I’ve known Southgate for 13 years — Ex-Super Eagles coach boasts about England boss with clear football ideas

Nigerian football legend Sunday Oliseh has heaped praise on England manager Gareth Southgate, revealing their 13-year friendship, after the Three Lions booked their place in the Euro 2024 final.

Oliseh, a former Super Eagles captain and coach, took to social media to share his admiration for Southgate, branding him a 'very decent human being with clear football ideas'.

The 49-year-old's comments came after England mounted another dramatic comeback to defeat the Netherlands 2-1 in Wednesday's semi-final clash.

Xavi Simons had given the Dutch the lead with a stunning first-half strike, but Harry Kane's penalty and a late winner from Ollie Watkins ensured Southgate's side secured their spot in the final.

And Oliseh was quick to lend his support to the England boss, who he has known for over a decade, writing:

The Nigerian legend responded to a post sarcastically highlighting criticism Southgate has faced, insisting:

Southgate has faced his fair share of scrutiny during his time in charge of the national team, but Oliseh's glowing endorsement will come as a major boost ahead of Sunday's showdown.

The Three Lions will be aiming to clinch their first European Championship title, having agonisingly lost to Italy on penalties in the final of Euro 2020.

But with the experienced Southgate at the helm, and the backing of a football icon like Oliseh, England will be confident of going one better this time around.