Player Ratings: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

During a commanding showing, England clinched another triumph against their opponents, featuring a number of squad members delivering notable displays during the match.

Starting XI

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform in the first half until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. A sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated his reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Examined by Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Started in a central role to begin with later drifted wider once Saka entered the fray. 7/10

The defender Pushed forward when in possession, a familiar role before. At times was too casual on the ball with the approach discontinued at half-time. 6

Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, as always, but may be a replacement to his teammate in defense instead of paired with him. One wayward pass in the second half nearly resulted in the first goal from the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more composed display by the 20-year-old after his debut versus another side. A teammate failed to make full advantage of a gorgeous touch over their defense. The left-back spot looks secure already. Seven

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Somewhat sloppy in possession though his whipped set-pieces caused problems. A handy tempo-setter for the coach to have versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. Six

The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and free kicks were dangerous. Had freedom to drift down the left flank yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Given a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward role out wide and did plenty of dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and mishit an effort over. Withdrawn in the closing stages by a teammate, his rival, after being booked. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. As a teammate holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. 6/10

The captain The match-winner scoring two more finishes for his country. The opener a classic opportunist's goal and the second an excellent headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and the side stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8/10

The attacker Found it tough to get into the game out wide. Was presented with a good opening when set up by Bellingham but Strakosha made the save. His replacement produced a bigger influence in his place. Five

Replacements

  • Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, Six
  • Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner created the breakthrough, 6
  • Rashford (for the attacker 75) Active after coming on and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
  • Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable at this level, 6/10
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to influence the game, 6
Michelle Cantrell
Michelle Cantrell

A passionate gamer and tech writer with over a decade of experience covering industry trends and game development.