Player Ratings: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a impressive display, England clinched another win versus their opponents, with a number of squad members delivering memorable displays on the pitch.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save to make during the opening 45 until called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker showed excellent reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Examined against the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Started more centrally early on later drifted wider after Saka entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Moved forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for previously. Sometimes was too casual in possession and the approach was shelved at half-time. 6
The tall defender A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, per usual, but may be another option for Stones in defense instead of alongside him. A loose ball in the second half came close to a goal from the visitors. 6
The young full-back One more confident showing from the rising star after his debut versus another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of an exquisite flick behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot looks secure already. 7
Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. A bit careless when playing out though his inswinging set-pieces posed a danger. An effective pace-controller available to the manager to have versus sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a rash foul. 6
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and set-plays created chances. Had license to drift in left midfield but was offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward role down the right and did plenty of defensive duties. Demonstrated flashes of quality and scuffed an effort wide. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s best chance before halftime, his shot well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide although his balls into the box varied in quality. Replaced late in the match. 6
The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th finishes for his country. His first a trademark opportunist's goal and his next a superb headed goal following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity next summer when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Struggled to get into the game out wide. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by Bellingham but the keeper kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact after coming on. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with Kane in more familiar role, Six
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the first goal, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction and set up Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled so soon, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6