Next months UEFA Nations League clash between Ireland and England at the Aviva Stadium is set to be a unique occasion. Not only will it be the first competitive meeting between the sides since 1991, but it will also see a former Irish international manage against his old team.
Lee Carsley has been appointed as the interim head coach of England, taking over the team on a temporary basis after the departure of Gareth Southgate. The fixture in Dublin will be his first time charge of the side.
Of course, had things turned out a little differently, Carsley might well have been in the home dugout for that fixture. It was widely suggested that he was the FAI’s first choice to replace Stephen Kenny as Ireland manager, although he ultimately opted against taking the role.
Now, he is preparing to take on his former team.
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Lee Carsley: England Appointment As Important As Ireland Career
Lee Carsley named his first England squad this afternoon, with four uncapped players among the group.
Speaking at his squad announcement press conference, he was inevitably asked about coming up against the team he earned 40 caps for as a player. He said that while he is proud of his Irish roots, he is looking forward to the challenge that awaits him in Dublin when he arrives there in his new role.
It was a real proud part of my career. 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland is something that I’m proud of.
I’m as equally proud of today. Being named interim manager/ head coach of England is a massive achievement and something that I don’t underestimate but I’m definitely proud of my heritage.
I was back in Cork in the summer at a family reunion so it was good timing to go back and see so many family. I’m really looking forward to the game in Dublin. I think it’s going to be a brilliant occasion, a proud moment.
Obviously I’ve not been back to Dublin for awhile in terms of from a footballing point of view, but it’s a match that I’m really motivated for. I cannot wait to get there.
Lee Carsley is in the running for the England job on a permanent basis, with Gareth Southgate having gone down a similar route as U21 manager before taking over the senior team.
A strong Nations League campaign would certainly help in this regard, starting with that game against Ireland. With the home side also boasting a new manager in Hemir Hallgrimsson, it should make for an intriguing contest.
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