Throughout a commanding display, the English national team wrapped up another win versus Albania, featuring a number of squad members producing memorable displays during the match.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform before the break until tested from an opponent's curling effort. His sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker showed sharp anticipation. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat in their forward. Operated in a central role early on but moved to the flank once Saka entered the fray. 7
The defender Pushed into midfield on the ball, as he has done previously. At times seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic was shelved after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, as always, could serve as another option to Stones in defense instead of paired with him. One wayward ball after the break almost led to an opener for the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another confident performance from the youngster after his debut against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of an exquisite flick over the opposing backline. The role is firmly his at this stage. 7/10
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat sloppy in possession however his whipped deliveries posed a danger. An effective pace-controller for the boss to call upon versus teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. Six
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Had license to drift down the left flank yet found himself offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a merited break on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward spot on the right while also did plenty of defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance and mishit a shot over. Substituted late on by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to provide width down the right side although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Taken off with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring two more finishes for his country. The first a trademark poacher’s finish and his next a superb finish with his head following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by Bellingham but Strakosha denied him. Rashford had a greater influence in his place. 5
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Looked lively and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the first goal, Six
- Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on assisting the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, 6
