Chelsea have reportedly ruined the England national team's succession plan after appointing Graham Potter as Thomas Tuchel's replacement.
The former Brighton and Hove Albion boss was unveiled as Chelsea's new head coach, and took charge of his side for the first time as they drew 1-1 with FC Salzburg in the Champions League.
However, Potter faces a long wait for his first Premier League clash as Blues head coach, with the passing of Queen Elizabeth III seeing several matches rescheduled.
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Therefore, Potter will take to the dugout in the Premier League as Chelsea boss for the first time in October when Chelsea face Crystal Palace.
Tuchel's dismissal came as a surprise to Blues fans, but the ownership were quick to replace the German with Potter.
They will now look to build to a future with the Englishman, who has shown his quality in management, most recently on the south coast.
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It has now been revealed that Chelsea's decision to appoint Potter has had an impact on the England national team.
With the World Cup coming up and form declining, current England boss Southgate's future has been thrown into doubt.
It is widely thought that the tournament could be his last in charge of the national team, and that England had already shortlisted potential replacements.
As reported by The Telegraph, Potter sat at the top of this list.
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The now-Chelsea boss was seen as the leading candidate for the job, with the Football Association focused on making him the next England manager.
However, it is believed that the 47-year-old preferred the opportunity to manager a big club over taking over the national side.
Chelsea have since secured his services on a five-year deal and Potter will no doubt be looking for a long and successful spell at Stamford Bridge.
Southgate's contract with England extends until after the World Cup, but The Telegraph continued to report that while the FA will not sack Southgate, he may consider his future.
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If the national team boss decides to depart, England will have to look elsewhere as Potter settles in to life at Chelsea.
The Englishman could manage his country in the future, but for now he will look for success under Chelsea's new ownership.
The Blues are back in action after the international break, facing Crystal Palace on October 1.
Topics: Chelsea, Graham Potter, Gareth Southgate, Football, England
Nick Emms