England legend Gary Lineker has thrown his support behind Frank Lampard to succeed Gareth Southgate as the next England manager, according to Metro. Southgate has already indicated that he will step down after Euro 2024, regardless of the team's performance.
Lineker, who appeared on The Rest Is Football Podcast, believes Lampard has the tactical acumen and command respect from the players to excel in the role. "I think he tactically gets it. I think the players will respect him immediately," Lineker said.
Lampard, a former Chelsea and England midfielder, has managed Derby, Chelsea, and Everton, achieving notable successes like leading Chelsea to a top-four finish during a transfer embargo. Lineker praises Lampard's adaptability and ability to achieve results with available resources.
Micah Richards, another former England player, shares Lineker's sentiments, highlighting Lampard's impressive managerial career. "He went to Derby, played really good football, and should have got them promoted. He went to Chelsea, got top four, and brought through young players like Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount," Richards said.
While Graham Potter is currently the favorite to replace Southgate, Lineker's endorsement of Lampard adds a new dimension to the discussion. Lampard's experience and tactical prowess make him a strong contender for the position.
As England prepares for the Euro 2024 semi-final against the Netherlands, the conversation around Southgate's successor continues. Lineker's backing of Lampard adds weight to the argument for an English manager with a deep understanding of the game and the ability to command respect from the players.