Squad Ratings: England Victory Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
Throughout a dominant display, the English national team clinched another victory versus Albania, featuring several squad members turning in notable performances on the pitch.
Starting Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save required during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding intervention against Qazim Laci showed sharp game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Examined against Albania’s main danger in their forward. Played more centrally initially then shifted out wide after Saka entered the fray. 7/10
The defender Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, a familiar role before. At times seemed hesitant in possession and the approach was shelved after the break. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as another option to Stones in the backline as opposed to his partner. A loose ball later in the match almost led to an opener for the visitors. Six
The young full-back Another assured display from the rising star following his first cap versus another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of a gorgeous backheel behind the Albania defence. His position looks secure already. 7
Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. Slightly loose in possession though his dangerous deliveries posed a danger. An effective pace-controller available to the boss to have versus teams who drop deep. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and free-kicks were dangerous. Was given license to move down the left flank only to be offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a merited break around the 60-minute point. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Operated in a high spot on the right and also did plenty of the hard yards. Showed moments of class and mishit an attempt high. Replaced in the closing stages for a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike well saved from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to offer an outlet down the right side yet his deliveries from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced late in the match. Six
The captain The difference-maker scoring two more finishes for his country. The first a classic poacher’s finish while the second a superb headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate but the keeper kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger influence in his place. 5
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner created the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active when brought on and provided the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, 7
- Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Looks established already, Six
- Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6