Player Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifier

In a commanding showing, the English national team clinched one more win against their opponents, featuring multiple players delivering standout performances throughout the game.

First-choice Lineup

Dean Henderson Not a save required in the first half until called into action from an opponent's bent shot. His sliding challenge against Qazim Laci showed excellent anticipation. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Examined against the opposition's biggest threat in Hoxha. Started in a central role initially then shifted to the flank once a teammate came on. 7/10

John Stones Moved into midfield on the ball, something he's known for before. On occasion lacked urgency in possession with the approach abandoned after the break. Six

The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, per usual, could serve as a replacement to his teammate in defense instead of alongside him. A careless ball after the break almost led to an opener for Albania. Six

The young full-back One more assured display from the 20-year-old after his debut versus another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a clever backheel behind their defense. The role looks secure so soon. 7

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Somewhat loose on the ball though his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. A useful game manager available to the manager to utilize versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. 6/10

Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and free-kicks were dangerous. Had license to drift in left midfield but was in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Awarded a well-earned substitution around the 60-minute point. 6/10

The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced role on the right and put in dirty work. Displayed flashes of quality but scuffed an effort wide. Replaced in the closing stages by a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven

The winger Was presented with the team's top opening before halftime, his shot well saved by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play on the right but his crosses from wide areas were inconsistent. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

The captain The difference-maker with his two more strikes for his country. The opener a classic opportunist's goal while the second a superb finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8/10

The attacker Struggled to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate but the keeper denied him. His replacement had a greater effect after coming on. 5

Substitutes

  • Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined well with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
  • Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively after coming on and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled so soon, 6
  • Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6
Terry Jones
Terry Jones

A tech journalist with a decade of experience covering consumer electronics and digital innovation.