Keeping the faith

Throughout the tournament, one man stood at the sidelines, steadfast and unwavering. He supported his team. He roared with the fans. He congratulated his players when they scored, and comforted them when they missed. His emotions were England's emotions.

In 20 years time, when the 2020 European Championship is just a distant memory, many commentators today are saying that Gareth Southgate is the name you will remember. He is the waistcoat-wearing England manager who brought his team to the final of a major tournament for the first time since the World Cup win of 1966.

His redemption story, from zero to hero after a missed penalty cost England's chances in Euro 1996, is etched on the nation's brain.

Even before yesterday's match began, fans across the country were calling for a knighthood. "Gareth Southgate is clearly a class act," cried MP Julian Knight. "If you are giving out knighthoods, he is a very obvious choice."

But is there a greater role for Gareth Southgate than knight, or even England manager? Should he be the top choice for the next Archbishop of Canterbury, the leading religious figure in the nation's church?

For some, it is not such a ridiculous idea.

"He's everything a leader should be: respectful, humble, he tells the truth," says former England player Gary Neville.

Southgate's letter to fans ahead of the Euros sounded more like a sermon than the words of a football manager. "It's been an extremely difficult year," he told fans. "It's given us all a new understanding of the fragility of life and what really matters."

"I've always had an affinity for service in the name of your country," he continued, reminding fans of his belief that it is footballers' duty to raise awareness of issues such as inequality.

Southgate finds strength in his wife of 24 years and two children, who inspired his "family first" strategy as England manager.

Speaking to reporters after England's 4-0 win in the quarter-finals, Southgate paid tribute to the players who did not make the squad. "They have been a massive part of what we are doing," he insisted.

Last week, he told of his pride in bringing happiness during the pandemic. In comparison, Archbishop of Canterbury and former oil executive Justin Welby announced a three-month sabbatical last November to enjoy a time of "spiritual renewal".

And whereas Southgate expects humility from his players, England's bishops were criticised last week for spending thousands of pounds on "lavish" homes, chauffeurs and gardeners.

More than 25 million people watched England win the semi-final. Less than a million attend church each week. With Gareth Southgate in charge, could these figures turn around?

Should Gareth Southgate's next job be Archbishop of Canterbury?

Why not, ask some. Gareth Southgate has shown all the qualities we look for in a religious leader: grace, humility, kindness, strength and unending faith. Over the past month, he has inspired not only the England squad but an entire nation. He works to promote inclusion and equality, and sparks debate on ethical issues. The church would be lucky to have him.

This is an absurd suggestion, say others. Gareth Southgate has never shown any sign of wanting to give up football to train as a priest. He is already in the perfect role: football manager. It is a job suited to his sporting brilliance and steady personality. Making him the next Archbishop of Canterbury is just as ridiculous an idea as the youth coach who suggested he become a travel agent.