“England as a football nation is stronger because of you.” Tony Bellew addressed Southgate

Former world boxing champion Tony Bellew addressed Gareth Southgate following his departure as head coach of the England national team.

It was announced today that Southgate, who had been at the helm of the "Three Lions" since 2016, has stepped down from his position.

"Thank you, Gareth Southgate! In my childhood, we didn't see our country progress so far in tournament after tournament! I think we are now one of the best footballing nations in the world, and that happened under your leadership!

Well done... England as a footballing nation has become stronger because of you!" wrote Bellew on his X account.

The 53-year-old managed the England team from September 2016. Under his leadership, the "Three Lions" reached the semifinals of the 2018 World Cup and played in the finals of the European Championship twice, losing to Italy and Spain respectively.

It was previously reported that potential successors to Southgate include Eddie Howe, Mauricio Pochettino, and Thomas Tuchel, as well as England U21 head coach Lee Carsley.