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Gareth Southgate has distanced himself from ‘completely disrespectful’ speculation linking him with the Manchester United job.
Reports this week have speculated United’s new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have identified the England manager as their no1 target to replace Erik ten Hag should they make the decision to part ways with the Dutchman.
Ten Hag, who took over at Old Trafford in May 2022, has come under pressure at various stages this season which is likely to grow again should United fail to qualify for the Champions League this season.
Southgate’s current contract with the Three Lions expires after this summer’s European Championship with the 52-year-old repeatedly stating he will make a decision on his future after this summer’s competition.
Southgate spoke to the media on Friday night ahead of a friendly clash against Brazil on Saturday and was quizzed on those reports linking him with a move to Manchester.
‘I’m the England manager, I have got one job basically. To try and deliver a European Championship. Clearly before that, we have two important games this week,’ Southgate said.
‘Secondly, Manchester United have a manager and I think it is completely disrespectful there is any speculation over a manager’s place.’
Southgate insisted he would not hold talks with any clubs heading into the Euros, insisting his sole focus is on ending England’s wait for a major trophy.
‘My focus is the European Championship. If we did something, a contract before, everyone would be saying, “why are you signing a contract before the Euros?”
‘I’m certainly not going to speak to anyone else before that, I never have, I have been here eight years in the job, I wouldn’t entertain speaking to anyone else while I’m in a job.’
England take on five-time World Cup winners Brazil on Saturday night before welcoming Belgium to the capital on Tuesday.
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