Player Assessments: England Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match

In a dominant performance, England secured one more triumph against their opponents, with several squad members producing notable displays throughout the game.

First-choice Eleven

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 but then tested by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed excellent game intelligence. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested against Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Started through the middle to begin with but moved wider after a teammate entered the fray. Seven

The defender Moved forward on the ball, something he's known for before. At times was too casual when carrying play and the tactic abandoned by the interval. 6/10

The tall defender A constant threat from dead balls, per usual, but may be a replacement to Stones in defense as opposed to his partner. A loose pass later in the match nearly resulted in the first goal from Albania. 6/10

The young full-back A further confident display from the 20-year-old after his debut against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite flick behind the opposing backline. The role looks secure at this stage. Seven

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Somewhat careless on the ball though his whipped corners were a threat. An effective tempo-setter available to the manager to have against sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a rash tackle. 6/10

The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to roam on the left yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a well-earned substitution on the hour mark. Six

Jude Bellingham Played in a high spot down the right while also put in the hard yards. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but scuffed a shot over. Replaced towards the end by Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort well saved by Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah hanging back, he was forced to provide width on the right yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10

The captain The difference-maker scoring two more goals at international level. His first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second a superb headed goal after peeling away from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. 8

The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in by Bellingham yet the keeper denied him. His replacement produced a bigger influence after coming on. Five

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Looked lively connecting effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6
  • Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece created the breakthrough, 6
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Active when brought on assisting the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
  • Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6
  • Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to make an impact, Six
Adam Bradley
Adam Bradley

A technology strategist with over a decade of experience in digital transformation and innovation consulting.