Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
In a dominant performance, England secured a further win versus Albania, featuring several squad members producing standout displays during the match.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to make before the break but then called into action from an opponent's bent shot. A sliding intervention on Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested by Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Played more centrally early on but moved out wide once a teammate was introduced. Seven
John Stones Advanced into midfield on the ball, as he has done in the past. At times lacked urgency on the ball with the tactic discontinued after the break. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat at set pieces, as always, but may be an alternative for Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. A loose pass after the break came close to an opener for Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly One more composed performance from the 20-year-old following his initial appearance against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel behind the opposing backline. His position looks secure so soon. Seven
The newcomer His first start with the national team. Slightly careless when playing out though his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager for the manager to utilize versus sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless foul. Six
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and set-plays were dangerous. Had freedom to drift down the left flank but was in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a deserved break around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Operated in a high spot out wide while also did plenty of dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and scuffed an effort wide. Substituted towards the end by a teammate, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to stretch the play on the right yet his deliveries into the box varied in quality. Taken off with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The decisive figure netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes at international level. The first a trademark poacher’s finish while the second an excellent finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder yet Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of influence in his place. 5
Bench Players
- Foden (for a teammate 63) Was bright and combined seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery created the opener, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established at this level, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six