TheFA.com takes a closer look at some of the newer faces in the team today...

It was always going to be a big day for Lee Bowyer, as he made his senior England debut. He had told TheFA.com how proud he was to be representing his country  and the determination to do well was clear to see in his play in the first period.

Alan Smith meanwhile shows 100% commitment whenever he enters a football pitch and today was no different, as he won his 4th senior cap. The two new boys were in the action early on as Smith evaded a challenge from Fernando Couto and his low cross was only half cleared to Bowyer who from the edge of the penalty area hit a weak shot that was held by Vitor Baia.

Smith was regularly in the action making some good early touches and pressuring any Portuguese player in possession. One promising move saw him climbing well to flick down for Michael Owen and then rejoining the attack to almost tee up Nicky Butt.

Smith then had an audacious effort from 40 yards but didn't trouble the Portuguese goal, shortly before Bowyer's enthusiasm went a little far as he mistimed a tackle on Sabrosa, leading to a stern talking to from referee Ovrebo of Norway.

The Leeds pair showed signs of a good understanding, obviously born at Elland Road, linking up on a number of occasions on the right hand side and it was that combination that put England 1-0 up in the 40th minute.

Butt found Bowyer in space wide on the right and the debutant swung in an inch perfect cross for the blonde head of Smith to meet and power past the helpless Baia. The goal was no more than the 21 year old deserved for a first half performance full of hard work and neat touches.

Jonathan Woodgate replaced Rio Ferdinand at half time, making only his second appearance for his country. He was accompanied by debutant David Dunn who was making the step up from being Under 21 captain last season.

Woodgate was in the action immediately sliding to deflect a shot over the bar for a corner, with the help of Southgate. His Elland Road teammate Bowyer departed to a great reception on 63 minutes making way for Trevor Sinclair. The former Charlton midfielder will be pleased with his performance and particularly the assist for Smith's strike.

Meanwhile Dunn was constantly involved and was at the heart of the best move of the second half from England, linking well with Wayne Bridge and then flicking the ball inside for Joe Cole, whose low centre was poked wide by the advancing Heskey.

Sven will be delighted by the performances of all the new boys at Villa Park today, but particularly by that of goal scorer Smith. He was constantly in the thick of the action, often working back to win the ball and set up numerous new chances.

Something tells you that this will not be the last time we see any of these players pulling on the national shirt.

Matt Cook