Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier

Throughout a commanding showing, England secured a further victory versus their opponents, featuring a number of players delivering standout displays on the pitch.

Starting Eleven

The goalkeeper Not a save required during the opening 45 before tested by an opponent's curling effort. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. Six out of ten

The debutant Challenged against the opposition's main danger in their forward. Played more centrally to begin with but moved out wide once a teammate was introduced. 7/10

John Stones Moved into midfield on the ball, as he has done previously. On occasion lacked urgency in possession with the experiment abandoned after the break. 6

Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, typically, but may be a replacement to his teammate at the back instead of his partner. One wayward pass later in the match almost led to an opener for Albania. Six

Nico O’Reilly A further composed performance from the youngster following his debut versus another side. Saka was unable to take the most of a gorgeous flick over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7/10

Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy when playing out but his whipped set-pieces posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter for the manager to have versus teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free kicks were dangerous. Had freedom to roam in left midfield yet found himself offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved break on the hour mark. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced spot out wide and also contributed with defensive duties. Displayed moments of class and dragged an attempt over. Withdrawn towards the end by Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. Seven

The winger Had the team's top opening in the opening period, his effort excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to provide width on the right but his crosses from wide areas were inconsistent. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6

The captain The match-winner scoring two more goals for his country. His first a classic poacher’s finish and his next a superb headed goal after peeling away off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. Eight

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Was presented with a good opening when set up by the midfielder however Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater an impact in his place. 5/10

Bench Players

  • Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively connecting effectively with the striker in a preferred position, 6
  • Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances although his set-piece provided the opener, 6
  • Rashford (for the attacker 75) Energetic upon introduction and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball into the area, 7
  • Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6
  • Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six
Paul Butler
Paul Butler

Lena Schmidt is a Berlin-based political analyst specializing in EU affairs and transatlantic relations.