Gareth Southgate is to quit the Football Association after only 18 months, dashing hopes that the former defender would become the body’s new technical director.

Southgate is leaving is post as the FA’s head of elite development and has said he no longer wishes to be considered for the role of technical director.

Southgate said in a statement: “I’d like to place on record just how much I’ve enjoyed working at the FA over the past 18 months. It really has been an honour and a pleasure.”

FA general secretary Alex Horne admitted his disappointment at Southgate’s decision.

Horne said: “Gareth has made an outstanding contribution in supporting Sir Trevor Brooking and myself across various aspects of our football development work over the last 18 months.

“We’re disappointed, but understand his decision and would like to thank Gareth for his efforts and wish him well for the future.

“We continue to recruit for key technical positions within the FA at what is a very important and exciting time for the organisation, with the imminent opening of our new training centre at St George’s Park.”

Southgate played a leading role in bringing in significant changes to youth football, with smaller pitches, goals and team sizes until players reach the age of 13.

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