Player Assessments: England Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
In a commanding display, the English national team wrapped up one more victory versus their opponents, featuring a number of players turning in memorable displays on the pitch.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform during the opening 45 until called into action by an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding tackle on Qazim Laci showed his game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested against the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Played in a central role to begin with but moved wider once a teammate was introduced. 7/10
John Stones Moved forward when in possession, as he has done previously. On occasion was too casual on the ball with the experiment abandoned after the break. Six
The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be another option to Stones at the back instead of his partner. One wayward ball in the second half almost led to a goal from the visitors. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further assured showing from the 20-year-old after his debut versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of an exquisite flick behind the opposing backline. His position is firmly his already. Seven
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Slightly careless on the ball though his whipped corners caused problems. A handy pace-controller for the coach to utilize against sides that sit back. Booked for a rash tackle. 6
Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free-kicks were dangerous. Had license to move in left midfield but was in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a deserved rest on the hour mark. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward spot on the right and also did plenty of defensive duties. Displayed moments of class and mishit an attempt over. Replaced towards the end for a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate hanging back, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide but his crosses into the box varied in quality. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6
The captain The decisive figure netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. His first a trademark poacher’s finish and his next a classy headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Had a good opening following a pass from a teammate but the keeper made the save. His replacement made much more of an impact after coming on. 5
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Appeared sharp and linked up effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery created the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active upon introduction assisting the second goal with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, Six