Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match

During a dominant display, the English national team wrapped up a further win against Albania, featuring several squad members turning in memorable performances during the match.

First-choice Eleven

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to make in the first half until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker showed excellent anticipation. Six out of ten

The debutant Challenged against Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Started in a central role to begin with later drifted to the flank once a teammate came on. 7/10

John Stones Moved forward when in possession, a familiar role before. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic abandoned at half-time. Six

The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, perhaps is a replacement to Stones in the backline rather than paired with him. A loose distribution later in the match nearly resulted in a goal from Albania. Six

The young full-back Another assured display from the youngster following his first cap versus another side. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel over their defense. The role is his to lose at this stage. Seven

The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly loose on the ball but his inswinging deliveries caused problems. An effective game manager for the manager to call upon versus defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless challenge. 6/10

Declan Rice Deliveries from corners and set-plays caused problems. Was given license to roam in left midfield but was in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Given a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. 6

The star midfielder Functioned in a forward spot out wide while also put in dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and mishit an attempt high. Replaced towards the end by Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7

The winger Was presented with the team's top opening before halftime, his effort well saved by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate hanging back, he was forced to offer an outlet down the right side yet his deliveries into the box varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. 6

The captain The match-winner netting two more goals for his country. The first a classic poacher’s finish and his next a classy finish with his head following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he continues to improve and England stand a real opportunity next summer with him leading the line. Eight

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Had a presentable chance when set up by Bellingham however the keeper denied him. His replacement made much more of an impact in his place. 5/10

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting well with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery provided the first goal, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and provided Kane’s second with superb cross into the area, 7
  • Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled already, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10
Joshua Walker
Joshua Walker

Tech analyst and writer with over a decade of experience in digital transformation and emerging technologies.