Friday 11 November 2016 21:41, UK
Former England captain Terry Butcher has backed Gareth Southgate to land the England job on a permanent basis, claiming he would bring "dignity and class to the manager's position".
Southgate was asked to step up from his role as England Under-21 boss after Sam Allardyce's controversial exit in September.
The 46-year-old was tasked with overseeing four matches and his temporary spell in charge will come to an end following the upcoming fixtures against Scotland and Spain.
Speaking to Sky Sports News HQ from St George's Park, Butcher said: "I'd like to see him [Southgate] get the job on a permanent basis because he invited me to lunch today! But apart from that, I think he is the right man for the job.
"Without a shadow of a doubt, he has got the tactical knowledge to work with players and younger players especially.
"He has prepared England for tournaments and qualification matches, he's got good experience as a club manager and obviously his experience as a player is very good as well.
"I think he adds a bit of dignity and class to the England manager's position and the players like him as well. You can see that from the way they train and the mood around St George's Park," added the 57-year old.
Butcher, who won 77 senior caps for England, was assistant manager to George Burley in 2008 during Scotland's World Cup 2010 qualifying campaign.
Having represented the Three Lions on six occasions against Scotland during his international career, the former central defender knows only too well what it is like to face a home nation.
He said: "It still has the same appeal, particularly because it is a World Cup Qualifier. The previous two friendlies have been very competitive and intense but they've been just friendlies.
"I think when it comes to a World Cup Qualifier and all that is at stake, I think it heightens the importance of the game."
