Kyle Walker-Peters impressed as the Southampton defender made his England senior debut in the 2-1 victory over Switzerland at Wembley.
The 24-year-old played 62 minutes in a right wing-back role as Gareth Southgate started the international friendly with a three-man defence.
England fell behind to Breel Embolo’s far-post header midway through the opening period, but Walker-Peters made a crucial interception that paved the way for former Saint Luke Shaw to slam home the equaliser in first-half stoppage time.
An Under-20 World Cup winner, Walker-Peters caught the eye on his senior bow with a typically energetic display before he was replaced just after the hour.
Harry Kane’s 49th international goal arrived from the penalty spot to win the game for the Three Lions with 12 minutes left, ensuring a winning start for his former Tottenham teammate.
James Ward-Prowse and Fraser Forster were both unused substitutes, but will hope to play some part in Tuesday’s meeting with Ivory Coast.
Elsewhere, Armando Broja’s Albania were cruelly denied a draw as Spain prevailed courtesy of a 90th-minute winner from RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo.
Saints striker Broja was replaced after 84 minutes in Barcelona with his country trailing to a goal from former Man City forward Ferran Torres.
Seconds later, the Eagles drew level through Myrto Uzuni, but Olmo had the final say for a Spanish side among the favourites for the World Cup in Qatar later this year.
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