Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a dominant display, the English national team wrapped up one more victory versus their opponents, featuring a number of squad members turning in memorable displays during the match.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci showed sharp anticipation. 6/10

The debutant Examined against Albania’s main danger through their forward. Played more centrally initially but moved out wide after a teammate entered the fray. Seven

John Stones Moved into midfield on the ball, as he has done in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant when carrying play and the approach discontinued at half-time. 6/10

The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, per usual, but may be an alternative to his teammate in the backline rather than alongside him. A careless pass later in the match almost led to an opener for the visitors. Six

Nico O’Reilly A further confident showing by the rising star after his debut versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a gorgeous touch over the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose already. Seven

The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit sloppy when playing out but his inswinging corners posed a danger. A handy tempo-setter available to the manager to call upon against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow after a reckless foul. Six

Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Had freedom to drift in left midfield only to be offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a merited break around the 60-minute point. 6

The star midfielder Played in an advanced position on the right while also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated moments of class but mishit an attempt over. Substituted in the closing stages for a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. 7

The winger Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his shot smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate holding position, he had to provide width out wide but his crosses into the box varied in quality. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

The captain The decisive figure scoring two more finishes at international level. The first a typical close-range tap-in and the second an excellent headed goal following a clever run off his defender. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact from the left. Had a good opening following a pass by the midfielder yet the keeper kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger influence in his place. Five

Bench Players

  • Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and combined seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6
  • Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery created the first goal, 6/10
  • Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively after coming on assisting the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
  • Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable so soon, 6
  • Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6/10
Brittney Gutierrez
Brittney Gutierrez

A passionate fiber artist and knitting enthusiast with over a decade of experience in creating unique, hand-dyed yarns and teaching crafting techniques.