Carragher Backs Southgate For England Role Despite Euro Final Setback

Jamie Carragher believes Gareth Southgate should remain England's manager despite their Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain. Southgate has led England to consecutive European Championship finals, but both ended in disappointment as the Three Lions continue their wait for an international trophy.

Under Southgate's leadership, England have reached more major tournament finals in four attempts (two) than they did in their first 23 appearances at the World Cup and Euros (one). However, this loss made Southgate the first manager in European Championship history to lose two finals, possibly marking his last game in charge.

Throughout England's campaign in Germany, Southgate faced criticism for his defensive tactics. Despite this, only Walter Winterbottom (383) and Alf Ramsey (224) have overseen more England goals than Southgate's 213. Carragher insists that Southgate is still the right man for the job.

"I'd like Gareth Southgate to stay, but I'd understand if he walks away. You think of the criticism he gets, it's way over the top," Carragher told Sky Sports. "Who would want to take the England job? Considering you have to go and win the World Cup or next Euros to be deemed a success."

Carragher highlighted that managing England is not as appealing as club football. "The top managers in the game are managing in the Champions League; that's where they want to be," he continued. "International football is about the players; you can't go and buy players for your country, you have to work with what you've got."

He added that while a different manager might get more out of this group, winning a tournament remains a rare achievement for England. "Maybe a different manager could get more out of this group but you would have to win a tournament - something we've done once in about 100 years."

England's Performance and Support

Despite falling short of their goals this summer, Carragher praised the team's effort and support from fans. "We fell short of what we wanted to achieve this summer, but this group gave everything and have done us proud. Your support in Germany and back home has been incredible. Thank you," read a tweet from the official England account.

The Spain manager serves as an example of how top managers often don't manage at international level. "The Spain manager is a perfect example; most people would never have heard of him before this tournament," Carragher noted.

The Future for Southgate

It remains uncertain whether Southgate will continue with the Three Lions. Carragher pointed out that people see him as an FA insider without a background of winning major titles. "The problem Southgate has got is people see him as an FA guy with no background of being successful or winning things," he said.

Carragher concluded by questioning who could replace Southgate effectively. "Southgate knows international football; he's brilliant with the media; he knows the players - I'm not quite sure who this manager is that everyone is crying out for."

England's journey at Euro 2024 may not have ended with silverware, but under Southgate's guidance, they have shown significant progress on the international stage.