England v Republic of Ireland: New era – who has a point to prove as Lee Carsley takes charge?

Some of the biggest managerial names in world football have been linked to the England job, but for the next two games at least, Carsley has a chance to show what he can bring to the role.

With qualifying for the 2026 World Cup due to start next March, the Football Association will want to make a permanent appointment soon.

Former Everton midfielder Carsley, 50, will be hoping his brand of football – dubbed “Carsball” – impresses supporters and those entrusted to find the right candidate to take England to the World Cup in two years’ time.

Despite reaching the Euros final, England’s performances in Germany were largely indifferent and the fans want more adventurous football and the team to play with more freedom.

Southgate was appointed Three Lions boss on a permanent basis two months after stepping up from his role as England Under-21 manager.

Will the same thing happen to Carsley?

A lot will depend on the next two games, but he talks with authority and is determined to do things his way – similar to how Arne Slot has taken charge at Liverpool following nine years of Jurgen Klopp.

“It was important to put my own stamp on it a bit while recognising what players have done in the past when we have got so close,” Carsley said after naming his 26-man squad to face the Republic of Ireland and Finland.

Looking at the interim task put before him, Carsley said: “I think it is a real proud moment obviously for my family and myself.

“It has been a really hectic couple of weeks getting my head around the magnitude of the job, getting around to see as many matches as I can.”