Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Sealed by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match

Throughout a dominant display, England secured another victory against Albania, featuring several squad members turning in standout displays on the pitch.

First-choice Lineup

Dean Henderson Not a save to perform before the break but then tested by an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed sharp game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Operated more centrally to begin with then shifted wider after a teammate was introduced. 7

John Stones Pushed forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. At times lacked urgency when carrying play and the tactic discontinued at half-time. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be another option for Stones in the backline instead of alongside him. One wayward distribution later in the match almost led to the first goal for Albania. Six

The young full-back A further assured showing by the youngster after his debut against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever touch over their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his already. 7/10

Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. A bit loose when playing out but his dangerous deliveries were a threat. An effective game manager for the manager to call upon versus defensive opponents. Shown a yellow after a reckless tackle. 6

The midfielder Crosses from corners and set-plays created chances. Had room to roam in left midfield but was in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned rest after an hour. 6/10

The star midfielder Played in a forward role on the right and also did plenty of dirty work. Demonstrated flashes of quality and dragged an attempt high. Substituted late on by a teammate, his rival, after being booked. Seven

The winger Had England’s top opening of the first half, his strike excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. As a teammate staying deep, he had to offer an outlet on the right yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10

The captain The match-winner netting 77th and 78th finishes in an England shirt. The opener a typical poacher’s finish while the second a classy finish with his head following a clever run off his defender. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8/10

The attacker Found it tough to influence play out wide. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by Bellingham but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. Five

Bench Players

• Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Was bright connecting seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, Six
• Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner created the breakthrough, 6
• Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively upon introduction assisting the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
• Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6
• Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6