Player Ratings: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
Throughout a impressive performance, the English national team wrapped up a further victory versus Albania, with a number of players turning in standout performances on the pitch.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Had little to do to make before the break before forced to intervene by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker demonstrated his game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged by Albania’s main danger in their forward. Played in a central role early on but moved to the flank once Saka entered the fray. 7
John Stones Advanced forward on the ball, something he's known for in the past. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball with the experiment was shelved after the break. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, typically, perhaps is another option to his teammate at the back rather than paired with him. A careless ball later in the match almost led to an opener from the visitors. 6
The young full-back Another assured showing by the 20-year-old following his first cap against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of an exquisite flick over the Albania defence. The role looks secure so soon. 7
Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy when playing out but his whipped deliveries posed a danger. A useful pace-controller for the manager to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a rash challenge. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed license to move in left midfield only to be offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in an advanced position down the right and also put in dirty work. Showed flashes of quality but mishit a shot high. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his shot well saved by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to provide width on the right but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. 6/10
The captain The difference-maker with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes at international level. The opener a trademark close-range tap-in and his next a superb headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. Eight
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder yet Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater influence when substituted. Five
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Was bright and combined seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner created the first goal, 6
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Energetic after coming on assisting the second goal with a brilliant delivery into the area, Seven
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6/10