Former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate has said that he believes rows about flying St George’s flag could impact the “unity” of the country.
Sir Gareth insisted that there is more to “bond us all than separates us” as he was pressed on his thoughts on the flags and whether they should be proudly displayed.
The comments come amid a growing debate of what hanging the St George’s flag stands, with many believing that it has become a “racist symbol”.
Meanwhile, many people believe raising the flag is a symbol of patriotism.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Sir Gareth said: “I worry about unity. I've seen what we did with the team [England] to unify every community.
"I do think there's more that bonds us all than separates us. We should try and focus more on what brings us together than what separates us.
“At any point in history there will always be some disunity under the surface and life is tough economically for lots of people.
“So I understand why people are disaffected but there is so much more.”
The ex-footballer went on to say that the nation “should focus more on what brings us together”.
Last month, former England and Manchester United defender Gary Neville split the nation as he claimed “angry middle-aged white men” are dividing the UK by raising Union flags.
The pundit made the comments a day after two men were killed during a terror attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall, Greater Manchester.
During his BBC interview, Sir Gareth also revealed he is in no rush to return to management.
The 55-year-old, who has recently written a book called Dear England: Lessons in Leadership, has been out of work since resigning as England manager after the Three Lions lost the Euro 2024 final.
Despite being linked to several high profile roles in football, including as Manchester United manager, Sir Gareth added that he was “not desparate to stay in football”.
