Player Ratings: England Victory Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
During a impressive performance, England secured one more triumph versus Albania, with a number of squad members producing notable displays throughout the game.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Not a save required during the opening 45 but then tested by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker showed his anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined by Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Operated more centrally early on but moved out wide once Saka was introduced. 7
John Stones Pushed forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for previously. Sometimes was too casual on the ball with the tactic was shelved after the break. 6
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, could serve as another option for Stones in defense as opposed to his partner. A loose distribution later in the match came close to the first goal from the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more assured performance by the 20-year-old after his debut versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of a gorgeous touch over the Albania defence. His position is his to lose already. Seven
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. A bit loose when playing out however his whipped deliveries posed a danger. A useful game manager for the manager to utilize against sides that sit back. Booked for a rash foul. 6
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks caused problems. Was given freedom to drift in left midfield but was offside as the pass came in front of goal. Given a well-earned substitution around the 60-minute point. Six
The star midfielder Functioned in a high role out wide and did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed moments of class and mishit a shot high. Substituted in the closing stages for a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Taken off with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The decisive figure netting two more finishes at international level. The first a trademark close-range tap-in and the second a superb header after peeling away off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side stand a real opportunity next summer when he's in the team. Eight
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game out wide. Had a good opening after being played in by the midfielder however Strakosha kept it out. His replacement had a greater effect in his place. 5
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up effectively with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances but his corner created the first goal, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Energetic upon introduction and set up the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10
