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Gareth Southgate’s pride at England’s promising display in Germany last night outweighed residual disappointment having lost in the world champions’ backyard.

A year on from the remarkable comeback win in Berlin, it looked like the Three Lions’ purpose and intensity would see them secure another memorable victory.

However, a lack of an edge saw Southgate’s first match as permanent manager end in defeat as Lukas Podolski marked his final Germany appearance with a stunning winner to secure a 1-0 victory.

It was a tough pill to swallow having looked so comfortable in a bold, attack-minded side built upon a three-man backline, but the former defender left Dortmund with an overriding emotion of pride.

“I am not somebody that is over-positive if you have been defeated, but I have to be really pleased with the way the players have played individually and in terms of the tactical system and the way that worked,” Southgate said. “Their ability to adapt quickly to that I thought was excellent.

“Up until the goal I thought we were really the better side. Germany then had a little spell when they controlled it and obviously