‘I’d have Gareth as my assistant’

the William Hill Arms Pub. “But certainly a lot of the players that Gareth has picked on the basis of how much they have succeeded over the last two years, is something I would have done similar.

“But I don’t think I would have followed every one he has done. What he has done has been very, very successful up to now.

“The younger players who have stepped up and done well in the Premier League have then stepped up again and proved they could do well with the chances they have got with England. It leaves them with a very interesting squad.

“Even if I was still in charge, I would recognise that he is the one who knows better than anyone who are the ones who would be worth a look in the long term. I would certainly have him alongside to help.

“The key, as we all know, between success and failure has been the psychological barrier which England teams have failed to break down and perform at this level. That is the whole thing he has to look from.”

Allardyce says his input was too small for him to share any part of a successful campaign but has no qualms about setting the bar high for Southgate.

“Quarter-final would be a success,” he says. “We have not been there for a long time. Any less than that I would not call a ‘failure’ but it would definitely be a disappointment.” ●Sam Allardyce was speaking at the William Hill Arms in London, which will offer fans the ultimate England-watching experience, including expert analysis, plus free food and drink. England are 16-1 with William Hill to win the World Cup. #ThisIsMore