Gareth Southgate is the current manager of the England national football team. Known for his calm demeanor and strategic mind, Southgate has led England through several major tournaments, including the Euro 2020/21 where the team reached the final but lost to Italy. Now, he is on the brink of another significant achievement as he prepares to lead England into the Euro 2024 final against Spain.
Who is Alison Southgate and How Did She Meet Gareth?
Alison Southgate, formerly known as Alison Bird, met Gareth Southgate when he was a trainee at Crystal Palace. At the time, Alison was working as a shop assistant. Gareth frequently visited the shop under the pretense of updating his wardrobe, but in reality, he was there to see Alison. Although Alison was initially in a relationship, Gareth did not hesitate to give her his phone number once he learned she had become single. Their relationship blossomed quickly, and they began dating secretly, often meeting in a Tesco car park to avoid her ex-boyfriend’s notice.
When Did Gareth and Alison Southgate Get Married?
Gareth and Alison Southgate got married in July 1997, near Southgate’s family home in Crawley. The couple has maintained a strong relationship over the years, with Alison often seen supporting Gareth at various football events. Despite her preference for privacy, Alison has occasionally stepped into the limelight to stand by her husband’s side during significant moments in his career.
How Many Children Do Gareth and Alison Southgate Have?
Gareth and Alison Southgate have two children, Mia and Flynn. Gareth has often spoken about the importance of balancing his demanding career with his responsibilities as a father and husband. In a 2017 interview with the Standard, he emphasized the significance of being present for his children, who were 18 and 14 at the time, and the need to find a balance between his professional and personal life. He acknowledged the challenges but underscored his commitment to his family’s well-being.
What Was Gareth Southgate’s Playing Career Like?
Gareth Southgate had a distinguished playing career before transitioning into management. He started his professional journey in the youth setup at Crystal Palace, making his senior debut in 1988. Over the years, he made 152 appearances for Crystal Palace, helping the team win the First Division title in the 1993-1994 season. In 1995, Southgate moved to Aston Villa, where he made 192 appearances and played a key role in the team’s journey to the FA Cup final in 2000. Southgate ended his playing career at Middlesbrough, with over 150 appearances for the club, before retiring in 2006.
What Has Been Gareth Southgate’s Managerial Career?
After retiring as a player, Gareth Southgate transitioned into management. He began his managerial career with Middlesbrough, where he served from 2006 to 2009. In 2013, he took charge of the England U21 team, a role he held until 2016. Southgate became the manager of the England senior team on September 27, 2016, following Sam Allardyce’s departure. Under his leadership, England has achieved notable successes, including reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the final of the Euro 2020/21.
How Has Alison Supported Gareth Southgate’s Career?
Alison Southgate has been a pillar of support for Gareth throughout his career. Despite preferring to stay out of the public eye, she has been present at many of his significant career milestones. Her unwavering support has been crucial in helping Gareth navigate the pressures of managing a national team. Their relationship is marked by mutual respect and understanding, with both prioritizing family despite the demands of Gareth’s high-profile job.
What is at Stake in the Euro 2024 Final?
The Euro 2024 final is a significant moment for Gareth Southgate and the England national team. Facing Spain, Southgate aims to lead England to their first major tournament victory since 1966. This match represents not only a potential career-defining achievement for Southgate but also a historic opportunity for the England team to end a long wait for a major international trophy.
Conclusion
Gareth Southgate’s journey from a young trainee at Crystal Palace to managing the England national team has been marked by dedication, resilience, and strategic brilliance. His partnership with Alison has been a cornerstone of his stability and success, providing him with the support needed to tackle the immense pressures of his role. As he leads England into the Euro 2024 final against Spain, the hopes of a nation rest on his shoulders, and a victory would cement his legacy in English football history.Discover Everything You Need To Know Here!
