The England boss has overseen impressive progress during his time in charge of the Three Lions but has often faced criticism for his selection and tactical choices and is no longer concerned about trying to keep outsiders happy.

Speaking ahead of his team's Euro 2024 qualifier with Malta on Friday (17.11.23), Southgate said: "Well, the reality of that is however well we play tomorrow people will just say it's a lower-ranked opponent, so it'll be irrelevant.

"People are going to have opinions. I'm probably tired of trying to fight that.

"In the end, it will be what it is. So, I'll just let our results and performances speak for themselves.

"You're never going to please everybody, so the best way as a football manager is keep winning matches, frankly."

The omission of Raheem Sterling from the squad despite several withdrawals has sparked lots of talk and Southgate explained that it was a tough decision to leave out the Chelsea star.

He said: "It's always difficult.

"Given the number of injuries and pull-outs, we've not had to make so many this time, but it's part of being a manager to make difficult calls.

"As a player, you never agreed with a manager's decision to leave you out but you only hope you do it in as respectful a way as possible, with constructive points so they can go away and work on things. We're blessed to have so much depth in certain positions.

"You always have to adapt as you never know what's going to come your way. We've lost more players than normal - and there are some long-term injuries too - but there are opportunities for those coming in. We're looking for the right balance from the qualities we have but also have the right structure behind that."