Sir Gareth Southgate has revealed that Prince William, a passionate football fan, frequently offered him advice on which players to select for the England national team. The former England manager disclosed that the future King would consistently advocate for Aston Villa players.
Prince William's Influence on Squad Selection
Speaking candidly, Southgate explained that William would visit the Three Lions' dressing room to deliver motivational speeches and console players after matches. However, he noted that the Prime Minister never interfered with team selection. Among the Villa players Southgate picked were striker Ollie Watkins and defenders Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa.
Southgate, 55, admitted he is relieved to no longer be in charge ahead of the upcoming World Cup, and he declined to comment on Thomas Tuchel's current squad. He said: “I definitely thank God I am out of it. You can see all the issues because you have lived them; you know when there is a bandwagon for certain players. But the person picking the team has more information than we do. I don’t know how fit they are, how they are training, how they work with the rest of the group. All the club managers to deal with. The PM never told me who to pick. Prince William did a couple of times - he’d go for every Aston Villa player.”
Stability During Political Turmoil
Southgate also reflected on his tenure, noting that the England team provided stability during a period of significant political upheaval, with four different Prime Ministers during his time in charge. He was praised for his comments on Brexit, culture wars, the Covid pandemic, and for supporting players who suffered online racist abuse.
“I think the England team were a constant when there was a lot of upheaval. Families watch England; it brings communities together. I realised that people crave leadership when life is precarious,” he said.
Personal Reflections
Despite the drama surrounding his tenure, Southgate confessed he has not watched the BBC drama Dear England about his time in charge, as it would make him “uncomfortable.” He also praised current England captain Harry Kane and cricketer Ben Stokes as “great role models” who can counteract “online influencers who trick young men into believing that success is measured in money or dominance.”
Southgate added: “I have worked with young boys for years. They always have a coach, discipline, a passion and a routine and they are good at football, so it’s easier to build their confidence. But until recently I was a little blind to what else was going on. So many boys now appear to be lost. It worries me.”
