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How Gareth Southgate plans to help England manager Thomas Tuchel

Thomas Tuchel will take charge of England for the first time on Friday when they face Albania in a World Cup qualifier at Wembley, with Gareth Southgate planning to "stay out of the way"

Sir Gareth Southgate celebrates while England manager
(Image: PA Wire/PA Images)

Sir Gareth Southgate has revealed his plans to "stay out of the way" as Thomas Tuchel gears up for his debut match as England manager.

Tuchel is set to lead the team for the first time this Friday in a World Cup qualifier against Albania at Wembley, following his appointment as Southgate's successor back in October.

Former Aston Villa defender Southgate's eight-year reign came to an end last summer after England's defeat to Spain in the European Championship final, and he shared his experiences and reflections during The Richard Dimbleby Lecture on the BBC.

Gareth Southgate
Gareth Southgate(Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)

When quizzed by ex-Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein about any advice he might have for Tuchel, Southgate responded: "I've already decided, I think the best way I can help the next England manager is to stay out of the way."

He added: "Because you know how difficult the job is and you know that any comment you make can create a headline, can create more pressure for the person that's in post."

Jordan Henderson and Thomas Tuchel sharing a laugh at England's training ground
(Image: Getty Images)

Southgate continued: "I've had my time, I loved it, I'm not missing too much of it at the moment, but I think it's important I stay out of the way and allow Thomas to do his job."

Tuchel will also be in charge for Monday's match against Latvia at Wembley, with the German hoping to build on Southgate's success of leading England to two major finals.

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