Gary Lineker and Micah Richards have dismissed claims that their criticisms of England’s performances during the European Championship influenced Gareth Southgate’s decision to step down as manager.
The BBC presenter and pundit were among several voices who criticized England’s below-par performances in the early stages of the tournament. Lineker’s description of their group stage performance as “underwhelming” sparked headlines.
However, Lineker clarified that his comments were not meant to be a personal attack on the team, and in a recent podcast episode, he acknowledged that it was time for a change in management.
Both Lineker and Richards agreed that Southgate’s departure was “definitely the right decision” following his announcement on Tuesday.
Gary Lineker has denied claims that his criticisms of England during Euro 2024 influenced Gareth Southgate’s departure
Lineker had been critical of England’s performances at the Euros, but he was not the only pundit to do so
Southgate announced his departure as England boss on Tuesday after a hugely successful tenure
Lineker claimed that his coverage of the team was “unquestionably fair” and that it was time for change, adding that Southgate’s departure was likely due to the demands of the job.
He also dismissed suggestions that his comments influenced Southgate’s exit, calling them “silly” and “unfair.”
Richards backed up Lineker’s sentiments, saying that the criticism was not personal and that Southgate’s departure was the right decision for both him and the team.
Southgate’s resignation did not come as a surprise, given his contract with the Football Association was set to expire later this year.
Southgate became the first England men’s boss to reach back to back major tournament finals
Micah Richards added that the suggestion their criticism influenced his exit were ‘totally unfair’
The Football Association has confirmed that they are already searching for Southgate’s replacement, a task that will not be easy given his impressive record with the team.
Southgate will go down as one of the most successful England managers of all time, with an unprecedented period of relative success including two European Championship finals, a World Cup semi-final, and a quarter-final.
He only lost 18 of his 102 matches in charge of the Three Lions, with his side scoring 2.25 goals per game and conceding only 0.84 with a win rate of 63 per cent.
In his resignation statement, Southgate said: “As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all.”
“But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager.”
“I joined the FA in 2011, determined to improve English football. In that time, including eight years as England men’s manager, I have been supported by some brilliant people who have my heartfelt thanks.”
“I could not have had anyone better alongside me than Steve Holland. He is one of the most talented coaches of his generation, and has been immense.”
“I have had the privilege of leading a large group of players in 102 games. Every one of them has been proud to wear the three lions on their shirts, and they have been a credit to their country in so many ways.”
England had entered the tournament as favourites but struggled to perform in the early stages
“The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of. I am so proud of them, and I hope we get behind the players and the team at St. George’s Park and the FA who strive every day to improve English football, and understand the power football has to drive positive change.”
“My special thanks go to the backroom staff who have provided the players and me with unstinting support over the last eight years. Their hard work and commitment inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them – the brilliant ‘team behind the team’.”
“We have the best fans in the world, and their support has meant the world to me. I’m an England fan and I always will be. I look forward to watching and celebrating as the players go on to create more special memories and to connect and inspire the nation as we know they can.”
“Thank you, England – for everything.”