Squad Ratings: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier

During a commanding performance, England secured one more win versus their opponents, with a number of squad members turning in notable displays throughout the game.

Starting Eleven

The goalkeeper Not a save to make before the break before called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker highlighted his anticipation. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Examined by the opposition's main danger in their forward. Played in a central role initially then shifted wider once Saka came on. Seven

The defender Advanced up the pitch when in possession, as he has done previously. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball and the approach discontinued at half-time. Six

The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, typically, perhaps is a replacement for Stones at the back instead of alongside him. One wayward ball in the second half nearly resulted in an opener for the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more composed performance from the rising star following his debut against another side. Saka did not capitalize on the most of a gorgeous backheel over the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. Seven

Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose in possession however his dangerous corners posed a danger. An effective pace-controller available to the boss to call upon versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash tackle. 6/10

The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to drift in left midfield only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Awarded a well-earned break on the hour mark. 6

The star midfielder Played in an advanced spot down the right while also contributed with the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class but mishit a shot high. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7

The winger Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his shot smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, it fell to him to stretch the play out wide although his balls into the box were inconsistent. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6

The captain The match-winner netting two more goals for his country. The first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second an excellent finish with his head after peeling away off his defender. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. 8

Eberechi Eze Struggled to get into the game out wide. Had a good opening when set up from a teammate but the keeper kept it out. His replacement had a greater effect after coming on. Five

Bench Players

  • Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright connecting seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6
  • Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances but his corner led to the breakthrough, Six
  • Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active upon introduction and provided Kane’s second with superb cross to the far post, Seven
  • Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established so soon, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6
Ryan Mack
Ryan Mack

A tech journalist and digital anthropologist focusing on the societal impacts of emerging technologies and online communities.