After some recent months of turbulence, Gareth Southgate was yesterday officially named England’s full time manager, following a successful interim period.
Whilst the 46-year old gushed over the acceptance of the appointment, Southgate’s ascendance to English footballs ultimate job really has been quite something.
Initially turning down the position prior to the Big Sam debacle, even publicly airing his doubts over his suitability given his lack of top class experience, it almost seems the FA have staged the recent scandals in order to give the former Middlesbrough man little choice but to take the job….all before they could of course confirm that Arsene Wenger’s interest in the role was nothing but fleeting.
England’s former U21 manager has signed a four year deal, reportedly worth £1.5million to £2million per annum, considerably lower than the £3m paid to his predecessor Sam Allardyce, and way off the giant £6m paid to Fabio Capella.
Speaking to the baying press, the former Crystal Palace and Aston Villa captain commented.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the players over these past four games and I think there is huge potential,”
“I am extremely proud to be appointed England manager. However, I am also conscious getting the job is one thing, now I want to do the job successfully.
“I’m determined to give everything I have to give the country a team that they’re proud of and one that they’re going to enjoy watching play and develop.”
During his short caretaker role, Southgate oversaw comfortable World Cup qualifying wins over Malta and Scotland, as well as coming within an earshot of beating the mighty Spain.
Whilst much has been made of the FA’s inability to bring in a big name, Football Association chief executive Martin Glenn commented on Southgate’s invaluable experience in the England set up.
He commented,
“Gareth is a great ambassador for what the FA stands for, he’s a very good football tactician and a leader, but beneath that he’s a winner and that’s an important part of the job,”
As underwhelmed as we are about the appointment, it’s actually ruddy hard to come up with a list of potential suitors even willing to touch the job from a distance. Here’s to Gareth and his slow descent into madness. Starting with a friendly against Germany on March 22nd.
(Via the BBC)