Gareth Southgate gets the backing of the English FA

Gareth Southgate has been given a ringing endorsement from England FA chair Debbie Hewitt, who lauded the England manager’s IQ and emotional intelligence

England manager Gareth Southgate’s leadership qualities have been praised by FA chair Debbie Hewitt (Nick Potts/PA)

Gareth Southgate has been given a ringing endorsement from Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt, who said the England manager’s IQ and emotional intelligence would make him a chief executive in any sector.

Southgate came in for criticism after a disappointing showing for the Three Lions in their four Nations League matches earlier this month, culminating in a 4-0 home defeat to Hungary.