Gareth Southgate’s preferred successor has been picked out by the FA, should the 53-year-old decide to step down as England boss.
The Three Lions suffered yet more final heartbreak in Berlin, with a sheepish showing against Spain ensuring the hunt for a piece of silverware will extend into its sixth decade.
No manager in that time has come closer to ending the drought than Southgate, but doubts about the England boss are beginning to creep in following Sunday’s loss.
The full-time whistle was barely out of referee Francois Letexier’s lips before Southgate was fielding questions about his future, with the ex-player insisting he needs to ‘have conversations’ before finalising his decision.
Related articles
And if he decides to walk away after eight years in the job, it’s reported by The Daily Star that Graham Potter is being earmarked as the ideal Southgate replacement.
Potter has been out of work since being sacked by Chelsea over a year ago, with the 49-year-old fancied over current under-21 chief Lee Carsley and Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.
The opportunity will only present itself for Potter if the incumbent manager walks away, with the FA still keen for him to stay on until the 2026 World Cup in North America, but it’s suggested Southgate’s departure is looking more and more likely.
Talk had surfaced about a potential move for Mauricio Pochettino, or even the recently departed Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp.
However, it’s claimed in the report that FA chief executive Mark Bullingham is keen to appoint a homegrown coach, in order to continue with the culture Southgate has built around the England camp.
It would still mark the start of a new era for England, with Southgate having taken charge of the last four major tournaments, but any new managerial appointment will have to come soon, as the next international break is just two months away.
Don't miss...
Marc Cucurella makes cheeky Erling Haaland comment during Spain Euros party [LATEST]
Southgate touted for Premier League manager's job as England contract explained [NEWS]
England avoid torment Scotland subjected to as squad fly home from Germany [STORY]
Related articles
England’s Nations League campaign kicks off in Dublin against Ireland on September 7, before returning to Wembley for their second group game against Finland.
England, who dropped down into League B of the competition, will then play Greece during the October international break.
It should give whoever takes over from Southgate - be that Potter or another option - ample time to implement their ideas before qualifying for the 2026 World Cup begins in the autumn of 2025.
