Lee Carsley started his reign as England’s interim manager with a Uefa Nations League win against the Republic of Ireland, with Declan Rice and Jack Grealish both scoring against the country they used to represent.
Carsley, also a former player for the Irish Republic, is in charge of England for at least two games following Gareth Southgate’s departure after Euro 2024.
And he had a largely untroubled start as the Three Lions overcame a lively atmosphere at a sold-out stadium in Dublin.
Rice, who played three senior friendlies for the Republic of Ireland before switching allegiance in 2019, silenced the jeers from the home fans after firing home in the 11th minute when Harry Kane’s shot was blocked.
Rice chose not to celebrate, while Grealish, who represented Ireland at youth level, put his fingers in his ears after scoring on his return to the England side following his omission from Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad.
His goal followed a slick move in the 26th minute, with Rice providing the assist.
This England team looked refreshed and re-energised from the side that trooped wearily off the pitch in Berlin after losing the Euro 2024 final to Spain 55 days ago.
It was a highly satisfactory first game in charge for Carsley, who will look to build on this positive showing when Finland visit Wembley on Tuesday, with captain Kane expected to win his 100th cap.
Credit: bbc.com
