Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match

During a impressive performance, England secured one more win against Albania, featuring a number of players producing memorable performances during the match.

First-choice Lineup

The goalkeeper Not a save to make before the break before tested from an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge against Qazim Laci showed excellent anticipation. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested by Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Operated in a central role initially but moved out wide once Saka entered the fray. 7

John Stones Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, as he has done previously. At times lacked urgency when carrying play and the tactic abandoned after the break. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, per usual, perhaps is another option for his teammate in the backline rather than his partner. A careless distribution later in the match nearly resulted in an opener for Albania. 6

Nico O’Reilly Another assured display by the rising star after his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of an exquisite backheel over the Albania defence. His position looks secure at this stage. 7

The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. Slightly loose when playing out though his dangerous corners posed a danger. An effective game manager available to the boss to call upon against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a rash challenge. Six

The midfielder Crosses from corners and set-plays were dangerous. Had freedom to move on the left yet found himself offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Awarded a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. 6

The star midfielder Functioned in a high position down the right and also put in dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but dragged an effort wide. Substituted in the closing stages by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10

The winger Had England’s top opening before halftime, his effort well saved by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate hanging back, he was forced to provide width out wide but his crosses from wide areas varied in quality. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

Harry Kane The match-winner scoring two more finishes at international level. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and the second an excellent finish with his head following a clever run away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. 8/10

The attacker Found it tough to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by the midfielder yet Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of an impact in his place. Five

Replacements

• Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up well with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
• Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances yet his delivery provided the breakthrough, 6/10
• Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and set up Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the back post, 7/10
• Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, 6
• Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to make an impact, 6/10