Player Evaluations: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match

During a impressive performance, England clinched another win versus Albania, featuring multiple squad members turning in memorable displays during the match.

First-choice Eleven

Dean Henderson Not a save required in the first half but then forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci showed excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Examined by the opposition's main danger in Hoxha. Played more centrally to begin with later drifted to the flank once Saka entered the fray. 7

The defender Advanced into midfield when in possession, something he's known for before. On occasion lacked urgency when carrying play with the tactic was shelved after the break. 6

The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, per usual, could serve as an alternative for his teammate at the back rather than his partner. A loose distribution later in the match came close to the first goal from the visitors. Six

The young full-back Another assured showing from the youngster following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka failed to make the most of an exquisite backheel behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose already. Seven

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Slightly careless in possession however his dangerous corners posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter for the coach to have against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. 6/10

The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free-kicks caused problems. Had freedom to roam on the left yet found himself offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Given a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward position down the right and also put in dirty work. Displayed flashes of quality and mishit a shot high. Substituted late on by a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. 7/10

The winger Had the team's best chance of the first half, his shot well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate holding position, he had to stretch the play out wide although his balls into the box were inconsistent. Taken off late in the match. 6/10

The captain The difference-maker netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes in an England shirt. The first a trademark close-range tap-in and the second an excellent header following a clever run off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. Eight

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play out wide. Was presented with a good opening when set up by Bellingham yet Strakosha made the save. Rashford produced a bigger influence in his place. 5/10

Bench Players

  • Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances although his set-piece created the opener, Six
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on and set up the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled so soon, 6/10
  • Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6
Anne Davis
Anne Davis

A tech analyst with over a decade of experience in digital transformation and emerging technologies, passionate about demystifying complex tech trends.