Joe Cole scored as England triumphed over local club side the Platinum Stars in their final warm-up game prior to the World Cup finals.

The out-of-contract Chelsea star was the only player to feature the full 90 minutes as Capello used 21 of his 23-man squad; only Gareth Barry and David James did not feature for the Three Lions.

The deadlock was broken after just 3 minutes by Jermain Defoe but England were largely lethargic but for Cole’s alacrity, and it was apt the midfield ace was the man to extend England’s lead after the break.

Half-time substitute Wayne Rooney sealed the win with a smart finish after good work by the impressive James Milner.

Whilst the game was a mere training fixture and caps and goals are unofficial, Cole can be particularly satisfied after a tireless performance on the left wing.

The Chelsea midfielder recently impressed in England’s 2-1 win over Japan whilst playing in a spare role behind Wayne Rooney, and his energetic display on the wing underlines his importance to the squad.

And England’s second half performance was hugely encouraging – despite the majority of those playing expected to be left out of the starting eleven for Saturday’s clash with the USA.

Frank Lampard, John Terry and Ashley Cole all started the match and were rested for the second period; the former coming close to scoring in the first half with a rasping drive.