Carsley’s England U-21s Focus After Ireland Job Overture
Lee Carsley could have readily been managing the Republic of Ireland’s Nations League playoff against Bulgaria in Dublin on Sunday evening, had circumstances unfolded differently. Towards the close of 2023, the former Derby County and Everton midfielder was approached by the national team he represented 40 times to gauge his interest in departing his England Under-21s position.
Ireland’s Interest and Carsley’s Decision
Following what Carsley characterized as “informal discussions” with the Football Association of Ireland, he chose to remain in his current role. Their setback proved to be England’s advantage, as the 51-year-old progressed to temporarily occupy Gareth Southgate’s position upon his exit after Euro 2024. Carsley then seamlessly resumed his responsibilities with the under-21s when Thomas Tuchel was appointed as the senior team’s head coach.
Related: Ekitike’s hat-trick fires France to win against England in eight-goal thriller
Comfort in the Under-21s Setup
Observing Carsley leading the initial match of his second tenure as under-21s coach on Friday, it was evident that he is considerably more at ease away from the intense scrutiny associated with the senior management role. Despite a 5-3 defeat in an engaging contest against a skillful France side, Carsley will embrace the opportunity to guide England in their pursuit of triumph at this summer’s European Under-21 Championship. This is a tournament England had not secured victory in since 1984 until their win over Spain in the final two years prior.
Prioritizing Senior Team Success
With a squad brimming with young talent who could potentially earn call-ups to the senior squad for the forthcoming World Cup, Carsley is acutely aware of the necessary priorities. “As soon as Thomas needs them, I won’t hinder that,” he stated. “The optimal scenario for these players is to compete in the senior team.”
World Cup Ambitions
“Ultimately, our objective is to support the senior team in winning the World Cup. That is the overarching goal and ambition for all players involved. We must set ambitious targets, mirroring the current senior team’s quality and rapid progression.”
Preparations for European Championship
With only Monday’s friendly match against Portugal at the Hawthorns and one additional behind-closed-doors fixture remaining before their journey to Slovakia in June, Carsley recognizes the urgency in preparing England to defend their title. An experimental formation employing three defenders was significantly exposed by France’s formidable attacking trio – Hugo Ekitike, Wilson Odobert, and Rayan Cherki – although England did generate numerous scoring opportunities and could have realistically scored more than their three goals.
after newsletter promotion
Related: Lee Carsley hopes to ‘earn the right’ to be senior England manager again
Branthwaite’s Role and Tactical Flexibility
Jarrad Branthwaite’s delayed arrival to the training camp on Wednesday meant the Everton defender’s introduction was postponed until late in the second half in Lorient. He is anticipated to commence the match against Portugal. Branthwaite is expected to be a নিশ্চিত starting player in Slovakia should Carsley – as predicted – revert to his customary four-defender system. This tactical approach was also favored by Tuchel for his inaugural match against Albania. However, Carsley insisted he has received no directives to precisely replicate the senior team’s strategies. “I don’t believe it is critical,” he commented. “The crucial aspect is that both teams are striving to attack, score goals, and secure victories.”
Midfield Depth and Player Fitness
This attacking intent was apparent in his selection of Alex Scott and Jaden Philogene as wing-backs against France, although their defensive contributions were not particularly noteworthy. Carsley’s primary task will be identifying the optimal system to harness a richly talented squad, especially abundant in central midfield options. Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson began in central midfield against France, with Jack Hinshelwood, Jobe Bellingham, and Archie Gray also competing for positions. Wharton, who was sidelined for nearly four months of the season due to groin surgery late last year, displayed glimpses of his ability but still requires improved match fitness.
Wharton’s Senior Team Experience
Wharton was part of Southgate’s squad at Euro 2024, despite the Crystal Palace midfielder remaining an unused substitute throughout England’s journey to the final. He believes this prior experience could be beneficial this summer. “If you advance to the final stages, it becomes a prolonged period, involving extended days, but it primarily revolves around cultivating team unity and fostering group chemistry,” he explained.
World Cup Target for U-21s
The 21-year-old trained with the senior squad for the initial two days of this camp before rejoining Carsley. He emphasized that the World Cup should be a definitive target for every member of the under-21s squad. “We are just one step away, and nearly all, or a significant majority, of the players are competing in the top tier of football,” he added.
Wharton’s Development and Guardiola’s Influence
Wharton’s inclusion in the Euro 2024 squad was somewhat unexpected, but he now feels integrated within the senior setup. “When I am on the field, the identity of my teammates is irrelevant; it remains the same sport. I simply aim to express myself and execute my game plan in training and matches.”
Areas for Improvement
When questioned about Tuchel’s desired areas for improvement, Wharton responded, “Everything. I am still only 21. I am far from reaching my full potential. There are numerous aspects I can refine: both with and without the ball, tactically, as a leader—essentially, all facets of my game.”
McAtee’s Club World Cup Dilemma
James McAtee has consistently been among Carsley’s top performers and scored the opening goal against France. His and Rico Lewis’s participation this summer is uncertain due to Manchester City’s involvement in the Club World Cup. However, McAtee intends to have input in the decision-making process with Pep Guardiola. “I anticipate having a say in it,” he stated. “But I haven’t yet reached a decision. I believe my opinion will be valued, and the manager at my club will consider my perspective.”