Smith fires Euro warning

Alan Smith staked a claim for a place in Sven-Goran Eriksson's European Championships qualifying campaign with a goal on his first international start.

But England were pegged back to 1-1 by Portugal at Villa Park.

The Leeds striker claimed he had "enjoyed every minute of it" and admitted he was "keeping his fingers crossed about playing again".

Smith told Sky Sports 1: "I enjoyed it out there. It was nice to get a start, nice to play. The lads helped me out.

"Full credit to the lads, Michael Owen helped me out. It was good for me to get involved."

Asked if he felt he could be involved in future England squads, Smith said: "Who knows? Fingers crossed."

Leeds team-mate Lee Bowyer said: "I came in from the warm-up and the staff settled me down. I got an early touch and that helped.

"I loved every minute of it - and I hope there is more to come. Smithy helped me out by scoring.

"It was the biggest game of my life, the first time representing my country at the highest level. It has been a long time waiting for it.

"I've had a lot of backing. I tried my hardest and keep trying hard for Leeds."