Player Ratings: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
In a impressive performance, England wrapped up another triumph against their opponents, with several squad members delivering memorable displays throughout the game.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save to make during the opening 45 but then tested from an opponent's bent shot. A sliding intervention against Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Examined by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Played in a central role early on later drifted to the flank after Saka was introduced. Seven
John Stones Pushed forward when in possession, as he has done previously. Sometimes seemed hesitant on the ball and the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, could serve as an alternative for Stones in the backline instead of his partner. A loose pass in the second half almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further assured display by the 20-year-old after his initial appearance versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever backheel over the opposing backline. The role is his to lose at this stage. 7
The newcomer A debut start with the national team. A bit sloppy when playing out but his dangerous set-pieces were a threat. A useful tempo-setter for the coach to utilize against defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. 6
The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays created chances. Enjoyed license to move on the left only to be offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a merited break after an hour. Six
The star midfielder Played in a forward spot on the right and did plenty of dirty work. Demonstrated moments of class but scuffed an attempt over. Replaced towards the end by Rogers, his competition, after being booked. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening before halftime, his shot well saved by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. Six
The captain The match-winner scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. The opener a typical opportunist's goal while the second a classy finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. At 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by the midfielder but the keeper made the save. Rashford produced a bigger influence in his place. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances but his corner created the first goal, 6
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery into the area, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established already, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6