England boss Gareth Southgate says the rumours linking him with the Manchester United job are “completely disrespectful”.
The former Aston Villa and Crystal Palace defender is preparing his squad for two friendlies against Brazil and Belgium during the international break ahead of Euro 2024.
But Southgate is having to field questions about his future as reports suggested he is being considered as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag, who has come under pressure at Old Trafford this season.
The 53-year-old, however, said at his pre-match press conference he would “never entertain” talks with clubs while he is the Three Lions manager.
Southgate, who is contracted with the FA until the end of the year, has put a hold on negotiations over a new deal until after this summer’s tournament.
“My focus is the European Championship,” he said. “If we did a contract here before then everybody would be saying: ‘Why are you signing a contract before a Euros where you’ve got to prove yourself?’ I’m certainly not going to speak to anyone else, I never have, I’ve been eight years in the job and would never entertain speaking to anyone else while I’m in a job.”
Southgate dismissed the rumours linking him with the Man United job while he is still in charge of England and Ten Hag is in situ at the club.
“There are two things from my point of view,” he said. “Firstly, I am the England manager and I have got one job, basically, to try and deliver a European Championship. Clearly, before that, two important games this week. And the second thing is Manchester United have a manager.
“I think it is always completely disrespectful when there is any speculation about a manager who is in place. I am president of the LMA (League Managers Association) so I don’t have any time for that sort of thing.”
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