'Easily one of the best' - Bellingham leads Southgate tributes

Jude Bellingham praised Gareth Southgate as "easily one of the best coaches in the history of the national team" in a heartfelt tribute to the outgoing England manager.

Southgate resigned on Tuesday after nearly eight years in the role, with England's 2-1 loss to Spain in Sunday's Euro 2024 final his last match in charge.

In a post on Instagram, Real Madrid midfielder Bellingham described Southgate as "an unbelievable human being".

"I'd like to thank Gareth and his staff for the great memories during his tenure," Bellingham wrote.

"From the point of view of a fan who has become a member of the squad, it's been a rollercoaster of amazing emotions that has instilled hope and joy back into our country.

"It was a privilege being lead by someone who is so dedicated and passionate, not only is Gareth easily one of the best coaches in the history of the national team but also an unbelievable human being.

"Thank you for everything and all the best in the next chapter, Gaffer."

BBC Sport pundit and former England striker Alan Shearer was also among those to pay tribute to Southgate, who took charge of 102 games and led his country to back-to-back Euros finals.

"It was a huge job for him [Southgate] to take on," Shearer told the BBC.

"He did that and turned everything around, as you said we went from rock bottom to playing in semi-finals and finals. That is now the expectation with England and he played a huge part in that."

He added that the 53-year-old will be remembered for "creating this incredible spirit and for players again wanting to represent their country".

Gary Lineker expressed his thanks to Southgate on X.

The BBC presenter and ex-England striker wrote: "Wishing Gareth Southgate all the very best in the future. He brought pride, respect and a togetherness to England that we hadn't seen for a long time.

"He was close, very close to footballing immortality and he always did the job with humility, decency and dignity. Thank you, Gareth."

A number of current England stars also paid tribute to Southgate on social media.

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice wrote on Instagram: "Thank you gaffer. It's been a privilege to play for England under your guidance.

"Memories that will stay with me forever. All the best in your next adventure."

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, also on Instagram, added: "I also want to say a special thank you to the boss for always believing in me during his time with us and I would like to wish him all the best in his next steps. Thank you Gareth."

Harry Maguire missed out on selection for Euro 2024 because of a calf injury, but the centre-back played a key role in previous tournaments under Southgate.

"You made us all believe again - memories that will last forever. Thank you boss," the Manchester United defender wrote on Instagram.