Gareth Southgate tipped for knighthood even if England lose Euro 2024 semis; Harry Kane’s MBE could also be upgraded: Reports
England boss Gareth Southgate is reportedly set for knighthood and striker Harry Kane an upgrade to his MBE even if the Three Lions lose to the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-final in Dortmund on Wednesday (July 10). Southgate's side are into consecutive Euro semi-finals for the first time.
The Three Lions - touted as one of the pre-tournament favourites - have struggled for fluency. After labouring through the group stage, they needed extra time and penalties to respectively see off Slovakia and Switzerland respectively, falling behind in both games.
Nevertheless, they are within two wins of a maiden European Championship and a first major title in 58 years. In four major tournaments, Southgate has taken his team to at least the quarter-finals (2022 FIFA World Cup), two semi-finals (2018 FIFA World Cup, Euro 2024) and one final (Euro 2020).
While he would like to go all the way in Germany, Southgate has apparently done enough to earn a knighthood - as per Telegraph Football - while Kane is due an upgrade to his MBE.
Southgate was close to being knighted three years ago after losing on penalties to Italy in the Euro 2020 final at the Wembley. However, a row over his potential "involvement in a film investment scheme HM Revenue & Customs had challenged over tax avoidance rules" put paid to his knighthood hopes.
An OBE since 2019, Southgate oversaw his 100th game in charge in the quarter-final win over Switzerland, third-most by a Three Lions manager. Meanwhile, Kane is set to earn an OBE, an upgrade on his current MBE status.
How Harry Kane has fared for Gareth Southgate's England at Euro 2024?
England striker Harry Kane has had a rather lukewarm Euro 2024 campaign, scoring twice in five games - one of them from the spot - despite Gareth Southgate's side reaching the semis.
The all-time England top scorer opened his account at the tournament in the 1-1 group-stage draw with Denmark from the spot before scoring in extra time in the 2-1 Round-of-16 win over Slovakia.
Having started all five games, Kane was subbed off before the end of extra time in the last two games. Will the Bayern Munich striker rediscover his scoring boots and take Gareth Southgate's side to a final date with Spain in Berlin on Sunday (July 14)?