SOUTHGATE YOU'RE THE ONE

Sports Personality of the Year 2018: Gareth Southgate wins SPOTY 2018 Coach of Year after England WC heroics

The 48-year-old guided the Three Lions to their first World Cup semi-final since 1990

GARETH SOUTHGATE has been crowned Coach of the Year at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year after leading England to the World Cup semi-final.

The Three Lions defied all expectations as they romped to the last four in Russia before suffering heartbreak against Croatia.

PA:Press Association
Gareth Southgate has been named SPOTY Coach of the Year

It was the first time since 1990 England had reached the semis, with Southgate only the third manager to lead the nation to that stage.

And that came on the back of England winning their first-ever World Cup penalty shoot-out against Colombia to reach the quarters.

Southgate, who was joined on stage by his striker and World Cup Golden Boot winner Harry Kane, said: “I’m incredibly proud to receive the award.

“If you win as a coach, it means your players have done something right.

PA:Press Association
Southgate inspired England’s stunning World Cup run

PA:Press Association
Gareth Southgate was all smiles for the camera on arrival at the awards ceremony

“We have an exceptional group of players, I have an incredible support team and this is a very special night for them.

“Ultimately, we didn’t quite win [the World Cup] and I’m conscious of that. Until we all win together then we won’t rest, we won’t sit back and be satisfied.

“Sport is about inspiring people, and we loved the journey with you.”

Southgate signed a new long-term contract to remain as England manager until the 2022 World Cup in October before capping off a memorable year by leading his side to qualification for the summer’s Nations League semi-finals.

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