Jordan Pickford and Harry Maguire lead England stars' tributes to Gareth Southgate as the Three Lions boss steps down as manager after eight years in charge

England players have paid tribute to Gareth Southgate following his resignation as Three Lions manager .

Southgate confirmed on Tuesday that he had left his role, coming less than 48 hours after his side had lost against Spain in the final of Euro 2024 in their hunt for a first major trophy since 1966.

The FA, meanwhile, have confirmed the process is underway to appoint Southgate's successor as England manager, with an 'interim solution' in place in case a boss is not appointed for the September internationals.

The outpour of emotion has begun on social media, however, with a number of England players thanking Southgate for his work in charge of the side.

Jordan Pickford , who started all seven of England's games at Euro 2024 and has made all 68 of his caps under Southgate, led the tributes, as he wished his now-former coach all the best for the future.

'Completely gutted,' Pickford wrote on social media. 'This will hurt for a while. Appreciate everyone who supported us during the tournament and I'd like to thank all my teammates and staff for their work throughout.

'I also want to say a special thank you to the boss for always believing in me during his time with us and I would like to wish him all the best in his next steps. Thank you Gareth.'

He also shared a photo of himself alongside Southgate on his Instagram story, accompanied by: 'Thank you Gareth.'

Maguire, who missed Euro 2024 through injury, meanwhile, wrote: 'You made us all believe again - memories that will last forever. Thankyou boss.'

Declan Rice added: 'Thank you Gaffer. It's been a privilege to play for England under your guidance. Memories that will stay with me forever. All the best in your next adventure.'

Jude Bellingham reshared a graphic posted by England reading: 'Thank you Gareth' on his Instagram story. Kobbie Mainoo did the same.

Bellingham later added: 'I'd like to thank Gareth and his staff for the great memories during his tenure. From the point of view of a fan who has become a member of the squad, it's been a rollercoaster of amazing emotions that has instilled hope and joy back into our country.

'It was a privilege being lead by someone who is so dedicated and passionate, not only is Gareth easily one of the best coaches in the history of the national team but also an unbelievable human being. Thank you for everything and all the best in the next chapter, Gaffer.'

In total, Southgate took charge of 102 games as England manager, picking up an average of 2.08 points per game, per Sofascore.

His side scored an average of 2.25 goals per game, conceded 0.84 per game and the 53-year-old won 63 per cent of his matches in charge since taking over in 2016.

He took England to two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final during his time in charge.