Gareth Southgate among England’s ‘greatest ever managers’ after knighthood award
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Former England manager Gareth Southgate has been hailed as one of the nation’s “greatest ever managers” by the Football Association after being awarded a knighthood in the New Year Honours. The 54-year-old has been honoured for his services to football and is the fourth England boss to become a knight after Sir Walter Winterbottom, Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson.
FA chair Debbie Hewitt, MBE, paid a glowing tribute to Southgate following his eight-year reign as England boss. She said: “On behalf of us all at the Football Association, I congratulate Sir Gareth on this richly deserved honour. Throughout his career in the game as a player, coach and change-maker, he has embodied the best of English football.
“One of our greatest ever managers, Sir Gareth’s remarkable coaching achievements across four major tournaments include two successive Euro finals, equalling our best-ever men’s World Cup performance away from home and being ranked in the world’s top five for more than five years.
“Off the field, he brought our fans closer than ever to the team, stood up for what he believed in and inspired players to share his pride in representing England. It has been a privilege to know the man and the manager. All of us who have experienced his thoughtfulness, dedication and leadership are delighted with this wonderful news.”.
Southgate showed his leadership skills as a young player and was appointed captain of Crystal Palace at the age of 22. He went on to play for Aston Villa and Middlesbrough, lifting the League Cup for both clubs, and was considered a composed centre-back having spent most of his early career in midfield.
