Gareth Southgate issues update on his future amid ongoing Manchester United links

Former England manager Gareth Southgate has admitted he is no rush to return to management amid ongoing suggestions he could eventually succeed Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.

Southgate is currently out of work after stepping down as England manager in July, following the nation's 2-1 defeat to Spain in the European Championship final in Berlin.

The 54-year-old spent eight years in charge of the Three Lions, leading them to two European Championship finals, a World Cup semi-final and a World Cup quarter-final.

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Southgate was heavily linked with the prospect of replacing United manager Erik ten Hag earlier this year amid the uncertainty that surrounded the Dutchman's future both before and after the end of last season.

Ineos, who are understood to admire Southgate and the good job he did with England between 2016 and 2024, decided to stick with Ten Hag in June, ending speculation about his future. They also recently threw their weight of support behind the Dutchman prior to the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool.

Nevertheless, links connecting Southgate with Old Trafford have persisted. However, he has confirmed he is not in a hurry to get back into football.

"I've got lots of opportunities, I'm very open-minded to what's next," Southgate told Sky Sports. "That might be in football, that might be outside of football. I'm just going to take some time, refresh, recharge and go from there.

"I think at the moment people know that I need to get my energy back. I am intent on enjoying my life, I'm not going to rush into anything.

"I want to make sure that I make good decisions. There