Thomas Tuchel’s critics have been left without the expected opportunity to intensify calls for pressure on the England head coach despite the team’s 3-2 defeat to Spain at Wembley.

England entered the Nations League opener under scrutiny following their World Cup semi-final defeat by Argentina, particularly over Tuchel’s tactical decisions and substitutions during that match.

However, Saturday’s defeat to the reigning world champions produced a different assessment, with England showing attacking intent and creating opportunities against a Spanish side that has gone more than two years without defeat.

Spain took an early lead after Marc Guehi’s mistake, but Anthony Gordon and captain Harry Kane turned the game around before half-time.

Kane then had the opportunity to put England two goals ahead from the penalty spot but slipped while taking the kick, sending the ball against the crossbar.

Spain subsequently regained control, with Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena scoring before Mikel Oyarzabal netted the winning goal in the 74th minute.

Despite the defeat, England recorded 48 per cent possession, made more successful passes in the final third than Spain and had five times as many crosses.

England also recorded more than twice as many touches in Spain’s penalty area, while the visitors finished with only two more shots.

Sky Sports football correspondent Rob Dorsett said the statistics provided some positive indicators for Tuchel, although he noted that Spain displayed greater quality and efficiency when in possession.

The result therefore leaves Tuchel with areas to address but also provides evidence of an England side willing to play on the front foot against elite opposition.

England will next travel to face the Czech Republic on Tuesday before another away fixture against Croatia on October 3.