Squad Ratings: England Win Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier

Throughout a commanding showing, England secured another triumph against Albania, with several squad members producing standout performances during the match.

First-choice XI

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform in the first half before tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. A sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted his game intelligence. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Challenged against Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Played through the middle to begin with then shifted to the flank after Saka was introduced. 7/10

John Stones Pushed into midfield on the ball, as he has done in the past. On occasion lacked urgency in possession with the tactic abandoned at half-time. 6

The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, but may be another option to Stones at the back instead of alongside him. One wayward distribution later in the match nearly resulted in an opener from the visitors. Six

The young full-back A further composed showing from the rising star after his first cap against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever flick over their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. 7

Adam Wharton His first start for his country. A bit loose in possession however his inswinging corners caused problems. A useful pace-controller for the boss to call upon against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. 6/10

The midfielder Deliveries from corners and set-plays created chances. Was given room to move on the left but was offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Given a deserved break on the hour mark. 6

The star midfielder Played in a forward spot down the right while also contributed with the hard yards. Displayed moments of class and mishit an effort over. Substituted towards the end by a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7

The winger Had England’s best chance in the opening period, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses into the box were hit and miss. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6

Harry Kane The match-winner netting 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The first a typical opportunist's goal and the second a superb header after peeling away off his defender. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders in future competitions with him up top. Eight

Eberechi Eze Struggled to influence play out wide. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by the midfielder yet the keeper made the save. Rashford had a greater influence when substituted. 5

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a natural spot, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Missed opportunities but his corner created the first goal, 6
  • Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Lively upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
  • Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established already, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to affect things, Six
Julian Robinson
Julian Robinson

Elara Vance is a bridge champion and event organizer with over 15 years of experience in hosting exclusive bridge tournaments across Europe.