Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding display, England wrapped up a further triumph against Albania, featuring several squad members delivering notable displays on the pitch.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Had little to do required before the break before called into action from an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle on Qazim Laci showed his game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Tested by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Started more centrally initially but moved to the flank after Saka was introduced. 7
The defender Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. Sometimes seemed hesitant when carrying play with the approach discontinued by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, perhaps is another option to his teammate in defense instead of alongside him. One wayward distribution after the break nearly resulted in the first goal from the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more confident showing from the 20-year-old after his first cap versus another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of a clever backheel behind their defense. The role looks secure so soon. 7
The newcomer His first start with the national team. A bit careless when playing out however his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A handy pace-controller for the coach to call upon versus defensive opponents. Booked for a rash foul. 6
Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays created chances. Was given room to move on the left but was offside upon receiving in front of goal. Granted a merited rest on the hour mark. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in a forward position out wide and also put in the hard yards. Showed moments of class and dragged an effort high. Replaced in the closing stages by Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s best chance in the opening period, his shot well saved by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play out wide but his crosses from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. 6
The captain The match-winner netting 77th and 78th goals for his country. His first a classic opportunist's goal and the second an excellent finish with his head following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Had a good opening after being played in from a teammate but Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of effect when substituted. 5
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Was bright connecting seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery provided the breakthrough, 6
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active after coming on and provided the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled at this level, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, Six