Squad Assessments: England Win Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifier

Throughout a dominant showing, the English national team secured another victory against Albania, featuring multiple players delivering standout performances on the pitch.

Starting XI

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to make in the first half but then forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge on Qazim Laci highlighted sharp reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated in a central role early on but moved wider after a teammate was introduced. 7/10

The defender Advanced into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done in the past. At times was too casual in possession and the experiment was shelved at half-time. 6/10

Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be an alternative to his teammate at the back rather than paired with him. A loose pass after the break almost led to an opener from Albania. 6/10

The young full-back Another assured display from the rising star following his first cap against another side. A teammate failed to make full advantage of an exquisite flick behind the Albania defence. His position looks secure so soon. Seven

The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Slightly loose on the ball but his dangerous deliveries caused problems. A useful tempo-setter for the boss to have versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a rash foul. 6/10

The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed freedom to roam in left midfield but was in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Given a merited rest after an hour. 6

Jude Bellingham Played in a forward role down the right and also contributed with defensive duties. Displayed moments of class but dragged an effort high. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. Seven

The winger Had the team's top opening before halftime, his strike well saved from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side yet his deliveries into the box were inconsistent. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. Six

Harry Kane The match-winner netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes for his country. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and the second a superb header after peeling away away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. Eight

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play out wide. Had a decent opportunity after being played in by the midfielder yet Strakosha made the save. His replacement produced a bigger effect after coming on. Five

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a natural spot, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the breakthrough, Six
  • Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively after coming on assisting Kane’s second via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
  • Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled so soon, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six
Victoria Williams
Victoria Williams

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