist's goal and the second an excellent headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance next summer with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to influence play out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in from a teammate yet the keeper made the save. Rashford produced a bigger influence when substituted. Five
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting effectively with the striker in a preferred position, 6
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6
- Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and provided the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6/10