Euro 2024

THIS is the moment Man City star Rodri chanted “Gibraltar is Spanish” at a wild Euros party in Madrid.The Spanish midfielder, 28, also said he “doesn’t care” about playing in the UK after his country beat England in a 2-1 win on Sunday.Rodri (centre) has chanted ‘Gibraltar is Spanish’ during a Euro party in MadridCredit: AlamyThe moment the 28-year-old grabs the mic and sings the controversial chantCredit: RTVE PlayRodri’s Spain has now won four Euro championshipsCredit: GettyRodri and his teammates had a wild celebration on Monday nightCredit: GettyCelebrating Spain’s fourth Euros win on Monday night, Rodri could be seen chanting about the country’s ownership of Gibraltar, despite it belonging to the UK.After a quick audience with Spain’s King Felipe VI and his family, him and his teammates were paraded through Madrid’s Cibeles Square in an open-top bus. During the celebrations, they were given microphones and everyone had their turn speaking to the crowds.And when Rodri’s turn came up, he chose to sing “It’s Spanish, Gibraltar is Spanish” when he walked the stage in front of thousands of fans.Read more on RodriSpain captain Alvaro Morata reminded his teammate that he played in the Premier League, but the Manchester City player was quick to reply: “I don’t care.”But Rodri’s chants were not well-received by social media, with one user tweeting: “Used to play in England*”Another said: “Not the brightest spark. Can we ask his views on Ceuta and Melilla?”Recognised as autonomous Spanish cities, both are located on the coast of North Africa, bordering Morocco.Most read in Euro 2024Officials in Gibraltar also blasted Rodri’s commemorations.Gareth Southgate quits as England manager after Euro 2024 exitWhat is the row over Gibraltar?THE dispute between the UK and Spain over Gibraltar revolves around issues of sovereignty and territorial waters. Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, has been under British control since 1713 following the Treaty of Utrecht. But Spain has long contested British sovereignty over Gibraltar, claiming that it should be part of Spanish territory.Spain argues that Gibraltar is a colonial relic and should be returned to Spanish sovereignty. The UK, however, maintains its control over Gibraltar, emphasising the wishes of the Gibraltarian people, who have consistently expressed a desire to remain under British sovereignty in referendum.There are disputes over the extent of Gibraltar’s territorial waters. Spain does not recognise the waters around Gibraltar as British, leading to tensions and incidents between Spanish and British vessels.The land border between Gibraltar and Spain has also been a source of tension, with periodic disruptions and stricter controls imposed by Spain, affecting the flow of people and goods.The UK’s exit from the EU has added another layer of complexity to the issue, particularly concerning the free movement of people and goods across the border. Negotiations are ongoing to address the implications of Brexit for Gibraltar and its relationship with both Spain and the EU.Authorities said they were “disappointed” by the remarks as they were “totally unnecessary” and “hugely offensive to Gibraltarians”.A statement read: “The lamentable use of the platform of celebrations around winning the Eurocup for advancing the idea of usurping the territory of Gibraltar is contrary to the principle that sport should not be used to advance any politically controversial ideology.”The Gibraltar FA is also set to make official complaint to UEFA following the “unacceptable” chanting.In an official note, it said: “The Gibraltar FA has noted the extremely provocative and insulting nature of the celebrations around the Spanish Men’s national team winning Euro 2024.”The Association is this morning taking advice on the filing of a complaint to European Football’s governing body, UEFA, in relation to the unacceptable chanting and songs, relating to Gibraltar, sung by Spain’s Men’s National Team players after winning Euro 2024.”Football has no place for behaviour of this nature.”Rodri, whose full name is Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, joined Manchester City in July 2019 from Atlético Madrid for a then club-record fee of approximately £60 million. Since his arrival, Rodri has established himself as a key defensive midfielder under manager Pep Guardiola. Known for his excellent passing, tactical intelligence, and ability to break up opposition play, he has been integral to City’s success.During his time at Manchester City, Rodri has helped the club win multiple trophies, including Premier League titles, the FA Cup, the EFL Cup, and the UEFA Champions League. His performances have been marked by consistent defensive solidity and his role as a deep-lying playmaker, which has been crucial in City’s possession-based style of play.As a national player, Rodri has now crowned Spain as the Euro 2024 winner as England was knocked down to second place for two editions in a row.Meanwhile, Gareth Southgate has quit as England manager after Sunday’s tragedy in Berlin.The coach leaves the role after eight years in charge of the national team despite his contract running out in December.Southgate flirted with the prospect of walking away from the job before the tournament got underway last month.And the former England defender has opted to step down from his role after the best part of a decade in the job.A statement from Southgate read in part: “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.READ MORE SUN STORIES”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.”Thank you, England – for everything.”The Spanish footballer lifted the Euro 2024 trophy after beating England 2-1 in Berlin on SundayCredit: Getty More

GARY NEVILLE and Jamie Carragher have led the tributes to Gareth Southgate after he announced he was quitting the England team.Southgate, 53, confirmed his decision to step down as Three Lions manager in an emotional 331-word statement that crashed the England website.Tributes have poured in after Gareth Southgate announced he was stepping down as England bossCredit: PAGary Neville led the tributes following the announcementCredit: PAThe 53-year-old has overseen England’s most successful period since World Cup winner Sir Alf Ramsey, making the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and making back-to-back European Championship finals.But Southgate, who has managed 102 games since taking charge in 2016, said it was “time for a change”.He added: “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…READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”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.”Players and pundits alike have paid tribute to Southgate following his decision to quit the national team.Former England star Neville said: “Thank you Gareth you did a great job.”Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCarragher said: “It’s been a great ride for all involved over the last eight years. Two finals, semi final & a quarter final in Gareth Southgate’s four tournaments is a very tough act to follow!”David Beckham wrote on Instagram: “Thank you boss. You wasn’t just one of our most successful managers but you also did it with elegance. Congratulations to you and your staff.”Footage resurfaces of what Eddie Howe said about England job as he is tipped to succeed Gareth SouthgateGary Lineker added: “Wishing Gareth Southgate all the very best in the future. He brought pride, respect and a togetherness to England that we hadn’t seen for a long time.”He was close, very close to footballing immortality and he always did the job with humility, decency and dignity. Thank you, Gareth.”Southgate 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.Prince William said: “Gareth, I want to thank you – not as the President of the FA, but as an England fan.”Thank you for creating a team that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest in 2024. Thank you for showing humility, compassion, and true leadership under the most intense pressure and scrutiny. Southgate’s England recordHere is a look at Gareth Southgate’s record as England manager.Overall recordGames: 102Wins: 61Draws: 24Losses: 17Goals scored: 213Goals conceded: 72″And thank you for being an all-round class act. You should be incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved. W.”England stars joined in too, with Declan Rice saying: “Thank you Gaffa. 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.”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.Jude Bellingham re-shared England’s post announcing he was leaving to his Instagram story, while Jordan Pickford shared a picture of him hugging Southgate with the caption: “Thank you Gareth.”Harry Maguire, who did not make the Euro 2024 squad but was a mainstay for much of the Southgate era, said: “You made us all believe again – memories that will last forever. Thank you boss.”FA CEO Mark Bullingham 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…Southgate’s gone – now it’s time to go foreignBy Dave KiddThere is a natural preference to appoint an English successor.And in an ideal world, the England manager should always be English. But this is not an ideal scenario.So the FA must be ambitious in sounding out the best man for the job, regardless of nationality.Because England need a manager who would gain instant respect with players, who would be tactically bold enough to take on Spain and a strong enough character to deal with Jude Bellingham’s Real Madrid Galactico status, which threatens to cause future issues within the England squad. Yes, when the FA have gone foreign in the past, it hasn’t worked out well.Yet the problem with Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello was that neither had any previous involvement in English football.They lacked knowledge and understanding of the football culture — indeed, Capello barely spoke the language.Now there is a wealth of overseas managerial talent with significant Premier League experience, including Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Mauricio Pochettino, Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel.Read more from Dave Kidd on who England should turn to.”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.Southgate’s England legacy should be celebrated, not torn downBy Tom BarclayGareth Southgate claimed that only winning Sunday’s final would earn England the respect of the footballing world.Spain proved a last-gasp comeback too far in Berlin, but defeat did not change the fact that Southgate’s eight-year transformation put respect back into the world of England football.Critics will pick apart his cautious tactics, his selection choices and his record in the most high-pressurised games – with some legitimacy.Yet what is quickly forgotten is the laughing stock our national side had become before he took over in 2016.A shambolic Euros exit to Iceland that summer had been followed up by Sam Allardyce quitting just one game into his tenure thanks to his pint of wine with undercover reporters.Then came Southgate, with his decency, his humility, his understated eloquence and his vision for a better, different future.He had analysed why England had so often failed in the past, from lack of preparation at penalty shoot-outs to players being bored out of their minds during major tournaments.Southgate took those findings and implemented a culture where players wanted to play for their country again – and it led to back-to-back finals for the first time in our history.Instead of going to war with the media, he opened his doors to them and discovered, shock, horror, that it was met, generally, with support. It did not stop him from being criticised when required – we are no cheerleaders, here – but the vitriol of yesteryear – or today on social media – was largely gone.No manager is perfect and neither was Southgate. We cannot pretend his teams played like those of Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp.But in the fullness of time, his feats will likely be revered because the results speak for themselves.Hopefully his successor can go one step further and bring football home. To do that, they must show respect to what Southgate has created and build on it, rather than rip it down.To read more from Tom Barclay click HERE. “We are very proud of everything Gareth and Steve achieved for England, and will be forever grateful to them.”The FA have already confirmed they are making plans to replace Southgate.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe likes of Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, Lee Carsley, Thomas Tuchel and Jurgen Klopp have all been linked with the vacant position.FA bosses want to have the new national team coach sorted out by the time National League campaign starts in September. 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. More

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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