Seven England players lined-up for Everton as they got their pre-season campaign underway at Tranmere Rovers on Tuesday evening.
Roberto Martinez made ten half-time substitutions during the 2-2 draw, but John Stones, Gareth Barry, Luke Garbutt, Tyias Browning, Hallam Hope, John Lundstram and Leon Osman all got 45 minutes at Prenton Park.
John Stones was one of Martinez's half-time substitutes
But goals either side of the break from Osman and an opener from Steven Naismith were not enough to defeat Rob Edwards’ determined side.
England Under-21 full-back Garbutt was the creator as Naismith opened the scoring after latching onto the youngster's pin-point cross to tap home from close range.
Cole Stockton then equalised for the home side and despite the Premier League side creating a number of chances, the match remained level until 70 minutes had passed.
Then Osman, who has two England caps, made the pressure pay and took advantage of some poor defending to meet Aiden McGeady’s corner and restore the Toffees’ lead.
However, they were unable to see the game out and with seconds remaining, Tranmere substitute James Rowe broke through and beat goalkeeper Joel Robles to earn the hosts a late draw.
Tyias Browning has represented England at U17, U19 and Under-21 levels
Speaking after the game, Martinez said he was pleased with the workout despite the disappointment of conceding a late goal.
He said: "It was a great mixture and we were able to see a lot of youngsters, as well as completing a very fitting exercise for what we are trying to do in pre-season."
Next up for Everton is a trip to Thailand as they continue their pre-season campaign.
They face newly-promoted Leicester City in Bangkok on 27 July, before taking on FC Porto at Goodison Park in Leon Osman's testimonial on 3 August.
