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

In a commanding performance, England secured another triumph versus Albania, with multiple squad members delivering notable performances on the pitch.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Not a save to perform before the break until forced to intervene from an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker showed excellent reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Tested by Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Started through the middle initially but moved to the flank after Saka entered the fray. Seven

John Stones Pushed up the pitch on the ball, a familiar role in the past. At times seemed hesitant in possession and the experiment discontinued after the break. Six

Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, perhaps is an alternative to his teammate in defense as opposed to paired with him. A loose distribution after the break nearly resulted in an opener for Albania. Six

The young full-back One more composed showing by the 20-year-old following his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous flick behind their defense. The left-back spot looks secure already. 7/10

The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit careless in possession however his inswinging deliveries posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter available to the boss to have versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to move in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Given a merited rest after an hour. 6/10

The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced position on the right while also did plenty of dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and dragged an attempt high. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his effort well saved from the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate staying deep, he was forced to provide width down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced late in the match. 6/10

The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th strikes at international level. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and his next an excellent header after peeling away off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8

The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up by Bellingham however Strakosha made the save. Rashford had a greater effect when substituted. 5

Substitutes

  • Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting well with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece created the opener, Six
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively upon introduction and provided the second goal with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
  • Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable so soon, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, Six
Helen Tucker
Helen Tucker

Elara is a historian and leadership coach with over a decade of experience in guiding individuals through transformative strategic journeys.