Gareth Southgate on course to be given knighthood in New Year Honours list

Southgate was handed an OBE when the Three Lions made the 2018 World Cup semis — but now a knighthood is in his grasp despite the pain of Sunday’s penalty shootout heartbreak against Italy.

Sources say the Prime Minister is “supportive” of the top honour after England’s first major final in 55 years.

Last night Johnson declared: “They made history. They lifted our spirits and they brought joy to this country — and I know they will continue to do so.

Like millions of people across this country I woke up sad and rueful but also filled with pride and hope.