It is a new era for Ireland as Heimir Hallgrimsson begins his reign in charge when England come to town in the UEFA Nations League.
Their group opener against England will be all about the man in the dugout and from both perspectives after Gareth Southgate stepped down from the top job with the Three Lions.
Few had expected that Hallgrimsson – who famously steered Iceland to the Euro 2016 quarter-final by beating England – would be the man in charge of Ireland despite a long and tiresome wait for a new manager.
Stephen Kenny’s successor was not frequently linked to the role during the eight month search – with many Irish fans hoping that Lee Carsley would get the top job.
Carsley has built a fine reputation as a manager with the England U21s and would have been a progressive selection but the FAI were unable to convince him to sign up.
The former Ireland midfielder opted to remain within the England setup and that could soon pay dividends according to reports.
18 June 2020; England assistant coach Lee Carsley prior to the 2019 UEFA U21 Championships group C match between England and France at Dino Manuzzi in Cesena, Italy. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/UEFA via Sportsfile
Lee Carsley could manage England against Ireland in the Nations League
According to The Telegraph, Carsley could be entrusted with managing England when they return to action following their Euro 2024 final heartbreak.
It is reported that Carsley has been asked to follow in Southgate’s footsteps and leave his U21s duties to step up and take care of the senior team.
The FA had intended to have a new man permanently appointed in time for the Nations League, however their fixture away to Ireland on September 7th and at home to Finland on September 10th are fast-approaching.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has been linked with the role on a permanent basis, as had former Chelsea manager Graham Potter.
However, the FA’s recreuitment process is said to be still ongoing.
It could be a tough pill to swallow for a portion of Irish supporters if the man they wanted is to steer the ship for England when the sides meet this autumn.