Matthew Upson played the full 90 minutes as England ran out 2-1 winners against Switzerland at Wembley in Fabio Capello's first game in charge.
The 28-year-old, winning his eighth cap, partnered former Hammers centre-back Rio Ferdinand in central defence and turned in a solid performance in keeping with his progress for Alan Curbishley's in-form West Ham United this season. Reflecting after the game, Upson said he had enjoyed the whole experience of linking up with the Italian manager's squad - and not just the game itself.
"To get the call was really pleasing," he told Sky Sports, admitting that he had been "optimistic" it would come. "I have enjoyed my time and I am really happy to be here. The manager has an idea of what type of player he wants and how he wants to play. International football is different to the Premiership - it is at a slower pace and more technical. [Capello's approach] is very detailed and positionally [you have to] be immaculate."
In a first half of few incidents, Upson found himself with an opportunity to head for goal in the 40th minute, rising high to meet an inswinging corner. Moments later, England were in front when Joe Cole's skill allowed Jermaine Jenas to tap in. Switzerland kept going, however, and substitute Eren Derdiyok levelled matters with a neat finish in the 58th minute.
On the hour, Upson had the chance to restore England's lead only to go down under pressure from a Swiss defender just as he seemed certain to connect. Barely had the protests died down than Steven Gerrard's precise pass found Shaun Wright-Phillips, on for Jenas, in front of goal and he slotted into the net. Upson then had to be alert in the final seconds to block a scrambled shot.
Over in Belfast, George McCartney played the first 45 minutes for Northern Ireland in their 1-0 defeat by Bulgaria. Like Upson, McCartney has been an ever-present for his club this season. Earlier on Wednesday, Lucas Neill helped Australia to a 3-0 victory against Qatar in Melbourne, the first match in their bid to qualify for the 2010 World Cup. Jonathan Spector, Freddie Ljungberg and Nolberto Solano were all focusing on club commitments this week while Danny Gabbidon and Craig Bellamy were withdrawn from the Wales squad to face Norway.