🔗 Share this article

In a commanding display, the English national team secured another triumph against Albania, featuring several squad members producing memorable displays on the pitch.

Starting Eleven

The goalkeeper Had little to do required before the break until tested from an opponent's curling effort. A sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent anticipation. Six out of ten

The debutant Examined by the opposition's biggest threat through Hoxha. Played in a central role to begin with later drifted wider after a teammate entered the fray. 7/10

John Stones Moved forward when in possession, something he's known for previously. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the experiment was shelved at half-time. 6/10

The tall defender A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be an alternative to Stones at the back instead of his partner. A careless pass later in the match almost led to a goal from Albania. 6

The young full-back Another composed showing by the rising star after his initial appearance against Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a clever backheel behind the Albania defence. The role looks secure so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. Slightly loose on the ball though his dangerous deliveries caused problems. An effective game manager available to the boss to call upon against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6/10

Declan Rice Deliveries from corners and free-kicks created chances. Was given room to drift down the left flank only to be offside upon receiving in front of goal. Given a deserved break around the 60-minute point. Six

Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward spot on the right while also put in defensive duties. Showed flashes of quality and dragged an effort over. Withdrawn in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7

The winger Was presented with England’s best chance before halftime, his strike well saved from the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. 6/10

The captain The difference-maker with his two more strikes in an England shirt. The first a typical poacher’s finish and the second a superb headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass from a teammate yet the keeper made the save. His replacement produced a bigger an impact after coming on. 5/10

Substitutes

• Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright and linked up well with Kane in a preferred position, Six
• Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, 6
• Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction assisting the second goal with superb cross into the area, Seven
• Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established already, 6/10
• Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10