Gareth Southgate to continue as England coach despite quarter-final exit

Southgate – who took over the England job in 2016, had been considering his future after since last weekend’s defeat. However, according to several news outlets, the former Middlesbrough has opted to remain in charge.

The 52-year-old is now set to inform the English Football Association that he will continue as coach of the England national team.

“I think, whenever I finish these tournaments, I’ve needed time to make correct decisions,” said Southgate after England’s World Cup exit.

“Emotionally you go through so many different feelings. The energy it takes through these tournaments is enormous. I want to make the right decision, whatever that is, for the team, for England, for the FA. I’ve got to be sure whatever decision I make is the right one.”

Southgate took England to the semi-final of the Russia 2018 World Cup, and led them to the final of Euro 2020 three years later where they lost to Italy.

Mark Bullingham, an FA executive, said recently, 

“Gareth and (assistant) Steve (Holland) prepared the team exceptionally well throughout the tournament.”

“The players were committed to winning the trophy and were very well led by Harry Kane. But sport can have fine margins and, on the day, against the current world champions, it was not to be.”

“We are incredibly proud of Gareth, the players, the coaches and the support team and appreciate all the hard work they put in.”