Player Ratings: England Win Secured by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
During a commanding performance, the English national team clinched another victory against their opponents, featuring several squad members producing memorable displays throughout the game.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Had little to do to make during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp reading of the game. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against the opposition's biggest threat through their forward. Played through the middle to begin with later drifted to the flank once Saka was introduced. Seven
The defender Advanced into midfield when in possession, a familiar role in the past. On occasion was too casual in possession and the tactic discontinued by the interval. Six
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, typically, could serve as an alternative for Stones in the backline as opposed to his partner. One wayward distribution after the break nearly resulted in an opener from the visitors. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another assured display from the rising star following his first cap against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous flick behind the opposing backline. His position is firmly his at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton His first start for his country. Slightly careless when playing out however his inswinging deliveries were a threat. A handy pace-controller for the coach to utilize against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. Six
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks caused problems. Was given license to drift on the left only to be offside as the pass came in front of goal. Given a well-earned break on the hour mark. 6
The star midfielder Played in an advanced position down the right while also put in defensive duties. Displayed moments of class and dragged an attempt wide. Replaced towards the end by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his effort smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. Six
Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th goals for his country. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and his next an excellent finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Struggled to influence play out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham yet Strakosha kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger influence after coming on. 5/10
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up effectively with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Spurned chances yet his delivery created the first goal, Six
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively after coming on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six