🔗 Share this article

In a commanding showing, the English national team secured one more victory versus their opponents, with several players delivering standout performances on the pitch.

Starting Lineup

Dean Henderson Not a save required in the first half before tested from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp anticipation. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Challenged against Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Operated more centrally to begin with but moved to the flank after Saka came on. 7/10

The defender Moved into midfield on the ball, something he's known for before. At times was too casual when carrying play and the tactic abandoned after the break. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, per usual, but may be a replacement to his teammate at the back as opposed to his partner. A loose ball after the break nearly resulted in an opener from Albania. 6

Nico O’Reilly A further assured performance by the youngster after his debut versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever backheel over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his already. 7

The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. Slightly careless on the ball but his inswinging corners posed a danger. A useful game manager for the coach to utilize versus defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. 6/10

The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Was given freedom to roam on the left but was offside as the pass came with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned substitution on the hour mark. Six

Jude Bellingham Played in a high role out wide while also put in dirty work. Displayed moments of class but mishit a shot high. Substituted late on for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10

The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. As a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted late in the match. 6/10

Harry Kane The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th finishes in an England shirt. The opener a classic poacher’s finish and his next a classy header having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him up top. 8

Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact from the left. Had a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham yet Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of influence in his place. 5/10

Replacements

• Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
• Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the opener, 6
• Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic when brought on and set up the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the far post, Seven
• Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established already, 6/10
• Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10