Squad Ratings: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a dominant performance, England wrapped up another victory against their opponents, with multiple squad members delivering standout displays throughout the game.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do required in the first half until called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. A sliding challenge against Qazim Laci highlighted excellent game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Examined by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Played in a central role to begin with then shifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Pushed into midfield on the ball, a familiar role previously. On occasion seemed hesitant when carrying play with the approach was shelved by the interval. Six
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, as always, but may be an alternative for his teammate in defense as opposed to paired with him. A careless pass after the break came close to an opener for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another composed performance by the 20-year-old after his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever flick over their defense. The role is firmly his at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Slightly loose when playing out however his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A useful tempo-setter available to the boss to utilize versus sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed challenge. Six
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Had room to roam down the left flank but was in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Granted a merited rest on the hour mark. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in a forward role out wide while also did plenty of the hard yards. Showed moments of class and mishit an attempt over. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet on the right but his crosses into the box varied in quality. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6
The captain The decisive figure netting two more finishes in an England shirt. His first a trademark close-range tap-in and the second an excellent finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and the side stand a real opportunity next summer with him up top. 8
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Had a good opening when set up from a teammate but the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater an impact in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery led to the opener, 6
- Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Active after coming on and set up Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6
- Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10