Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
In a impressive performance, England clinched one more triumph against Albania, with multiple squad members turning in memorable displays throughout the game.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform before the break before forced to intervene by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Started more centrally initially then shifted to the flank after a teammate was introduced. Seven
The defender Advanced forward on the ball, a familiar role before. At times seemed hesitant on the ball and the experiment was shelved at half-time. Six
The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, but may be a replacement to his teammate in the backline as opposed to paired with him. A loose distribution later in the match came close to an opener for Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly A further assured performance from the rising star after his debut against another side. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from an exquisite flick behind the Albania defence. The role is firmly his already. 7/10
Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Slightly careless in possession though his dangerous deliveries posed a danger. An effective game manager for the boss to utilize against sides that sit back. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and set-plays caused problems. Had license to move down the left flank only to be offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved rest after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced spot down the right while also did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed moments of class but scuffed a shot wide. Replaced late on by Rogers, his competition, after being booked. 7
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot well saved from the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play on the right yet his deliveries into the box varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. Six
The captain The match-winner with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes for his country. His first a classic poacher’s finish while the second an excellent header following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him up top. Eight
Eberechi Eze Struggled to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham however Strakosha made the save. Rashford had a greater influence when substituted. 5
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting well with the striker in more familiar role, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner provided the first goal, 6/10
- Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively after coming on and provided the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10