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The 54-year-old, who was previously awarded the Order of the British Empire in 2019, led the Three Lions to back-to-back Euro finals and a World Cup semifinal run.
Sir Gareth Southgate. (X)
Former England head coach Gareth Southgate was awarded the knighthood by Prince William at the Windsor Castle on Wednesday for his contributions to football.
The 54-year-old, who was previously awarded the Order of the British Empire in 2019, led the Three Lions to back-to-back Euro finals and a World Cup semifinal run.
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“It’s an amazing privilege,” the former Crystal Palace player said.
“I have to say I am more emotional than I thought I would be, but it was an amazing experience for my whole family,” he added.
“The lovely thing is you get to meet amazing people who have done amazing things for the country,” Southgate continued.
“The prince is a huge supporter of the England team. We have been fortunate to share some amazing moments and some unfortunate ones as well,” he added.
Southgate, who took over the English national side in the year 2016 following the Three Lions’ defeat to Iceland at Euro 2016, and revolutionised the side into a considerable force.
Despite not being able to pick up a trophy for the national side, Southgate will go down as one of the best managers the team has had in recent memory.
“Not quite where we wanted to get to in the end, but still, it was a period of consistency in English football,” he reflected.
“The journey we went on with the fans and team, working with a special group of players and staff. Of course, the games are important, but the relationships you build are really special,” Southgate asserted.
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Southgate, who claimed 57 caps for England and 503 appearances for various clubs including Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough during his time as a player, served as the head coach of the England U-21 team from 2013 to 2016 before taking up the senior team helm.
Days earlier, former England star and football icon David Beckham was also knighted for his services to the beautiful game and charity work as he was named in the the King’s Birthday Honours list.
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United Kingdom (UK)
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