🔗 Share this article

In a impressive showing, England secured another triumph against their opponents, featuring multiple players producing standout displays on the pitch.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do required before the break until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted his anticipation. 6/10

The debutant Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Played more centrally early on but moved wider after Saka came on. Seven

John Stones Pushed forward when in possession, something he's known for in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant when carrying play and the approach abandoned after the break. Six

Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, perhaps is another option to Stones in defense rather than his partner. One wayward distribution later in the match nearly resulted in a goal for the visitors. 6

The young full-back A further confident showing by the rising star after his initial appearance against Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. A bit sloppy on the ball though his whipped corners caused problems. A handy pace-controller available to the boss to have versus defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Had freedom to drift in left midfield only to be in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a deserved break after an hour. Six

The star midfielder Played in a forward spot out wide and also contributed with defensive duties. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but mishit a shot wide. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven

The winger Had the team's top opening in the opening period, his effort excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, he had to offer an outlet out wide yet his deliveries into the box varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. Six

The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th strikes at international level. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and his next an excellent header after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance next summer with him up top. 8/10

The attacker Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder but Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. 5/10

Substitutes

• Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively and combined well with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
• Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the opener, 6/10
• Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Energetic after coming on and provided the second goal with superb cross to the back post, 7
• Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable so soon, Six
• Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10