Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national football team, has reassured that his contract situation is of no concern as he approaches the final six months of his current deal ahead of the European Championship in Germany.
Having taken charge of the Three Lions since 2016, Southgate deliberated his continuation after England’s exit in the World Cup quarter-finals against France in Qatar but opted to stay.
The Football Association (FA) is eager for Southgate to extend his tenure as manager. This summer’s European Championship will mark his fourth major tournament in charge, with England aiming to secure their first trophy since the 1966 World Cup.
Southgate, who will match Sir Bobby Robson’s number of England games managed when the tournament begins, emphasized that discussions regarding his future will not divert his attention.
Addressing speculation linking him to the managerial position at Manchester United, amidst pressure on their current manager Erik ten Hag, Southgate emphasized his focus on the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament, dismissing distractions.
Southgate also discussed squad selection for Euro 2024, acknowledging both the plethora of attacking options and defensive injury concerns. He noted potential benefits from the expanded 26-man squad allowance by UEFA but affirmed his intent to select cautiously, considering the necessity of each player, saying that he may not necessarily fill the full quota of 26 players if unnecessary.
England is scheduled to play friendlies against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Iceland before finalizing their squad by the June 7 deadline.
