GARETH SOUTHGATE has been named as the bookies’ favourite to be the next England manager.
Roy Hodgson quit as boss after the humiliating defeat to minnows Iceland saw England crash out of Euro 2016 at the last-16 stage.
Hodgson’s assistants Ray Lewington and Gary Neville will also step down from their roles.
Southgate is current manager of England Under-21s, where he has been manager since 2013 – he is the favourite ahead of Alan Pardew, Gary Neville, Eddie Howe, Brendan Rodgers and even Arsene Wenger.
Southgate has won 26 of his 33 matches in charge of the youngsters, drawing four and losing three.
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In a pre-prepared statement, Hodgson said: “It’s time for someone else to oversee the progress of this young, hungry team.
“They are an extremely talented group of players.
“They’ve been fantastic and they’ve done everything they’ve been asked of them.
“When I arrived I was told players didn’t turn up to play for their country or that they pull out at the last minute.
“But I haven’t seen any of that.
“Their commitment has been unquestionable.
“Ray [Lewington] and Gary [Neville] have asked me to speak on my behalf.
“They arrived with me as part of my coaching team and they will leave with me.
“I’d like to thank them for their dedicated support and for the major part they’ve played in my team.
“Finally, I’d like to thank all the support staff, players, the FA and of course the fans.
“It’s been a fantastic journey, these four years, and it’s one I’ll look back on with pride.”
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