IT seems implausible, but Eccleshill United, who play in the Toolstation Northern Counties East League Premier Division, and the Three Lions have an unlikely bond, thanks to the close friendship of their respective managers.

Gareth Southgate cemented his status as the nation's hero this summer, for his fashion sense and the small matter of leading England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990.

Memories are fading a month on from the Three Lions' Russian revolution, but Eccleshill manager Sean Regan will always hold Southgate in high regard.

The pair have a long-standing friendship, and Regan explained: "We came across each other in 2012 when we did our UEFA A licence coaching badge together.

"We stayed with one another while we were doing the course and what everyone saw at the World Cup, that's just how he is. We still text each other regularly."

Asked for his thoughts on what makes Southgate so popular with his players, Regan enthused: "He's a really positive guy, but he's genuine and honest with his sides too.

"Ultimately he's realistic with his expectations and is willing to make any necessary sacrifices. All of those qualities combined are what makes him such a success.

"You can see why he had such a good period in charge of England's Under-21 side before he took the senior job."

The contrast in the roles of the two men is stark, with Southgate's next assignment seeing England take on Spain at Wembley on September 8 in the inaugural UEFA Nations League.

Meanwhile, Regan's charges face an FA Vase First Round Qualifying tie at home to Hebburn Town next Saturday.

They are not in action this weekend in the FA Cup, having lost 1-0 to Congleton Town in the extra preliminary round on August 11.

However, they did secure a hard-earned point in league action on Wednesday night, picking up a 0-0 home draw against Garforth Town.

Goalkeeper Dom Smith starred for the Eagles, pulling off a string of incredible saves to preserve his clean sheet. However, the hosts almost snatched victory, after Ryan Hargreaves rattled the crossbar in the last minute.