This international break was always going to be a bit of a test for England, what with half the staring XI pulling out due to 'injury'.The likes of Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Raheem Sterling were all absent for the games against Germany and Brazil but amazingly, Gareth Southgate's men held their own against the two international Goliaths.Die Mannschaft were held to a 0-0 draw by the Three Lions last Friday and on Tuesday evening, England recorded the same score line versus the Selecao.While they certainly looked bereft of ideas going forward, their defence in both fixtures was outstanding.John Stones has become a real leader at the heart of the defence after excelling for Manchester City and Liverpool's Joe Gomez has been immense after being thrown in at the deep end.The former Charlton prospect replaced the injured Phil Jones v Germany and was given a starting role against the Brazil.

GOMEZ THWARTS BRAZIL'S FIRST-CHOICE ATTACK

Amazingly, the Liverpool man looked unfazed coming up against Neymar, Gabriel Jesus and Philippe Coutinho.

In fact, he had them in his pocket, earning the Man of the Match award at the end of the game.

And, Liverpool fans were keeping a keen eye on his performance and all said the same thing on Twitter after he shackled Neymar, a feat which few defenders achieve.

LIVERPOOL TWITTER IN AGREEMENT

So there you have it Jurgen Klopp, put the error-ridden Dejan Lovren on the bench and chuck one of England's biggest prospects next to Joel Matip.

Gomez has featured heavily for Liverpool this season but mainly at right-back, due to Nathaniel Clyne's injury woes.

However, Trent Alexander-Arnold is more than capable of taking his place, allowing Gomez to slot in, which could solve some of their defensive woes.

GOMEZ THANKED KLOPP FOR ENGLAND CALL UP

Gomez said in the press conference before the game: "I am grateful for the opportunity and looking forward to working under Gareth Southgate.

"Obviously I've worked under him before previously and I know how good a manager he is and I am just looking forward to learning and playing under him, and just getting whatever football I can.

"But without the opportunities he (Klopp) has given me I wouldn’t be here.

"Now I am here I am just looking forward to playing under Gareth and learning under him and possibly in a new position.

"I mean, for me personally, I just have to be confident with myself. I think it's a balance of knowing my ability but also trying to learn.

"I have to look ahead towards the future and I still understand that I am a young player and I've got a lot to learn."