Watford’s Mayor has said he is “very happy” to talk to councillors about how Gareth Southgate could be honoured in the town.

Peter Taylor said the Watford born England manager, who guided the Three Lions to the Euro 2020 final this summer, showed “exemplary leadership” during the tournament and recognised the “fantastic contribution” made by Southgate.

He added that whilst a recognition like a Freeman of the Borough should be given to people who have done an "exceptional amount" for the town, he was happy to consider other ways of honouring the manager.

The Mayor made the comments during a full Watford Borough Council meeting on Monday after being asked by Labour councillor Dennis Watling to honour Southgate and include him as part of Watford’s cultural recognition strategy 2018-2025.

Cllr Watling, who did not call for Southgate to be given Freeman of the Borough, said during the meeting that the manager had led the country “fantastically during the Euros”, adding that he has “really spoken to the country and shown statesmanship”.

Read more - Labour to call for council to honour Watford born Gareth Southgate

Whilst England missed out on winning Euro 2020 by losing on penalties to Italy at Wembley Stadium, it was their first major men’s final in 55 years.

And under Southgate’s leadership the squad also reached the semi-final of the World Cup in 2018.

Responding to Cllr Watling, Mr Taylor said: “I of course recognise the fantastic contribution made by Gareth Southgate. His leadership has been exemplary. I am very happy to chat with councillors about how they feel we should recognise the England manager.

“I think it’s important that something like Freeman of the Borough is given to people who have done an exceptional amount for the town such as someone like Luther Blissett or Graham Taylor, but if there is other ways you feel we should recognise Gareth Southgate then I am happy to have those conversations with councillors.”

Southgate was born in Watford on September 3, 1970.

He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2019 New Year Honours for services to football.