IN the moments after the semi final victory, pundit Gary Neville praised England manager Gareth Southgate.

"The standard of leaders in this country the past couple of years has been poor, looking at that man (Southgate), he’s everything a leader should be, respectful, humble, he tells the truth,” he said.

In other times maybe those comments could have been seen as controversial, but many agreed his dig at both the Prime Minister and other political leaders was spot on.

I'm writing this with no knowledge of the result of England men's biggest match in 55 years last night - but whatever has happened the team has made the country proud.

A lot of credit goes to the players, but also to the manager who has brought out the best of them.

Take for example Southgate's leadership over the players decision to take the knee.

He explained the reasons, and said his team was united on it, all while some, including politicians, defended them being booed.

The same politicians now jumping on the bandwagon.

Putting it simply, Southgate has shown what real leadership is.