Keegan's Paris delight

Andy Cole (left) was singled out for praise by Kevin Keegan

England coach Kevin Keegan believes the promising performance against France is perfect preparation for the forthcoming World Cup campaign.

Keegan's side restored some of the reputation shattered during Euro 2000 when Michael Owen's late equaliser gave England a 1-1 draw in Paris.

Emmanuel Petit put France in front - but England's persistence and threat deserved a share of the spoils.

Keegan said: "If you come here and get a result you can get a result anywhere in the world - they are the best side in the world.

"That's just what we needed after Euro 2000. The lads will go away and come back against Germany and start on the real thing - and that is qualifying for Korea and Japan."

Keegan added: "I know I've got a bunch of players who are totally committed. We created some really good chances and it was pleasing - we were well worth something here.

Michael Owen celebrates his equaliser

"It wasn't easy, they'd all come for a party and we didn't want to be the ones who just joined in.

"France did have spells where they dominated but we didn't lose our discipline. I was pleased with the first 25 minutes where we played the ball about. Late on we didn't pass it as well - but we got a bit tired."

Keegan paid tribute to Andy Cole, who played on his own up front until Owen's arrival.

"He was terrific. It is never easy to play up front on your own. I do like my teams to go forward but you can't just try to do things with the team and find it doesn't work. When the service was good Cole did well."

Asked about Owen's contribution, Keegan said: "That is what Michael has to do. Leaving him out was tactical.

"Michael is a tremendous talent. He will enjoy that goal. We have a lot of talent. It is mixing it right that matters and at times the mix was right."

And Owen said: "Obviously when you play in front of 80,000 you're gutted when you're not starting - but Germany's the big one.

"I was very pleased - it feels like I'm getting right back to form now. I feel much sharper.

If you come here and get a result you can get a result anywhere in the world - they are the best side in the world

  England coach Kevin Keegan

"They were a very strong side and sometimes maybe when you're not quite as good as someone you have to work twice as hard as them and that's where you can get some upsets."

But Owen insisted England's performance proved they were not far off the world football pace following their abysmal exit from Euro 2000.

"We don't believe there's such a big gap," Owen added. "We believe we've got a lot of quality in the squad and we just need to prove it.

"I don't think anyone can ever fault the English pride. You have to go into the dressing room before and hear some of the talking that goes on. And afterwards that dressing room is always full of blood and sweat."

French striker Thierry Henry admitted: "It was a good game and a fair game. I think the result is a good result. When England plays France you always wear your shirt and always want to win."