Player Ratings: England Win Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
Throughout a dominant performance, the English national team secured one more victory against Albania, featuring several squad members producing notable performances throughout the game.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Not a save to make before the break until called into action by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Tested by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Operated more centrally initially but moved out wide after a teammate entered the fray. 7
The defender Pushed into midfield when in possession, something he's known for in the past. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball and the approach abandoned at half-time. Six
Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, per usual, perhaps is another option to his teammate in defense as opposed to paired with him. A loose ball in the second half came close to the first goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly One more composed performance by the 20-year-old after his first cap against another side. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a gorgeous backheel over the Albania defence. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat careless when playing out though his inswinging corners were a threat. A useful game manager available to the coach to utilize against defensive opponents. Booked for a rash challenge. 6
The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays caused problems. Was given license to drift down the left flank but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a merited rest around the 60-minute point. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward spot down the right while also contributed with the hard yards. Showed flashes of quality but mishit an effort over. Withdrawn in the closing stages by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort well saved from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate hanging back, he had to provide width down the right side yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. The opener a typical poacher’s finish while the second a classy header following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact out wide. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham but the keeper kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger influence in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up well with the striker in a natural spot, 6
- Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active when brought on and set up Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established at this level, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, Six