🔗 Share this article

In a impressive showing, the English national team clinched a further triumph versus Albania, with multiple squad members delivering memorable displays throughout the game.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform in the first half until tested by an opponent's curled attempt. His sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. Six out of ten

The debutant Examined against Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Started in a central role to begin with but moved wider once a teammate came on. 7

John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for previously. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play with the tactic was shelved by the interval. 6/10

The tall defender A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, per usual, perhaps is another option to his teammate at the back as opposed to his partner. A careless ball in the second half almost led to a goal from Albania. 6

The young full-back A further assured performance from the 20-year-old after his first cap against another side. Saka was unable to take the most of a clever backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. Somewhat loose on the ball though his dangerous corners caused problems. An effective tempo-setter for the boss to utilize against defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless foul. 6/10

Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to drift in left midfield but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a deserved rest after an hour. 6/10

The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced spot out wide and also contributed with the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class and scuffed a shot high. Withdrawn in the closing stages by a teammate, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot smartly stopped from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah hanging back, he was forced to stretch the play out wide although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. Six

The captain The match-winner netting 77th and 78th goals at international level. The first a classic close-range tap-in and the second a classy headed goal following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance next summer with him up top. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in by the midfielder yet Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. 5/10

Replacements

• Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with the striker in a natural spot, 6
• Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery created the breakthrough, 6
• Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Lively when brought on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
• Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established at this level, 6
• Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10