Eddie Howe linked with ‘biggest job possible’ that would sicken Newcastle United supporters

Eddie Howe is the FA’s leading candidate to replace Gareth Southgate as England manager, according to reports.

The Three Lions boss has not decided on his future ahead of Euro 2024. His contract expires following the tournament and, after eight years in charge, there is anticipation that he will step down regardless of England’s showing.

Southgate’s potential exit would trigger a wave of speculation for the biggest job in English football. Newcastle United manager Howe, as the highest-placed British manager in the Premier League, would be a standout choice - but downplayed those suggestions earlier this week.

"It's a strange one for me because, when I'm in this mode, I'm totally oblivious to everything," he told Gary Neville on The Overlap. "I'm so focused on the day-to-day part, it's not a cliched answer it's the truth, I don't lift my head and see what is going on or what people say.

“Talking on the national team, my big memories were watching you (Neville) play for England. That era was very much me in my early years, forming a love for England and wanting them to do well, having that feeling of devastation when we didn’t quite make it over the line.

"I loved that feeling of watching the national team, I was immersed in it. I love England and I hope they go on to win the Euros this summer, and I think they can. I love Gareth and I’ve got a real determination for England to win. I’ve never really thought about international football. Who knows what will happen in the future.”

But HITC now claim Howe has emerged as the front-runner to succeed Southgate. The 46-year-old is held in high regard by FA officials and has proven himself throughout the pyramid.

Graham Potter - out of work since being sacked by Chelsea a year ago - is also named as a possible candidate. Reports had linked the former Brighton man with a move to Manchester United.