England captain Harry Kane plundered a hat-trick before half-time in a 5-0 hammering of sorry Albania at Wembley on Friday to all but guarantee his side's spot in next year's World Cup finals in Qatar.
Two draws in their last three Group I matches for Gareth Southgate's team had opened the door slightly ajar for chasing Poland in the qualification race, but Kane slammed it shut in memorable fashion.
Defender Harry Maguire settled any early nerves with a ninth minute headed opener before Kane's spree began when he headed in from close range in the 18th. With Albania in disarray Jordan Henderson weaved his way through to make it 3-0 before Kane powered in his second from a tight angle and then completed his fourth England hat-trick with a stunning overhead kick on the stroke of half-time.
Sportsmail's Sami Mokbel rated the players.
England striker Harry Kane was back in the goals on Friday night with a perfect hat-trick
Jordan Pickford - Produced an excellent save to preserve England’s lead early on to show why he’s England’s undisputed No 1. 7
Kyle Walker - An early mistake that let in Uzuni aside, the Manchester City start cruised through this game with minimal fuss. 7
John Stones - Positioned in the heart of England’s back-three, the centre-half strolled through the night with ease. 7.5
Harry Maguire - His goal was almost cathartic after a troubled season. You sensed the weight lift off his shoulders. He’ll feel much better this morning. 8
