FA identify Gareth Southgate replacement if he quits England

A leading contender has emerged

Should Southgate step down, it is reported that there will be huge interest in the highly sought-after job.

Currently, the England boss is taking time to evaluate the situation before making any final decision on his future.

The Football Association would like him to stay on past his contract expiry, which is currently in December.

However, if Southgate was to leave, the FA chief executive Mark Bullingham and technical director John McDermott would instantly need to look for a replacement.

One of those names that would rank highly on any potential shortlist is Newcastle United's Eddie Howe.

Previously linked with the post, Howe has done a terrific job at the Toon Army, guiding the North East giants out of the relegation zone to the Champions League prior to this in a short period of time.

Other candidates include Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel and under-21 manager Lee Carsley.

FA face hurdles to appoint Howe

Despite the mass appeal of the England job, Howe would have to take a significant pay cut if he was to give up his Newcastle reign and move to the Three Lions.

It is reported that Southgate earns around £5million-a-year, which is a level at which a typical bottom-half Premier League club would pay.

Another option however that could materialise is Graham Potter, who has been out of work for a year.

Potter previously held talks with Ajax and did not jump at the chance of a Brighton return, however would reportedly be seriously interested in the Three Lions job.