Carsley Backs FA to Pick The Best for England

 Interim boss Lee Carsley said only "the best" will do for England as he responded to the question of whether beating the Republic of Ireland might have strengthened his case for the permanent job.

Ahead of his second game in charge, the 50-year-old stayed on safe ground on Monday by backing the Football Association (FA) to get the appointment right.

Carsley oversaw a comfortable 2-0 Nations League win at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday in his debut game as head coach.

The next test comes at Wembley on Tuesday as England face Finland, with captain Harry Kane set to win his 100th cap.

There was lots of reason for optimism about England's football against the Republic of Ireland, particularly in the first half, but Carsley's focus is on short-term objectives rather than long-term planning.

"I try not to think about myself too much," he said.

"The best person should get the job. I know my role for the next three camps and I am comfortable with that."

The FA has said Carsley is expected to stay in charge during the autumn as the hunt for Gareth Southgate's long-term successor progresses.

There were no new injuries for the temporary boss to report at his pre-match news conference, but he is likely to make some changes to keep everyone fresh.

"If you make 11 changes it maybe sends out the wrong signal," Carsley said.

"The good thing about this group is they are highly motivated to do well. There will be two or three changes, but not wholesale changes.

"We have to make sure we protect the players as well."

Kane will become only the 10th England player to reach 100 caps for the men's team, and the first since Wayne Rooney in November 2014.

The 31-year-old Kane is the Three Lions' record scorer with 66 goals so far.

A special pre-match ceremony will be held to mark the occasion at Wembley, with Kane to be presented with a gold cap.

"It's really special," Kane said of the landmark.

"I think it's hard to sink in whilst you’re playing and when these moments come. This is one I'm extremely proud of.

"It shows great consistency over a long time. When you look at the list [of players with 100 caps] it is a list of some our greatest players.

"I'm sure when I'm retired I'll look back on this with immense pride."

Before kick-off, the Football Association will also pay tribute to former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, who died at the age of 76 last month.

 

From www.bbc.com/sport/football/