Player Evaluations: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

During a commanding display, England wrapped up a further win versus their opponents, featuring multiple squad members delivering notable displays during the match.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform before the break before called into action by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Tested by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Operated through the middle early on but moved to the flank after a teammate came on. 7

The defender Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, something he's known for previously. Sometimes seemed hesitant when carrying play and the approach abandoned after the break. 6/10

Dan Burn A constant threat at set pieces, typically, perhaps is a replacement to his teammate in defense rather than alongside him. One wayward distribution later in the match almost led to the first goal for the visitors. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly A further confident display by the 20-year-old following his debut versus another side. A teammate was unable to take the most of a clever touch behind their defense. His position looks secure at this stage. 7

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Slightly sloppy on the ball though his dangerous set-pieces were a threat. A handy game manager available to the coach to call upon versus sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a rash foul. Six

Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and set-plays created chances. Enjoyed license to roam on the left only to be in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Awarded a merited rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10

The star midfielder Played in an advanced position down the right and also did plenty of the hard yards. Showed moments of class but mishit a shot wide. Replaced late on for Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. 7

The winger Was presented with England’s best chance in the opening period, his strike smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side yet his deliveries from wide areas varied in quality. Taken off late in the match. 6

The captain The match-winner netting 77th and 78th goals in an England shirt. The first a trademark poacher’s finish and his next a superb finish with his head following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. Eight

The attacker Struggled to influence play on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate yet the keeper denied him. Rashford produced a bigger influence when substituted. 5/10

Bench Players

  • Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting well with the striker in a preferred position, 6
  • Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the opener, 6
  • Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, Seven
  • Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable so soon, Six
  • Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six
Timothy Wright
Timothy Wright

An avid traveler and journalist with a passion for uncovering unique stories from diverse cultures and regions.