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

In a impressive showing, the English national team secured one more victory versus Albania, featuring several players turning in memorable displays on the pitch.

Starting Lineup

Dean Henderson Had little to do required before the break before called into action by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding intervention on Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Played in a central role early on then shifted to the flank after a teammate was introduced. 7/10

The defender Advanced into midfield with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. Sometimes seemed hesitant when carrying play and the approach abandoned after the break. 6/10

Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be another option for his teammate in defense rather than paired with him. One wayward ball after the break nearly resulted in the first goal from Albania. 6/10

The young full-back A further confident performance from the rising star following his first cap versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous flick behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot is his to lose already. Seven

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. A bit loose in possession however his whipped set-pieces caused problems. A useful tempo-setter available to the coach to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow after a reckless challenge. 6

The midfielder Crosses from corners and free kicks caused problems. Had freedom to move on the left yet found himself offside as the pass came in front of goal. Granted a merited break after an hour. 6

The star midfielder Operated in an advanced position on the right and did plenty of dirty work. Showed glimpses of brilliance but mishit an attempt wide. Replaced towards the end by a teammate, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance before halftime, his strike well saved from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he had to provide width out wide although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

The captain The decisive figure netting two more finishes in an England shirt. The opener a classic close-range tap-in while the second a classy headed goal after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. 8

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Had a decent opportunity after being played in by Bellingham yet the keeper kept it out. Rashford made much more of an impact when substituted. 5

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up well with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner created the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
  • Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10
Debra Kelly
Debra Kelly

A mindfulness coach and digital wellness advocate with over a decade of experience in helping individuals achieve balance in the modern world.