The Football Association have outlined the qualities they want the new England manager to have as they step up their search for Gareth Southgate’s successor.

Southgate stood down as England boss after eight years in charge following their 2-1 defeat to Spain in the final of Euro 2024, admitting it was “time for a change”. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham has said they “aim to have our new manager confirmed as soon as possible” and they have now published a job profile, inviting applications for the role.

The FA have set a closing date of August 2 for applicants and reveals they have “already identified a number of candidates”, with the likes of Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino and Lee Carsley among the early favourites for the job.

However, the FA say they are open to anyone who matches their criteria, with the Southgate’s successor needing to “lead and develop the England senior men’s team to win a major tournament and be consistently ranked as one of the top teams in the world “.

They also want a manager who can “develop and maintain strong relationships with clubs who employ English qualified players”, has “significant experience of English football” and is an “exceptional leader”.

The profile notes the need for experience in “identifying, managing and developing English qualified players” and “creating a high performing, positive team culture and environment”. The FA are also after a figure who can “embrace the role that the England Men’s Senior Team Head Coach has inspiring the nation” like Southgate did.

Newcastle chief executive Darren Eales has warned England that a move for Howe will not be easy, stating: “He is exactly the right man for the project we are on and that is why we are committed to a long-term deal with him.

Eddie Howe and Graham Potter are among the early favourites to replace Southgate ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
“That’s why we think he’s the right man for Newcastle. This is the coach we want to lead the club for the future. He’s committed to the club in the work that he’s done and what he’s shown, and we’re obviously committed to him.

“We love him. It’s a multi-year deal and in those circumstances, like any employee from us, there will have to be compensation paid. We’re not looking to release Eddie for all the reasons I’ve spoken about.”

Potter, meanwhile, refused to be drawn when asked about the England job, but did admit he is “ready and looking forward to the next challenge” after taking a three-month break from management following his Chelsea sacking