🔗 Share this article

In a commanding showing, England clinched a further victory versus Albania, featuring multiple players turning in standout performances on the pitch.

First-choice XI

The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform during the opening 45 until tested from an opponent's curled attempt. His sliding tackle against Qazim Laci demonstrated his game intelligence. Six out of ten

The debutant Examined against Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Played more centrally early on later drifted out wide after Saka entered the fray. 7/10

John Stones Pushed into midfield with the ball at his feet, a familiar role in the past. At times was too casual on the ball with the approach was shelved at half-time. 6

The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, per usual, could serve as another option for Stones in the backline as opposed to alongside him. A careless distribution in the second half came close to an opener from the visitors. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly A further confident display from the youngster after his debut versus another side. Saka failed to make the most of a clever flick behind their defense. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. Seven

The newcomer His maiden beginning for his country. Somewhat careless in possession however his inswinging deliveries caused problems. An effective game manager available to the coach to have against sides that sit back. Booked for a poorly timed foul. 6

The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and free kicks were dangerous. Was given license to drift down the left flank yet found himself offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved substitution on the hour mark. 6

Jude Bellingham Operated in a high spot down the right and did plenty of defensive duties. Showed moments of class but mishit an attempt high. Replaced towards the end for a teammate, his rival, after being booked. 7/10

The winger Had the team's best chance in the opening period, his shot smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he had to provide width out wide but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6

Harry Kane The match-winner with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals for his country. His first a typical poacher’s finish and the second an excellent finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play out wide. Had a decent opportunity when set up by Bellingham however the keeper made the save. His replacement produced a bigger influence in his place. 5/10

Substitutes

• Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined well with Kane in a preferred position, 6
• Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the first goal, Six
• Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, Seven
• Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established already, Six
• Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six