Eberechi Eze, Man City star stink – England’s three losers from win vs Albania
England will not play again for another four months after their win against Albania, with three stars putting themselves at risk of not making Thomas Tuchel’s starting XI at the World Cup.
England’s final qualifying match against Albania was one of few opportunities left for stars to make their claim that Tuchel should be taking them to the World Cup.
Tuchel started strong for England’s 2-0 win over Serbia last time around, but the German manager elected to make changes against Albania.
Three stars though did not take their opportunity, putting them at risk of Tuchel’s ruthless leadership.
Eberechi Eze
Scored England‘s second goal against Serbia, and the Arsenal forward was given a start against Albania to further his starting XI claims.
Eberechi Eze though was quiet and not an attacking threat, and was replaced in Tuchel’s first round of substitutions for Arsenal team mate Bukayo Saka.
Saka came on and had an instant impact, and his quality shone through as England broke the deadlock in the second half against a stubborn Albanian defence to claim victory.
Adam Wharton
The Crystal Palace midfielder has deservedly earned his call-up for his excellent performances at club level.
However, whilst fellow midfielder Elliott Anderson has taken his England chance, Wharton could have shone more to make a stronger claim to Tuchel.
| Minutes Played | 75 |
| Shots | 0 |
| Big Chances Created | 0 |
| Accurate Passes % | 91% |
| Aerial Duels Won % | 0% |
With a plethora of midfield options, and Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott having been called up for this camp, Wharton needs to demand the ball more from his team mates and add an attacking dimension to his game.
Phil Foden
ITV pundits were impressed with Phil Foden against Serbia, with his cameo appearance up-front showing that the 25-year-old could be set for a new role in the squad.
Foden though again did not start against Albania, and slotted into his more familiar midfield role to little impact in the remaining 30 minutes.
Saka, and Marcus Rashford, both showed more attacking threat, whilst Foden could not get into the game, which he must do if he is going to be used off the bench at the World Cup.
This was a big disappointment for the Man City man.