‘Thank you, Gaffer’ – Jude Bellingham responds to Gareth Southgate departure with emotional statement as Jordan Pickford left gutted

Gareth Southgate has been hailed as a 'unbelievable human being' with England stars posting a number of tributes to him.

The 53-year-old announced his resignation as England manager on Tuesday, less than two days after the Three Lions lost the Euro 2024 final 2-1 to Spain.

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It marks the end of his eight-year spell as manager, a tenure that saw him totally rebuild both the national team's connection with fans and the togetherness of the squad itself.

He also led them to a World Cup semi-final, as well as two major finals, Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.

Now, the stars that played under him during his 102 games in charge have began to send their messages of thanks for the role he played in their international careers.

In his first statement since the Euro 2024 final heartbreak, midfielder Jude Bellingham wrote on Instagram: "Still trying to process the final but the overriding feelings are sadness and disappointment.

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"The fact is that we came up against a great opponent and fell short, it hurts that we were so close to history and yet couldn’t deliver for the England fans that backed us throughout the highs and lows of the tournament whether that was from back home or out in Germany in the stadiums.

"For that we can only hold our hands up and apologise. Being in such a tight bubble for so long means that sometimes it’s easier to get caught up in the negatives of playing at a major tournament but some of the atmospheres and celebrations I witnessed were a constant reminder of the love you guys have for this team, those images will live with me forever and I couldn’t be more thankful for that.

"I’m sure the aftermath will be intense but please understand that this group of players and every single member of staff gave absolutely everything to try and make our dreams come true.

"Whilst it’s frustrating to keep writing in this manner after tournaments I genuinely believe that this team, using these heartbreaking experiences, has the potential to finally get over the line and bring silverware back to England at some point. Until then, stick with us and continue to support the lads like you have done for so long.

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"Finally, I’d like to thank Gareth and his staff for the great memories during his tenure. From the point of view of a fan who has become a member of the squad, it’s been a rollercoaster of amazing emotions that has instilled hope and joy back into our country.

"It was a privilege being lead by someone who is so dedicated and passionate, not only is Gareth easily one of the best coaches in the history of the national team but also an unbelievable human being. Thank you for everything and all the best in the next chapter, Gaffer."

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who has been between the sticks for every major tournament under Southgate, thanked the former Middlesbrough boss for 'always believing in him'.

The Everton glovesman wrote: "Completely gutted. This will hurt for a while. Appreciate everyone who supported us during the tournament and I’d like to thank all my teammates and staff for their work throughout.

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"I also want to say a special thank you to the boss for always believing in me during his time with us and I would like to wish him all the best in his next steps. Thank you Gareth."

Meanwhile, Arsenal and England midfielder Declan Rice thanked Southgate for all the memories they'd created together.

"Thank you Gaffer. It's been a privilege to play for England under your guidance," he wrote on Instagram.

"Memories that will stay with me forever. All the best in your next adventure."

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talkSPORT understands Eddie Howe would consider an offer from the Football Association to become England manager.

The Newcastle boss is one of the leading contenders to take over, as are Under-21s boss Lee Carsley, ex-Chelsea and Brighton boss Graham Potter and Argentine Mauricio Pochettino.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti has been tipped to be a good successor for Southgate by talkSPORT's Adrian Durham.