🔗 Share this article

In a impressive performance, England wrapped up one more win against their opponents, with several players turning in standout displays on the pitch.

Starting XI

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to make before the break but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle on Qazim Laci showed excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested by Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Started through the middle to begin with later drifted wider once a teammate was introduced. 7/10

John Stones Advanced up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role before. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the approach was shelved by the interval. 6

The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as a replacement for Stones in the backline as opposed to his partner. A loose pass in the second half nearly resulted in the first goal for Albania. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly Another composed display by the rising star after his first cap against Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous touch over the Albania defence. The role looks secure already. Seven

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. A bit loose on the ball but his whipped deliveries posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter available to the manager to have versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash tackle. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed license to drift in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a merited rest after an hour. 6/10

The star midfielder Operated in an advanced position down the right while also put in the hard yards. Demonstrated flashes of quality but scuffed an effort high. Substituted towards the end by a teammate, his rival, after being booked. 7/10

The winger Had England’s best chance of the first half, his effort smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to provide width out wide yet his deliveries into the box varied in quality. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10

Harry Kane The match-winner netting 77th and 78th goals for his country. His first a classic poacher’s finish while the second a superb header after peeling away off his defender. Now 32, he continues to improve with the national team stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8/10

The attacker Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by Bellingham but the keeper kept it out. Rashford had a greater influence after coming on. 5/10

Replacements

• Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined well with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
• Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner led to the first goal, 6/10
• Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Active after coming on and set up the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, 7
• Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, Six
• Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, Six