Gareth Southgate lands England managerial position on permanent basis

The 46-year-old signed a four-year deal on Wednesday after his nomination receiving a seal of approval during an FA board meeting at St George’s Park.

Southgate, who lives in Fewston, near Harrogate, has been in temporary charge of the national team since September when Sam Allardyce was sacked following a newspaper sting.

The former Middlesbrough and England defender steps up from his role as under-21 boss, winning two and drawing two of his four games in charge.

He was the only candidate interviewed for the job.

Southgate said: “I am extremely proud to be appointed England manager. However, I’m also conscious that getting the job is one thing, now I want to do the job successfully.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with the players over these past four games and I think there’s huge potential.

I’m determined to give everything I have to give the country a team that they’re proud of and one that they’re going to enjoy watching play and develop. For me, the hard work starts now.”

Southgate has been spotted watching Harrogate Town a number of times since finishing his playing career and settling in North Yorkshire.

The 46-year-old also played cricket for Pannal Ash in the Nidderdale League alongside son Finlay prior to flying out to Euro 2016 this summer.

He worked as a scout for former boss Roy Hodgson at the Championships, where England exited in embarrassing circumstances against Iceland.

FA chief executive Martin Glenn said: “He’s obviously somebody we know well but it’s his understanding of international football and the development set-up at St. George’s Park that is important.

“He performed extremely well during the four games he was in temporary charge and he impressed us during a tough interview process.

“Gareth is a great ambassador for what The FA stands for, he’s a very good football tactician and a leader but beneath that he’s a winner and that’s an important part of the job.”