Former England manager Gareth Southgate ‘to receive knighthood in New Year Honours List’ | Football

Former England manager Gareth Southgate is set to receive a knighthood in the New Year ­Honours List.

The 54-year-old will become the third England manager in history to be knighted after Sir Alf Ramsey, who led the Three Lions to victory at the 1966 World Cup, and Sir Bobby Charlton.

Southgate guided England to two European Championship finals but his side were beaten on penalties by Italy in Euro 2020 before they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Spain at Euro 2024 earlier this year.

He also led England to a World Cup semi-final and quarter-final.

According to The Sun on Sunday, Southgate has already received his letter from the Honours Committee.

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Following speculation over his future during Euro 2024 in the summer, Southgate announced his decision to step away from the national side with his contract due to expire in December.

In a message to fans, Southgate said: ‘As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all.

‘But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager.

‘I joined the FA in 2011, determined to improve English football. In that time, including eight years as England men’s manager, I have been supported by some brilliant people who have my heartfelt thanks.

‘I could not have had anyone better alongside me than Steve Holland. He is one of the most talented coaches of his generation, and has been immense.

‘I have had the privilege of leading a large group of players in 102 games. Every one of them has been proud to wear the three lions on their shirts, and they have been a credit to their country in so many ways.

‘The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of. I am so proud of them, and I hope we get behind the players and the team at St. George’s Park and the FA who strive every day to improve English football, and understand the power football has to drive positive change.

‘My special thanks go to the backroom staff who have provided the players and me with unstinting support over the last eight years. Their hard work and commitment inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them – the brilliant ‘team behind the team’.

‘We have the best fans in the world, and their support has meant the world to me. I’m an England fan and I always will be.

‘I look forward to watching and celebrating as the players go on to create more special memories and to connect and inspire the nation as we know they can.

‘Thank you, England – for everything.’

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