Julen Lopetegui: 'England improving under Gareth Southgate'

Spain boss Julen Lopetegui has insisted that England have become a better side in the short time that Gareth Southgate has been in charge of the team.

The 46-year-old has stepped up from Under-21s duty to manage the Three Lions on an initial four-game basis, which is likely to be turned into a permanent deal in the coming weeks.

Lopetegui claims that England chiefs would be wise to offer Southgate the job on a full-time basis, having guided his nation to two wins and a draw from his three games at the helm thus far.

Ahead of Tuesday's friendly between the two sides at Wembley Stadium, Lopetegui told reporters: "He has the challenge now. He is, I think, doing a very good job and I wish him the best. I think he's improving the English team. They show different skills in offensive phases."

Like Southgate, Lopetegui also spent time working with his country's age-group stars before making the step up earlier this year following a disappointing showing at Euro 2016.