🔗 Share this article Player Assessments: England Win Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match Throughout a commanding performance, the English national team clinched a further triumph against their opponents, with a number of players turning in memorable performances on the pitch. Starting Lineup The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform in the first half before called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated sharp reading of the game. 6/10 The debutant Tested against Albania’s main danger in their forward. Played through the middle initially later drifted out wide once a teammate came on. 7 The defender Moved up the pitch on the ball, a familiar role in the past. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball with the approach abandoned at half-time. 6 The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, typically, could serve as a replacement for Stones in the backline instead of his partner. A careless ball later in the match almost led to an opener for Albania. 6 The young full-back Another confident performance from the youngster following his first cap against another side. Saka failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite backheel over their defense. His position looks secure already. 7 The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy on the ball though his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. An effective tempo-setter available to the manager to utilize versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash challenge. 6 The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks caused problems. Enjoyed room to roam on the left only to be offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a merited rest on the hour mark. 6/10 The star midfielder Operated in a forward spot down the right and also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and dragged a shot high. Substituted towards the end by a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven The winger Had England’s top opening of the first half, his strike smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate holding position, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries into the box were inconsistent. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6/10 Harry Kane The difference-maker netting 77th and 78th goals at international level. His first a classic poacher’s finish while the second an excellent finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8/10 The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Had a decent opportunity after being played in by Bellingham but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger influence in his place. 5/10 Substitutes Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting well with Kane in a natural spot, Six Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Spurned chances but his corner provided the breakthrough, 6/10 Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7/10 Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10 Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6