Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler understands why so many in the current England squad are huge fans of manager Gareth Southgate.

Unlike the previous few England bosses, it appears that Southgate has found the right balance between a relaxed attitude and a strict approach to the game.

And Fowler is a fan of what Southgate has achieved with the national team so far.

Fowler told the Mirror: "Gareth Southgate has got it right – on and off the pitch.

"One of the big things about this incredible England run to the semi-final is that it hasn't ever been about the manager, or about the petty rules and discipline of previous regimes.

"For that, Southgate needs huge praise.

"Let's face it, no one wanted him as England manager when Sam Allardyce went, no one believed he had the track record or quality as a coach to qualify him for the job.

"I am so glad to say he's proved all those critics wrong.

"Sometimes, it isn't always about coaching skills. Sometimes, it is about your knowledge in certain situations and in building teams and team spirit.

"The last time England were like this was at Euro '96, when Terry Venables gave the players respect as adults, and let us breathe, which took the pressure off, and created a spirit which hasn't been seen again in the national team until this summer."