CRAWLEY Borough Council has hinted that Gareth Southgate may be given the freedom of the borough.

Last week, councillors in Yorkshire agreed to give the England manager the Freedom of Middlesbrough in recognition of the “joy” spread by his team at Euro 2020.

The manager guided his side to their first final in 55 years at the tournament.

The 50-year-old was born in Watford, grew up in Crawley and now lives in Harrogate.

Gareth, a former Middlesbrough captain and manager, was taken to the hearts of Teessiders after winning the only trophy in the clubs history - the 2004 League Cup.

At a full council meeting last week, councillors agreed to bestow him with the honour of the Freedom of Middlesbrough.

Councillors agreed a resolution which said: “After some of the most difficult and tragic 18 months this country has faced, this England football team led by Gareth Southgate has given everyone some much needed hope and joy.

“In difficult times, Gareth Southgate has united England with his unifying presence, leadership and quiet charisma.

“As a former captain and manager of Middlesbrough Football Club, Gareth has a unique connection with our town.

“This council believes it is fitting to award him the Freedom of the Borough.”

Gareth, who attended Pound Hill Junior School and Hazelwick School in Crawley, was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2019 New Year Honours for services to football.

A Crawley Borough Council spokeswoman declined to comment on whether Gareth would be given similar treatment in Crawley, but hinted that recognition of some sort was likely.

“The council is very keen to recognise the efforts of Gareth Southgate, given Crawley is the town he grew up in,” she said.

“The council is currently exploring a range of options as to how his efforts can be captured and celebrated.”