Lee Carsley Steps Up as England's Interim Boss

Lee Carsley has become the interim manager for England’s Nations League matches in September as the Football Association (FA) continues its search for Gareth Southgate’s permanent successor. At 50, Carsley steps up from his role as England Under-21 manager, following Southgate’s resignation after England lost to Spain in the Euro 2024 final last month.

Carsley, who has extensive experience with the England youth teams, committed to maintaining continuity and focusing on promotion in the Uefa Nations League. He said, “Given my familiarity with the players and the international football cycle, it makes sense for me to guide the team while the FA searches for a new manager.” A former Premier League midfielder, Carsley enjoyed a distinguished career with Derby and Everton, among others.

He transitioned to management with roles at Coventry, Brentford and Birmingham on a caretaker basis before becoming England Under-20 coach in 2020. He then led England Under-21s to victory in the European Championship in 2023, marking their first win in 39 years. England will face the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on September 7 and host Finland three days later.

Lee Carsley, who earned 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland during his playing career, will manage these fixtures and potentially through the autumn while the FA recruits a new permanent head coach. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham praised Carsley as an excellent interim choice, highlighting his strong rapport with the current squad. Ben Futcher will assume the role of England U21 manager with further details about the backroom staff to be announced.

Previous interim managers for the senior team included Howard Wilkinson, Stuart Pearce and Southgate, who eventually secured the role permanently and led the team through a successful tenure including a World Cup semi-final and Euros finals.