🔗 Share this article

In a impressive showing, the English national team clinched one more win against their opponents, featuring several squad members delivering standout performances on the pitch.

Starting XI

The goalkeeper Not a save required before the break before forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. A sliding intervention on Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp game intelligence. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Tested against Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated more centrally to begin with but moved wider after Saka was introduced. 7

John Stones Moved forward with the ball at his feet, something he's known for previously. Sometimes lacked urgency on the ball with the experiment discontinued by the interval. Six

The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, per usual, but may be a replacement to Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. A careless distribution later in the match almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6

The young full-back Another assured showing from the rising star following his debut against another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of a clever touch behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose already. Seven

Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Slightly careless in possession but his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. An effective game manager available to the boss to have versus sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless foul. Six

The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays created chances. Was given license to drift down the left flank but was offside as the pass came with a chance to score. Awarded a merited substitution on the hour mark. Six

The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced position out wide and also put in defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality but mishit an attempt wide. Replaced in the closing stages for a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10

The winger Was presented with the team's best chance of the first half, his shot excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. Six

The captain The match-winner with his two more goals at international level. The opener a trademark opportunist's goal and his next an excellent headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. Eight

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game from the left. Had a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham yet the keeper made the save. His replacement produced a bigger influence after coming on. 5/10

Bench Players

• Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively and linked up effectively with Kane in more familiar role, 6
• Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery led to the first goal, 6
• Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, 7
• Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established at this level, 6
• Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, Six