Gareth Southgate drops huge next job hint after England exit and Man United links

Gareth Southgate has revealed he may never return to management after leaving England - as he admitted he was "contemplating a change of direction".

The 54-year-old has been linked with several Premier League jobs, including Manchester United and Everton, since stepping down from his role with the Three Lions after this summer's second place finish at the European Championships.

But the former Crystal Palace, Middlesbrough and England defender has now hinted that he is considering a career change.

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Writing on Linkedin, Southgate said: "Coaching top players was a challenge that pushed me to operate at the very highest level. The weight of the role with the unique responsibility it carried was something few ever get to experience.

"Perhaps the hardest thing of all to replicate though, is going to be the sense of purpose.

“Every morning I drove through the gates of St George’s Park, I had a responsibility to improve English football. Whenever the National Anthem played pre- game, I was representing 50 million people, their hopes and dreams.

“When I travelled, or spoke publicly I had a duty to be an ambassador for my country. Even in the most difficult moments, whether after heartbreaking defeats or during tense media scrutiny I was acutely aware of the need to stand with dignity and demonstrate strong leadership.

“This was not only for the players and staff beside me but also for the millions of young people watching, who might find inspiration and hope in what we do.

“This higher purpose kept me on track, gave me structure, made my life