Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham has paid tribute to the departing Gareth Southgate, saying he “made the impossible job possible”.
Southgate resigned as England manager this morning after eight years in the role and Bullingham, who also revealed the search for a successor had already commenced, feels the 53-year-old deserves enormous credit for his time in charge.
In a statement, he said: “On behalf of English football, I would like to pay tribute to Gareth Southgate and to Steve Holland for everything they have achieved.
“Over the last eight years they have transformed the England men’s team, delivering unforgettable memories for everyone who loves the Three Lions. We look back at Gareth’s tenure with huge pride – his contribution to the English game, including a significant role in player development, and in culture transformation has been unique. However, it is his record of winning tournament games which is most extraordinary.
“In the 25 tournaments post 1966 before Gareth took charge, we had won seven knockout games. In his four tournaments we have won nine. So, in his eight years, he has won more games that really matter than in the previous 50 years.
“And of course, we have had strong tournament performances throughout their tenure. We came so close to winning the Euros in London and securing the first trophy for our men’s team for over 50 years – and came so close again in Berlin on Sunday.”
“Thank you, England – for everything.” ❤️💙
A message from Gareth Southgate. 🧵⬇️ pic.twitter.com/STzYnj2FlF
— England (@England) July 16, 2024
📰 Table Of Contents
Close but not quite for Southgate’s Lions
Southgate led England to two European Championship finals – in which they lost to Italy in 2021 and Spain on Sunday night at Euro 2024 – as well as a World Cup semi-final in 2018 and the quarters four years later in Qatar.
Bullingham added: “Before Gareth, our longest time ranked in the top five in the world was seven months. In his tenure we have been ranked there for six years.
“Gareth has made the impossible job possible and laid strong foundations for future success. He is held in the highest regard by the players, the backroom team, by everyone at The FA and across the world of football.
“We are very proud of everything Gareth and Steve achieved for England, and will be forever grateful to them.”
What happens now?
The FA now have the task of finding a suitable replacement with Graham Potter and Eddie Howe the bookmakers’ favourites.
Under-21s boss Lee Carsley is also highly regarded at St George’s Park and he could take the role on a short-term basis if the process drags on.
“The process for appointing Gareth’s successor is now under way and we aim to have our new manager confirmed as soon as possible,” Bullingham said.
“Our UEFA Nations League campaign starts in September, and we have an interim solution in place if it is needed.
“We know there will be inevitable speculation, but we won’t be commenting further on our process until we appoint.”
