Squad Evaluations: England Win Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
In a dominant performance, England secured a further victory against their opponents, featuring several players producing notable displays on the pitch.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform in the first half but then forced to intervene from an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle on Qazim Laci showed his game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Tested against the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Operated more centrally early on then shifted to the flank once a teammate was introduced. Seven
The defender Advanced forward when in possession, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant on the ball with the approach discontinued by the interval. 6/10
Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is an alternative for his teammate at the back as opposed to his partner. A careless distribution in the second half nearly resulted in a goal from Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another confident showing from the 20-year-old after his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever flick behind their defense. His position looks secure at this stage. Seven
The newcomer His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Somewhat sloppy in possession though his whipped set-pieces posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter for the manager to call upon versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. Six
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks were dangerous. Had room to drift in left midfield only to be in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Given a deserved break around the 60-minute point. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in an advanced position down the right and did plenty of dirty work. Displayed flashes of quality and scuffed a shot wide. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's top opening before halftime, his effort smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah staying deep, he had to provide width on the right although his balls from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The first a typical poacher’s finish and his next a classy headed goal after peeling away off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity next summer when he's in the team. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate but Strakosha made the save. Rashford had a greater effect in his place. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright connecting well with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, Six
- Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Energetic when brought on and provided Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable at this level, Six
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six