Gary Lineker already named bold choice to replace Gareth Southgate as England boss
The Football Association have begun their search for a new England manager after Gareth Southgate ended his eight-year spell in charge after the Euro 2024 final
Former England striker Gary Lineker backed Frank Lampard to succeed Gareth Southgate with the national side - making the suggestion before Southgate announced his resignation.
Southgate confirmed his departure less than 48 hours after England's Euro 2024 final defeat against Spain. In four major tournaments, he reached two finals, one semi and one quarter.
Lampard, who has been out of work since taking interim charge at Chelsea at the end of the 2022-23 season, has never managed at international level. However, after watching the former Derby and Everton boss' analysis during Euro 2024, Lineker banged the drum for the 46-year-old.
"I think he’s been a bit unlucky in his managerial career in some ways," Lineker said of Lampard when speaking to Micah Richards on The Rest is Football podcast after England's quarter-final win against Switzerland. "I think 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’ll be his decision.
"But I wouldn’t disregard Frank Lampard. I think he tactically gets it. I think the players will respect him immediately. I’m getting ahead of things here... but if you’re going to go English, you go… who else? Eddie Howe? Eddie Howe, possibly?"
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Southgate said goodbye in an emotional statement after calling it quits. "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," he began.
"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’."
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