England coach Steve McClaren was thrilled by his team’s performance despite a late goal denying them victory.

McClaren said: "There was a lot of fluidity. We had penetration up front and I’m very pleased with the performance.

"When everyone is fit and available, we have a strong team, a good team.

"We are moving forward and the preparation has to be right for when we meet Israel in March."

Of Everton's former Birmingham City striker Andrew Johnson, who was played out of position on the right, McClaren said: "He did a fantastic job for us, what he was asked to do.

"It was fluid and we wanted flexibility. I wanted us to get the best out of each player. He did a job for the team. He is flexible and he did that."

McClaren also paid tribute to debutant Micah Richards, adding: "The two days he’s been with us, it’s as if he’s been with us for years. It gave every confidence for the future."

McClaren added: "We tried three up front to put pressure on them and, for the majority of the game, I think it worked.

"I was also very impressed with the midfield trio while Wayne Rooney is coming back into form and deserved his goal - it was a massive boost. Everyone contributed and played as a team."

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