Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
In a impressive display, the English national team clinched one more win against Albania, featuring multiple players producing memorable performances throughout the game.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Not a save to perform in the first half until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle on Qazim Laci highlighted sharp reading of the game. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged against the opposition's main danger through Hoxha. Operated in a central role to begin with then shifted wider once Saka came on. 7/10
John Stones Advanced into midfield on the ball, a familiar role before. Sometimes seemed hesitant when carrying play with the approach discontinued at half-time. 6/10
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, typically, but may be an alternative to Stones in defense rather than alongside him. A loose pass after the break nearly resulted in a goal from the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly A further assured performance by the 20-year-old after his debut against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of a gorgeous flick behind the opposing backline. His position is firmly his so soon. Seven
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Somewhat careless in possession but his whipped corners caused problems. A handy game manager available to the manager to have against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a rash challenge. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Had freedom to drift on the left yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Given a well-earned rest on the hour mark. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced spot down the right and put in defensive duties. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and dragged an attempt wide. Withdrawn towards the end for Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his shot excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah staying deep, he had to provide width out wide although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his two more strikes at international level. The opener a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a superb finish with his head after peeling away off his defender. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team stand a real opportunity next summer with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. His replacement made much more of effect when substituted. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined well with the striker in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the breakthrough, 6
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Active upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
- Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, Six
- Rogers (for the star 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10