Arise Sir Gareth? Whatever the legitimate frustration over his failure to get a talented group of players over the line in four tournaments, Southgate deserves a knighthood for restoring pride in the England shirt, rebuilding the bond between squad and support and making a nation dream for a while. He lacked that decisiveness in crunch moments against elite opponents like Croatia/Italy/France/Spain but he did take England men closer to a major trophy than they've been since 66.
Southgate also deserves recognition for his work as FAβs head of elite development in 2011 and 2012 making youth football more skills-based and helping get St Georgeβs Park built. Southgateβs worked tirelessly to improve English football, represented England and the FA well (also with his charitable work, Kingβs Trust, Wetherby hospice etc) and embodied important principles like grace under pressure and selflessness. Southgate has a humility in a sport not always big on it. And he knows his way to the Palace. #ENG