Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a impressive performance, the English national team clinched one more triumph versus Albania, with a number of players turning in notable performances on the pitch.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 but then called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Examined against Albania’s main danger in their forward. Started in a central role to begin with later drifted out wide after Saka came on. 7/10

John Stones Moved forward on the ball, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic was shelved after the break. 6/10

The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, but may be another option for his teammate at the back as opposed to paired with him. One wayward pass in the second half almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6

The young full-back One more composed showing by the youngster following his first cap against another side. Saka was unable to take the most of a gorgeous backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. A bit loose on the ball though his inswinging deliveries were a threat. A handy pace-controller for the coach to have against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow after a reckless foul. 6

Declan Rice Set-pieces on corner kicks and set-plays created chances. Enjoyed freedom to roam on the left but was in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6

Jude Bellingham Operated in a high spot out wide and also put in dirty work. Showed moments of class and dragged an attempt high. Replaced in the closing stages by a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's top opening in the opening period, his strike well saved from the Albanian keeper. As a teammate hanging back, he was forced to stretch the play out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10

Harry Kane The match-winner with his 77th and 78th goals in an England shirt. His first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second an excellent finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8/10

The attacker Found it tough to influence play from the left. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham yet the keeper kept it out. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. 5/10

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up well with the striker in a preferred position, 6
  • Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively upon introduction and provided the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable so soon, Six
  • Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6
Robert Foster
Robert Foster

A passionate gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in online casinos, specializing in slot mechanics and player strategy optimization.

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