🔗 Share this article

In a commanding display, the English national team clinched a further victory versus their opponents, with multiple squad members turning in standout performances throughout the game.

Starting XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do to make during the opening 45 but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge against Qazim Laci highlighted sharp game intelligence. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested against Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Operated through the middle early on then shifted to the flank after Saka came on. 7

John Stones Pushed into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. On occasion seemed hesitant when carrying play with the approach abandoned at half-time. 6

The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, typically, but may be a replacement to Stones in defense instead of alongside him. A loose distribution in the second half almost led to a goal from Albania. 6

The young full-back Another assured performance from the rising star following his debut versus Serbia. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from an exquisite touch over the Albania defence. His position is firmly his at this stage. Seven

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. A bit careless in possession but his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. A handy game manager available to the coach to call upon against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. 6

Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed license to drift down the left flank yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Given a deserved rest on the hour mark. 6/10

The star midfielder Operated in an advanced position down the right and also did plenty of dirty work. Showed moments of class and dragged an attempt over. Withdrawn towards the end for Rogers, his competition, after being booked. Seven

The winger Was presented with England’s best chance in the opening period, his shot well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to provide width on the right but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. Six

Harry Kane The match-winner scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes at international level. His first a typical poacher’s finish while the second a classy finish with his head following a clever run from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance next summer with him up top. 8

Eberechi Eze Struggled to influence play out wide. Had a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate yet the keeper denied him. Rashford made much more of effect when substituted. Five

Replacements

• Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up effectively with Kane in more familiar role, Six
• Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the opener, 6/10
• Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction assisting the second goal with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
• Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
• Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, Six