Player Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

In a commanding performance, England clinched one more win versus their opponents, featuring a number of squad members delivering standout performances during the match.

First-choice Eleven

Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform in the first half until tested from an opponent's curling effort. His sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed sharp reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested against Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated more centrally to begin with later drifted out wide after a teammate entered the fray. 7

John Stones Advanced up the pitch when in possession, as he has done in the past. At times was too casual in possession with the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6/10

The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, typically, could serve as a replacement to his teammate in the backline as opposed to paired with him. A loose distribution in the second half almost led to a goal for Albania. Six

The young full-back A further assured showing by the youngster after his debut versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the most of a gorgeous touch behind the Albania defence. The role is firmly his so soon. Seven

Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Slightly sloppy in possession however his whipped corners were a threat. An effective tempo-setter for the coach to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. Six

The midfielder Deliveries from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Was given license to move in left midfield but was offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a merited substitution after an hour. 6/10

The star midfielder Functioned in a forward spot on the right and did plenty of defensive duties. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but mishit an attempt high. Replaced late on by a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's top opening in the opening period, his shot excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to stretch the play on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6

The captain The match-winner scoring two more finishes at international level. His first a classic close-range tap-in while the second a superb headed goal having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8

The attacker Struggled to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up from a teammate yet Strakosha denied him. His replacement had a greater an impact when substituted. 5

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting effectively with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6
  • Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, 7
  • Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established so soon, 6/10
  • Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, Six
Charles Shields
Charles Shields

A software engineer and retro computing enthusiast with over 15 years of experience restoring vintage computers and documenting tech history.