England secured a routine 2 - 1 victory against Slovenia at Wembley, leaving manager Fabio Capello pleased ahead of Wednesday's crucial World Cup qualifying tie with Croatia.
Frank Lampard opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 31 minutes, after Wayne Rooney's collision with defender Bostjan Cesar was judged deliberate by the referee - although many neutral spectators would say the hosts were fortunate to be given the decision.
Tottenham's in form striker Jermaine Defoe doubled the lead for Fabio Capello's side just after the hour mark, after coming on as a half-time substitute. His well taken strike from the edge of the Slovenian penalty box continued his fine run of form for club and country, and will doubtless give the England manager a headache over Wednesday's squad selection.
The visitors were able to grab a consolation with 5 minutes remaining, after Liverpool's Glen Johnson's sluggish attempt to prevent a cross from Nejc Pecnik was unsuccessful, allowing substitute Zlatan Ljubijankic to steer the ball past Robert Green with a well placed header.
A typical friendly in many ways, the game lacked real energy and pace in the second half, but England looked comfortable in possession and will be confident going into a tough tie on Wednesday night, where a win will all but guarantee their place at the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa.
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