'Always said' - Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has already hinted at England job stance

The 53-year-old took charge in 2016, first taking the Three Lions to the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 before reaching back-to-back European Championship finals.

Both, however, ended in defeat, losing to Italy on penalties at Wembley three years ago. Sunday evening’s 2-1 loss against Spain in Berlin was Southgate’s last after 102 matches.

Gareth Southgate issues statement

“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,” Southgate wrote.

“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.

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“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.

“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.”

What Eddie Howe has said about the England job

The search for Southgate’s successor is already underway with Howe unsurprisingly among the names on the shortlist.

During his two-and-half-years as Newcastle boss, the club has progressed from Premier League relegation candidates to qualifying for the Champions League, as well as play in a Carabao Cup final.

Howe previously dismissed talk of succeeding Southgate after the 2022 Qatar World Cup. While he didn’t deny that managing England is one of his future ambitions, he did say it wasn’t on his radar in the short-term.

“Gareth has done an incredible job and I mean that from the bottom of my heart,” said Howe. “I have been lucky enough to go in and see him work and I have a lot of time for him and Steve Holland. They have been amazing for England. You have to remember where England were before he took over and what he has done for the country.

“I never say never, never say no, it won’t be something I am interested in. But in the short term it is not on my radar at all. It is all Newcastle and trying to make this team better. I have always said I love the day to day coaching, love being with the players on the training ground, international football you get that taken away for long periods. At this moment in my life that is not something I want to do.”

Asides from Howe, the FA are also said to be considering former Brighton and Chelsea manager Graham Potter, plus former Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel.