Player Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a impressive display, England wrapped up a further triumph against Albania, with several players delivering notable displays throughout the game.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make before the break before tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker demonstrated sharp reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Challenged against Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Operated more centrally early on then shifted to the flank after a teammate entered the fray. 7
The defender Moved into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. Sometimes was too casual on the ball and the approach discontinued at half-time. Six
The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, per usual, but may be an alternative to Stones in the backline as opposed to his partner. One wayward pass after the break almost led to the first goal from Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another confident display from the youngster after his debut versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of an exquisite flick over the opposing backline. His position is his to lose already. Seven
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy when playing out but his whipped set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager for the coach to call upon against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a rash foul. Six
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and free-kicks were dangerous. Was given room to roam on the left yet found himself offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a deserved rest after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Played in a high spot out wide and also put in the hard yards. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but dragged a shot high. Substituted towards the end by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort excellently kept out by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet on the right yet his deliveries from wide areas varied in quality. Taken off with 15 to go. Six
Harry Kane The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The opener a classic opportunist's goal and his next an excellent header following a clever run away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering with the national team stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity after being played in from a teammate yet the keeper made the save. His replacement produced a bigger an impact when substituted. 5/10
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up well with Kane in more familiar role, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner created the opener, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction and provided Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable at this level, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10