Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Win Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

During a dominant display, England secured another triumph against their opponents, with multiple squad members producing notable displays throughout the game.

First-choice XI

The goalkeeper Not a save to make in the first half but then called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci demonstrated his anticipation. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's biggest threat through Hoxha. Operated more centrally early on but moved wider after a teammate came on. 7/10

The defender Moved into midfield when in possession, a familiar role previously. At times seemed hesitant in possession and the tactic was shelved after the break. 6

Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, but may be another option for his teammate at the back rather than alongside him. A loose ball after the break almost led to a goal for Albania. 6/10

The young full-back Another confident showing from the rising star after his first cap against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever touch over their defense. The role is firmly his so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy when playing out but his whipped corners caused problems. A useful game manager available to the coach to call upon against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free-kicks caused problems. Was given freedom to drift in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10

The star midfielder Played in a forward spot on the right while also contributed with dirty work. Showed glimpses of brilliance but scuffed an attempt wide. Substituted late on for a teammate, his rival, after being booked. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah staying deep, he was forced to provide width out wide yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. Six

The captain The difference-maker netting two more goals for his country. The opener a typical opportunist's goal and his next a superb header having drifted away off his defender. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance in future competitions with him up top. 8

The attacker Found it tough to get into the game on the left flank. Had a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger influence in his place. 5/10

Substitutes

  • Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright and linked up effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
  • Saka (for Eze 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery led to the first goal, Six
  • Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Energetic after coming on assisting Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the far post, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6
Bryan Wilson
Bryan Wilson

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