Squad Ratings: England Win Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
Throughout a dominant performance, the English national team clinched a further victory against their opponents, with a number of squad members delivering memorable performances on the pitch.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Not a save required before the break but then tested from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. A sliding tackle against Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp anticipation. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Challenged against the opposition's main danger in Hoxha. Operated more centrally initially then shifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. 7
The defender Moved into midfield when in possession, a familiar role before. On occasion was too casual on the ball and the tactic was shelved by the interval. Six
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is an alternative for his teammate in defense instead of paired with him. A careless distribution later in the match almost led to the first goal for the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back One more confident performance by the youngster after his initial appearance versus another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from an exquisite flick over their defense. His position looks secure so soon. 7
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Somewhat careless on the ball however his inswinging corners posed a danger. An effective pace-controller available to the coach to utilize versus defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. Six
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks caused problems. Was given room to roam in left midfield only to be offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved substitution after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Operated in a forward spot on the right while also contributed with the hard yards. Showed glimpses of brilliance and scuffed an effort wide. Replaced late on for a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. 7
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his effort excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate holding position, he had to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses from wide areas were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes at international level. His first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second an excellent finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him up top. Eight
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham yet the keeper kept it out. Rashford made much more of an impact after coming on. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright and linked up well with Kane in more familiar role, 6
- Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances but his corner led to the opener, 6
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active after coming on and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6
- Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10