Player Ratings: England Victory Secured by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a commanding showing, England secured one more win against their opponents, featuring a number of players turning in notable displays throughout the game.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save required in the first half but then forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding tackle against Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Examined against the opposition's biggest threat through their forward. Started in a central role to begin with but moved to the flank after Saka entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Advanced up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for previously. At times was too casual when carrying play and the approach was shelved at half-time. Six
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be a replacement for Stones at the back as opposed to alongside him. A careless distribution in the second half almost led to a goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly One more composed performance from the rising star following his debut versus another side. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of a clever flick behind the opposing backline. The role is firmly his at this stage. 7/10
The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit sloppy when playing out though his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager for the manager to call upon versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Set-pieces on corner kicks and free-kicks created chances. Had room to move in left midfield but was in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Granted a merited substitution on the hour mark. 6
The star midfielder Operated in a forward role down the right and put in dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but dragged an effort wide. Substituted towards the end by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his shot excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, he was forced to provide width out wide but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. 6
Harry Kane The match-winner netting two more goals for his country. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and the second an excellent header after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better and the side stand a real opportunity next summer with him leading the line. 8
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder however Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of influence in his place. Five
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery created the first goal, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively after coming on and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the far post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six