Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a dominant display, the English national team wrapped up another win versus their opponents, with several players turning in memorable performances during the match.

First-choice Lineup

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make in the first half but then forced to intervene by an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle on Qazim Laci demonstrated his game intelligence. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Operated in a central role initially then shifted out wide after Saka came on. 7

John Stones Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, something he's known for previously. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play with the experiment discontinued after the break. 6

Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, typically, but may be another option for Stones at the back as opposed to paired with him. A loose distribution after the break almost led to a goal from Albania. Six

Nico O’Reilly One more composed showing from the 20-year-old following his debut versus Serbia. Saka was unable to take the most of an exquisite flick over their defense. The role is his to lose at this stage. Seven

Adam Wharton His first start for his country. Slightly careless on the ball though his dangerous corners posed a danger. A useful game manager for the manager to have against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. 6/10

The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Was given license to move down the left flank but was offside as the pass came in front of goal. Given a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. Six

The star midfielder Operated in a forward role out wide and did plenty of the hard yards. Showed glimpses of brilliance and mishit a shot high. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, his competition, after being booked. 7/10

The winger Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his shot smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah holding position, he had to provide width down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. Six

The captain The decisive figure netting two more finishes at international level. His first a classic opportunist's goal while the second a classy header after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team have every chance next summer when he's in the team. Eight

The attacker Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Was presented with a good opening when set up by the midfielder but the keeper denied him. Rashford made much more of influence when substituted. 5

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6
  • Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances but his corner created the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Lively when brought on and set up Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
  • Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
  • Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10
Tara Davis
Tara Davis

Elara is a seasoned gamer and strategy expert, sharing her passion for Clash games through in-depth guides and community engagement.