Gareth Southgate drops hint about future as England manager after Euros defeat

Gareth Southgate refused to be drawn on his future as England manager after the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain, but says he believes that the Three Lions squad is set up for success.

Spanish substitute Mikel Oyarzabal scored the winner in the 86th minute in Berlin as England were left bereft for the second successive European Championship final. Substitute Cole Palmer had levelled for Southgate’s side shortly after coming on, with Nico Williams giving Spain the lead shortly after half-time.

Southgate has seen his position come under scrutiny during England’s unconvincing displays at the tournament, and when asked about his future said: “I don’t think now is a good time to make a decision like that. I’ve got to talk to the right people. It’s not for now.”

On winners Spain, he added: “I think they were the best team in the tournament. We didn’t keep the ball well enough but we were tight in it until the last 10 minutes. I’m devastated. Players have been incredible, but we’ve just fallen a little bit short.

“We had a little bit of momentum at that point [Palmer’s goal]. Big chance at the end to equalise as well but across the 90 mins we didn’t do quite enough.

“I just think against Spain, they press well and you have to keep the ball. Defensively we were fine just needed to retain the ball a little bit better. That takes more out of your legs as well.

“I think the players have got to take enormous credit for getting to the point we did. But then we’ve got to take those chances. There’s no hiding from fact we had a lot of issues going into the tournament. In the end we’ve just fallen short.”

On England’s future he added: “England are in a really good position in terms of experience they have got now. Most of this squad will be around now not just for the next World Cup but next Euros as well. There’s a lot to look forward to but at this moment that’s no consolation.”

BBC Sport pundit Alan Shearer said: “I suspect it will be Southgate’s last game. From where he took over and where they are now. There will be great disappointment at home. Yes, we could have played more attacking football but they have got to the final. But when you are here, you have got to get over the line.

“The reality is he got us to a final three years ago and got us to a final here, and hasn’t won. That will hurt him and maybe he will think it’s time for someone else.”

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