During a dominant showing, England wrapped up one more win versus their opponents, featuring multiple players turning in memorable performances on the pitch.
Starting Eleven
The goalkeeper Had little to do to make in the first half but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested against the opposition's main danger in their forward. Played in a central role early on then shifted to the flank once Saka entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, something he's known for in the past. Sometimes lacked urgency on the ball and the approach discontinued by the interval. 6/10
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be another option to Stones at the back as opposed to alongside him. One wayward pass after the break nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another assured performance from the rising star after his first cap against another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of a gorgeous flick behind the Albania defence. His position looks secure at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Somewhat sloppy on the ball though his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager for the coach to call upon versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a rash foul. 6
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to move down the left flank only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a merited substitution after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Operated in an advanced position out wide and also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated moments of class but mishit a shot high. Substituted late on for Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening of the first half, his effort excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. As a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. Six
The captain The match-winner netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals in an England shirt. The first a classic poacher’s finish while the second a classy finish with his head having drifted away off his defender. Now 32, he continues to improve and the side stand a real opportunity next summer with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford had a greater influence in his place. 5
Replacements
- Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp and combined seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on assisting the second goal with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, Six
