Former Ireland international Lee Carsley named England interim manager
Carsley was believed to be the FAI's number one target to replace Stephen Kenny as Ireland manager
Former Republic of Ireland international Lee Carsley has been named England’s interim manager - and will come up against the Boys in Green in his first game in charge.
Carsley, who was believed to be the FAI's number one target to replace Stephen Kenny as Ireland manager, has been named in the role by the FA for the start of the Nations League campaign in September.
He will step up to replace Gareth Southgate, who brought his eight years in charge to an end after defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final last month.
A statement from the Football Association confirmed Carsley would lead England in the September matches away to Ireland and at home to Finland, but also suggested the 50-year-old could stay in charge throughout the autumn.
“Carsley will step up from his role in charge of the MU21s, initially for September’s fixtures away to Republic of Ireland and at home to Finland, but with a view to remaining in the position throughout autumn while the FA’s recruitment process for a new permanent head coach continues,” a statement read.
Birmingham-born Carsley represented Ireland as a player, but since his retirement has forged a respective coaching career and guided England’s Under-21s to Euros success last summer.
Carsley said: “It’s an honour to step up and lead this England squad on an interim basis.
“As I am very familiar with the players and the cycle of international football, it makes sense for me to guide the team while the FA continues the process to recruit a new manager.
“My main priority is to ensure continuity and our goal is to secure promotion in the UEFA Nations League.”
The former Derby and Everton midfielder has worked with England age-groups since 2020 and coached the likes of Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon at last summer’s Under-21 European Championship.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham added: “Lee is a fantastic coach who is well known to the majority of our current senior squad having worked with most at international or club level.
“He offers us a very strong interim solution and we are confident he will perform well in the UEFA Nations League games ahead.
“We are grateful to Lee for stepping up to manage the team while we continue with our recruitment process.”
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