Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a commanding display, the English national team wrapped up another triumph versus their opponents, featuring a number of squad members producing notable displays during the match.

Starting Eleven

The goalkeeper Not a save required before the break until forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated more centrally early on later drifted out wide after Saka entered the fray. 7/10

John Stones Moved into midfield with the ball at his feet, something he's known for previously. On occasion was too casual on the ball with the approach discontinued after the break. Six

The tall defender A constant threat from dead balls, per usual, could serve as another option for Stones in the backline as opposed to paired with him. One wayward pass later in the match almost led to a goal for the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more assured display by the 20-year-old following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite flick over the Albania defence. The role is firmly his so soon. Seven

The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. Somewhat careless in possession but his dangerous deliveries caused problems. An effective game manager for the boss to have versus sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless challenge. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Had license to drift down the left flank yet found himself offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a merited substitution around the 60-minute point. 6/10

The star midfielder Functioned in a forward role on the right while also did plenty of defensive duties. Showed moments of class but scuffed an effort wide. Substituted late on by Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance of the first half, his strike smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to stretch the play out wide although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

The captain The match-winner scoring two more strikes in an England shirt. His first a trademark close-range tap-in and his next a classy finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better and the side have every chance next summer with him leading the line. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder however the keeper made the save. His replacement produced a bigger effect when substituted. Five

Substitutes

  • Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp and combined seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, Six
  • Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the first goal, 6
  • Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic when brought on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Seems settled at this level, Six
  • Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, Six
Daniel Evans
Daniel Evans

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