Richard Stearman produced an impressive display as he enjoyed his first action in the UEFA European Under-21 Championships in last night's 1-1 draw with Germany in Sweden.

Operating at right back, Stears played for the full 90 minutes put in an all action performance and linked up well with winger Andrew Driver.

Getting forward whenever given the opportunity, the Wolverhampton-born defender had unsuccessful claims for a penalty in the first half before almost scoring the winner with a volley 12 minutes from time.

England had already qualified for the semi finals thanks to wins over Finland and Spain but last night's draw in Halmstad, secured after Jack Rodwell's first half header cancelled out Gonzalo Castro's early opener, ensured they topped the standings in Group B.

England will now meet the runners up of Group A - either Italy, Sweden, Serbia or Belarus- in Gothenburg at 5pm on Friday.

It was a much changed team sent into battle by Stuart Pearce last night, but one which he admits has given him plenty of options ahead of the last four.

And while Stears may find it tough to break in, he's certainly done himself no harm with last night's display.

"It's very pleasing to be able to have a full squad of players who we know can do well," said Pearce.

"When you consider how many changes I made the players who came in took the momentum on to another level last night.

"It's certainly given me something to think about and everyone is focused and ready for the semi final although I also think there's a lot more to come."

The final of the tournament is in Malmo on June 29.

PICTURED: Stears fires in a shot during last night's game.