Squad Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
During a dominant showing, the English national team secured a further triumph against their opponents, with multiple squad members turning in memorable displays on the pitch.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene from an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker showed his reading of the game. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined by the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Played more centrally to begin with then shifted out wide after Saka entered the fray. 7/10
The defender Advanced forward with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. Sometimes was too casual in possession and the approach was shelved by the interval. 6
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, per usual, but may be another option for Stones at the back instead of alongside him. A careless pass in the second half almost led to an opener from the visitors. 6
Nico O’Reilly One more confident display by the 20-year-old following his initial appearance against Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot looks secure already. 7
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Somewhat loose in possession however his dangerous deliveries posed a danger. A useful pace-controller for the manager to call upon against defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. Six
The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and free kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to roam in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned rest on the hour mark. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in an advanced position out wide and put in the hard yards. Demonstrated flashes of quality and dragged an effort over. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, his competition, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Had the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side although his balls from wide areas were hit and miss. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and the second an excellent headed goal having drifted away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by the midfielder yet the keeper kept it out. His replacement had a greater an impact after coming on. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up well with the striker in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the opener, 6
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active when brought on assisting Kane’s second with superb cross into the area, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled at this level, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to make an impact, Six