Player Assessments: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier

Throughout a commanding performance, the English national team clinched a further win against their opponents, featuring several squad members turning in notable displays during the match.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do required before the break but then forced to intervene from an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed sharp game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Tested against Albania’s main danger through their forward. Started more centrally early on then shifted out wide after Saka was introduced. Seven

The defender Pushed forward on the ball, something he's known for before. On occasion was too casual when carrying play with the approach abandoned after the break. 6/10

Dan Burn A constant threat at set pieces, per usual, could serve as a replacement for his teammate at the back rather than paired with him. One wayward distribution after the break almost led to an opener from Albania. Six

The young full-back One more composed showing by the youngster following his debut against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of an exquisite touch behind the opposing backline. His position is his to lose at this stage. Seven

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. A bit loose in possession but his whipped deliveries were a threat. An effective tempo-setter for the manager to call upon versus teams who drop deep. Cautioned after a reckless foul. 6/10

Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and free kicks created chances. Enjoyed room to drift down the left flank only to be in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6

The star midfielder Functioned in a forward role on the right and did plenty of the hard yards. Showed moments of class and mishit a shot high. Withdrawn towards the end for a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. 7

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet on the right yet his deliveries from wide areas were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. 6/10

Harry Kane The difference-maker with his 77th and 78th goals in an England shirt. His first a typical opportunist's goal and the second an excellent header after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him up top. 8

The attacker Had difficulty to influence play out wide. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder but Strakosha made the save. Rashford produced a bigger effect when substituted. 5/10

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
  • Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the first goal, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Active upon introduction assisting Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the far post, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10
Laurie Sanchez
Laurie Sanchez

A gemologist with over 15 years of experience in diamond valuation and market analysis, passionate about educating investors and enthusiasts.