Squad Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

In a commanding display, England secured one more triumph versus Albania, featuring multiple squad members turning in standout performances throughout the game.

Starting XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform during the opening 45 but then called into action from an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed his reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Tested against Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Started more centrally to begin with then shifted out wide after Saka was introduced. Seven

The defender Moved into midfield on the ball, something he's known for in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant on the ball with the tactic abandoned at half-time. Six

The tall defender A constant threat from dead balls, as always, but may be an alternative for his teammate in the backline instead of his partner. A loose distribution after the break almost led to the first goal from Albania. Six

The young full-back A further assured showing by the youngster after his first cap against another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of an exquisite flick over the opposing backline. The role is firmly his at this stage. 7/10

The newcomer A debut start with the national team. Slightly loose on the ball however his whipped deliveries posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter available to the coach to have versus defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Had room to drift in left midfield yet found himself offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Awarded a deserved substitution after an hour. 6

The star midfielder Functioned in a high spot down the right and also put in the hard yards. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but scuffed an attempt high. Replaced late on for a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's best chance before halftime, his shot excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. As a teammate holding position, he was forced to provide width out wide but his crosses into the box were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. 6/10

The captain The match-winner netting 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The first a classic close-range tap-in and his next an excellent finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. Eight

Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening when set up by Bellingham but Strakosha made the save. His replacement produced a bigger an impact in his place. 5/10

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6
  • Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances but his corner led to the first goal, 6
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established already, 6/10
  • Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six
Dawn Miller
Dawn Miller

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