Gary Neville reacts to Eddie Howe possibly becoming England manager after Gareth Southgate resigns
Newcastle United fans have likely seen this coming for a while, but Eddie Howe is now a prime candidate for the England manager’s position. Over the years, the role of England manager has been labeled the ‘impossible job,’ with fans enduring decades of heartbreak and disappointment. Following another tournament filled with regret, the anticipation for a new leader grows stronger.
England’s recent defeat by Spain in the Euro 2024 final has left fans with few complaints, as the Spanish victory was well-deserved. In the wake of this loss, Gareth Southgate announced his resignation as England manager, opening the door for a new era.
This transition has sparked discussions about who will take on the challenge of ending England’s long wait for international glory.
Sources have revealed Eddie Howe’s current stance on potentially managing the England national team, with Newcastle United bracing for interest from the Football Association (FA).
Despite a challenging season that saw the Magpies finish seventh, Howe’s ability to guide the club to the Champions League in his first full season in charge has not gone unnoticed. While the Toon Army appreciates Howe’s contributions and would prefer him to stay, the lure of the England job presents a significant opportunity.
Gary Neville, a former England player and coach, has been vocal about the need for an English manager to succeed Southgate. Speaking to Sky Sports, Neville emphasized the importance of promoting and developing English coaching talent, a sentiment echoed by the FA’s establishment of St George’s Park.
Among the potential candidates, Graham Potter and Eddie Howe are frequently mentioned, with both coaches possessing the credentials to lead the national team.
One criticism during Southgate’s tenure was the team’s lackluster style of play. Eddie Howe, known for his attacking philosophy, could bring a much-needed change.
Howe’s tenure at Newcastle and his previous success at Bournemouth highlight his preference for high-press, front-foot football. This approach aligns with the desires of England fans, who yearn for a more dynamic and entertaining style of play.
England boasts considerable attacking talent, with players like Anthony Gordon and Jarrod Bowen demonstrating their goal-scoring prowess in the domestic league. However, their potential was underutilized in recent tournaments.
Eddie Howe’s ability to maximize the effectiveness of his attacking players could unlock new dimensions for the national team, providing a fresh tactical approach and invigorating the squad’s performance.
While Eddie Howe’s success with Newcastle makes him a compelling candidate for the England job, the decision to leave his current role is not straightforward.
Howe’s deep connection with the Magpies and the strong support from fans and players alike weigh heavily on his mind. Nevertheless, the opportunity to lead England and potentially end the nation’s long wait for a major trophy presents a career-defining challenge.
As the FA deliberates on the next England manager, Eddie Howe stands out as a strong contender. His track record, attacking philosophy, and ability to develop young talent make him an ideal candidate to lead the national team into a new era.
While the decision is far from easy, both for Howe and the FA, the potential rewards could be monumental for English football. As fans eagerly await the announcement, the hope for a brighter future and an end to decades of disappointment continues to build.
