A decision on Gareth Southgate being knighted by the King has reportedly been made ahead of England's crucial Euro 2024 semi-final against the Netherlands.
Southgate has had many critics over the years, but there is no doubt that the England boss has made a positive impact on a national team that was in absolute no man's land before his arrival.
Prior to Southgate's appointment ahead of the 2018 World Cup, England had failed to win a knock-out game since 2006, and even failed to make it to Euro 2008.
Since then England have made it to at least the quarter-final stage at every. major tournament, with three out of four semi-finals.
It can be argued that particularly in Euro 2020 England should have gone on to lift the trophy, but those wrongs could be put right on Sunday if England get past Netherlands and Spain.
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Euro 2024 has probably been the most scrutiny Southgate has faced during his England tenure, with fans furious at the style of football that could have easily seen his side knocked out early.
Despite all the criticism, The Telegraph are reporting that Southgate will be knighted if he brings the trophy home, and could still receive the honour even if England don't go all the way.
Southgate would join fellow British sports stars such as Sir Lewis Hamilton, Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Andy Murray, and Sir Chris Hoy who have been knighted for their service to sport.
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The 53-year-old has already been awarded an OBE in 2019, alongside his captain Harry Kane who received an MBE.
Kane would also receive an upgrade on his current MBE if he lifts the trophy on Sunday.
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Topics: England, Euro 2024, Gareth Southgate, Netherlands, Spain
Tom Jenkins