With figures from 2016 showing that just over 33% of players in the Premier League are eligible for the national team, Southgate is hoping that more of the England youngsters who have enjoyed such a successful summer get their chance in the top-flight this coming season.
"It's key, you can have the best education system going but if people don't have the opportunity to display what they can do, then it's difficult for them to develop onto the next bit," said Southgate this week, speaking at an FA sponsor event in Milton Keynes.
This summer, however, has seen English players such as Kyle Walker command a premium in the transfer market, the perceived shortage leading to a vicious cycle as clubs continue to look elsewhere for their signings.
But there are signs of life for Southgate as the likes of Nathaniel Chalobah (Watford), Harry Maguire (Leicester City) and Jacob Murphy (Newcastle United) could all be regulars for their respective teams this coming season after moving on and Chalobah in particular is already being tipped for a place in the next senior squad.
The midfielder is a player who is well-known to the England set-up but who needs to be seen playing in the Premier League on a regular basis to make it to that next level.