Declan Rice leads tribute English players as Southgate quits as manager
England star Declan Rice has led tributes to Gareth Southgate after he stepped down as England manager.
Southgate confirmed that he would no longer lead the team following defeat in the Euro 2024 final to Spain.
The manager was always well respected by his players and they have taken to social media to show their appreciation.
Rice was one of the first to make a statement in which he deemed it a "privilege" to play under the boss.
He wrote: "Thank you gaffer, it has been a privilege to play for England under your guidance.
"Memories will stay with me forever. All the best of luck with your next adventure."
Jude Bellingham also shared the same picture as Rice thanking Southgate.
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford posted a picture of himself and Southgate hugging after one match.
He wrote: "Completely gutted. This will hurt for a while.
"Appreciate everyone who supported us during the tournament and I’d like to thank all my teammates and staff for their work throughout.
"I also want to say a special thank you to the boss for always believing in me during his time with us and I would like to wish him all the best in his next steps.
"Thank you, Gareth."
Southgate took charge of 102 games for England before quitting in the aftermath of the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.
Harry Maguire also joined in with a tribute of his own despite missing out on Euro 2024 through injury.
The defender had been a regular under Southgate's reign.
He said: "You made us all believe again - memories that will last forever. Thank you, boss."
Southgate, 53, confirmed his exit in an emotional 331-word statement after eight years in the role.
The FA has started the process of finding Southgate's replacement.
It has also been suggested that an interim boss could be installed in the meantime.
