Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
In a dominant display, England wrapped up another victory against their opponents, with several players delivering standout displays on the pitch.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make before the break before forced to intervene by an opponent's curling effort. His sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Tested against the opposition's main danger in their forward. Started through the middle to begin with but moved out wide after a teammate was introduced. 7
John Stones Pushed forward when in possession, a familiar role previously. On occasion lacked urgency in possession and the tactic was shelved after the break. 6/10
The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as a replacement to Stones at the back instead of paired with him. One wayward distribution after the break nearly resulted in a goal from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further assured display by the youngster after his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from an exquisite backheel over their defense. His position is firmly his so soon. 7/10
The newcomer His first start for his country. Slightly loose in possession but his inswinging set-pieces posed a danger. An effective pace-controller for the manager to utilize versus defensive opponents. Booked for a rash foul. 6/10
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to drift down the left flank yet found himself offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned rest after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Operated in a forward position down the right while also did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed flashes of quality but dragged an attempt over. Withdrawn towards the end for Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Was presented with the team's best chance in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah staying deep, he had to stretch the play down the right side yet his deliveries from wide areas were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. 6
The captain The match-winner netting 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The opener a trademark close-range tap-in while the second a superb finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Had a good opening following a pass by Bellingham yet Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater influence when substituted. 5
Bench Players
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined effectively with the striker in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner created the first goal, 6
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and set up the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, Six