Squad Assessments: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier

During a impressive performance, the English national team clinched a further win versus Albania, with several squad members turning in standout displays throughout the game.

Starting Lineup

The goalkeeper Not a save to make during the opening 45 until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci showed sharp reading of the game. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s main danger through their forward. Started more centrally early on but moved to the flank once Saka was introduced. 7

John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, a familiar role in the past. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the approach was shelved after the break. 6/10

The tall defender A constant threat from dead balls, per usual, could serve as an alternative for his teammate in defense instead of his partner. One wayward distribution in the second half nearly resulted in an opener for the visitors. 6/10

The young full-back A further assured showing from the rising star after his debut versus another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of a clever touch behind the opposing backline. The role is his to lose at this stage. 7/10

The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit careless when playing out though his inswinging deliveries caused problems. A handy tempo-setter for the boss to utilize versus defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a rash tackle. 6

Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to move on the left only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a well-earned rest on the hour mark. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Played in a high spot out wide while also contributed with dirty work. Showed flashes of quality and scuffed an attempt high. Withdrawn in the closing stages by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening in the opening period, his strike well saved from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, he had to offer an outlet on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. Six

The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th strikes at international level. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and his next a superb finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. Eight

The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in by the midfielder yet the keeper made the save. Rashford made much more of influence in his place. Five

Replacements

• Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up well with Kane in a preferred position, 6
• Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery created the first goal, 6
• Rashford (for the attacker 75) Energetic upon introduction assisting the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, 7/10
• Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established already, 6
• Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6