England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson revealed Ledley King has played his way into Euro 2004 contention after scoring on his full debut in Portugal. Spurs defender King got England's goal in the 1-1 draw in Faro.
And Eriksson said: "Ledley King showed he is ready. It was an excellent performance with no nerves at all.
"He showed he is ready for the big matches. It was very good to play like that in Portugal. I was also pleased with Nicky Butt and Alan Smith."
Eriksson added: "He came into the squad very late and I couldn't have expected a performance like that - with a goal as well."
Pauleta equalised with a 20-yard free-kick, but Eriksson declared himself happy with the work out.
"We haven't played for three months and it's very good to come together.
"Nicky Butt showed that even though he hasn't played very much he is match fit and David Beckham showed he can play on the right and in the middle."
Goalkeeper David James displayed his unpredictable side with a handling error that almost conceded a goal, but Eriksson insisted he was unconcerned.
He said: "I'm not worried at all about that. David James is one for the great games. These things happen sometimes and I'm sure he will be ok."
England captain Beckham also declared his satisfaction as he said: "They had their chances but so did we and we played some good football at times.
"They've got some very skilful players and we've had a good workout.
"It's another good result really - but the important games come in the summer.
"We played some good football and if we can keep passing it like we did at times then we're on the right road."
MMIX
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I was sceptical that King was international standard but am glad I was proven wrong
"It was nearly all good news for Eriksson"