Gareth Southgate knighted in King's 2025 New Year Honours List

FA Chair Debbie Hewitt MBE said: “On behalf of us all at the Football Association, I congratulate Sir Gareth on this richly-deserved honour. Throughout his career in the game as a player, coach and change-maker, he has embodied the best of English football.

“One of our greatest ever managers, Sir Gareth’s remarkable coaching achievements across four major tournaments include two successive EURO finals, equalling our best-ever men’s World Cup performance away from home and being ranked in the world’s top five for more than five years.

“Off the field, he brought our fans closer than ever to the team, stood up for what he believed in and inspired players to share his pride in representing England. It has been a privilege to know the man and the manager.

"All of us who have experienced his thoughtfulness, dedication and leadership are delighted with this wonderful news.”

There was also recognition for a number of grassroots football volunteers in the List, with an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for Ronald Westerman, founder of the Midlincs County Youth Football League, for his services to sport.

And there are British Empire Medals (BEM) for Michael Alden (football coach and manager of Park Knowle Football Club) and Michael Perrin (president, Melksham Town Football Club) for services to grassroots football and to the community in Bristol and Melksham respectively.

Rachel Davies (coach and volunteer, Altrincham Football Club) and Ian Walker (secretary, Rotherham Community Football Club) are also awarded BEMs for services to sport and their local community.

Both Dawn Astle, daughter of former player Jeff Astle, and Penelope Watson, wife of former England captain Dave Watson, have been awarded an MBE for their services to dementia care in football.

Other individuals from the world of football to be recognised in the 2025 list include former West Ham, Everton and Manchester United manager David Moyes (OBE, services to association football), former Liverpool and Scotland player and broadcaster Alan Hansen (MBE, services to association football and broadcasting) and John Nixon (former Trust Chair of the EFL for services to association football).

"We would also like to congratulate the other members of the football family that have been recognised and rewarded in the New Year Honours List,” added Hewitt.

“This includes David Moyes, Alan Hansen, John Nixon, Dawn Astle, Penny Watson, Ronald Westerman, Michael Alden, Rachel Davies, Michael Perrin and Ian Walker."