Southgate’s in-tray

Gareth Southgate has been named England’s new permanent manager.

The former defender succeeds Sam Allardyce having steered England to two wins and two draws during his interim spell in charge.

From sorting Wayne Rooney’s international future to hatching a long-term plan for success, here’s Southgate’s in-tray…

Rooney situation

The Rooney conundrum was already an issue for Southgate. He won praise for benching the out-of-form forward against Slovenia in October and then re-instating the national team captain when he saw him to be sharper and more confident ahead of the win over Scotland.

But Rooney’s late-night antics in the wake of that victory caused a media storm. Jamie Redknapp told Sky Sports the player had given his manager a major problem and Southgate will need to find a solution. “Everyone is going to be looking at Gareth Southgate, saying ‘what are you going to do about this now?'” said Redknapp. “Does he leave Rooney – his captain – out of his next squad if he gets the permanent role?

“If he doesn’t pick Rooney for the next round of internationals in March, I don’t think Rooney could really complain. However, if Southgate did decide to make a statement, leave him out of the squad and then find further down the line we have injuries to forwards and Rooney is bang in form, it could end up being a sticky situation.” Southgate may just hope the furore has died down by March.

Harness Stones’ style

Southgate has publicly stated his appreciation for the style of play John Stones is trying to employ in England’s defence but has had to warn the Manchester City centre-back about his decision making.

“If we’re to be different, if we’re to progress, then we have to encourage …

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