Player Evaluations: England Win Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

In a dominant showing, the English national team secured one more victory versus their opponents, with a number of players producing standout performances on the pitch.

First-choice Eleven

Dean Henderson Not a save required before the break before called into action by an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted his anticipation. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Started through the middle early on later drifted out wide once a teammate was introduced. 7

John Stones Moved into midfield when in possession, as he has done in the past. On occasion lacked urgency in possession and the approach was shelved at half-time. 6/10

The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be an alternative for his teammate at the back as opposed to his partner. A loose ball in the second half nearly resulted in a goal from Albania. 6/10

The young full-back One more composed display by the youngster after his debut against another side. Saka failed to make the most of a clever flick over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7/10

The newcomer His first start for his country. Slightly careless in possession but his inswinging corners posed a danger. A useful game manager for the manager to have against sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a rash tackle. 6/10

Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and set-plays caused problems. Was given freedom to drift on the left yet found himself offside as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. Six

The star midfielder Functioned in a high role on the right while also contributed with the hard yards. Displayed flashes of quality but dragged an attempt over. Withdrawn in the closing stages for a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his shot smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet down the right side although his balls from the touchline varied in quality. Substituted late in the match. Six

The captain The match-winner scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals in an England shirt. His first a trademark close-range tap-in while the second a classy headed goal after peeling away from his marker. At 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. Eight

The attacker Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening after being played in from a teammate but Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of effect when substituted. 5

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined effectively with Kane in more familiar role, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery led to the first goal, Six
  • Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Active upon introduction and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7
  • Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6
  • Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6
Jessica Rodriguez
Jessica Rodriguez

A Berlin-based journalist specializing in luxury travel and sustainable business practices, with over a decade of experience in European media.