Squad Evaluations: England Win Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

During a impressive performance, the English national team secured a further victory against Albania, featuring multiple squad members delivering standout displays throughout the game.

Starting XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do to make before the break until called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent reading of the game. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested against the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Operated more centrally to begin with then shifted out wide once a teammate came on. Seven

John Stones Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. On occasion was too casual in possession with the tactic discontinued after the break. 6

Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, per usual, could serve as a replacement to his teammate in the backline rather than his partner. A loose distribution after the break nearly resulted in the first goal for the visitors. Six

The young full-back Another composed showing from the youngster following his first cap versus another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel behind the Albania defence. The role is his to lose so soon. Seven

The newcomer His maiden beginning in an England shirt. A bit loose when playing out but his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. An effective pace-controller available to the coach to call upon versus teams who drop deep. Booked for a rash tackle. Six

Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Was given license to drift on the left only to be in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Given a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6/10

The star midfielder Functioned in a high spot out wide while also put in dirty work. Showed moments of class but scuffed a shot high. Withdrawn towards the end for a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. 7

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's best chance of the first half, his shot excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, he was forced to provide width out wide although his balls into the box varied in quality. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. Six

The captain The match-winner netting 77th and 78th strikes at international level. His first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a classy headed goal following a clever run off his defender. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. Eight

The attacker Found it tough to influence play out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham but Strakosha kept it out. His replacement had a greater effect in his place. Five

Replacements

  • Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up well with Kane in a preferred position, Six
  • Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Spurned chances but his corner provided the first goal, 6
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active after coming on and set up the second goal with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10
  • Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith

A former financial analyst turned life coach, Elena shares practical advice on blending financial wisdom with personal growth for holistic success.

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