I’ve known Southgate for 13 years — Ex-Super Eagles coach boasts about England boss with clear football ideas

The stadium in Berlin holds a special place in England manager Gareth Southgate's heart. || Imago

I’ve known Southgate for 13 years — Ex-Super Eagles coach boasts about England boss with clear football ideas

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 13:51 - 11.07.2024

The former Super Eagles skipper and coach proudly shared his 13-year acquaintance with England's Gareth Southgate after he reached the Euro 2024 final.

Nigerian football legend Sunday Oliseh has heaped praise on England manager Gareth Southgate, revealing their 13-year friendship, after the Three Lions booked their place in the Euro 2024 final.

Oliseh, a former Super Eagles captain and coach, took to social media to share his admiration for Southgate, branding him a 'very decent human being with clear football ideas'.

Nigerian icon speaks on Southgate

The 49-year-old's comments came after England mounted another dramatic comeback to defeat the Netherlands 2-1 in Wednesday's semi-final clash.

Xavi Simons had given the Dutch the lead with a stunning first-half strike, but Harry Kane's penalty and a late winner from Ollie Watkins ensured Southgate's side secured their spot in the final.

Super Eagles legend Sunday Oliseh
Super Eagles legend Sunday Oliseh || Imago

And Oliseh was quick to lend his support to the England boss, who he has known for over a decade, writing:

Personally known Gareth Southgate for over 13 years, a very decent human being with clear football ideas.'

Gareth Southgate with his England players.
Gareth Southgate with his England players. (Photo Credit: UEFA)

The Nigerian legend responded to a post sarcastically highlighting criticism Southgate has faced, insisting:

'I Agree with your points below which confirms my belief; "Think for yourself & dont just follow D crowd, it is often deceptive"..Bravo Ken but....Spain is a different Bone sha!'

Sunday Oliseh in action for the Super Eagles || Image credit: Imago

Southgate has faced his fair share of scrutiny during his time in charge of the national team, but Oliseh's glowing endorsement will come as a major boost ahead of Sunday's showdown.

The Three Lions will be aiming to clinch their first European Championship title, having agonisingly lost to Italy on penalties in the final of Euro 2020.

But with the experienced Southgate at the helm, and the backing of a football icon like Oliseh, England will be confident of going one better this time around.

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