Burley defends Japan friendly

Christophe Berra's own goal in the 82nd minute gave the Japanese the lead after the home side had dominated possession and, with just seconds remaining, Keisuke Honda put the result beyond doubt when he side-footed home from 10 yards out.

"Overall it was a good workout," said Burley. "We had six new players and it was a game where Japan had most of the possession, played some nice football without maybe - especially in the first half - creating too many chances."

He added: "In the second half our keeper made two good saves from free-kicks and then we had a very good chance with Steven Fletcher, when the goalkeeper got his foot to the ball and stopped it going in.

"We were disappointed giving the ball away from a throw-in and then it was an own goal. Overall, I think it was a good exercise for both countries."

Burley was impressed by the Japanese, who also fielded a weakened team after their Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong on Thursday, but was full of praise for goalkeeper Craig Gordon as well as for his defence, despite Berra's own goal.

"I think Japan - especially from free-kicks - were dangerous but I have every confidence in my keeper," he said. "I think Craig Gordon is one of the best keepers in Europe, so I had every confidence in him.

"So, it was disappointing the way we conceded the first goal and that's always, in international football, a very important one.

"Japan had the luck but I think as a team we defended well.

"All credit to Japan, they took their opportunity and then they got the second goal and won the match."