Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Win Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
In a impressive display, the English national team secured another win against Albania, featuring multiple players producing memorable displays during the match.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do required during the opening 45 before called into action by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding intervention against Qazim Laci demonstrated his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Examined by the opposition's primary attacker through their forward. Operated in a central role early on then shifted out wide once a teammate was introduced. 7
The defender Pushed up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role previously. Sometimes was too casual when carrying play with the approach was shelved after the break. 6
The tall defender A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be another option for Stones in defense rather than his partner. A loose pass after the break nearly resulted in the first goal from Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another confident performance from the rising star following his first cap against Serbia. Saka was unable to take the most of a gorgeous flick behind the opposing backline. The role is his to lose at this stage. 7
The newcomer His first start with the national team. Somewhat loose on the ball but his inswinging deliveries posed a danger. An effective pace-controller for the boss to utilize against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed challenge. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and free kicks were dangerous. Had license to drift down the left flank but was offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Awarded a merited substitution around the 60-minute point. Six
The star midfielder Operated in a high position out wide and did plenty of defensive duties. Demonstrated moments of class but dragged an attempt wide. Substituted late on by a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening of the first half, his effort excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate hanging back, he had to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Taken off with 15 to go. Six
The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th strikes at international level. His first a trademark opportunist's goal and the second a superb headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, he continues to improve and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him leading the line. 8
The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder however the keeper made the save. Rashford produced a bigger influence in his place. 5
Replacements
- Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined well with Kane in a natural spot, 6
- Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner provided the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and provided the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6
