🔗 Share this article

During a dominant showing, England secured a further win versus Albania, featuring multiple squad members producing notable displays during the match.

Starting XI

The goalkeeper Not a save required in the first half until called into action by an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci showed excellent game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Tested by Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Played in a central role early on then shifted wider once Saka came on. 7

John Stones Advanced into midfield when in possession, something he's known for in the past. On occasion was too casual on the ball and the tactic was shelved after the break. 6

The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be a replacement for his teammate in defense rather than alongside him. A loose pass later in the match nearly resulted in a goal from the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more confident display by the 20-year-old following his first cap against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever touch behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy when playing out but his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. A useful pace-controller available to the coach to call upon versus defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless challenge. Six

Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and set-plays created chances. Was given room to drift in left midfield but was in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Granted a merited break on the hour mark. 6

The star midfielder Operated in an advanced position down the right while also put in dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but scuffed an attempt over. Withdrawn late on for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7

The winger Had England’s best chance of the first half, his strike well saved from the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah holding position, he had to offer an outlet on the right although his balls from wide areas were inconsistent. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6

Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring two more goals at international level. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and his next a classy headed goal after peeling away from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders next summer with him up top. Eight

The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate however Strakosha kept it out. Rashford made much more of influence when substituted. Five

Replacements

• Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
• Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the first goal, Six
• Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively after coming on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
• Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
• Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Not enough time to make an impact, Six