Player Ratings: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding performance, England wrapped up another victory versus Albania, with several squad members producing memorable displays on the pitch.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Had little to do to make during the opening 45 before forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed his reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Started more centrally initially later drifted to the flank once Saka came on. Seven
John Stones Moved forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. At times seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic discontinued at half-time. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, per usual, but may be an alternative for Stones in the backline as opposed to alongside him. One wayward distribution later in the match almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another composed display from the 20-year-old following his debut versus Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a gorgeous touch over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his already. 7/10
The newcomer His first start for his country. Somewhat careless when playing out though his whipped corners posed a danger. A handy game manager for the manager to have against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Set-pieces on corner kicks and free-kicks were dangerous. Was given room to move in left midfield only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Operated in an advanced spot on the right and also did plenty of the hard yards. Demonstrated flashes of quality and dragged an attempt over. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening of the first half, his effort smartly stopped from Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate staying deep, he had to provide width on the right although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. 6
The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th finishes in an England shirt. His first a typical opportunist's goal and his next an excellent finish with his head following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he continues to improve and the side have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in from a teammate yet Strakosha made the save. His replacement produced a bigger influence after coming on. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting well with the striker in more familiar role, 6
- Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the opener, 6
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction assisting the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, Seven
- Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6