When he was awarded his fifth cap against Italy at the beginning of a summer mini-tournament in North America, he was joined behind him by his Everton teammate Stevens, therefore transferring a successful and feared partnership to the international stage. However, Steven soon had a rival for the right flank as Robson began to explore various combinations for his wide men. Chris Waddle was a more flamboyant and explosive player than Steven (and John Barnes was similarly so against the more stoic Steve Hodge on the left flank) but Robson often preferred the consistency and team play of Steven on the right wing and he became a frequent choice as a result.