Sir Gareth Southgate has provided an update on his future in management, a year on from stepping down as England boss.
The 54-year-old, who played 57 times for his country and then managed a further 102 times, guided the Three Lions to consecutive Euros finals and a World Cup semi-final, cementing his place as one of the most successful England bosses in history.
The former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough defender managed the national under-21s prior to taking over from Sam Allardyce as manager of the Three Lions.
**ARE YOU READING THIS ON OUR APP? DOWNLOAD NOW FOR THE BEST GB NEWS EXPERIENCE**
His only job in club management remains a three-year spell at former club Middlesbrough. He was heavily linked to the vacant Manchester United position after the sacking of Erik ten Hag, although the Red Devils ultimately chose Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim.
Sir Gareth Southgate has been out of management since he resigned as England boss last year
|PA
In the 12 months since his resignation as national team boss, Southgate has kept a low profile which, he said, the “different pace of life” has been a pleasant change from the hectic, demanding and high-pressure role as England coach.
Speaking to The Sun, Southgate discussed his ventures during this time and his focus on coaching youngsters.
"I'm enjoying my life. I'm enjoying a different pace of life. I'm busy, I've got a book that I'm finishing writing on leadership,” he said.
JUST IN: Newcastle star posts cryptic message picture after bombshell statement from Alexander Isak
The former England boss gave an update on his managerial future
|PA
"I've got several business interests. I help young coaches with mentoring.
"I'm doing a lot of work around the situation around young men. Problems we've got for young people in our country, losing their way a bit, and opportunities.
"I'm playing golf and a bit of padel, tennis as well - what's not to like?"
**SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE DAILY GB NEWS SPORTS NEWSLETTER HERE**
Inevitably, after being at the helm of such a major nation and overseeing improvements in the standards and results, the former Boro boss was asked if a return to management was on the cards.
"I've no idea,” the former defender replied. “It's not something I'm actively seeking at the moment.”
But Southgate wasn’t to leave without dropping a hint that a return to management will never be off the cards.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
The 54-year-old delivered two major finals and a semi-final during his eight-year spell at the helm of the Three Lions
|PA
"But when I left Middlesbrough 15 years ago I wasn't looking then either and something came along and I ended up where I ended up," he concluded.
This June, Southgate became football’s seventh knighted manager, joining Sir David Beckham on this year’s King’s Honours list.
The knighthood was credited for his services to football.
When Southgate took the helm of the national team job in 2016, the Three Lions were in turmoil.
Roy Hodgson had been sacked after a humiliating 2-1 defeat to Iceland in the Euros, and was replaced by Allardyce who lasted just 67 days before being let go himself after following an alleged breach of FA rules.
In his maiden major tournament in charge, the 2018 World Cup, Southgate guided England to their first semi-final since 1990. This was followed by a final appearance in the 2021 Euros.