Had things gone differently, it would be Lee Carsley standing in the Ireland dugout for the UEFA Nations League fixture against England at the Aviva Stadium.
It was widely reported that Carsley was the FAI's preferred candidate to replace Stephen Kenny, having apparently been sounded out about the role even before the previous manager's departure. He seemed like an ideal fit, having been a 40-cap Ireland international during his playing days before amassing an impressive CV as England U21 coach.
However, the move did not come to fruition. It was suggested that the 50-year old was hesitant to leave the FA setup and was perhaps eyeing a shot at the England job in the future.
He will now be given a dress rehearsal for that role. While Carsley will not be in the Ireland staff for that game in September, he will be patrolling the sideline for England when they visit Dublin.
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Lee Carsley Unsure What To Expect From Ireland In England Debut
Lee Carsley has every chance of getting the England job on a full-time basis. Gareth Southgate came into the role in similar circumstances back in 2016, and considering the success he had in the job, the FA may be keen to promote from within.
Some strong performance in the UEFA Nations League would certainly boost his candidacy, starting with the games against Ireland and Finland next month.
Speaking to England's in-house media, he said he wants to help the team take the next step at major tournaments. He also admitted he is unsure what to expect from Ireland when they face off at the Aviva Stadium on September 7th.
I think we’ve got some outstanding players in the senior team and in the pathway. I think the level of player over the last few years has really improved,” the former Irish international told England’s YouTube channel.
You can see that by the way that we’ve done in major tournaments. Obviously that next step is winning, and that’s got to be the objective...
They’ve both got a unique way of playing (Ireland and Finland).
Ireland, we’d be more unsure on what to expect in terms of the change of manager and what he changes. I know John O’Shea did a good job with them from a temporary point of view in getting them a bit more resilient. It will always be a difficult game in Dublin.
Two teams that we’re looking forward to playing against, and really encouraged to see how we fare against them.
Heimir Hallgrimsson's appointment as Ireland manager is sure to mean some sort of change in playing style, although it would prove to be a massive shock if the home team were to get anything from that game.
Still, defeating an England side led by the man who apparently turned down the Ireland would be extra sweet for the current group of players.
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