by Neil Weld
Several Pompey players have been in international action for their countries.
Tal Ben Haim played 90 minutes for Israel in their 3-2 friendly defeat to Euro 2012 co-hosts Ukraine – who will face England in the group stages of the competition this summer – in Petach Tivka. Former Blues striker Ben Sahar netted a consolation for the hosts.
Marko Futacs scored twice as Hungary under-21s won 3-1 in Malta, before being replaced by Patrik Tischler.
George Thorne played the final 19 minutes as England under-19s beat the Czech Republic 2-1 at Leyton Orient’s Matchroom Stadium, while fellow West Brom loanee Scott Allan was given slightly longer – 22 minutes – as Scotland under-21s drew 0-0 with the Netherlands.
Blues keeper Stephen Henderson was an unused substitute in the Republic of Ireland’s 1-1 friendly draw with the Czech Republic in Dublin.
And Erik Huseklepp – on loan at Birmingham – started Norway's 3-0 triumph over Northern Ireland in Belfast.