Squad Ratings: England Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier

In a impressive showing, the English national team secured another triumph against their opponents, with a number of players turning in notable performances during the match.

Starting Lineup

Dean Henderson Not a save to perform during the opening 45 but then tested by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Started more centrally to begin with but moved wider once Saka came on. 7

John Stones Pushed up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant in possession with the experiment abandoned by the interval. Six

The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, typically, perhaps is an alternative to Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. A careless ball later in the match came close to a goal from Albania. 6/10

The young full-back Another confident showing by the 20-year-old after his debut versus another side. A teammate was unable to take the most of an exquisite backheel over the opposing backline. His position is his to lose at this stage. Seven

Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. A bit sloppy on the ball however his whipped corners posed a danger. A useful game manager available to the boss to have against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. Six

The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and free kicks created chances. Enjoyed room to roam in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Granted a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. 6

The star midfielder Operated in a high role on the right while also put in dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but mishit an effort wide. Withdrawn in the closing stages for Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. Seven

The winger Had the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot well saved by the Albanian keeper. As Quansah holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. Six

Harry Kane The match-winner scoring 77th and 78th finishes for his country. His first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second an excellent finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him up top. 8

The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up by Bellingham but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger effect when substituted. 5/10

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Looked lively and combined effectively with Kane in more familiar role, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert yet his delivery led to the opener, Six
  • Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively upon introduction and provided Kane’s second with superb cross into the area, 7
  • Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
  • Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6
Jonathan Nelson
Jonathan Nelson

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