Player Ratings: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a commanding performance, the English national team secured a further victory against Albania, with a number of squad members delivering memorable performances on the pitch.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Had little to do to make during the opening 45 until called into action by an opponent's curling effort. His sliding challenge against Qazim Laci demonstrated his game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Tested against Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Played through the middle early on later drifted wider after Saka came on. Seven
John Stones Advanced up the pitch with the ball at his feet, a familiar role in the past. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball with the approach was shelved at half-time. Six
The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as another option for Stones at the back instead of his partner. A loose pass after the break almost led to a goal for the visitors. 6
The young full-back Another confident performance from the youngster after his debut versus Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel behind the Albania defence. The role looks secure at this stage. 7
The newcomer His first start for his country. Somewhat loose in possession though his dangerous corners were a threat. An effective game manager available to the coach to utilize against sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a rash foul. 6
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to move on the left yet found himself offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a well-earned break after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward spot down the right and did plenty of defensive duties. Showed moments of class and mishit an attempt over. Withdrawn late on for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, he was forced to stretch the play out wide although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. Six
Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes at international level. His first a trademark close-range tap-in while the second a classy headed goal following a clever run from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by the midfielder but the keeper made the save. Rashford produced a bigger an impact in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
- Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner created the first goal, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Active upon introduction and provided the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable so soon, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10