Arise Sir Gareth! Southgate portrait unveiled ahead of England fixture

A portrait of Gareth Southgate was revealed outside Wembley Stadium to celebrate his eight years as England manager.

The painting was commissioned by Ladbrokes after research by the bookmaker revealed that 44% of football fans want to see Southgate knighted for his efforts as manager of the Three Lions.

The portrait, created by artist Quentin Devine, depicts Gareth Southgate against a familiar background of vivid red hues, wearing his iconic waistcoat with a Knight Bachelor medal. The canvas – approximately 1.5 metres by 1m metre – is completed with an ornate black frame.

Alex Apati from Ladbrokes says: “It’s almost eight years since Gareth Southgate began as manager of the Three Lions, and after transforming the national team’s fortunes, our research shows that 44% of the nation thinks he deserves a knighthood. Quentin Devine did an amazing job at capturing his iconic look and we’re sure King Charles will appreciate the deep red palette if he does decide to honour him in the new year.”

Artist Quentin Devine who created the painting says: “I’m sure he’ll be honoured this year. Even if he never brought it home, he did give the country hope. I really enjoyed the creative challenge set by Ladbrokes.”

Research by the bookmakers also found that 31% of England fans thought that Southgate was the greatest England manager, just behind Sir Alf Ramsey who was voted the greatest manager with 33% of the vote. 27% thought Bobby Robson was the best.

The only other England managers to have received knighthoods were Alf Ramsey, for winning the World Cup in 1966, and Bobby Robson.