Interim England boss Lee Carsley says the Three Lions need “to make sure we get the job done” and beat the Republic of Ireland to earn promotion back to the top tier of the Nations League.
Carsley will take charge of his sixth and final match in his temporary spell as manager before Thomas Tuchel takes over at the start of 2025.
England beat Greece 3-0 in Athens on Thursday and will win Group B2 if they defeat Ireland at Wembley on Sunday (kick-off 17:00 GMT), with Carsley then set to return to his position in charge of the under-21s.
“In terms of the future, my priority is making sure we get the job done,” said Carsley. “We are fully respectful of Ireland and the strengths they have, so we have to make sure we approach the game properly.”
England will be without Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa after he suffered a hip injury against Greece and has returned to his club.
“He has been assessed by the medical team,” added Carsley on Saturday. “The scan results are back and now he’ll go back to Villa this afternoon. We won’t take any risk on any of the players so, apart from Ezri, we’re in good condition.”
After starting on the bench against Greece, England captain Harry Kane will return to lead the attack.
“It’s not the first time I have been a sub for England,” said the Bayern Munich striker. “Since Lee has been in charge, I have only played one game per camp.
“I always want to start every game, I have never shied away from that. We’re in a tough stage of the season.
“But whenever called upon, I will always give my all for the team, whether it’s off the bench or starting, I will always give my ultimate effort.”