England news: Gareth Southgate is currently preparing for Malta Euro 2024 qualifying clash
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Chris Sutton has claimed Gareth Southgate's biggest weakness is his loyalty to certain England players.
The Three Lions boss has worked wonders ever since being appointed back in 2016.
England made the semi-finals of the World Cup in Russia in 2018, while also making the last eight of the competition 12 months ago.
And they also reached the final of the European Championships in 2021 before losing to Italy.
England news: Gareth Southgate's biggest weakness has been named by Chris Sutton ahead of Malta clash
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Southgate has, however, been criticised for sticking with England players who aren't featuring regularly for their clubs.
Kalvin Phillips has benefitted from his positive relationship with his manager, despite struggling for action at Manchester City.
Harry Maguire has also previously been named in squads amid issues at Manchester United.
And Sutton, speaking to the Daily Mail, thinks Southgate's loyalty is one of his biggest weaknesses as a manager.
"I'm a great admirer of what Gareth Southgate has achieved as England manager," said the former Chelsea and Celtic striker.
"You just look back to the time he took over, the mess he took over and I think he's been a huge success.
"But I think there are also certain things you can level at Gareth.
"This loyalty factor which is talked about a lot. Gareth's sticking with players who aren't playing regular club football.
"I do think that's an issue, I do think that's a weakness.
"I admire him for having that mindset and that thought process, loyalty is important.
"But until England win a major tournament there's always going to be certain things levelled at Gareth."
Sutton also thinks Southgate needs to find a way of 'getting the job done' at major tournaments.
England will be one of the favourites to reign supreme at Euro 2024 given the way they've performed in qualifying.
The Three Lions have won five of their six matches so far ahead of Friday night's match with Malta.
And Sutton wants to see Southgate drag England over the line at the Euros and finally end their wait for a major trophy.
"It's about getting the job done and England have been so close," he added.
"In the Euros final against Italy, OK, Italy deserved to win the game but a penalty kick or two away from winning it.
"The last World Cup in Qatar, just falling short.
"There are fine margins and it's about making that next step.
"England have the players who are capable of winning a major tournament, so will it be Gareth's persistence with somebody like Kalvin Phillips who has barely kicked a ball in the last season, will not kick a ball unless he moves on from Manchester City in January, will it be something like that which holds England back?
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England news: Gareth Southgate's side cruised to a 4-0 victory over Malta back in June
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"And I think people are right to call Gareth out on this."
England last met Malta back in June, with Southgate's side winning 4-0 on a straightforward night of action.
An own goal from Ferdinando Apap set the Three Lions on their way to victory.
And further efforts from Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harry Kane and Callum Wilson made the result safe.