Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier

In a impressive performance, England clinched another victory against Albania, featuring multiple squad members producing memorable displays during the match.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Not a save to make before the break but then tested by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker showed sharp reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Examined by Albania’s biggest threat in their forward. Played in a central role to begin with later drifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. 7/10

The defender Moved into midfield with the ball at his feet, something he's known for previously. At times lacked urgency when carrying play with the tactic abandoned after the break. 6/10

Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, per usual, could serve as an alternative for his teammate in the backline as opposed to his partner. A careless pass in the second half nearly resulted in an opener for Albania. 6

The young full-back A further assured showing by the youngster after his first cap against another side. A teammate was unable to take the most of an exquisite touch over the Albania defence. The role is firmly his so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. Slightly loose on the ball though his whipped deliveries posed a danger. An effective pace-controller for the boss to have against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. 6

The midfielder Crosses from corners and set-plays created chances. Was given freedom to drift in left midfield only to be offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a deserved break after an hour. 6

The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced spot on the right while also did plenty of the hard yards. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and mishit a shot over. Replaced in the closing stages by Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s best chance of the first half, his strike excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side although his balls from wide areas varied in quality. Taken off late in the match. 6

The captain The difference-maker with his 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish and the second an excellent finish with his head following a clever run off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8/10

The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact 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 effect after coming on. 5/10

Substitutes

  • Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Active when brought on assisting the captain's brace with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6/10
  • Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six
Timothy Costa
Timothy Costa

A passionate slot enthusiast and gaming analyst with over 8 years of experience in the online casino industry.

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