London Underground station temporarily named after Gareth Southgate in recognition of his achievement

GARETH Southgate has had a London underground tube station temporarily named after him following his heroics in Russia during which he led England to fourth place in the just-concluded World Cup.

Regarded as a perennial under-achieving team, England has not reached the semi finals of the World Cup since 1990 but Mr Southgate has managed to match that feat. as a result, his forename has been added to signage on the platforms, in the ticket hall and outside the Grade II-listed Southgate station, in Enfield, north London, which will remain Gareth Southgate station for 48 hours.

After a series of disappointing England performances at major tournaments, expectations were low for Southgate’s young and inexperienced team in Russia. However, they defied the gloomy predictions by finishing fourth after reaching the semi-finals, equalling their best performance at a World Cup not held in England.

Southgate was praised for trusting in youth, creating a relaxed atmosphere that allowed the players to thrive and for his now famous waistcoats. Prime Minister Theresa May has praised his leadership and wants to host a reception for the England team at Downing Street over the coming weeks.

Mark Wild, the managing director of London Underground at Transport for London, said: “The great performance of the England team this summer brought people of all ages together in celebration. We’re delighted to be able to show our appreciation to Gareth and the team by renaming the station in his honour.”

Already, the French team who lifted the trophy after a 4-2 victory over Croatia in the final yesterday have been honoured in similar fashion on the Paris Métro. Operator, RATP, said it had changed the names of six Paris subway stations.

They include Notre-Dame des Champs, renamed Notre Didier Deschamps in honour of the team’s manager and Charles de Gaulle-Étoile, now named On a 2 Étoiles (We Have Two Stars), for the number of times France have now won the World Cup. Goalkeeper Victor Hugo Lloris has also had a station named after him and another has been rechristened Bercy les Bleus.