Gareth Southgate happy with new Crystal Palace academy

Gareth Southgate, who was a product of the club's academy, officially opened the new academy base in Copers Cope Road on Thursday.

"Without Crystal Palace, none of my journey happens. I had 10 years here and it is an amazing football club," the Three Lions boss said at the opening.

"I am conscious there are people here who have had longer and more illustrious careers than I have, Patrick (Vieira) and Roy (Hodgson) in particular, and people who over the years have spent a lot more time dedicating their lives to Crystal Palace.

"My journey was a little bit different so what I can say is for me everything started here as a 14-year-old schoolboy.

"Hopefully that gives lads in the academy, parents and people who work here belief that you can start here and have an international career with England. And frankly if I can end up in charge of the national team anything is possible!"