Led by The FA International Committee Chairman, Noel White, and accompanied by The FA Directors Trevor Brooking and David Davies and other members of the Committee, the delegation was received in the elegant surroundings of the Oeiras City Hall Palace by its Lady Mayor, Teresa Zambujo.

"The Municipality of Oeiras is very proud to be hosting the England team for this first phase of the European Championships", explained Jane Bateman, Head of International Relations for The FA.

"We have been superbly looked after since we have been here. The Portuguese people have been very welcoming and we were delighted to acknowledge this by attending an official reception yesterday afternoon".

The reception was also attended by HM Ambassador to Britain, Dame Glynne Evans, and the Director of the British Council in Portugal, Rosemary Hilhorst.

Both organisations have offered an unprecedented level of support to The FA in the run-up to Euro 2004, both in an advisory capacity and in terms of engaging the local community and fans in events that promote Britain and the links between the Britain and Portugal.