England announce Lee Carsley as new interim head coach following Gareth Southgate’s departure
England has announced that Lee Carsley will take over as the new interim head coach of the men's senior team, following Gareth Southgate’s departure.
Southgate was in charge of the men's squad for eight years, leading the Three Lions through four tournaments, which included two European finals.
However, Southgate left the role last month after a 2-1 loss against Spain.
Carsley's appointment was confirmed today (9 August) on social media, with the 50-year-old to take charge of England's campaign in the upcoming Nations League.
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The former football player will step up from his current role as the England U-21 team for the Three Lions' September fixtures against Finland and Ireland.
"It’s an honour to step up and lead this England squad on an interim basis," Carsley said of his appointment.
"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 to recruit a new manager. My main priority is to ensure continuity and our goal is to secure promotion in the UEFA Nations League."
Mark Bullingham, FA CEO, 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."
Meanwhile Ben Futcher will take over Carlsey's role as U-21 team for the time being. Further details will be announced in due course.
Following Southgate's departure he said it was a 'privilege' to lead the the Three Lions since 2016.
"As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all," Southgate said in a statement after Euro 2024.
"But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager."
He continued: "I joined the FA in 2011, determined to improve English football. In that time, including eight years as England men’s manager, I have been supported by some brilliant people who have my heartfelt thanks.
"I have had the privilege of leading a large group of players in 102 games. Every one of them has been proud to wear the three lions on their shirts, and they have been a credit to their country in so many ways.
"The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of.
"I am so proud of them, and I hope we get behind the players and the team at St. George’s Park and the FA who strive every day to improve English football, and understand the power football has to drive positive change.
"My special thanks go to the backroom staff who have provided the players and me with unstinting support over the last eight years.
"Their hard work and commitment inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them - the brilliant ‘team behind the team’.
"We have the best fans in the world, and their support has meant the world to me. I’m an England fan and I always will be.
"I look forward to watching and celebrating as the players go on to create more special memories and to connect and inspire the nation as we know they can.
"Thank you, England - for everything."
Topics: Football, Gareth Southgate
Brenna Cooper