After the final whistle confirmed England's win, hundreds of fans made their way out of the pubs and scattered in the downtown area, shouting and yelling in jubilation.

Most were teenage boys wearing bright red outfits and some painted their faces and cheeks with the cross of St George or wrapped themselves in the flag.

Some youngsters bleached their hair and stripped off their shirts as they marched around the square singing "England til I die".

The noise grew even louder when a series of small groups united into one big circle with their arms around each other's necks, dancing, singing and yelling. It was a scene that dazzled and entertained everyone who walked by.

Tourists stopped looking at the historical sites or shopping and made their way to the celebrating fans, enjoying the moment as if they were part of it.

Even a pregnant woman showed her patriotism by using a flag to cover her stomach.

These youngsters did not know each other, but it was their passion for football which brought them together.

Eventually the party ended and everyone headed home. But they will be back for another get together on Saturday to support their team in the quarter-final with Portugal.

Owen off to USA

nMichael Owen is to travel to the United States to see the knee specialist who saved Alan Shearer's career, the injured England striker's club, Newcastle, announced yesterday.

In a statement, the English Premiership club said the 26-year-old Owen, who ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during England's 2-2 World Cup draw with Sweden last week and is expected to be out of action for several months, would be travelling to America to consult specialist Richard Steadman.

"Newcastle United have been in touch with Dr Richard Steadman at his Colorado clinic with a view to him assessing Michael Owen's knee injury and deciding upon the best treatment for Michael," said the statement.

"As a result, Michael and club medical staff will travel to America in the next few weeks to see Dr Steadman. For the time being, Michael will remain in Newcastle under the supervision of United's medical team."

Earlier Monday the Football Association (FA) was left as the only target for angry Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd in his bid to get compensation. It had been thought the Magpies might be able to dip into an insurance fund set up by world governing body Fifa to help them cover the loss of £17 million record signing Owen.

However, Fifa indicated yesterday that the fund was designed to help players from poorer countries whose clubs don't have insurance. 

Lerpong Amsa-ngiam

The Nation

London