Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier

In a commanding performance, England clinched a further victory against Albania, featuring several squad members producing notable displays during the match.

Starting Eleven

The goalkeeper Had little to do to make during the opening 45 until tested by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci highlighted excellent reading of the game. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Examined by Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Played more centrally early on then shifted to the flank after Saka was introduced. 7

The defender Pushed forward when in possession, a familiar role in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant in possession and the tactic abandoned after the break. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, per usual, could serve as an alternative for his teammate at the back instead of alongside him. A careless ball later in the match nearly resulted in an opener from Albania. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly Another assured performance by the youngster following his initial appearance versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous touch behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure already. Seven

Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. A bit loose when playing out but his dangerous corners caused problems. A handy pace-controller available to the coach to have against sides that sit back. Booked for a poorly timed foul. 6/10

The midfielder Deliveries from corners and set-plays caused problems. Was given freedom to drift on the left only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved rest on the hour mark. Six

Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward role out wide and also contributed with the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class and dragged an effort high. Substituted late on for a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10

The winger Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his effort well saved by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide although his balls from the touchline varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. Six

Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes for his country. The first a trademark close-range tap-in and the second an excellent header following a clever run off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance next summer with him leading the line. 8

The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Had a good opening after being played in by Bellingham yet the keeper made the save. Rashford had a greater effect when substituted. Five

Replacements

  • Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, Six
  • Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the opener, 6
  • Rashford (for the attacker 75) Energetic after coming on and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
  • Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Seems settled already, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to make an impact, 6/10
Crystal Wiggins
Crystal Wiggins

A gaming technology analyst with over a decade of experience in slot machine design and industry research, passionate about innovation.