Euro 2024

GARETH SOUTHGATE has quit England days after dropping a big hint about his future.The 53-year-old led the Three Lions to two Euros finals, losing both, as well as the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup.Gareth Southgate dropped a big hint about his future immediately after defeat to SpainHe managed 102 games with England, winning 61, but feels it is the right time to step down.After the final defeat to Spain Southgate spoke about England being in a strong position as he dropped a big hint he was set to resign.Using the word “they” to describe them, he said: “I think England are in a really good position in terms of the experiences they’ve got now. The age of the squad.”Most of this squad are going to be around not only for the World Cup but the next Euros as well.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”There’s a lot to look forward to but this moment is not any consolation.”When pressed on his future, Southgate added: “I don’t think now is a good time to make a decision like that. I need to talk to the right people. It’s not for now.”Southgate was reportedly set to consider his future this week ahead of talks with FA chief Mark Bullingham.But he made up his mind quickly and the FA will now begin their process to hire his successor, with Eddie Howe one manager they have their eye on.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSouthgate statement in full as he QUITS EnglandAs 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.Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino are also amongst the frontrunners to take over.While former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel has thrown his hat in the ring, having eyed the job for a number of years.Next England manager oddsGraham Potter – EvensEddie Howe – 3/1Mauricio Pochettino – 4/1Lee Carsley – 10/1Frank Lampard – 10/1Jurgen Klopp – 10/1Pep Guardiola – 16/1Southgate’s highs and lows as England bossGARETH Southgate took charge of 102 games for England before quitting in the aftermath of the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.But what were the best – and worst matches – from the popular gaffer’s eight-year reign before that devastating Sunday night in Berlin? Here we take a look.THE HIGHS:Colombia 1-1 England (3-4 on pens,) 2018 World CupThis was the night that long-suffering supporters finally started to believe that it was coming home.Despite conceding a late equaliser, England held their nerve to advance to the quarter final of the World Cup 2018 on penalties.It was our first shootout victory for 22 years.Spain 2-3 England, 2018 Nations LeagueFollowing on from the World Cup, England won in Spain for the first time in 31 years with a brilliant Uefa Nations League victory.Southgate’s boys stunned the Seville crowd into silence with a thrilling performance that saw them lead 3-0 at the break thanks to a Raheem Sterling brace and Marcus Rashford.Although the hosts scored two after the break, the way the Three Lions tore La Roja apart excited every fan.England 2-1 Denmark, Euro 2020 semi-finalSouthgate led England to their first major final in 55 years as they beat Denmark after extra-time in the Euro 2020 semi-final.Having fallen behind after half an hour, the Three Lions battled back to send it to extra-time courtesy of an own goal.Then it was captain Kane who converted a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel originally saved his penalty in extra-time to win it.England 3-0 Sengal, 2022 World Cup last 16England had already blown Iran and Wales, 6-2 and 3-0 respectively, away in the World Cup 2022 group stages before they breezed past Senegal.The free-scoring Three Lions recorded another big win to set-up a mouthwatering quarter-final against France – what could go wrong?Italy 1-2 England, Euro qualifiers, 2023On a night when Harry Kane became England’s all-time top scorer, the Three Lions recorded a first away win over Italy since 1961.It was the first game since their 2022 World Cup exit, and it ensured a perfect start to their Euro 2022 qualifying campaign.England 2-1 Holland, Euro 2024 sem-finalThe nation doubted Southgate’s men in the semis of Euro 2024, but they responded with a barnstorming display.Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Dutch but Harry Kane’s penalty drew us level.And Ollie Watkins slotted in a brilliant winner in injury time to see the Three Lions into their second successive Euros final.AND THE LOWS….Croatia 2-1 England, World Cup semi-final, 2018Having led England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990, Southgate men made a dream start as Kieran Trippier put them ahead in the early exchanges.But Ivan Perisic equalised as the Croats began to take control.Some of Southgate’s substitutions were then questioned after his team were beaten in extra-time, although many gave him the benefit of the doubt as he returned a hero.Italy 1-1 England (3-2 pens) Euro 2020 finalWill probably never get a better chance to have secured a trophy for the Three Lions than this final of the last European Championship.Luke Shaw gave us the lead after just seconds, but just like against Croatia three years earlier, we sat back and let our rivals back into it.Leonardo Bonucci duly equalised in the second half and the game eventually went to penalties.The unfortunate Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were all brought on to take a spot-kick, but the brave trio all missed as the Azzurri broke our hearts to take the prize.England 0-4 Hungary, Nations League 2023A year on from the Euros and it was utter embarrassment for Southgate in this Nations League game at Molineux.It was our biggest home defeat since 1928 and the result led to England being relegated from the top group of the Nations League and back to one that contained the Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.England 1-2 France, World Cup 2022 quarter-finalsAnother case of what could have been.Having been free-scoring throughout Qatar 2022, many fancied us to go all the way at the World Cup despite taking on the holders in the quarters.We fought back from going behind to level through Kane and many believe that France were then there for the taking had Southgate deployed a more attacking approach.Instead, they seemed content with what they had until Olivier Giroud pounced 12 minutes from time to win it.But there was still one more twist of the knife for England as the usually-reliable Kane skied a late penalty over the bar uncharacteristically as we crashed out.The Sun’s Shaun Custis and Charlie Wyett discuss Gareth Southgate quitting as England manager and who could replace him More

ENGLAND’S website crashed after Gareth Southgate announced his departure on Tuesday.The Three Lions icon has walked away from his beloved job just two days after losing the Euro 2024 final to Spain.England’s website crashed following Gareth Southgate’s departureCredit: PAThe page was unable to load as Southgate said goodbye to the Three LionsSouthgate had hinted before the tournament that he was likely to leave.And his exit was confirmed this morning with a statement on the English FA’s website.However, the national team site was unable to handle the amount of people who wanted to read Southgate’s last words.And just minutes after it was released, the website page crashed.READ MORE ON ENGLANDEngland are now on the hunt for a new manager.The FA are likely to have as many as EIGHT top names on their shortlist.And SunSport can exclusively reveal that former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is keen on taking charge.Whoever gets the job will be tasked with going one better that Southgate, who lost two Euro finals while reaching the World Cup semis.Most read in Euro 2024Next England manager oddsGraham Potter – EvensEddie Howe – 3/1Mauricio Pochettino – 4/1Lee Carsley – 10/1Frank Lampard – 10/1Jurgen Klopp – 10/1Pep Guardiola – 16/1BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe former England player landed the top job in 2018 after three years in charge of the U21s.Southgate was drafted in following Sam Allardyce’s disastrous one-game reign.Footage resurfaces of what Eddie Howe said about England job as he is tipped to succeed Gareth SouthgateGareth’s farewell statement in full”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.”He continues: “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.”And he became a national icon when he led England to the last four at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.Southgate became a cultural phenomenon with his waistcoat on the touchline.But he was unable to prevent England from crashing to a semi-final defeat against Croatia.Three years later Southgate led his nation to a Euro final against Italy at Wembley.However, the Three Lions blew another lead before eventually losing on penalties.The 2022 World Cup saw England go out in the quarters to France, with captain Harry Kane missing a crucial penalty.And on Sunday it felt like history was repeating itself as Southgate’s men conceded an 86th minute winner, allowing Spain to pick up another international trophy.Piers Morgan on why it was time for Southgate to goGARETH SOUTHGATE created a team in his own cool, calm, collected image, developed a fantastic team spirit with his players, and has performed better in major international tournaments than any manager of our national side other than World Cup-winning Sir Alf Ramsey.But when the final whistle blew in Berlin’s Olympiastadion stadium, it felt like the right moment to say goodbye to Gareth.I was there, with two of my sons, to watch England come up short, again, against Spain.And none of us was enraged.Disappointed, yes.Angry, no.Truthfully, for all our bullish ‘It’s Coming Home!’ social media posts, we knew in our hearts it probably wasn’t.Why?Because for all his ‘safe-pair-of-hands’ positives, the problem with Gareth, ironically, is that he’s just too safe.This very talented squad of players should have been ordered to play with far more attacking flair through this tournament, as Spain did.Put someone like Jurgen Klopp or Alex Ferguson in charge of these guys, managers with a love of rampaging flamboyance and with in-built desire to entertain, and we’d have won it just as we’d have won the last Euros too.Read more from Piers Morgan here. 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GARETH SOUTHGATE’s tenure as England manager has come to an end after he sensationally quit his post – with EIGHT top gaffers being lined up as his replacement.The 53-year-old guided the Three Lions to their second successive Euros final against Spain earlier this month.Gareth Southgate’s time as England manager has come to an endCredit: GettySouthgate guided The Three Lions to a second successive Euros finalCredit: RexThe 53-year-old failed to end the nation’s near 60-year wait for silverwareCredit: REXBut his troops failed to end the nation’s 58-year-long wait for silverware, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Spain in last Sunday’s final in Berlin.Southgate endured a rollercoaster Euro 2024, facing criticism for performances in the early stages before being lauded for the team’s improvement and his brilliant substitutions in his side’s last-gasp semi-final win over the Netherlands last Wednesday.Now, eight years and 102 games after accepting the job, he has parted ways with the national team – as exclusively revealed by SunSport.Southgate hinted he could step down after the tournament before a ball had even been kicked.Read More on EnglandAnd he seemingly doubled down on that notion in his post-match interview, saying: “I think England are in a really good position in terms of the experiences they’ve got now. “The age of the squad.”Most of this squad are going to be around not only for the World Cup but the next Euros as well.”There’s a lot to look forward to but this moment is not any consolation.”Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNext England manager oddsGraham Potter – EvensEddie Howe – 3/1Mauricio Pochettino – 4/1Lee Carsley – 10/1Frank Lampard – 10/1Jurgen Klopp – 10/1Pep Guardiola – 16/1FA chiefs were desperate to keep Southgate on board for another two years, at least, so he can see England through to the World Cup in 2026.But the former Three Lions defender previously insisted he does not want to outstay his welcome and has now walked away from the job.BBC in major broadcast blunder in middle of Southgate’s live TV interview after England’s Euro 2024 defeat to SpainSouthgate posted an emotional statement on the FA website, saying: “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.Maybe Kane really is cursed as trophy drought goes on… he may never get a better chance with EnglandIT now seems as though he really is cursed. Along with the rest of us, writes Charlie Wyett.Tragically, unbelievably, Harry Kane’s agonising search for a trophy still continues and you know have to wonder whether he will ever actually manage it.Certainly for England, in any case.Kane has now suffered defeat in three major club finals and two finals of the European Championships.Last night, the Three Lions captain was so ineffective that he was replaced by Ollie Watkins just after the hour.Like much of this tournament, he really struggled to make the impact when England needed him, not that he had much service.He had one shot in the first half and that was Rodri, who subsequently injured himself and went off at the break.When Cole Palmer struck that brilliant equaliser, Kane was off on his feet from the bench, only for the national team to get another kick in the bo**ocks at the end.Kane was substituted in both the games against Switzerland and Holland which England went on to win but on this occasion, he could only witness a gut-wrenching twist just when it looked as though Gareth Southgate’s team had dug their way out of trouble.The Bayern Munich striker suffered the World Cup 2018 semi-final loss against Croatia, endured heartbreak against Italy in the Euro2020 final and then missed from the spot in the World Cup 2022 quarter-final against France.He really thought that this was his time, even though England did not play well in Germany.Kane will know that he will have more opportunities with England. But not many more.The World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico seems a long way away and it will surely be under a new manager. Will England be better than they are now? Probably not.And we are all left to wonder how much better England would have been with a fit and firing Kane at his very best.Read the full verdict on the curse of Harry Kane…Or check out all of Charlie Wyett’s Euro 2024 stories…”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.”Winning a major trophy would have been the perfect way for Southgate to end a whirlwind spell at the England helm.But who could replace him should he make the decision to walk away? Well, look no further as SunSport is on hand with eight potential candidates to replace The Three Lions boss.SunSport can reveal Thomas Tuchel wants the England jobThomas TuchelThe former Chelsea boss loved his brief time in the Premier League.And SunSport can exclusively reveal Tuchel has already thrown his hat into the ring to replace Southgate.The German is a tactical beast, masterminding Chelsea’s famous Champions League win against all odds in 2021.Tuchel knows how to get the best out of the players he is given, making him ideal for an international set-up.And captain Harry Kane would welcome him to the fold, having netted 44 goals under Tuchel during his debut season at Bayern Munich.Things didn’t work out well for the gaffer in Bavaria.But his work at Chelsea speaks for itself, and his desire to take the job makes him one of the strongest candidates available.Graham PotterPotter has been out of work since leaving Chelsea in April 2023.The ex-Blues boss has been approached by the likes of Lyon, Ajax and Leicester since then but turned down each proposal.And now Michael Owen has tipped him to be the next England manager.Owen told CSGOLuck: “There is not an outstanding candidate to take over if Southgate goes. I personally am of the opinion that we should stick to an English manager, that’s what international football is about.”In fact I would almost go as far as to say there should be a rule change. You are playing for your country, the players are going to be from that country.”In club football, you can have any player or coach from any country but I think when you’re playing for your country it should be Scottish managers, Scottish players and Scottish physios.”That’s the point. Same with France. That’s the point of international football.”It’s not a rule but I would have that principle and would like England to have an English manager. I think possibly the one manager free and available is Graham Potter, who may take it.”Graham Potter has been tipped to take over from SouthgateCredit: Getty Images – GettyEddie HoweHowe is also a name regularly linked with the England job.However, he appears to be happy at Newcastle as things stand.Reports last year claimed he would rule himself out of contention if the job came up.But with co-owners Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi set to leave St James’ Park, he could potentially change his mind.Eddie Howe could be a good fit for the jobCredit: GettyLee CarsleyThe former Ireland midfielder is currently head coach of England’s U21s.He led his team to the U21 European Championship title last summer, becoming the first England boss to do so at that level.Carsley subsequently rejected a job offer from the Republic of Ireland to remain in his position.But reports now claim the FA will consider him as Southgate’s successor.The FA are considering Lee Carsley, who won the U21 Euros with England last year, for the jobCredit: GettyFrank LampardGary Lineker tipped the Chelsea legend to take over from Southgate last week.He said: “There’s no question about that. I think he’s been a bit unlucky in his managerial career in some ways. He gets it tactically.”I think this will be Gareth Southgate’s last tournament whatever happens. If he wins I think he’ll absolutely bow out and if he doesn’t then I think he’ll bow out. It will be his decision.”But, I wouldn’t disregard Frank Lampard [as Southgate’s replacement]. I think he tactically gets it. I think the players would respect him immediately.”Lampard has managed Derby, Chelsea and Everton so far in his career, recording 83 wins, 73 defeats and 40 draws from 196 games.Gary Lineker has tipped ex-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard to become the next England managerCredit: GettyMauricio PochettinoPoch stunned fans when he left Chelsea by mutual consent in May.The 52-year-old had spent just 11 months at Stamford Bridge and enjoyed a promising end to the 2023-24 campaign, but club officials agreed that one season at the helm was enough.He was then understood to be in line to replace Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, but the Red Devils stuck with the Dutchman.Pochettino now remains jobless, but agreed a £10million pay-off with the Blues last month meaning he could be in contention for the England job if it came up.Mauricio Pochettino is currently available should the position come upCredit: GettyPep GuardiolaReports last year suggested the FA had earmarked Guardiola to replace Southgate when he steps down.The Spaniard’s appointment is considered a “dream” by some FA chiefs.However, he still has one year remaining on his Manchester City contract.If England are prepared to appoint an interim boss until then, Guardiola could be an ideal candidate.FA Chiefs allegedly consider Guardiola a ‘dream’ appointmentCredit: GettyJurgen KloppKlopp is currently enjoying some time away from football following his Liverpool departure.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe allegedly rejected an approach from the USA national team earlier this week.However, the German could be tempted by the England job should it come up having won over English fans and players during his time at Anfield.The FA could tempt Jurgen Klopp into accepting the role if Southgate leavesCredit: GettyEngland ratings: Palmer the super sub but captain Kane struggles yet again in Spain heartbreakCOLE PALMER came off the bench to be England’s star man – but his heroics were unable to stop heartbreak against Spain, writes Tom Barclay.Mikel Oyarzabal struck a late dagger through the hearts of the Three Lions to seal a 2-1 Spanish victory.And that ensured that 58 years of hurt will go on.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated each England player in the crushing defeat:Jordan Pickford: 8Carefully controlled a blast of a backpass from John Stones on his line in the first half. Could do little to stop Williams’ opener but made two terrific stops to deny Yamal, only for Oyarzabal to poke home at the death.Kyle Walker: 6Had his hands full with Williams but managed the Spanish livewire pretty well but could not get near his powerful opener. John Stones: 8A colossus again as he played every single minute of this Euros, despite lack of Manchester City game-time. Superb block on early Williams shot, was often in the right place at the right time and at one point dribbled all the way up the pitch.Marc Guehi: 6Solid alongside Stones and overall it has been a brilliant first tournament for the Crystal Palace star. But Oyarzabal nicked in front of him for the winner.Bukayo Saka: 7Most consistent attacker for England across the tournament and had a good battle with pantomime villain Marc Cucurella here. It was his cross that Bellingham laid off for Palmer to work his magic.Declan Rice: 7Went past his boss Gareth Southgate’s cap haul by winning his 58th here and he is still only 25. Was in the thick of it in the midfield battle throughout. Kobbie Mainoo: 5Just 19 and starting a major final for England in the middle of midfield. Fewer bursts forward though than in recent games as his side struggled for possession and was subbed for Palmer as Southgate searched for a leveller. Luke Shaw: 7Looked so sharp for a player making his first start since Luton away on February 10, winning his battle against Lamine Yamal in the first half. But Yamal got the better of him after the break to tee up Williams’ opener.Phil Foden: 6Out of possession it was his job to man-mark Manchester City colleague Rodri, until the Spanish maestro went off injured at half-time. Had a half-chance just before the break but could not beat Unai Simon.Jude Bellingham: 7Shunted wide left when England did not have the ball – which was a lot of the time. Riskily flew into a few tackles, but it was his clever lay-off that teed up Palmer.Harry Kane: 4His lack of involvement was summed up by England fans calling for Ollie Watkins in the 57th minute. They got their wish on the hour.SUBS: Ollie Watkins: 6Semi-final hero was introduced far earlier here to get some legs in behind, though he did not have too much impact this time.Cole Palmer: 9What an impact after emerging with just twenty minutes to go. Yet another of Southgate’s subs paid off handsomely as Palmer curled a peach of an equaliser with 17 minutes remaining, sending most of the Olympiastadion potty.Ivan Toney: 6Thrown on right at the end but could not make an impact.Gareth Southgate: 7The game was a chess match for the first half and Southgate was never going to go early with his bold moves.His subs were excellent to be fair, with Palmer brilliantly getting his team back into it.Critics will say England did not play attacking enough but Spain are one hell of a side – and Southgate’s men pushed them all the way. More

GARETH SOUTHGATE has released an emotional statement as he says farewell to his role as England manager after eight years at the helm.The Three Lions boss departs following Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in the final of Euro 2024.Gareth Southgate leaves his post as England manager after eight years in chargeCredit: GettyHe has reached two Euros finals and the quarters and semis of the World Cup.But he now feels it is time to step aside after what he described as having been the “honour of my life”.Southgate’s statement was published on the FA website at 11am on Tuesday morning, though the website crashed moments after the announcement was made.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.READ MORE ON ENGLAND”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.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of.Follow live updates as Southgate steps down as England managerFootage resurfaces of what Eddie Howe said about England job as he is tipped to succeed Gareth SouthgateNext England manager oddsGraham Potter – EvensEddie Howe – 3/1Mauricio Pochettino – 4/1Lee Carsley – 10/1Frank Lampard – 10/1Jurgen Klopp – 10/1Pep Guardiola – 16/1″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.”He continues: “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.”A number of names have been linked with becoming Southgate’s successor – and the FA have said work to find his replacement is already underway.Former Brighton and Chelsea manager Graham Potter is the front-runner with the bookies having been out of work since leaving Stamford Bridge in April last year.Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is also in the frame along with former Tottenham and Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino.READ MORE SUN STORIESLee Carsley, who guided England’s U21s to Euros glory last summer, is also a potential candidate.Outside bets include the likes of Frank Lampard, Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola.Southgate’s highs and lows as England bossGARETH Southgate took charge of 102 games for England before quitting in the aftermath of the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.But what were the best – and worst matches – from the popular gaffer’s eight-year reign before that devastating Sunday night in Berlin? Here we take a look.THE HIGHS:Colombia 1-1 England (3-4 on pens,) 2018 World CupThis was the night that long-suffering supporters finally started to believe that it was coming home.Despite conceding a late equaliser, England held their nerve to advance to the quarter final of the World Cup 2018 on penalties.It was our first shootout victory for 22 years.Spain 2-3 England, 2018 Nations LeagueFollowing on from the World Cup, England won in Spain for the first time in 31 years with a brilliant Uefa Nations League victory.Southgate’s boys stunned the Seville crowd into silence with a thrilling performance that saw them lead 3-0 at the break thanks to a Raheem Sterling brace and Marcus Rashford.Although the hosts scored two after the break, the way the Three Lions tore La Roja apart excited every fan.England 2-1 Denmark, Euro 2020 semi-finalSouthgate led England to their first major final in 55 years as they beat Denmark after extra-time in the Euro 2020 semi-final.Having fallen behind after half an hour, the Three Lions battled back to send it to extra-time courtesy of an own goal.Then it was captain Kane who converted a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel originally saved his penalty in extra-time to win it.England 3-0 Sengal, 2022 World Cup last 16England had already blown Iran and Wales, 6-2 and 3-0 respectively, away in the World Cup 2022 group stages before they breezed past Senegal.The free-scoring Three Lions recorded another big win to set-up a mouthwatering quarter-final against France – what could go wrong?Italy 1-2 England, Euro qualifiers, 2023On a night when Harry Kane became England’s all-time top scorer, the Three Lions recorded a first away win over Italy since 1961.It was the first game since their 2022 World Cup exit, and it ensured a perfect start to their Euro 2022 qualifying campaign.England 2-1 Holland, Euro 2024 sem-finalThe nation doubted Southgate’s men in the semis of Euro 2024, but they responded with a barnstorming display.Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Dutch but Harry Kane’s penalty drew us level.And Ollie Watkins slotted in a brilliant winner in injury time to see the Three Lions into their second successive Euros final.AND THE LOWS….Croatia 2-1 England, World Cup semi-final, 2018Having led England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990, Southgate men made a dream start as Kieran Trippier put them ahead in the early exchanges.But Ivan Perisic equalised as the Croats began to take control.Some of Southgate’s substitutions were then questioned after his team were beaten in extra-time, although many gave him the benefit of the doubt as he returned a hero.Italy 1-1 England (3-2 pens) Euro 2020 finalWill probably never get a better chance to have secured a trophy for the Three Lions than this final of the last European Championship.Luke Shaw gave us the lead after just seconds, but just like against Croatia three years earlier, we sat back and let our rivals back into it.Leonardo Bonucci duly equalised in the second half and the game eventually went to penalties.The unfortunate Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were all brought on to take a spot-kick, but the brave trio all missed as the Azzurri broke our hearts to take the prize.England 0-4 Hungary, Nations League 2023A year on from the Euros and it was utter embarrassment for Southgate in this Nations League game at Molineux.It was our biggest home defeat since 1928 and the result led to England being relegated from the top group of the Nations League and back to one that contained the Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.England 1-2 France, World Cup 2022 quarter-finalsAnother case of what could have been.Having been free-scoring throughout Qatar 2022, many fancied us to go all the way at the World Cup despite taking on the holders in the quarters.We fought back from going behind to level through Kane and many believe that France were then there for the taking had Southgate deployed a more attacking approach.Instead, they seemed content with what they had until Olivier Giroud pounced 12 minutes from time to win it.But there was still one more twist of the knife for England as the usually-reliable Kane skied a late penalty over the bar uncharacteristically as we crashed out. 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