GARETH SOUTHGATE is all set to lead England at another World Cup in Qatar this winter – and the journey gets underway TODAY.
The former Three Lions defender first stepped in following the departure of Sam Allardyce in 2017 and delivered with semi-final and final finishes at the World Cup in 2018 and at Euro 2020.
He will now be hoping to make history with England and lift the 2022 World Cup, with the Three Lions in action against France TONIGHT.
Southgate has been praised for preparing his young side mentally for the World Cup pressures
Who did Gareth Southgate play for?
STARTING out as a midfielder or at right-back, Southgate began his playing career at Crystal Palace.
He came through the youth setup at Selhurst Park and quickly rose through the ranks, being appointed captain for the 1993/94 season.
The Eagles won promotion to the Premier League as champions that year but yoyo’d between the top two-tiers, with another relegation in 1995.
Aston Villa came calling and snapped up Southgate for £2.5million – before converting him to a centre-back.
He played in midfield and at right-back during his Palace daysPA:Empics Sport
He won the League Cup during his time in the Midlands, where he spent six seasons and was a near ever-present.
A move to Middlesborough followed in 2001 and Southgate would end his playing days in the North East, making 160 appearances for Boro over a five-year period.
The England defender earned 57 caps during his international career and scored twice, whilst he hung up his boots after 638 domestic games.
The England boss played for three clubs, including VillaPA:Empics Sport
What teams has the England World Cup boss managed?
SOUTHGATE wasted no time heading into management, being appointed Middlesbrough boss in 2006.
Boro were relegated from the top-flight under his leadership, before he was dismissed in October 2009 with the club sitting fourth in the Championship.
After a period away from management, Southgate was appointed as the FA’s head of elite development.
He looked set for a director role, but returned to coaching as the England under-21 boss in 2013.
After three years with the Young Lions, he was given the full-time role in November 2016 after a successful interim period.