Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
During a dominant performance, England clinched another victory against their opponents, with a number of players turning in notable performances on the pitch.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge against Qazim Laci showed excellent anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Tested by the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Played in a central role to begin with then shifted out wide after a teammate entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Advanced up the pitch when in possession, as he has done previously. On occasion lacked urgency when carrying play and the tactic abandoned by the interval. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, typically, perhaps is another option for Stones at the back as opposed to paired with him. A careless distribution after the break almost led to the first goal from the visitors. 6
Nico O’Reilly One more assured performance by the youngster following his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of a clever touch over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his already. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly loose when playing out however his dangerous corners posed a danger. An effective pace-controller for the coach to utilize against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. Six
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Was given license to move in left midfield only to be offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a deserved break on the hour mark. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in a high position down the right and did plenty of dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but dragged an attempt high. Substituted late on for Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his effort well saved by Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah holding position, he had to provide width down the right side although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. The opener a trademark opportunist's goal and his next a superb header having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him up top. Eight
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham but Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of influence after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances but his corner led to the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively when brought on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7
- Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable at this level, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6/10