Carsley hails Southgate and says he is ‘privileged’ to be named England interim boss | OneFootball

Lee Carsley says he is looking forward to the challenge ahead in September after being named the Three Lions interim boss following the departure of manager Gareth Southgate:

Carsley will take charge of the Three Lions against the Republic of Ireland and Finland in September in the Nations League as the search for Southgate’s replacement continues.

“I feel privileged to be in this position,” Carsley said.

“Obviously it’s a very prestigious job following Gareth and Steve and the great job they’ve done, there’s a lot of responsibility.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead and the games that are in front of us.”

On Gareth Southgate and Steve Holland, who departed their managerial roles following the defeat to Spain in the final of EURO 2024, Carsley said: “I think they did a great job and it was brilliant for me to personally work with them. The success they had as well, the hope and the environment they created around England teams is a credit to both of them.

“It’s great that they’ve played such a pivotal role in English football and they’ll be remembered for a long time.”

The interim boss reflected on the EURO 2024 journey, saying: “It’s a shame they didn’t get across that final hurdle. The last bit is going that extra mile and winning and I think we’ve got the players to do that.”

Carsley, who has been manager of the England U21s since 2021, has previously worked with many of the now senior squad players.

“It definitely helps [having worked with them before]. I’ve got a relationship with those players and have known them for quite a few years. In the pathway, the level of players over the years has really improved and you can see that by the way we’ve done in major tournaments.

“The next step is winning, and that’s got to be the objective.”

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