Jude Bellingham praised Gareth Southgate as “easily one of the best managers in the history of the national team” in a heartfelt tribute to the outgoing England manager.
Southgate resigned on Tuesday after almost eight years in charge, with England’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in Sunday’s Euro 2024 final, his last match in charge.
In a post on Instagram, Real Madrid midfielder Bellingham described Southgate as “an unbelievable human being”.
“I would like to thank Gareth and his team for the great memories during their tenure,” Bellingham wrote.
“From the perspective of a fan-turned-team member, it has been an incredible rollercoaster of emotions that has brought hope and joy back to our country.
“It was a privilege to be led by someone so dedicated and passionate, Gareth is not only easily one of the best coaches in the history of the national team but also an unbelievable human being.
“Thanks for everything and all the best in the next chapter, Gaffer.”
BBC Sport commentator and former England striker Alan Shearer was also among those to pay tribute to Southgate, who took charge of 102 games and led his country to consecutive Euro finals.
“It was a huge job for him [Southgate] take over,” Shearer told the BBC.
“He did that and it changed everything, as you said, we went from rock bottom to playing semi-finals and finals. That is now England’s expectation and he played a big part in that.”
He added that the 53-year-old will be remembered for “creating this incredible spirit and for the players who once again want to represent their country”.
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