Gareth Southgate confirms he will STAY as England manager for the 2022 World Cup

Gareth Southgate says he will stay in his role as England manager for the 2022 World Cup but insisted he needs time to reflect before commiting to a new contract. 

Southgate and his players suffered heartbreak at Wembley as they were beaten by Italy on penalties in the final of Euro 2020 on Sunday.

The FA want to hand the 50-year-old a new deal after leading the Three Lions to their first major final in 55 years following a World Cup semi-final appearance in 2018. 

But speaking after England’s defeat, Southgate insisted now is not the time to be thinking about his future beyond next year’s tournament in Qatar. 

‘I don’t think now is an appropriate time to think about anything,’ he said.

‘We have got to qualify for Qatar but I need some time to go away and watch the game and reflect on the whole tournament, I need a rest.

‘It is an amazing experience but to lead your country in these tournaments takes it toll and I need a break now. 

‘I said at the time it is great to have that internal support, you greatly value that as a manager.

‘I don’t want to commit to anything longer than I should and I don’t want to outstay my welcome so all of those things need consideration.

‘I want to take the team to Qatar, I feel we have made progress over the four years, we have had a fourth, a third and a second-placed finish and that is as good as anyone.’