England has announced that Lee Carsley will take over as interim coach of the national team following the departure of Gareth Southgate. Carsley, who currently manages England's under-21 team, will lead the senior squad in their upcoming Nations League matches against Ireland and Finland in September.
The English Football Association expressed gratitude to Carsley for stepping up while the recruitment process for a permanent coach continues. Southgate left his position after eight years, culminating in England's 2-1 loss to Spain in the European Championship final in July. Southgate had previously been promoted from the under-21s to the senior role in 2016, achieving notable success with the team.
Carsley, a 50-year-old former international player for Ireland, guided England's under-21 team to victory in the European Championship last year. He has also coached England's under-20 team and had managerial stints at clubs like Coventry, Brentford, and Birmingham in the lower leagues of English soccer.
Carsley expressed his honor at leading the England squad and emphasized his familiarity with the players and international football cycles. His primary focus is on ensuring continuity for the team and aiming for promotion in the UEFA Nations League.
The FA's plan is for Carsley to remain in the interim position throughout the autumn, with other potential candidates for the permanent role including Eddie Howe and Graham Potter. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola dismissed speculation linking him to the England job, stating his contentment at City.
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