Richard Keys suggests England send 'SOS call' to Premier League legend to replace Gareth Southgate at Euro 2024

Gareth Southgate should be relieved of his duties as England manager ahead of Sunday's last-16 game, according to Richard Keys, who has picked out his ideal replacement.

England booked their place in the knockout stages after a number of unconvincing performances in Group C against Denmark, Slovenia and Serbia.

Southgate's side enjoyed the lion's share of possession against Slovenia on Tuesday night and looked dangerous in the latter stages in Cologne as Cole Palmer and Kobbie Mainoo impressed.

But they still lack that cutting edge in front of goal. After the full-time whistle, many were critical of England's efforts, including beIN Sports presenter Richard Keys.

In fact, Keys went as far as saying that England should sack Gareth Southgate as they prepare for a last-16 clash against either the Netherlands or the third-placed team in Group E.

“I’m so depressed, I thought that was so miserable once again tonight," he said. “I’m at a point whereby if I were able to make that decision, yes, I probably would because we are going nowhere double quick.

“We’re here to win it, that, what I’ve seen tonight, that’s not winning the next game, let alone the tournament.”

Keys then mentioned former Spurs and Southampton manager Harry Redknapp as someone who should "get a call" about replacing Southgate.

“Harry Redknapp’s sat in Dubai tonight, give him a call," he added. "[Jurgen] Klopp won’t do it but Harry, you think he wouldn’t be on a plane tomorrow morning?”

In his post-match press conference after the Slovenia game, a defiant Southgate responded to his critics.

"I understand it. I'm not going to back away from it. The most important thing here is that the supporters stay with the team," he said in his post-match press conference.

"I understand the narrative towards me and that's better for me than it being towards them. But it is creating an unusual environment to operate in. I've not seen any team qualify and receive similar.

"I recognise that when you have moments at the end of the game, I'm asking the players to be fearless, I'm not going to back down from going over and thanking the fans who were brilliant during the game. They might feel differently towards me. But for me, we only will succeed if we are together."

Image credit: Getty

He added: "That energy is crucial for the team and it is so important they stay with the team, however they feel towards me."