Everton veteran Ashley Young sends thank you message after quit decision made
Everton defender Ashley Young has posted an emotional message following Gareth Southgate’s decision to quit as England manager.
The 53-year-old announced his decision on Tuesday (16 July), resigning after 102 matches and eight years in charge of the Three Lions.
His decision comes after the team failed to beat Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, with Mikel Oyarzabal’s late winner handing England their second consecutive Euros runners-up medal.
Reacting to the news, Young took to Instagram on Tuesday (16 July), writing: “Thanks Gaffer – what a journey it’s been!
“You brought me back into the squad after 4 years and when we talk about togetherness, you brought that to the National Team in abundance. 2018 was the start of bringing our country together again. Thank you.”
Everton ace Ashley Young pays tribute to Gareth Southgate
The 39-year-old managed to win 39 caps for England between 2006 and 2018, only playing a couple of years under Southgate before retiring from international football.
He was only in the squad on 13 occasions during Southgate’s tenure with the Three Lions but played an important role in England’s journey to the World Cup semi-final in 2018.
He even grabbed an assist in the 2-0 quarter-final victory over Sweden, playing as a left-sided midfielder against Tunisia, Panama, Colombia, Sweden and Croatia.
Young eventually became a fan, rather than a member of the international set-up, but still wanted to take time to show his appreciation for the manager, who has occupied the role for the last eight years.
While the Three Lions were unable to lift any trophies during Southgate’s time in charge, his win record certainly speaks for itself, seeing him go down as one of the best England managers in history.
Whoever the FA decides to bring in next will have a very difficult job of living up to the expectations and left behind by Southgate as he embarks on a new journey.
In other Everton news, insiders have spoken out on the Jarrad Branthwaite to Manchester United transfer latest.
For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.