Gareth Southgate believes the speed in which he has been installed as England’s interim manager could prove crucial ahead of their upcoming qualifiers.

The 46-year-old has spent the last three years coaching the under-21s and his progress in the role had led to suggestions he could be considered to take over the full squad after their disastrous Euro 2016 campaign.

However, he has now been placed in charge for the Three Lions’ next four games following Sam Allardyce’s departure earlier this week.

Southgate won 57 caps for his country, travelling to four major tournaments during his playing days with the national team.

He himself has said it is too early in his managerial career to coach England but he will now guide them through October’s qualifiers against Malta and Slovenia, before also overseeing November’s Group F clash with Scotland and their friendly at home to Spain.

Despite the gloom surrounding the squad following the departure of two managers in quick succession, Southgate feels the speed in which he has been put in place can give some much-needed stability to what he believes is an extremely talented group of players.

“The future is certainly bright for this England team,” he said. “It’s obviously been a difficult situation for the FA but it was important that there was some stability and continuity for everybody.

“So, from my point of view, it was important to step forward and give us the best possible chance to win these games. “I’m looking forward to the challenge and I’m confident that we can get good results.

We have an excellent group of players.” England are currently the 1.18 favourites to top Group F, with Slovakia their nearest rivals at 11.00.