Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match

During a commanding performance, the English national team clinched a further win versus Albania, with a number of players turning in standout displays throughout the game.

Starting Eleven

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform in the first half until forced to intervene by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention against Qazim Laci highlighted his reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Examined against Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Operated in a central role initially but moved to the flank once Saka was introduced. Seven

John Stones Pushed up the pitch on the ball, a familiar role before. On occasion lacked urgency in possession with the approach abandoned after the break. Six

The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be another option to his teammate in the backline rather than his partner. One wayward distribution later in the match almost led to an opener for Albania. 6/10

The young full-back One more composed performance by the youngster after his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of a gorgeous flick over the Albania defence. The role looks secure already. 7/10

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Somewhat sloppy when playing out but his dangerous deliveries posed a danger. A useful game manager for the coach to have against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a rash tackle. 6

The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free-kicks caused problems. Had room to roam in left midfield only to be in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Given a merited substitution around the 60-minute point. Six

Jude Bellingham Functioned in a high role on the right and contributed with dirty work. Showed flashes of quality and scuffed a shot wide. Withdrawn in the closing stages for a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven

The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his shot well saved from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play on the right although his balls from wide areas were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. 6

Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring two more goals at international level. His first a classic opportunist's goal and the second a classy headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. 8

The attacker Struggled to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford made much more of an impact in his place. Five

Replacements

  • Foden (for a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and combined well with Kane in a natural spot, Six
  • Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities but his corner provided the first goal, Six
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the back post, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, Six
  • Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to affect things, 6
Patricia Carter DDS
Patricia Carter DDS

Elara is a certified financial planner with over a decade of experience in wealth management and personal finance coaching.