Throughout a commanding showing, England secured another win versus Albania, featuring a number of squad members delivering notable performances on the pitch.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Not a save required during the opening 45 until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker showed excellent anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged against the opposition's main danger through Hoxha. Played through the middle to begin with later drifted out wide after Saka entered the fray. 7
The defender Moved up the pitch on the ball, as he has done in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant in possession and the tactic abandoned at half-time. Six
Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, as always, perhaps is another option to Stones in the backline as opposed to paired with him. One wayward pass later in the match almost led to a goal for Albania. 6/10
The young full-back A further composed display by the 20-year-old following his first cap versus another side. A teammate was unable to take the most of a clever touch over their defense. The role is firmly his already. 7/10
Adam Wharton His first start for his country. Somewhat careless on the ball however his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. A handy tempo-setter for the boss to utilize against defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless challenge. Six
The midfielder Deliveries from corners and free kicks were dangerous. Had room to move on the left only to be offside as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a well-earned break after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward position down the right while also put in dirty work. Displayed moments of class and scuffed a shot over. Replaced late on for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort smartly stopped from the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate staying deep, he had to provide width on the right although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes at international level. The first a classic close-range tap-in while the second a classy finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him up top. Eight
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater effect when substituted. 5
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting effectively with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Spurned chances yet his delivery provided the first goal, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively after coming on and provided the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, 7
- Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, 6
- Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, Six
