Gareth Southgate has expressed his pride after England’s excellent performance against Spain last night, stating that he was delighted with the way that his side played, Sky Sports can report.

The players over the period of the four matches couldn’t have given any more. I’m really pleased. This has been a brilliant experience and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the players. I can see the potential of the group.

Although England couldn’t hold on to their 2-0 lead in the closing stages, with Spain pulling two goals back to snatch a late draw, the hosts put on a scintillating display at Wembley, with Southgate and the English fans alike impressed with the performance.

When I took over it was a moment of instability for everybody and I think we have brought stability back and built a platform for the team moving forward. In terms of the remit we were asked to do, I think we have fulfilled that and I’m proud to have led the country through a couple of really important games.

Adam Lallana’s early penalty gave England the lead before Jamie Vardy doubled the advantage with a superb diving header just minutes after the start of the second-half.

Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Sport

We had long discussions about how we should approach the game tonight and we felt we wanted to be a front-foot team that pressed high. If we were going to be defeated, it was by being positive and brave with and without the ball and at times we really did that well.

However, two goals in the 89th and 95th minute from Iago Aspas and Isco respectively stunned England and grabbed a draw for the visitors.

It comes with a price as the game goes on because, although at times we kept the ball well and were a threat in transition, maybe as the second half went on we were not able to keep the ball enough and maybe you pay a price for that.

They are a top side and you could see in the last 20 minutes we were fatiguing and hanging on a little bit. It feels like a defeat for the players but I couldn’t be more proud of what they have done.

Southgate is still waiting on a decision on his future as England boss but is looking nailed on to be named by the FA as the new, permanent manager of the national team.

They have really had a go at everything and it was a healthy, positive performance.