Lee Carsley remains open-minded about the role of England manager

Lee Carsley, England’s current interim coach, believes the national team deserves a “world-class coach” to lead them forward. But despite his modesty, Carsley has not ruled himself out of running for the permanent position. While he admits he is still developing into a coach of this caliber, the former U21 coach has left the door slightly ajar, saying he is “open-minded” about the position.

A challenging interim role for Carsley

Carsley took temporary charge of England’s senior team after Gareth Southgate resigned following England’s narrow defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. His role was originally intended to oversee England’s Nations League games in the autumn while the Football Association (FA) continues to search for a permanent successor.

Although Carsley has not explicitly expressed his interest in the permanent position, he expressed his hope of being able to take charge of the U21 squad again. After England’s recent 3-1 win over Finland, he said: “I always say the same thing. My scope of work included six games and I’m happy with that. This is a privileged position. I really enjoyed it, but I didn’t enjoy the last two days. I’m not used to losing in an England team, I don’t take defeat well.”

England’s top job deserves a top coach

Carsley has made it clear that the position of England manager is one of the most prestigious in world football. When asked about his previous comments suggesting he might not be interested in the permanent position, he clarified: “Absolutely not. What I wanted to say is that it is one of the top jobs in the world. I’m not part of the process, but it deserves a top coach. With the players we have at our disposal, we have a real chance of winning. That was the point I was making.”

It is clear that Carsley respects the importance of the role, knowing that whoever takes it on must be a personality capable of leading the national team at the highest level. His reflections show a coach aware of both the opportunity and the responsibility, declaring: “This job deserves a world-class, trophy-winning coach and I’m still getting there.”

Balancing transitional tasks and future prospects

Despite speculation about his future with the senior team, Carsley remains focused on his current duties. In his post-match comments, he pointed out how difficult it was to cope with defeat, especially in such a high-profile position. However, he continues to withstand the pressure and praises the players’ reaction after their defeat against Greece.

Carsley’s daily conversations with FA technical director John McDermott reflect ongoing communication about England’s future, although he avoids asking for updates on Southgate’s replacement. His experience as an interim manager at clubs such as Brentford, Birmingham City and Coventry has taught him the importance of remaining neutral. “I’m definitely cautious because in the past, when I’ve taken on this administrator or interim role, I’ve gone so far as to say I don’t want the job, that I actually haven’t done the job.”

His current stance is one of caution, knowing that his decisions now will shape England’s immediate future. Carsley’s openness ensures that he approaches his transition responsibilities with full commitment while keeping the long-term direction of the team in mind.