Newcastle United player reveals contact with Gareth Southgate

Gareth Southgate is keeping a close eye on the progress Freddie Woodman is making at loan club Swansea City.

Southgate came up through the ranks at Crystal Palace alongside Woodman’s father Andy – and the England manager is the Newcastle United goalkeeper’s godfather.

"I think they said whoever has a kid first, the other would be godfather – and then I was born," Woodman told BBC Sport Wales. "I’ve got a few England shirts he gave me for birthdays growing up, but I haven't had a present for a few years. As you get older you get a WhatsApp instead."

Southgate messaged Woodman when he joined Championship club Swansea on a season-long loan in the summer.

"He was delighted, like everyone," said Woodman. "I don't speak to him as much these days, but I’d see him when I was away with England Under-21s. It was strictly professional – he helped me with my game.”