Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier

During a impressive display, the English national team clinched one more win versus their opponents, featuring a number of players delivering notable displays on the pitch.

First-choice XI

The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform before the break before forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker demonstrated sharp reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Examined by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Played more centrally initially later drifted to the flank after a teammate came on. Seven

John Stones Moved up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play and the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6

The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is another option to his teammate at the back rather than his partner. A careless ball in the second half nearly resulted in an opener for Albania. 6

The young full-back A further confident performance by the 20-year-old after his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of a gorgeous touch over their defense. His position is his to lose at this stage. Seven

Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Somewhat sloppy in possession though his dangerous corners were a threat. A useful tempo-setter for the boss to call upon against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a rash tackle. 6

Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks caused problems. Was given license to roam on the left only to be in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Awarded a merited break after an hour. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced spot out wide and did plenty of the hard yards. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but dragged a shot wide. Withdrawn towards the end for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his shot well saved by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, it fell to him to stretch the play on the right although his balls from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. 6

Harry Kane The decisive figure scoring two more strikes for his country. His first a classic close-range tap-in while the second a superb headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance next summer with him up top. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Struggled to influence play from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham yet the keeper made the save. Rashford made much more of influence after coming on. 5

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner provided the opener, 6
  • Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
  • Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6
Richard Riley
Richard Riley

A tech strategist with over a decade of experience in digital innovation and AI implementation across global enterprises.