Lee Carsley expressed hope for a return to his position with England’s Under-21s following a damaging and disappointing defeat to Greece at Wembley Stadium.
Following promising Nations League victories against the Republic of Ireland and Finland while serving as interim manager, Carsley faced boos from the audience after Greece secured a late but well-deserved 2-1 win.
Vangelis Pavlidis netted a stoppage-time winner after Jude Bellingham appeared to have salvaged a draw for a fragmented England side.
Carsley remarked, “I was quite surprised after the last camp in terms of like ‘the job’s mine’, like it’s ‘mine to lose’ and all the rest of it.
“No, my remit has been clear from the start. I’m overseeing three camps, there are three games left, and then, you know, hopefully, I’ll be returning to the Under-21s.”
Addressing his notable remark about hoping to return to the Under-21s, Carsley commented, “Well, I stated from the beginning that I wouldn’t rule myself in or out, and that remains the case.
“I’m very comfortable in my current role. The expectations were straightforward, and I feel confident about that.
“After the first camp, I certainly didn’t get overly excited or start believing too much.”
🗣️ “We tried to overload the midfield… It was something that we tried for 20 minutes yesterday, it’s something we experimented with.”
Lee Carsley on England’s new system#ITVFootball | #NationsLeague | 🎙️ @gabrielclarke05 pic.twitter.com/7C39UZ3dWc
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) October 10, 2024
“I’m very aware that this role is among the best in the world, given there’s a real chance of winning—obviously discussed after a loss, but in the context of a major competition— and that remains unchanged.”
England will go head-to-head with Finland on Sunday, followed by fixtures against Greece and Ireland in November. Who will be at the helm after those matches?
“I believe it’s a wonderful role. I consider myself fortunate to have a solid position as it stands with the Under-21s,” Carsley stated.
“However, following the initial camp where we won two games with strong performances, my ambitions have not altered.
“It’s crucial that I invest my utmost effort in these next three games.
“I’m very satisfied and assured with the communication I have with my superiors, so nothing has changed in that respect.”
Image Source: Lee Carsley @ Instagram
