A decision regarding Gareth Southgate being knighted by the King has reportedly been made ahead of England’s crucial Euro 2024 semifinal against the Netherlands. The Three Lions are aiming for two consecutive Euro Cup finals after losing Euro 2020 to Italy.
Gareth Southgate to be honoured for Euro 2024 performance
However, according to The Telegraph, Southgate will be knighted if he brings the trophy home, and he might still receive the honour even if England does not win the tournament. If knighted, Southgate would join an elite group of British sports stars, including Sir Lewis Hamilton, Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Andy Murray, and Sir Chris Hoy, who have been recognized for their contributions to sports.
Southgate, 53, has already been awarded an OBE in 2019, alongside his captain Harry Kane, who received an MBE. If England lifts the trophy on Sunday, Kane would also see his MBE upgraded.
Gareth Southgate’s redemption of England
Despite facing numerous critics over the years, Southgate has undeniably transformed the national team. Before his appointment ahead of the 2018 World Cup, England had not won a knockout game since 2006 and even failed to qualify for Euro 2008. Since then, England has consistently reached at least the quarter-final stage in every major tournament, making it to three out of four semi-finals.
Particularly in Euro 2020, it could be argued that England had the potential to win the trophy, a chance they might redeem if they get past the Netherlands and Spain in Euro 2024. This tournament has seen Southgate face significant scrutiny, with fans expressing frustration over the team’s playing style, which almost led to an early exit.
