Jordan Pickford and Harry Maguire – two of Gareth Southgate’s England stalwarts – have paid tribute to the departing Three Lions boss.
Southgate resigned this morning in the wake of England’s 2-1 Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain in Berlin.
He leaves after eight years in charge during which time he led his country to two European Championship finals and the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup.
Everton goalkeeper Pickford wrote on Instagram: “I also want to say a special thank you to the boss for always believing in me during his time with us and I would like to wish him all the best in his next steps. Thank you Gareth.”
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Maguire missed the tournament in Germany due to a long-standing calf injury but was a key member of the side that performed so well in Russia six years ago and at Euro 2020.
Southgate has long been an admirer of the centre-half despite him struggling for form at times for club side Manchester United.
Maguire wrote on Instagram: “You made us all believe again – memories that will last forever.
“Thank you boss.”
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Declan Rice, who came to the fore at Euro 2020, also paid his own tribute, writing on Instagram: “Thank you gaffer, it’s been a privilege to play for England under your guidance.
“Memories that will stay with me forever. All the best in your next adventure.”
Jude Bellingham apologised for England’s failure to get the job done in Germany but also took time to say thank you to Southgate, describing him as “an unbelievable human being”.
The Real Madrid midfielder wrote: “I’d like to thank Gareth and his staff for the great memories during his tenure. From the point of view of a fan who has become a member of the squad, it’s been a rollercoaster of amazing emotions that has instilled hope and joy back into our country.
“It was a privilege being lead by someone who is so dedicated and passionate, not only is Gareth easily one of the best coaches in the history of the national team but also an unbelievable human being. Thank you for everything and all the best in the next chapter, Gaffer.
