Lee Carsley has been appointed England’s interim manager for next month’s Nations League clashes.
FA chiefs have been hugely impressed by the progress of the Under-21 boss since assuming the role in 2021 and he is a contender to take over permanently from Gareth Southgate.
The ex-Everton midfielder will take charge of games against Finland and the Republic of Ireland, whom he featured for at the 2002 World Cup. The FA revealed that the decision could see him continue throughout the autumn.
Ashley Cole is in line to assist the interim England head coach for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches.
Carsley delivered England’s first piece of men’s international silverware for 39 years when guiding the Young Lions to winning the Euros in Georgia a year ago.
He achieved that with a tactical style that drew huge plaudits and will now be given the opportunity to audition for the seat vacated by Southgate. Given his coaching pedigree, it offers the FA time to evaluate their options.
The likes of Harvey Elliott and Rico Lewis have spoken glowingly about the 50-year-old over the summer, while Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon has said he is the best manager he’s ever worked under.
FA technical director John McDermott fought hard to keep Carsley in the wake of the European Championship success amid clubs in England, and the Republic of Ireland, attempting to lure him away from England set-up.
Carsley met with FAI executives last year but opted to stay put and has been rewarded with a chance to impress as No 1.
‘It’s an honour to step up and lead this England squad on an interim basis,’ he said. ‘As I am very familiar with the players and the cycle of international football, it makes sense for me to guide the team while the FA continues the process of recruiting a new manager.
‘My main priority is to ensure continuity and our goal is to secure promotion in the UEFA Nations League.’
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham added: ‘Lee is a fantastic coach who is well known to the majority of our current senior squad having worked with most at international or club level.
‘He offers us a very strong interim solution and we are confident he will perform well in the UEFA Nations League games ahead. We are grateful to Lee for stepping up to manage the team while we continue with our recruitment process.’
The addition of the former Chelsea and Arsenal defender, Cole who is widely recognised as one of England’s greatest-ever defenders, is seen as a major boost.
While his appointment as Carsley’s No 2 is yet to be officially confirmed by the FA, there is a strong chance he will join the ex-Everton midfielder.