Player Ratings: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

In a commanding showing, England secured a further victory versus their opponents, featuring a number of players producing standout displays during the match.

Starting XI

The goalkeeper Not a save required in the first half until called into action from an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding challenge against Qazim Laci showed excellent anticipation. Six out of ten

The debutant Examined against Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Played through the middle early on later drifted to the flank once Saka came on. 7/10

The defender Pushed into midfield with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. On occasion lacked urgency in possession and the experiment abandoned by the interval. 6/10

Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, per usual, could serve as a replacement for his teammate in defense instead of alongside him. A careless distribution later in the match came close to a goal from the visitors. Six

Nico O’Reilly One more assured showing from the youngster following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of a gorgeous touch behind their defense. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. 7

Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. Somewhat careless on the ball but his whipped deliveries were a threat. A handy game manager for the coach to have versus teams who drop deep. Booked after a reckless challenge. 6/10

The midfielder Crosses from corners and free-kicks created chances. Had room to drift in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a deserved break around the 60-minute point. 6/10

The star midfielder Operated in an advanced role out wide and put in the hard yards. Showed glimpses of brilliance and dragged an effort wide. Substituted in the closing stages by Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort smartly stopped from the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Taken off with 15 to go. Six

The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th goals in an England shirt. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and the second a superb headed goal after peeling away off his defender. At 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8/10

The attacker Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by the midfielder but Strakosha denied him. His replacement made much more of an impact after coming on. Five

Replacements

  • Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
  • Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances but his corner led to the opener, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Lively when brought on and set up the second goal with superb cross to the back post, Seven
  • Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Looks established already, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six
Kelly Lowe
Kelly Lowe

Elena is a sports journalist with over a decade of experience covering major leagues and international tournaments.