Gareth Southgate has Tube station renamed after him as England return from Russia

Southgate Tube station is being temporarily renamed Gareth Southgate station from this morning in honour of the England manager.

Transport for London (TfL) announced it is changing the Piccadilly line stop’s name for 48 hours to commemorate England’s unexpectedly successful World Cup campaign.

The signage on the platforms, ticket hall and outside of the Grade II listed station are all being changed to reflect its temporary re-christening.

Mr Southgate became an unlikely national hero as he led the Three Lions to their first World Cup semi-final in almost three decades.

The 47-year-old endeared himself to the country with his calm and understated demeanour away from the pitch and effusive touchline goal celebrations.

He also became an unsuspecting fashion influencer as sales of his trademark Marks & Spencer navy three-piece suit rocketed during in the tournament.

Mark Wild, Managing Director of London Underground, said: “The great performance of the England team this summer brought people of all ages together in celebration.

“We’re delighted to be able to show our appreciation to Gareth and the team by renaming the station in his honour.”

In contrast to the national adulation he has enjoyed, Mr Southgate has kept the team’s return from Russia a low-key affair, eschewing suggestions of a homecoming parade.

As the team touched down yesterday at Birmingham airport, following their 2-0 defeat to Belgium in the Third Place play-off on Saturday, the FA thanked fans for their “unbelievable support” but said there were no plans for a public reception for the team.