Squad Ratings: England Win Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match

During a commanding display, England wrapped up another triumph against Albania, featuring multiple players producing standout performances throughout the game.

Starting Lineup

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform before the break but then called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted his reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Challenged by the opposition's biggest threat in their forward. Started in a central role initially then shifted to the flank after Saka was introduced. 7

John Stones Advanced into midfield on the ball, as he has done before. At times seemed hesitant in possession with the approach was shelved at half-time. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, typically, could serve as a replacement for Stones at the back instead of paired with him. A careless distribution after the break nearly resulted in an opener for Albania. 6

The young full-back Another composed showing by the youngster following his first cap versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever touch behind the Albania defence. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7

Adam Wharton His first start for his country. Somewhat careless when playing out however his inswinging corners posed a danger. A useful pace-controller for the manager to have versus teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. Six

The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Enjoyed freedom to move in left midfield only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Granted a merited substitution on the hour mark. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Played in a high spot out wide and put in defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance but scuffed an attempt high. Substituted late on for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening of the first half, his effort well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to stretch the play down the right side although his balls from wide areas were hit and miss. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. Six

The captain The decisive figure netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes at international level. His first a typical poacher’s finish and the second a classy header after peeling away away from the opposition. At 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. Eight

Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in from a teammate but Strakosha made the save. Rashford had a greater an impact in his place. Five

Substitutes

  • Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, Six
  • Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances but his corner led to the breakthrough, Six
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Lively when brought on and provided the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, 7
  • Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established so soon, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6
Sandra Harrington
Sandra Harrington

A tech journalist and digital culture analyst with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and their societal impacts.