Squad Assessments: England Victory Secured by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier

In a commanding display, England secured a further win against Albania, with multiple squad members delivering notable performances on the pitch.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required during the opening 45 but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Examined against the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Operated more centrally to begin with but moved wider once Saka was introduced. 7

The defender Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. At times lacked urgency when carrying play with the experiment was shelved after the break. 6/10

Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, typically, could serve as another option for Stones in the backline rather than alongside him. A careless pass after the break came close to the first goal from the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more assured showing by the youngster following his initial appearance against Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever flick over the Albania defence. The role looks secure already. Seven

The newcomer His first start for his country. Somewhat careless in possession but his dangerous corners were a threat. An effective tempo-setter available to the coach to call upon against sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash challenge. Six

Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays created chances. Was given license to drift in left midfield yet found himself offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a merited substitution around the 60-minute point. 6/10

The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced position out wide and also contributed with defensive duties. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but scuffed an attempt wide. Replaced late on by a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10

The winger Had England’s best chance of the first half, his shot smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Taken off with 15 to go. Six

The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The first a classic opportunist's goal and his next a classy finish with his head following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. Eight

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Had a good opening following a pass from a teammate but the keeper kept it out. His replacement made much more of an impact after coming on. Five

Substitutes

• Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, Six
• Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery led to the breakthrough, 6
• Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and set up the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, 7/10
• Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Seems settled at this level, Six
• Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to affect things, 6