Squad Ratings: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
In a impressive showing, the English national team secured one more triumph against their opponents, with multiple players turning in memorable performances during the match.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Not a save to make before the break until called into action by an opponent's curling effort. His sliding intervention against Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested by Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Started through the middle early on but moved to the flank after a teammate came on. 7
John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant when carrying play and the approach abandoned at half-time. Six
The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as another option for Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. A loose pass after the break came close to an opener from Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more assured display from the rising star after his debut against another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a clever flick behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot is his to lose at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Somewhat loose when playing out however his whipped corners posed a danger. A useful game manager for the boss to call upon against sides that sit back. Shown a yellow after a reckless challenge. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and free-kicks were dangerous. Had room to roam down the left flank but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in a high spot on the right and contributed with the hard yards. Showed moments of class but scuffed a shot high. Substituted late on for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to provide width on the right but his crosses into the box were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6
The captain The match-winner with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes in an England shirt. His first a classic close-range tap-in and his next a classy header following a clever run off his defender. At 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Struggled to influence play from the left. Had a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham however the keeper made the save. His replacement made much more of influence when substituted. Five
Replacements
- Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the first goal, 6
- Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Energetic upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6