Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Win Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier

In a impressive performance, England clinched one more victory against Albania, featuring several squad members producing memorable displays throughout the game.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Not a save to make in the first half but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker demonstrated his reading of the game. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Examined by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Started through the middle early on then shifted to the flank after a teammate entered the fray. 7/10

John Stones Advanced forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for in the past. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession with the experiment was shelved by the interval. 6

The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, could serve as an alternative for Stones in defense instead of alongside him. One wayward pass after the break nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. 6

The young full-back A further assured display by the youngster after his debut versus another side. Saka failed to make the most of a gorgeous backheel behind the Albania defence. The role is his to lose so soon. Seven

The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose when playing out however his whipped deliveries caused problems. An effective pace-controller available to the coach to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six

The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to move down the left flank yet found himself offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a merited substitution on the hour mark. Six

The star midfielder Played in a high spot down the right and put in dirty work. Showed flashes of quality and scuffed a shot high. Replaced late on for a teammate, his rival, after being booked. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening before halftime, his strike well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas varied in quality. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6

The captain The match-winner netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. His first a typical opportunist's goal and his next a classy header after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8

The attacker Struggled to influence play from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up from a teammate yet the keeper kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger effect after coming on. Five

Bench Players

• Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6
• Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece led to the opener, Six
• Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, 7
• Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6/10
• Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6/10