Squad Evaluations: England Win Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

In a dominant showing, England wrapped up a further win versus their opponents, featuring a number of squad members delivering standout displays throughout the game.

Starting Lineup

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required before the break until called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Tested against the opposition's biggest threat through Hoxha. Started in a central role to begin with later drifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. Seven

John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, as he has done in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant when carrying play and the experiment discontinued after the break. 6/10

Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, could serve as a replacement for his teammate in the backline instead of his partner. A careless ball later in the match almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6

Nico O’Reilly A further confident display by the rising star after his first cap against another side. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of an exquisite backheel over their defense. His position is firmly his at this stage. Seven

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Somewhat loose on the ball but his dangerous set-pieces posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter available to the coach to call upon versus sides that sit back. Shown a yellow after a reckless tackle. 6/10

The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Had freedom to drift in left midfield but was in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned rest after an hour. 6

The star midfielder Played in a forward spot on the right and also contributed with the hard yards. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but scuffed an attempt high. Replaced in the closing stages for a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10

The winger Had the team's top opening in the opening period, his strike well saved by Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah holding position, he was forced to stretch the play down the right side although his balls from wide areas varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. Six

The captain The decisive figure with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes for his country. The opener a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a classy finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10

The attacker Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. His replacement had a greater effect when substituted. 5

Substitutes

  • Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up effectively with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Saka (for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery created the breakthrough, Six
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and provided the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable at this level, Six
  • Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6
Nathan Smith
Nathan Smith

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