Roy Keane and Ian Wright have both given their seal of approval to Lee Carsley, who has been appointed as England’s interim head coach. Carsley, 50, will take charge of the team for their next two fixtures in September, and possibly a third in October.
Keane, speaking on ITV alongside Wright, wished Carsley luck and said he was “in prime position” to become the next full-time manager of the senior men’s national team. Wright also gave his backing, saying that Carsley’s appointment would be “very deserved” given his success with the England U21s.
Carsley has been the men’s U21 head coach since July 2021 and led the Young Lions to their first UEFA U21 European Championship since 1984 last year. He has also been involved in the men’s senior team’s last three major tournaments, supporting in a wider technical role.
As a player, Carsley made 340 top-flight appearances and won 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland, including playing at the 2002 FIFA World Cup. He has extensive experience at club level, having worked closely with the first teams at Coventry City, Sheffield United, Brentford, Manchester City, and Birmingham City.
The FA released a statement saying that Carsley had been given the job on an interim basis, and will take charge of England for their next two fixtures in September, and likely a third in October. The Three Lions will play away to the Republic of Ireland on September 7, and then at home to Finland on September 10, on match days one and two of the Nations League, respectively.
Keane and Wright both said that the forthcoming games are Carsley’s opportunity to stake a claim for the job permanently. “Timing is key for any manager to get an opportunity,” Keane said. “With the games coming up, you’d expect England to win them both, so he’s in prime position to get the job.”
Wright concurred, urging Carsley to draw inspiration from both Southgate’s career as England manager, and his own success managing the men’s U21s. “Just like the players, you play at that level to try and get to the very top. Why shouldn’t he do that?” Wright said.
Carsley’s appointment has been met with widespread approval, with many praising his experience and success with the U21s. As he takes charge of the senior team, he will be hoping to make a strong case for himself to become the next full-time manager.
Lee Carsley (centre) has been appointed England’s interim head coach into Autumn
Roy Keane (left) and Ian Wright (right) have given the former England U21s boss their backing
Speaking on pundit duty for ITV, Keane said Carsley was in ‘prime position’ for the job full-time
Carlsey led England U21s to their first UEFA European Championship since 1984, last year
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