Southgate backs England to take ‘next step’ as he receives knighthood | OneFootball

Former England boss Gareth Southgate says he thinks the Three Lions are in a “great position” to end their long trophy drought.

Southgate guided England to two European Championship finals while in charge, losing to Italy and then Spain.

His achievements in football have earned him a knighthood, which he received from Prince William at Windsor Castle.

“I have to say I was more emotional than I thought I would be, but an amazing experience for my whole family today,” Southgate told Sky Sports after receiving the honour.

“The lovely thing is you get to meet so many people who have done incredible things for our country, so to meet other award winners was very, very special.

“The Prince has been an incredible supporter of the England team, we have been fortunate to have shared some amazing moments and some disappointments where he has spoken so brilliantly to the team, it was great to see him again.

“[I thought] about everyone who has helped me on the way, coaches from when I was a player, obviously my family who have given me an incredible grounding in life and my wife and children who have been so supportive in everything I have done.

“Then everyone I have worked with along the way, all of the staff and all of the players.”

Southgate was succeeded as England boss by Thomas Tuchel, who has had a mixed start since taking over.

But Southgate believes England have what it takes to win silverware in the near future.

“We’ve broken down so many barriers to winning,” he said. “Ultimately we didn’t quite get to where we wanted to, but we’re in a great position now to take things forward.

“What I learned doing the job is it’s important that people on the outside respect the space inside, so best that I stay out of the way and let them get on with it.

“They’re a brilliant group of players and staff to work with, and I wouldn’t be here without everything they contributed and helped me with, so I hope they can go the next step.”