Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier

During a commanding display, England clinched one more win against their opponents, featuring several players producing memorable displays on the pitch.

First-choice XI

The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform before the break but then forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker showed excellent anticipation. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested by Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated in a central role to begin with then shifted out wide once Saka entered the fray. 7

John Stones Pushed forward when in possession, something he's known for previously. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play and the tactic discontinued at half-time. 6/10

Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, typically, but may be an alternative to his teammate in defense as opposed to paired with him. A careless pass later in the match almost led to an opener for the visitors. 6

The young full-back Another composed performance by the 20-year-old after his debut versus another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of a gorgeous touch behind their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his already. 7/10

Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. A bit sloppy on the ball however his whipped set-pieces posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter available to the manager to utilize against sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. 6

Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks caused problems. Had freedom to move on the left yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a deserved rest after an hour. Six

Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced role on the right and contributed with the hard yards. Showed flashes of quality and dragged an effort wide. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his shot well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah hanging back, he had to provide width out wide although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6

Harry Kane The match-winner with his two more goals in an England shirt. The first a trademark close-range tap-in and his next a classy finish with his head after peeling away off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders in future competitions with him up top. 8

The attacker Struggled to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up by Bellingham yet Strakosha kept it out. His replacement made much more of effect after coming on. Five

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and combined seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, Six
  • Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert yet his delivery led to the opener, Six
  • Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active when brought on assisting the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Looks established already, 6/10
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to affect things, 6
David Cooper
David Cooper

Renewable energy consultant with over a decade of experience in sustainable development projects across Europe.