Gareth Southgate as an example of a unifying force

Sir, – Finn McRedmond’s reflection on Keir Starmer’s insipidity is intriguing (“Ireland is missing a unifying force like Gareth Southgate”, Opinion & Analysis, July 18th). Effective governance demands more than just charm; it requires practical solutions and fiscal responsibility. Charisma may win some votes but it doesn’t balance the books. – Yours, etc,

ENDA CULLEN,

Armagh.

Sir, – I think Finn McRedmond overplays the idea of Gareth Southgate as a unifying figure. This is a man who was bombarded with plastic beer cups by his own fans. His England teams stumbled through tournaments but never had any idea of how to win them in the end. – Yours, etc,