Squad Ratings: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
In a dominant performance, the English national team wrapped up one more triumph against Albania, with a number of players producing standout displays during the match.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Not a save required before the break before forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle on Qazim Laci highlighted his game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Examined by the opposition's primary attacker through their forward. Started more centrally to begin with but moved wider once a teammate was introduced. 7
John Stones Advanced into midfield on the ball, as he has done previously. At times was too casual in possession and the tactic discontinued by the interval. Six
Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, as always, could serve as a replacement for his teammate at the back instead of paired with him. One wayward pass after the break almost led to an opener for Albania. 6/10
The young full-back A further assured display from the rising star following his debut against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever touch behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot is firmly his so soon. 7
The newcomer His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Somewhat sloppy on the ball however his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A handy tempo-setter for the boss to utilize against teams who drop deep. Cautioned after a reckless challenge. 6
The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Had license to move in left midfield but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a merited break around the 60-minute point. Six
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward position out wide and also put in defensive duties. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but scuffed an attempt wide. Substituted late on by Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Had the team's top opening of the first half, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah staying deep, he was forced to provide width on the right but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and his next an excellent header following a clever run from his marker. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Struggled to get into the game out wide. Had a good opening after being played in by the midfielder yet Strakosha kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact after coming on. 5/10
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with the striker in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances yet his delivery led to the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active when brought on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established so soon, 6
- Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, 6