Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

In a impressive performance, England secured one more win against Albania, featuring multiple players turning in standout displays throughout the game.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do to make before the break until called into action from an opponent's curled attempt. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci highlighted his anticipation. Six out of ten

The debutant Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat in their forward. Started more centrally initially but moved out wide after Saka entered the fray. 7/10

John Stones Advanced forward on the ball, something he's known for previously. At times lacked urgency in possession with the approach was shelved after the break. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, per usual, perhaps is an alternative for Stones in the backline rather than paired with him. One wayward pass after the break came close to a goal for Albania. 6/10

The young full-back One more assured display by the rising star following his first cap against another side. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a clever backheel over the opposing backline. The left-back spot is firmly his already. 7/10

Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Slightly sloppy in possession however his whipped set-pieces caused problems. A handy tempo-setter for the manager to call upon against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. Six

The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free-kicks were dangerous. Had freedom to drift down the left flank yet found himself offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a merited break on the hour mark. Six

Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward role down the right while also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and dragged an attempt over. Withdrawn towards the end by a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7

The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his strike smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to provide width on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline were inconsistent. Taken off late in the match. 6

Harry Kane The difference-maker with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals for his country. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish while the second a classy headed goal after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England have every chance next summer with him leading the line. 8

The attacker Struggled to influence play out wide. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by the midfielder however Strakosha made the save. His replacement produced a bigger an impact when substituted. 5

Replacements

• Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up effectively with the striker in a natural spot, Six
• Saka (for Eze 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, 6/10
• Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Active upon introduction and provided the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
• Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, Six
• Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, Six