Steve Holland makes decision on Man Utd role if Gareth Southgate is appointed boss
Steve Holland was Gareth Southgate's sidekick throughout their time at England but the assistant manager is now keen to step out alone as he waits for an opportunity
by Samuel Meade · The MirrorSteve Holland is looking to land himself a job as a manager - even if Gareth Southgate lands another role.
The England assistant was alongside Southgate for eight years before their relationship came to an end following the Euro 2024 final. Both men are now weighing up their next moves with the former Three Lions boss a man in demand following his international exploits.
Southgate often gave Holland huge credit, but the ex-Chelsea No 2 is now keen on going out on his own. He is looking to challenge himself with a Championship job - or potentially a struggling Premier League outfit - on his radar.
It would leave Southgate seeking a new assistant if he were to return to the dugout. Even if Manchester United came calling The Sun understands that Holland would still choose to step out on his own.
Southgate first met Holland when he was at Chelsea, where he first saw his reputation rise, and the ex-England boss has been hugely complimentary about his ex-assistant throughout his tenure.
He said previously: “We developed an understanding and relationship that I think has been a huge friendship as well as a working relationship. He’s someone I trust entirely, whose opinions and views on football are aligned with mine, whose values as a person are at a really high level and his attention to detail around doing the job are an example to any coach at any level.
“I think he would be the most successful coach in English football or English coach, I can’t think of anyone else who has won the things he has won or had his experience at club and international level. He's a top operator. Without his experiences, his approach, his thoughtfulness and the quality of his work, would we have had the journey we have had in the last five years with the seniors and the U21s?"
Southgate's commitment to Holland was underlined when he backed his assistant amid a reported feud with Ben White. The Arsenal man was part of the World Cup squad but chose to go home early when he allegedly clashed with Holland during a training session.
He said: "People can talk about me and I have to accept that things get said that are false, about me. For whatever reason in this role, you have to stomach that. But I’m not prepared for that to happen to a key member of my coaching team. That is not the reason Ben is not available for selection."
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