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    England star reveals NO team-mate would make a ‘great manager’ and says ‘we’re all assistants’

    KYLE WALKER has claimed NOT ONE of his England team-mates at Manchester City would make for “great manager” material.Instead, he insists they would all be assistants, but did also name four other team-mates who would fit into that bracket.Kyle Walker was asked which England team-mates at Man City would make a ‘great manager’Credit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/Walker answered by saying none of themCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/Instead he insisted they would all be assistants insteadCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/But Walker named four stars at City who would be good managersCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/He then called John Stones to ask him for his viewCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kylewalker2/Speaking on BBC 5 Live Sport, Walker was asked what team-mates, if any, at Man City he would fancy to be a good manager in the future.Walker, 34, said: “I’d probably say Kevin [De Bruyne], Bernardo [Silva], Rodri and Ruben [Dias].”When asked about club-mates he has starred with at international level, Walker swiftly responded: “Nah, no chance…”Nah, assistants. We’re all assistants aren’t we.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWalker was then asked whether John Stones, who has played alongside him for both club and country, would agree. This prompted the defender to call the 30-year-old.Once Stones had picked up, Walker asked him for his thoughts.The former Everton defender singled out Dias as his pick for a good manager in the future.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe also revealed two members of the England Euro 2024 squad who also fit into that category, and in doing so also revealed the two stars’ nicknames in the camp.Brainstorming their opinions together, Walker said: “Uncle Marc [Guehi] I think.”How England’s last ten managers fared on debut and who started in their first XIStones chuckled at the namedrop but agreed, before adding: “Uncle Marc or the Hurricane probably.”The BBC presenter was confused by the name and asked who it referred to, with Walker answering it was Harry Kane.Walker failed to make the cut for Lee Carsley’s first England squad for Uefa Nations League clashes against Ireland and Finland.It is the first time the 90-cap defender has been out of the squad since March 2022.The Three Lions beat Ireland 2-0 – with 80-cap Stones playing five minutes off the bench – and face Finland tomorrow evening.England Player Ratings vs IrelandDECLAN RICE silenced his Irish critics with a dominant display in England’s Nations League opener.Lee Carsley’s players handed him a debut win as interim manager of the Three Lions.Rice starred in the first half as he netted the opener and then set up England’s second goal.Jack Grealish doubled up for England after being set up by Rice 15 minutes later.Anthony Gordon however faded in the match as he was not able to have as much success as Grealish.SunSport’s Charlie Wyett has rated England’s players’ performance against Ireland…JORDAN PICKFORD – 6Pushed away a half decent shot from Sammie Szmodics at the start of the game but as England took control, he had a stress-free game.After a difficult couple of weeks with Everton, he would have been grateful for this. TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD – 7Looked more at home at right-back compared to the disastrous midfield experiment at the Euros.Stunning pass in a move that eventually led to the first goal. He has to remain as England’s right-back. MARC GUEHI – 7Enjoyed a decent Euros and switched over to the right of central defence as John Stones was named on the bench.Looks increasingly like a top-drawer defender. HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was left devastated after failing to make the Euro 2024 squad but he has enjoyed a decent start with Manchester United and looked solid here.When he is not in the team, England do miss his aerial presence. 7LEVI COLWILL – 7Second appearance for England and was deployed at left-back.Unlike the Euros, England have much better balance in defence with a natural left footer in this position. 7DECLAN RICE – 9Enjoyed an absolute stormer in what could have been a difficult afternoon.Booed every time he touched the ball, the former Irish international quietened the boisterous home fans with a brilliant finish although refused to celebrate.He then set up the second for Grealish. KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Fits perfectly into Carsley’s style of play. Some of his passing was excellent, particularly in the final third of the pitch, and this included his part in the outstanding second goal. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Enjoying a terrific start to the season with Arsenal – he has been nominated as their player of the month – and played with plenty of confidence here.Was involved in the second goal.JACK GREALISH – 8Left out of the Euros squad, but loved every minute of this.A decent finish for 2-0 and unlike Rice, celebrated in front of the visiting fans by raising both arms in triumph.ANTHONY GORDON – 6Looked really lively early on but faded.He should have put England ahead when clean through but was lucky that seconds later, Rice hammered his shot into the corner. 6HARRY KANE – 6Missed with a header and despite working hard, did not actually have that many chances despite England having so much possession. SubsGibbs-White (for Grealish 77 mins) 6, Gomes (for Mainoo 77) 6, Eze (for Gordon 77 mins) 6, Bowen (for Kane 84 mins) 6, Stones (for Maguire 85) 6.Subs not used: Henderson, Pope, Lewis, Gallagher, Livramento, Konsa, Madueke. More

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    Harry Kane is England’s only option for World Cup 2026 with no real alternative as struggling captain set for 100th cap

    HE is England’s all-time record goalscorer and Tottenham’s most prolific marksman, too.He is a Golden Boot winner in the World Cup, Premier League and Bundesliga — and tomorrow night brings another personal accolade for Harry Kane, as he joins England’s 100 club.Harry Kane was arguably England’s least-effective performer in IrelandCredit: GettyIvan Toney may struggle to force his way back into contention for England while Ollie Watkins, currently injured, is a different type of player to KaneCredit: GettyWhether Kane is knackered, struggling for full fitness or simply feeling the effects of footballing old age, there still is every chance he will break Peter Shilton’s long-standing record of 125 appearances to become his nation’s most-capped footballer.At 31, the captain is here to stay — due to lack of any obvious rival to be England’s first-choice No 9, as well as his own uncanny ability to defy ­public opinion.Interim boss Lee Carsley insists Kane continues to be essential to England as he prepares to become only the tenth player to win a century of caps for the Three Lions in the Nations League clash with Finland at Wembley. Kane is the only specialist centre-forward in the current England squad and there is no genuine long-term rival for his shirt.READ MORE TOP STORIESDespite a disappointing Euros — in which he never looked fully match sharp — the greatest footballer never to win a trophy is on course to surpass goalkeeper Shilton at some point in 2026.If you’re supremely optimistic, then there’s a chance he could even do it in a World Cup Final in New Jersey the summer after next.Kane netted after just 79 seconds of his England debut having just replaced Wayne Rooney during a 4-0 victory over Lithuania.When Kane scored that header at Wembley, with only his third touch as a full international, Gary Lineker tweeted: “Fifty more touches and Harry Kane will beat Sir Bobby Charlton’s goalscoring record.”Most read in FootballInterim chief Lee Carsley says Kane remains integral on and off the pitchCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIn fact, Rooney would   break Charlton’s 49-goal mark before Kane swiftly replaced the Scouser as England’s leading scorer with his 54th strike for his country in a 2-1 victory over Italy in Naples last year.Nine-and-a-half years after his debut, Kane stands on 66 goals from 99 matches. Roy Keane slams ‘arrogant’ England as ‘awful’ despite interim boss Lee Carsley winning on debut against IrelandAnd yet there was little in Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Ireland in Dublin to suggest that Kane is over the summer malaise which saw him operating well below his best in Germany and being hauled off after an hour of the final defeat by Spain.The striker failed to convert a free header from an early Trent Alexander-Arnold cross.And while he looked slightly more mobile than in the Euros, he remained way short of his sharpest — arguably the least convincing player in an impressive team performance.The Bayern Munich star is adamant no physical issues were holding him back during the tournament, despite a back problem at the tail of the Bundesliga season.Few people believe him.But Carsley insists Kane will continue to be a crucial member of the England side way beyond his own six-match autumn audition to become Gareth Southgate’s full-time successor.Carsley said: “On and off the pitch he’s a really good example.“Every single day, he is highly motivated to do well and you can see that from how he conducts himself.“He will be invaluable in my short space of time but also moving ­forward.” And where would Carsley — or whoever else might manage England in next year’s World Cup qualifiers — look to replace Kane?Had Ivan Toney made a summer transfer to a leading Premier League club, he may have become a genuine alternative.But his move from Brentford to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League removes any serious chance of that.There is no young gunslinger looking to bring down Kane and so there look certain to be many more caps after he wins his 100th.Ollie Watkins — currently injured — provided England’s moment of the summer with a stunning 90th-minute winner in the Euros semi-final against Holland.But the Aston Villa striker turns 29 this year and is a very different sort of player to Kane. It is difficult to imagine him usurping the skipper.While Carsley is introducing the next ­generation of England talent, based around the Under-21 team he led to the European Championship crown last year, there is no authentic centre-forward among that crop. In the final victory over Spain, Carsley employed Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon as a pair of ‘false nines’.There is no young gunslinger looking to bring down Kane and so there look certain to be many more caps to come after he wins his 100th against the Finns at Wembley.That 100 club — with the addition of Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker, who is joint 11th on the all-time appearance list with 90 caps — works into a perfect fantasy XI in a 4-4-2 formation.Shilton would be in goal with Walker, Bobby Moore, Billy Wright and Ashley Cole making up the back four.David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Charlton would be in front of them, with Rooney and Kane making up the front two.Kane will surely break his trophy duck this season, his second at BayernCredit: GettyThat would be quite some team — even if we would still have to solve the conundrum of Gerrard and Lampard playing together.  But among such company, Kane’s lack of silverware becomes even more glaring.Moore and Charlton were World Cup winners, eight of those players have won the European Cup, eight have been champions of England and most have shed-loads of winner’s medals.Kane will surely break his duck with ­Bayern this season.Although we said that last term, when he arrived at a club which had won 11 consecutive Bundesliga crowns, yet drew a spectacular blank.A runner-up in the European Championships (twice), the Champions League, the Premier League and the League Cup (twice), Kane has walked past more major trophies than he would care to remember without ever actually lifting one.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis personal achievements, and the absence of a major team honour, make his an extremely unusual career.But a career which is set to run and run. Even if Kane is never able to run and run quite like he used to.England Player Ratings vs IrelandDECLAN RICE silenced his Irish critics with a dominant display in England’s Nations League opener.Lee Carsley’s players handed him a debut win as interim manager of the Three Lions.Rice starred in the first half as he netted the opener and then set up England’s second goal.Jack Grealish doubled up for England after being set up by Rice 15 minutes later.Anthony Gordon however faded in the match as he was not able to have as much success as Grealish.SunSport’s Charlie Wyett has rated England’s players’ performance against Ireland…JORDAN PICKFORD – 6Pushed away a half decent shot from Sammie Szmodics at the start of the game but as England took control, he had a stress-free game.After a difficult couple of weeks with Everton, he would have been grateful for this. TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD – 7Looked more at home at right-back compared to the disastrous midfield experiment at the Euros.Stunning pass in a move that eventually led to the first goal. He has to remain as England’s right-back. MARC GUEHI – 7Enjoyed a decent Euros and switched over to the right of central defence as John Stones was named on the bench.Looks increasingly like a top-drawer defender. HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was left devastated after failing to make the Euro 2024 squad but he has enjoyed a decent start with Manchester United and looked solid here.When he is not in the team, England do miss his aerial presence. 7LEVI COLWILL – 7Second appearance for England and was deployed at left-back.Unlike the Euros, England have much better balance in defence with a natural left footer in this position. 7DECLAN RICE – 9Enjoyed an absolute stormer in what could have been a difficult afternoon.Booed every time he touched the ball, the former Irish international quietened the boisterous home fans with a brilliant finish although refused to celebrate.He then set up the second for Grealish. KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Fits perfectly into Carsley’s style of play. Some of his passing was excellent, particularly in the final third of the pitch, and this included his part in the outstanding second goal. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Enjoying a terrific start to the season with Arsenal – he has been nominated as their player of the month – and played with plenty of confidence here.Was involved in the second goal.JACK GREALISH – 8Left out of the Euros squad, but loved every minute of this.A decent finish for 2-0 and unlike Rice, celebrated in front of the visiting fans by raising both arms in triumph.ANTHONY GORDON – 6Looked really lively early on but faded.He should have put England ahead when clean through but was lucky that seconds later, Rice hammered his shot into the corner. 6HARRY KANE – 6Missed with a header and despite working hard, did not actually have that many chances despite England having so much possession. SubsGibbs-White (for Grealish 77 mins) 6, Gomes (for Mainoo 77) 6, Eze (for Gordon 77 mins) 6, Bowen (for Kane 84 mins) 6, Stones (for Maguire 85) 6.Subs not used: Henderson, Pope, Lewis, Gallagher, Livramento, Konsa, Madueke. More

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    How England’s last ten managers fared on debut and who started in their first XI as Carsley impresses on Three Lions bow

    LEE CARSLEY got off to a perfect start in his reign as England’s interim coach.The coach became the 20th man to take charge of the Three Lions in the Nations League clash against Ireland.Lee Carsley had his first game in charge of England against IrelandCredit: GettyJack Grealish netted the second goal for the Three Lions in a 2-0 winCredit: ReutersSince 1999, ten different coaches have led the national side out for games.They have all had varying degrees of success and longevity in the role.Some reigns have lasted over 50 and even 100 games, while some have lasted just one.SunSport takes a look at the first games of England’s last ten managers…READ MORE IN FOOTBALLKevin Keegan – 1999-2000 – 18 gamesKevin Keegan took on the England job as the full-time replacement for Glenn Hoddle.His first game in charge saw the Three Lions run out 3-1 winners over Poland in the Euro 2000 qualifying group.Kevin Keegan’s first match came against PolandCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe goals came via a hat-trick from Manchester United’s Paul Scholes.The midfielder’s feat was England’s first hat-trick from a player since Ian Wright scored four against San Marino in 1993.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSKeegan’s teams included legendary players such as Alan Shearer as captain, David Beckham, Sol Campbell, Gary Neville and David Seaman.He also handed debuts to Tim Sherwood and Ray Parlour.England manager Lee Carsley reveals why he won’t sing the national anthem ahead of 1st game as bossThe match ended in a 3-1 win for the Three LionsCredit: GettyEngland were only able to qualify for Euro 2000 via a playoff win over Scotland.At the tournament, the Three Lions were unable to advance to the quarter-finals as they lost two of three group games.Keegan resigned from the role in October 2000 after losing to Germany in their first 2002 World Cup qualifier.That match was also the final game to be played at the old Wembley before it was rebuilt.Paul Scholes scored a hat-trick in the matchCredit: GettyPeter Taylor – 2000-2001 – 1 gamePeter Taylor was appointed as a caretaker manager in November 2000 following Keegan’s exit from the role.He lasted only one game, which was a 1-0 defeat against Italy in Turin after a goal from AC Milan legend Gennaro Gattuso.Peter Taylor took charge of one game against ItalyCredit: RexTaylor made his team up with a focus on youth, having previously been the head coach of the Under 21s.He handed Beckham the armband for the first time in his career.Taylor also included young stars such as Emile Heskey, Kieron Dyer, Rio Ferdinand, Jamie Carragher, Gareth Barry and Seth Johnson in his squad.Johnson earned his one and only cap for the Three Lions as he came on as a 73rd-minute substitute.Gennaro Gattuso’s brilliant strike won the game for ItalyCredit: Times Newspapers LtdSven-Goran Eriksson – 2001-2006 – 67 gamesSven-Goran Eriksson took charge of his first England game as manager in 2001.The late Swede got off to an exciting start with a 3-0 win over a Spain side that included the likes of Iker Casillas, Pep Guardiola, Raul and Luis Enrique.Sven-Goran Erikkson took charge of his first England game in 2001Credit: GettyThe goals came from Nick Barmby, Emile Heskey and a first for UgoEhiogu.Substitute goalkeeper Nigel Martyn also kept a clean sheet by denying Javi Moreno from the spot.Eriksson was the first of a kind as he was the first foreigner to be handed the job by the FA.He also led England to an incredible 5-1 victory in World Cup qualification over Germany in Munich in September 2001.His side beat Spain 3-0 in an international friendlyCredit: ReutersHis team qualified for the tournament in Japan and South Korea after David Beckham’s iconic free-kick against Greece.Eriksson took charge of England for three major tournaments, each time ending at the quarter-final stage.Euro 2004 and the World Cup in 2006 both ended with a penalty shootout heartbreak to Portugal.Steve McClaren – 2006-2007 – 18 gamesSteve McClaren was appointed as England manager in 2006 after Eriksson stepped down.He beat the likes of Alan Curbishley, Martin O’Neill and Sam Allardyce to the role.Steve McClaren replaced Sven-Goran ErikssonCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe job was initially offered to Brazilian Luiz Felippe Scolari, but he rejected the FA’s offer.McClaren’s was given the nickname “Second Choice Steve” due to the circumstances of his appointment.The coach’s tenure got off to a great start though, as his side beat Greece 4-0 at Old Trafford.He opted to go in a different direction from his predecessor and dropped veteran players such as Sol Campbell, David James and Beckham.He was nicknamed ‘Wally with the Brolly’ in the infamous game that saw England fail to qualify for Euro 2008Credit: Times Newspapers LtdEngland beat Greece 4-0 in his first gameCredit: ReutersJohn Terry opened the scoring before a strike from Frank Lampard, and a brace from Peter Crouch sealed the victory.However, despite a good start, McClaren’s team faltered in their qualification for Euro 2008.They failed to reach the tournament after losing their final group game to Croatia at Wembley in 2007.In that game, he earned another nickname, “Wally with a brolly”, after he was spotted with an umbrella and a cup of tea on the sideline. The next day, he was sacked by the FA in what is the second shortest stint of any England manager.Peter Crouch got on the scoresheetCredit: ReutersFabio Capello – 2008-2012 – 42 gamesFabio Capello was named as McClaren’s replacement and England’s second foreign manager in 2008.The former Real Madrid man with it believed that he was handed a contract worth £6million-per-year.Fabio Capello was England’s second-ever foreign managerCredit: AFPThe Italian’s first match saw England scrape a victory over Switzerland in an international friendly match at Wembley.Jermaine Jenas scored the opener before Eren Derdiyok equalised for the visitors.Shaun Wright-Phillips netted the winner for the Three Lions midway through the second half.Capello led England through qualification for the 2010 World Cup in Germany.England won his first match in charge against SwitzerlandCredit: GettyHowever, the team scraped through the group stages before being knocked out by the host nation 4-1 in a game that saw Frank Lampard denied a clear goal, but technology could not confirm it.The manager then saw England have an unbeaten campaign to qualify for Euro 2012, with five wins and three draws.However, he resigned from the role after Terry was removed as captain by the FA due to his affair with Wayne Bridge’s girlfriend, Vanessa Perroncel.Shaun Wright-Phillips and Jermaine Jenas scored the goalsCredit: PA:Press AssociationStuart Pearce – 2012 – 1 gameStuart Pearce was in charge of the England Under 21s when Capello resigned from his role.The former Nottingham Forest and West Ham star took on the senior team while the FA searched for a replacement for the Italian.Stuart Pearce had one game in charge of EnglandCredit: GettyAs caretaker, his sole match in charge of England was a friendly match against Holland at Wembley in February 2012.The game itself was one to remember as Arjen Robben and Klass-Jan Hunterlaar scored within a minute of each other to put the visitors in control.But Pearce’s team fought back to level thanks to late goals from Gary Cahill and Ashley Young.However, Robben netted in the 92nd minute to give the Dutch victory.Ashely Young scored an equaliser for EnglandCredit: Getty Images – GettyArjen Robben netted a late winner in the matchCredit: ReutersPearce did name Scott Parker as captain for the match, which also saw Fraizer Campbell earn his only cap for England.He wanted to lead England into Euro 2012 but did admit that he did not have the experience to take on the job full-time.The FA agreed with him and instead opted for a very experienced manager to take on the job.Roy Hodgson – 2012-2016 – 56 gamesThe England job was Roy Hodgson’s 19th managerial role in his career.He pipped Harry Redknapp to the role despite the Tottenham boss being the favourite to replace Capello.Roy Hodgson was appointed manager in 2012Credit: GettyHodgson caused controversy early in his reign when he left Rio Ferdinand out of the squad for Euro 2012 due to “footballing reasons”.His first match came in Oslo as England took on Norway in a friendly game.Ashley Young’s 9th-minute goal gave the Three Lions their first victory over Norway for 32 years.In the build-up to the European championships, it was viewed that England’s golden generation had come to an end, and hopes were low for the tournament.His first game ended in a 1-0 win over NorwayCredit: PA:Press AssociationEngland reached the quarter-finals but were beaten by Italy on penalties.Hodgson then led the team to the World Cup in 2014 in South Africa.The tournament was a disaster for the Three Lions who were beaten by Italy and Uruguay before drawing with Costa Rica.The team finished bottom of their group, but Hodgson remained in charge.England were humiliated by Iceland in Hodgson’s last-ever gameCredit: The TimesEngland returned to action by winning all ten of their qualification matches for Euro 2016 in France.The tournament saw England humiliated in the round of 16 as they were knocked out by Iceland 2-1.The result led to Hodgson’s resignation from the role.Sam Allardyce – 2016 – 1 gameSam Allardyce has the shortest reign of any England manager ever, lasting just 67 days in the role.He won his one and only match in charge of the team 1-0 away in Slovakia in 2016 thanks to a 95th minute-winner from Adam Lallana.Sam Allardyce was made England manager in 2016Credit: Getty Images – GettyThe biggest shock of the squad was the decision to call-up an uncapped Michail Antonio.The West Ham star was in good form at the time but did not play due to injury, and he now represents Jamaica.The result means that the former West Ham and Bolton boss does possess a 100 per cent win record as England manager.However, he was axed by The FA after he was caught in a sting telling businessmen to “get around” transfer rules.He was sacked after just 67 daysCredit: Getty – ContributorGareth Southgate – 2016-2024 – 102 gamesGareth Southgate started his England tenure with a professional 2-0 win over Malta in October 2016.Daniel Sturridge and Dele Alli got on the scoresheet as the Three Lions beat the resistance of a stunning performance from goalkeeper Andrew Hogg.Gareth Southgate took the job after AllardyceCredit: Getty Images – GettySouthgate was a player for England before becoming managerCredit: PA:Press AssociationIn the game, Southgate used Wayne Rooney as a midfielder and made him the captain.The Manchester United legend featured only three more times in England before finishing his international playing career.The result against Malta could have been seen as an omen for Southgate’s reign, professional but uninspiring.The former Middlesborough manager went on to lead England to two Euros finals and a World Cup semi-final before stepping down in 2024.He oversaw more than 100 matches before stepping downCredit: The FA – Getty ImagesLee Carsley – 2024-present – 1 gameInterim boss Lee Carsley took charge of his first senior England match against the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League on September 7, 2024.His side put in an impressive performance as they beat the hosts 2-0 at the Aviva Stadium.Lee Carsley is the successor to SouthgateCredit: GettyThe goals came from former Irish players Declan Rice and Jack Grealish despite the hostile reception from the home crowd.READ MORE SUN STORIESCarsley made some big calls with his team selection as he left out experienced stars such as Raheem Sterling, Ivan Toney and Kyle Walker.He opted to hand first call-ups to Morgan Gibbs-White, Noni Madueke and Angel Gomes.He has got off to a winning startCredit: Getty More

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    Lee Carsley passes first England test with flying colours to silence the noise over national anthem drama

    HE walked straight out of the tunnel and sat on the wrong bench, then stood tight-lipped throughout God Save The King.But when Lee Carsley’s England team strut around giving a passable impression of Brazil at the 1970 World Cup, then frankly who cares?England hit the high notes against Ireland, even if Lee Carsley didn’t belt out the national anthemCredit: GettyDeclan Rice and Jack Grealish bagged England’s goals in an impressive 2-0 win, both having previously played for home side Ireland at various levelsCredit: EPACarsley saw England dominate in a 2-0 victory in DublinCredit: PAThey say that managing England is the impossible job, that the politics, the media glare and the millions of armchair critics make it a thankless task.Yet if England are winning and playing thrilling football – as they did in the first half of this Nations League clash – then the rest is all irrelevant white noise.Carsley has navigated his first serious sewage storm, his first public embarrassment and his first match in charge.And the interim boss has emerged with flying colours, leading England to their first win in Dublin since 1964. READ MORE ON ENGLANDOn the eve of his maiden outing, there had been hysterical calls for Carsley to be sacked before he had even taken charge of a match due to his refusal to sing the national anthem.It was me who asked Birmingham-born Carsley that question – given his previous life as a midfielder who won 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland, now taking charge of his native country for the first time at senior level in Dublin, of all places.But the idea that his refusal to sing a song should make him ineligible for the job of managing a football team is patent nonsense.Like approximately half of people in an increasingly globalised society, Carsley – whose paternal grandparents were Irish – was eligible to play international sport for more than one nation.Most read in FootballOutstanding Three Lions’ midfielder Rice declined to celebrate his goal, explaining it was out of respect for his late Irish grandparentsCredit: EPAFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd like most such people, he has genuine allegiance to both countries, complicating matters such as anthems.Carsley had never previously sung either, as an Ireland player or as England’s Under-21 boss.Lee Carsley goes to WRONG dugout before England clash with IrelandGrealish’s display must have been music to the ears of CarsleyCredit: EPAHis claim that it was all a matter of focusing on the match ahead didn’t sound entirely convincing but the whole farago was soon reduced to storm-in-a-teacup proportions as soon as his England started playing with purpose and verve.   Carsley is clearly a gifted coach, who led the Under-21s to glory at last year’s European Championships without conceding a goal, and already has the seniors purring with positivity.After 26 minutes of this match, England were two goals to the good, the scorers were Irish hate figures Declan Rice and Jack Grealish, and Carsley’s side boasted 86 per-cent possession.The farcical pre-match sight of Carsley sitting on the Irish bench, then being tapped on the shoulder by an official who reminded him that he was on the away side now, was nothing more than a comedy meme.Perhaps Carsley had simply been ‘too focused on the match’.While the Irish were poor, their FIFA ranking of 58 sees them only six places below Slovenia – with whom England bored out a turgid goalless draw at the Euros before Gareth Southgate was pelted with beer cups by Three Lions fans.Before we get too carried away about the idea of Carsley transforming England, let’s not pretend that Southgate’s team, who reached two Euros finals and one World Cup semi-final, never played entertaining football.Against Holland in this summer’s semi-final, Senegal at the last World Cup, Ukraine at the previous Euros and in competitive wins against Italy, Germany and Spain – to name just a few – they performed style as well as achieving impressive results.But England did often lack risk-taking bravery and there was a sense of world-class footballers playing beneath themselves – especially in Germany this summer.So this was a marked improvement, after just three days of training under Carsley.Rice and Grealish stole the show, thriving on the predictable hostility from home supporters, after their switches of international allegiance from Ireland to England.Ireland’s Caoimhin Kelleher was much the busier keeperCredit: EPAHarry Kane skippered the first match of Carsley’s regimeCredit: EPAYou simply don’t become £100m footballers if you can’t handle people being a bit rude to you.        Rice, branded a snake on one fan’s banner and loudly accused of indulging in one-in-a-bed romps seconds before he lashed home an emphatic opener, was magnificent.Grealish, enjoying the freedom of the No 10 role in the absence of Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer, steered home the second and played with sheer devilment.Both goals had Carsley’s stamp on them. Trent Alexander-Arnold in his Liverpool role as a right-back who drifts into midfield, was in the centre of the park when he played the gorgeous pass which led to Rice’s opener.And England’s second was a joyous rapid-fire pass-and-move affair, with Rice the architect and Grealish the executioner.It became much more scruffy after the break as Ireland played with greater purpose but the job was done by then – and nobody was worrying about singing or seating arrangements.Carsley is a fine tactician and man-manager and he will be relatively cheap – so the FA would love him to pass this six-match autumn audition for the permanent job.The trouble is that none of England’s opponents – Ireland, Finland and Greece – are ranked in the world’s top 50, so there will be no elite tests to judge him on.READ MORE SUN STORIESStill, at least we can forget about the anthems now.When England’s football is singing, who gives a stuff whether Carsley does?England Player Ratings vs IrelandDECLAN RICE silenced his Irish critics with a dominant display in England’s Nations League opener.Lee Carsley’s players handed him a debut win as interim manager of the Three Lions.Rice starred in the first half as he netted the opener and then set up England’s second goal.Jack Grealish doubled up for England after being set up by Rice 15 minutes later.Anthony Gordon however faded in the match as he was not able to have as much success as Grealish.SunSport’s Charlie Wyett has rated England’s players’ performance against Ireland…JORDAN PICKFORD – 6Pushed away a half decent shot from Sammie Szmodics at the start of the game but as England took control, he had a stress-free game.After a difficult couple of weeks with Everton, he would have been grateful for this. TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD – 7Looked more at home at right-back compared to the disastrous midfield experiment at the Euros.Stunning pass in a move that eventually led to the first goal. He has to remain as England’s right-back. MARC GUEHI – 7Enjoyed a decent Euros and switched over to the right of central defence as John Stones was named on the bench.Looks increasingly like a top-drawer defender. HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was left devastated after failing to make the Euro 2024 squad but he has enjoyed a decent start with Manchester United and looked solid here.When he is not in the team, England do miss his aerial presence. 7LEVI COLWILL – 7Second appearance for England and was deployed at left-back.Unlike the Euros, England have much better balance in defence with a natural left footer in this position. 7DECLAN RICE – 9Enjoyed an absolute stormer in what could have been a difficult afternoon.Booed every time he touched the ball, the former Irish international quietened the boisterous home fans with a brilliant finish although refused to celebrate.He then set up the second for Grealish. KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Fits perfectly into Carsley’s style of play. Some of his passing was excellent, particularly in the final third of the pitch, and this included his part in the outstanding second goal. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Enjoying a terrific start to the season with Arsenal – he has been nominated as their player of the month – and played with plenty of confidence here.Was involved in the second goal.JACK GREALISH – 8Left out of the Euros squad, but loved every minute of this.A decent finish for 2-0 and unlike Rice, celebrated in front of the visiting fans by raising both arms in triumph.ANTHONY GORDON – 6Looked really lively early on but faded.He should have put England ahead when clean through but was lucky that seconds later, Rice hammered his shot into the corner. 6HARRY KANE – 6Missed with a header and despite working hard, did not actually have that many chances despite England having so much possession. SubsGibbs-White (for Grealish 77 mins) 6, Gomes (for Mainoo 77) 6, Eze (for Gordon 77 mins) 6, Bowen (for Kane 84 mins) 6, Stones (for Maguire 85) 6.Subs not used: Henderson, Pope, Lewis, Gallagher, Livramento, Konsa, Madueke. More

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    England ratings: Declan Rice has a stormer in difficult atmosphere but Anthony Gordon fades after fast start

    DECLAN RICE silenced his Irish critics with a dominant display in England’s Nations League opener.Lee Carsley’s players handed him a debut win as interim manager of the Three Lions.Declan Rice opened the scoring against IrelandCredit: AFPJack Grealish made it 2-0 with a tidy finishCredit: SportsfileRice starred in the first half as he netted the opener and then set up England’s second goal.Jack Grealish doubled up for England after being set up by Rice 15 minutes later.Anthony Gordon however faded in the match as he was not able to have as much success as Grealish.SunSport’s Charlie Wyett has rated England’s players’ performance against Ireland…READ MORE IN FOOTBALLJORDAN PICKFORD – 6 Pushed away a half decent shot from Sammie Szmodics at the start of the game but as England took control, he had a stress-free game.After a difficult couple of weeks with Everton, he would have been grateful for this.TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD – 7Looked more at home at right-back compared to the disastrous midfield experiment at the Euros.Stunning pass in a move that eventually led to the first goal. He has to remain as England’s right-back.Most read in FootballMARC GUEHI – 7CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEnjoyed a decent Euros and switched over to the right of central defence as John Stones was named on the bench.Looks increasingly like a top-drawer defender. HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Fuming Roy Keane swears live on ITV in rant about the FAI as he leaves Ian Wright in stitchesWas left devastated after failing to make the Euro 2024 squad but he has enjoyed a decent start with Manchester United and looked solid here.When he is not in the team, England do miss his aerial presence. LEVI COLWILL – 7Second appearance for England and was deployed at left-back.Unlike the Euros, England have much better balance in defence with a natural left footer in this position. DECLAN RICE – 9Declan Rice impressed against IrelandCredit: GettyEnjoyed an absolute stormer in what could have been a difficult afternoon.Booed every time he touched the ball, the former Irish international quietened the boisterous home fans with a brilliant finish although refused to celebrate.He then set up the second for Grealish.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Fits perfectly into Carsley’s style of play. Some of his passing was excellent, particularly in the final third of the pitch, and this included his part in the outstanding second goal. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Bukayo Saka had a hand in the second goalCredit: PAEnjoying a terrific start to the season with Arsenal – he has been nominated as their player of the month – and played with plenty of confidence here.Was involved in the second goal. JACK GREALISH – 8Left out of the Euros squad, but loved every minute of this.A decent finish for 2-0 and unlike Rice, celebrated in front of the visiting fans by raising both arms in triumph. ANTHONY GORDON – 6Anthony Gordon faded as the match went onCredit: GettyLooked really lively early on but faded.He should have put England ahead when clean through but was lucky that seconds later, Rice hammered his shot into the corner. HARRY KANE – 6Missed with a header and despite working hard, did not actually have that many chances despite England having so much possession. READ MORE SUN STORIESSubsGibbs-White (for Grealish 77 mins) 6, Gomes (for Mainoo 77) 6, Eze (for Gordon 77 mins) 6, Bowen (for Kane 84 mins) 6, Stones (for Maguire 85) 6.Subs not used: Henderson, Pope, Lewis, Gallagher, Livramento, Konsa, Madueke. More

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    England stars Declan Rice and Jack Grealish BOOED as soon as they touch the ball by Ireland fans

    DECLAN RICE and Jack Grealish were booed by the Ireland fans in England’s Nations League clash.The two stars both played for the Republic of Ireland before switching allegiance to the Three Lions.Declan Rice and Jack Grealish have been booed by Irish fansCredit: SportsfileRice played three times for IrelandCredit: Sportsfile – SubscriptionGrealish appeared for the Under 21sCredit: CorbisFans called Rice and Grealish snakesCredit: ITVEngland was taking on Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, and the home fans made their views on the pair clear.Before the match started flags were displayed in the crowd with the pair’s faces on them.A message was written that read: “The snakes are back.”Boos could be heard coming from the crowd directed at Rice and Grealish.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRice featured three times for Ireland but never in a competitive game.The Arsenal midfielder earned caps for in 2018 win over the USA and defeats against France and Turkey.Grealish, however, only played for the nation’s youth teams as he turned out six times for the U21s side.They are not the only England stars that could have played for Ireland.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe likes of Harry Kane, Wayne Rooney and Jude Bellingham could have also all worn the green of the nation.England’s interim manager, Lee Carsley, knows all about switching allegiances.Jack Grealish’s summer of funThe England-born coach played for Ireland during his professional career. Carsley also kept to his word as he did not sing the national anthem before the game.His refusal has sparked a row as critics pointed out that his predecessor, Gareth Southgate, always belted out the anthem before matches.But Carsley countered by revealing he never sang the Irish anthem before games as a player.And he also didn’t sing “God Save the King” during his time as England U21s boss.More to follow…THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

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    Lee Carsley sticking to pre-match ritual and will NOT sing God Save the King before England vs Ireland in Nations League

    LEE CARSLEY admits he will not sing God Save the King before his England side face the Republic of Ireland on Saturday.The Three Lions’ interim boss, who played 40 times for the Republic, says he has never sung national anthems as a player with the Irish or as the England Under-21 manager.Carsley, right, alongside his coach Ashley Cole, won’t sing God Save the King before England’s clash with the Republic of IrelandCredit: PACarsley was capped for Ireland during a stellar playing career and insists he didn’t sing the anthem then eitherCredit: PABirmingham-born Carsley takes charge of England’s senior team for the first of a six-match Nations League campaign, which will serve as an audition for the full-time job.But asked whether he would belt out the national anthem, Carsley said: “This is something I always struggled with when I was playing for Ireland.“The gap between your warm-up, your coming on to the pitch and the delay with the anthems . . . it’s something that I have never done.“I was always really focused on the game and my first actions.Read More on Football“I found that in that period I was wary about my mind wandering off.”Former boss Gareth Southgate always roared the anthem and asked his players to do the same.But Carsley, 50, added: “I was really focused on the football and I have taken that into coaching.“We had the national anthem with the Under-21s also and I am in a zone at that point.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“I am thinking about how the opposition are going to set up and our first actions within the game.“I fully respect both anthems and understand how much they mean to both countries.Kyle Walker shows his true colours as he reveals conversation with Lee Carsley after being dropped from England squad “It’s something I am really respectful of.”Carsley’s insistence on not singing God Save the King — hugely unpopular with many Irish people — will prove controversial to some England fans.A hostile reception has been promised for Carsley — as well as Declan Rice, who played three times for Ireland’s senior team as a teenager, and ex-Ireland Under-21 player Jack Grealish.Both England stars are set to face Ireland in an away match for the first time.Lee Carsley’s first senior England squad More

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    Lamine Yamal, 17, had to be looked after at Euro 2024 hotel while Spain squad went out to eat, manager reveals

    LAMINE YAMAL arrived at Euro 2024 with his homework and left with a winner’s medal.But amid the beauty of flair shown by the schoolboy there was an equally-extreme duty of care displayed by his Spain manager.Lamine Yamal had a sensational Euro 2024, including an assist in Spain’s 2-1 final victory over England a day after his 17th birthdayCredit: GettyHe could briefly relax after Euros joyCredit: https://www.instagram.com/lamineyamal/Yamal has since helped Barcelona to the top of LaLigaCredit: RexLuis de la Fuente has now revealed the extra steps he was forced to take to “protect” a player who only turned 17 the day before the final.That included choosing a “responsible adult” to look after him in hotels – and not allowing him to join team meals.Yamal went on to notch an assist as Spain condemned England to two successive defeats at the last hurdle of the Euros with a late 2-1 win. Many believe De la Fuente’s men taught the Three Lions a lesson during Gareth Southgate’s last match in charge before stepping down.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut at times the former Sevilla defender, 63, had to be almost as focused on Yamal’s studies as he was with tactics.De la Fuente told The Guardian:“It is important we do our work as educators and developers.”There’s no escaping the fact that he was 16, a kid. There are questions of privacy, protection. “When the players went out to eat, he couldn’t because he was under-age. Most read in Euro 2024Yamal shares his life on social mediaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/lamineyamal/FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Someone with responsibility would stay at the hotel, looking after him.”De la Fuente explained his thinking by adding: “There are parental authorisations but, more so, a responsibility to society.”Top 10 highest-paid Premier League starsYamal has taken his exciting form in Germany over the summer into LaLiga with Barcelona.In fact, he went into the international break with two assists in last Saturday’s 7-0 win over Real Valladolid.But Yamal was handed a warning earlier in the season for turning up late to a pre-training talk.So he’s gone from the conscientious caring of De la Fuente to being part of the strict regime of new Barca chief Hansi Flick.Perhaps for a teenager happy to share snaps of his intoxicating life on social media, it’s all part of growing up fast.The 14-cap star is a Barca regularCredit: https://www.instagram.com/lamineyamal/ More