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      Troy Deeney: Lee Carsley is the go-to coaching guru for aspiring managers… he is the perfect man for the England job

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      WHEN I was doing my coaching badges as a player at Watford and Birmingham, I wanted to get the best possible advice.I asked friends and contacts up and down the country who I should speak to — and almost everyone pointed me in the direction of Lee Carsley.Lee Carsley has done everything right in his two games in chargeCredit: AlamyAshley Cole and Joleon Lescott gave Carsley glowing endorsementsGiven that Lee hadn’t been the full-time manager of any senior team, I didn’t really expect that but those people were right. He is a special coach and a special man.Two of those who gave me the most glowing references about Lee were Ashley Cole and Joleon Lescott, who are both now assisting him in his role as England’s interim manager.I spoke to Lee at length about how to put on coaching sessions, about how everything you do as a coach all week long should ultimately be directed towards the match on a Saturday afternoon.Lee is thorough, generous and decent. He gave me his number and insisted I called him if I ever needed anything.READ MORE TOP STORIESWe’re from the same neck of the woods and played for the same Sunday league club, Catholic Community Centre, at different times.And it feels as if Birmingham is the epicentre of English football right now with Lee in charge of the national team, Jude Bellingham the star player and Jack Grealish looking the part as a roaming No 10 in the victories over Ireland and Finland.When I was a Birmingham City player, Lee’s son Callum worked in the recruitment department and his other son, Connor — a great lad, who has Down’s syndrome — was also a frequent visitor to the training ground.If anyone is wondering whether Lee has the steeliness to do the England job, I think that dealing with the issues surrounding Connor’s condition will certainly have given him an edge and a resilience.Most read in FootballLee Carsley followed same path as De La Fuente and learned from Pep – why can’t he be England boss?By Tom BarclayBE honest. How many of you had heard of Luis de la Fuente before his glorious Euros?Don’t feel bad. Even Declan Rice admitted ahead of Sunday’s heartbreaking final that he was unaware of the smooth-headed 63-year-old a month or so ago.We all certainly know who De La Fuente is now after he masterminded La Roja’s perfect Euros campaign which ended with a deserved victory over England.That showpiece triumph in Berlin made it seven wins out of seven in the competition for his scintillating side.It rendered De La Fuente the first boss ever to win the Under-19 Euros, Under-21 Euros, the Nations League and the European Championship.And in so doing, it strengthened the case for another bold, bald tactician to take over as England boss now Gareth Southgate has stepped down.Lee Carsley has trodden a similar path as De La Fuente, successfully coaching his way up his national team’s youth ranks, culminating in last summer’s Under-21 Euro success.No doubt there would be questions about his suitability given his experience of coaching senior players is limited to brief caretaker spells at Coventry, Brentford and Birmingham.For sure, he would not bring the same star quality as a Frank Lampard. Most fans will just about remember Carsley as that ratter of a midfielder who played alongside Thomas Gravesen for Everton in the noughties.While there is also the thorny issue, at least for some, of the Brummie’s 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland, who ironically would be his first opponents if appointed.But park all that for a second, focus on his qualities and the argument to give him the big job can be a convincing one. First off, his team does not play like he used to. ‘Carsball’ is far sexier and heavily influenced by its creator watching Pep Guardiola’s free-flowing Barcelona train a decade ago, alongside 60 members of the public.That study trip to Catalonia changed his philosophy to be far more front-footed and it paved the way to some fabulous fare during last summer’s triumph in Georgia.Four of the five tournament goals boasting the most passes in the build-up belonged to his Young Lions. Fans bemoaning Southgate’s pragmatic style would be salivating if they watched back the build-up to Emile Smith Rowe’s strike against Israel in the group stage, or Cole Palmer’s in the semi against the same opposition.Carsley is a tactical innovator too.He was robbed of a centre-forward pretty much on the eve of the tournament last summer, thanks to Rhian Brewster’s injury and Flo Balogun switching to the USA.His response was to play Gordon through the middle. The Newcastle starlet won player of the tournament.Manchester United supporters likely remember Angel Gomes as a lightweight winger but Carsley played him as a shield in front of the back four to great effect.Gordon used the Under-21 Euros experience as his launchpad to make the senior squad this summer. But talking about Carsley 12 months ago, the Toon forward said: “He is the best man-manager I’ve had so far. “I feel like I can speak to him about anything on and off the pitch.“On the pitch, the way we’re playing football is a credit to him because we play the way he tells us to. “This might be the best footballing team I’ve played in, in terms of how we play and the combination play we play around the box, it’s really at an elite level. That’s down to Lee.”Those powers of motivation could be crucial to unleashing Jude Bellingham, who, like Solihull-born Carsley, is from the outskirts of Birmingham, specifically Stourbridge.Like Southgate, Carsley believes in the merits of giving them a comfortable environment to work in, particularly during tournaments.The 50-year-old is relatively quiet on the touchline, often seen on his haunches making notes in his dugout with his assistant Ashley Cole the more vocal.England’s greatest left-back Cole has learned a lot from Carsley despite having the far superior playing career. In the aftermath of the Under-21s success, which was won without conceding a goal, Cole reflected on the different attitudes players have to international duty now and in his day.The ex-Arsenal and Chelsea defender, 43, said: “We didn’t always want to go and the club manager would pull you out.“But I feel they truly, truly love coming here now. I think that is testament to what Lee has done here. He is kind, loving, someone that thinks about the players more than himself.”Other names will be in the frame but the FA will have seen how De La Fuente has taken Spain to new heights, despite his relative obscurity to the wider footballing world.The promotion of Carsley, who spent these Euros scouting England’s opponents, would take guts and faith in the much-feted ‘pathway’.He would have to brace himself for unprecedented levels of scrutiny – but he is ambitious.With his 50th birthday fast approaching, Carsley said in June last year: “Energy-wise, and I’m not saying the clock’s ticking, but if I don’t have a go at it then the boat is going to pass.”Few Spaniards were bowled over when De La Fuente was appointed in 2022 but he put them on course to sensational success.Who is to say putting Carsley at the helm could not have a similar effect?FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt cannot fail to have given him a deeper understanding of real life than many in professional football possess.I can’t now envisage a scenario in which Lee won’t get the England job full-time. The victories over Ireland and Finland were jobs well done.England fans SLAM Lee Carsley for not singing the national anthem at Wembley England played particularly well in the first half in Dublin, players were operating with freedom, not least Grealish and Trent Alexander-Arnold.I don’t want to be too negative about Gareth Southgate as he made huge progress as England boss, reaching two Euros finals, but the football was more attacking and Lee has so far shown greater common sense, with players operating in their natural positions.English football can be arrogant. We think we must have a proven, world-class, trophy-winning manager in charge of the national team — but we’ve had that with Fabio Capello and the late Sven-Goran Eriksson, without winning anything.It’s not all about having a glittering CV, it’s about knowing the players and understanding the job.I asked friends and contacts up and down the country who I should speak to — and almost everyone pointed me in the direction of Lee Carsley.Troy DeeneyLee was a successful boss of the England Under-21s, winning the European Championship last year, so he knows the emerging talent.And he is already bringing it through with the likes of Angel Gomes, Noni Madueke and Morgan Gibbs-White getting their full international debuts.The FA know him and trust him but I don’t agree with the idea I keep hearing that Lee is “just an FA man”.He is anything but “just an FA man”. He is his own man who knows his own mind and he will never try to be anything he is not.Lee was offered the Republic of Ireland job last year and many people in his position would have jumped at the chance. But he had the courage of his convictions to stay put and wait for this opportunity.There will be no fake airs and graces with Lee. He is a hands-on coach, first and foremost.Noni Madueke and Angel Gomes took full advantage of their call-upsCredit: GettyTrent Alexander-Arnold is playing with more freedom, while Morgan Gibbs-White is one of the youngsters thriving after being called upCredit: GettyYou will have seen him on the pitch setting out cones in the warm-ups of his first two matches in charge of England — and the players will like that.There have been many coaches who are extremely highly rated and successful as a No 2 but far less adept at being the main man. In England terms, Steve McClaren fits into that category.But I believe Lee does have the man- management ability, as well as the tactical expertise, to be the No 1 on a permanent basis.These six Nations League matches, which feature Greece as well as the Irish and the Finns, will not tell us how Lee will fare managing England against elite opposition.That is the final step for England, having reached the latter stages of four consecutive tournaments under Gareth.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere will be huge issues to deal with going forward — not least that England have a whole host of No 10s but no obvious successor to Harry Kane as our No 9.But I don’t think the FA will go scouring the globe for a more illustrious name to be Southgate’s full-time successor when the best man for the job is probably right beneath their noses.England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham. More

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      Forgotten Premier League cult hero most famous for kicking advertising hoarding SACKED by national team

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      FORGOTTEN Newcastle cult hero Temur Ketsbaia has been sacked by Cyprus.The Georgian lost his job as manager days after an embarrassing 4-0 home defeat to Kosovo in the Uefa Nations League.Temur Ketsbaia has been relieved from his duties as Cyprus bossCredit: Kenny RamsayThe former Wolves and AEK Athens player was in his third year with the Cyprus national team, now ranked No. 127 by Fifa.Cyprus dropped 20 places in the global rankings over the course of his tenure.The Cyprus federation have not announced an interim coach to take over for their Nations League games next month.His two wins this year came against San Marino in June and a 1-0 victory over Lithuania in their first Nations League match last week.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe nation lost all eight games of their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign and finished rock bottom of their group.The pot included Scotland, Norway and his home country Georgia, as well as eventual winners Spain.The 56-year-old joined the Magpies in 1997 and scored 14 goals in 107 appearances during his three-year spell at St James’ Park.But arguably his most memorable moment in black and white came during a Premier League match against Bolton in March 1998.Most read in FootballKetsbaia was responsible for one of the most iconic celebrations in Prem historyHe is arguably most well known for his wild antics against BoltonAfter coming off the bench in the 79th minute of the clash with the score at 1-1, Ketsbaia came out of nowhere to score a last-minute winner.He then whipped his shirt off, launched it into the crowd and proceeded to kick lumps out of the advertising boards surrounding the pitch.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMany Newcastle fans were left baffled by the outrageous celebration, but Ketsbaia explained that it was his way of letting out the frustration that he had built-up after being named on the bench earlier in the day.Ketsbaia also coached Georgia for five years between 2009 and 2014, and later worked for AEK and Cypriot clubs APOEL and Anorthosis.Premier League managers’ salaries revealed More

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      Newcastle tracking England star Angel Gomes as they plot January transfer – but could face fight with two Prem rivals

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      NEW England star Angel Gomes has become Newcastle’s top target.But Toon chief Eddie Howe faces competition for the former Manchester United midfielder from Liverpool, Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund.Angel Gomes is out of contract at Lille next summerCredit: GettyLee Carsley says Gomes ‘fully deserves’ the plaudits he’s receivedCredit: AlamyA string of clubs are understood to have watched the Lille star shine for the Three Lions in Tuesday’s 2-0 Nations League win over Finland.Spurs were already keen on the 24-year-old, who is out of contract at his Ligue 1 team next summer. Interim England chief Lee Carsley gave Gomes his England debut as a late sub in Saturday’s 2-0 victory in Ireland.The ex-Old Trafford academy ace then played the whole of the Wembley clash against the Finns three nights later.READ MORE TOP STORIESReports last week suggested Gomes is not currently planning to renew his Lille deal at the end of the season.He’s been a big hit in the French top flight after switching from a role just behind the attack to a more central position under Paulo Fonseca.And it’s reckoned Newcastle could even ponder a January bid for Gomes.That follows Carsley saying he “fully deserves” the plaudits for his breakthrough on the full international scene.Most read in FootballGomes picked up his first two England caps over the international breakCredit: RexBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesThe former Under-21 chief also highlighted the player’s incredible knowledge of the game.Carsley said: “He loves football, he watches football, he’s interested in tactics.Lee Carsley nailed on to land England manager job with bookies with Pep Guardiola second favourite at massive 10-1 “He knows all the players in any league.”If you ask him for any feedback, you need to be prepared that he’s going to give you some feedback on the session, or how we’re going to build up, or the positions.”He’ll often say about some build-ups he’s done with other clubs, or what he’s played against, because he’s obviously playing in France, so he sees different things.”Gomes’ classy, controlled display against Finalnd also won praise from England legends.Ex-Arsenal striker Ian Wright hailed the Salford lad for being “constantly on the move” and also highlighted “his touch”.England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham. More

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      Lee Carsley nailed on to land England manager job with bookies with Pep Guardiola second favourite at massive 10/1

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      LEE CARSLEY is the nailed-on favourite to land the England job on a full-time basis.The bookies are backing the interim head coach to be offered the role by the FA.Lee Carsley is the favourite to land the England jobCredit: GettyPep Guardiola is rated at 10/1 to be the next full=time England bossCredit: GettyCarsley, 50, has stepped in to lead the Three Lions after Gareth Southgate stepped down after Euro 2024.Bookmaker Coral has placed Carsley as the massive favourite for the job full-time.He is rated at 1-20 to get the role, which is ahead of the likes of Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and Newcastle’s Eddie Howe.Coral’s John Hill said: “We now make Lee Carsley long odds-on to land the England job permanently following back-to-back victories in the Uefa Nations League.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”England are next in action in October against Greece and it looks very likely that Carsley will be charge of the Three Lions for that game at Wembley where he will be bidding to keep up his 100 per cent record.”Guardiola is the second favourite at 10/1 and 12/1 for Howe.While the likes of Graham Potter, Jurgen Klopp and Frank Lampard are seen as much less likely.Carsley has enjoyed a perfect start to his reign in charge of England.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHis Three Lions have won both Nations League fixtures against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.Both games finished 2-0, with the side joint top of League B Group 2 along with Greece.England’s player ratings against FinlandNext England manager oddsHere are the latest odds on who will be the next England manager…Lee Carsley – 1/20Pep Guardiola – 1/10Eddie Howe – 1/12Graham Potter – 1/16Jurgen Klopp – 1/25Frank Lampard – 1/33Kieran McKenna – 1/33*Odds from CoralDeclan Rice and Jack Grealish were the goalscorers against Ireland as they silenced the boo-boys in the crowd.While against Finland, Harry Kane stepped up to fire in a brace on his 100th appearance for the national side.Speaking after the win over Finland, Carsley admitted he does not yet feel comfortable in his position.He told ITV: “I definitely don’t feel comfortable still, I have been out of my comfort zone.”Enjoyable but we have to had make sure every single day we are producing high standards.”[We were] fortunate to get two good results and about building on that.”England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:READ MORE SUN STORIESEstablishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFor help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.  More

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      Gareth Southgate responds after Gary Lineker’s ‘we told you’ remark over England team selection

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE has responded to Gary Lineker’s “we told you” comments over his England team selection.The former Three Lions boss stepped down following the heartbreaking defeat by Spain in Euro 2024.Gareth Southgate has responded to comments made by Gary LinekerCredit: AlamyLineker had pointed to criticism of Southgate’s team selectionCredit: GettySouthgate, 54, had been criticised for his team selection during the tournament.He was dug out by Lineker for his omission of Jack Grealish from the squad and limited use of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Anthony Gordon.The BBC presenter pointed to the changes interim boss Lee Carsely made during the Nations League win over the Republic of Ireland.Lineker insisted that critics of Southgate would be saying “we told you” after the success of the changes.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSouthgate has responded to those comments by saying there is “no point” in him getting involved.He told Sky: “I have shut off from everything.”There’s no point in me talking about the team now.”It’s for me to let other people take over, to give them the space to go and take the team on to the next challenges.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”There’s no point in me getting involved in anything like that.”Southgate also insisted that he is not “rushing” to make a decision on his next management job.England’s player ratings against FinlandSouthgate’s England recordHere is a look at Gareth Southgate’s record as England manager.Overall recordGames: 102Wins: 61Draws: 24Losses: 17Goals scored: 213Goals conceded: 72What Lineker said about SouthgateHere is what Gary Lineker said about the changes Lee Carsley since replacing Gareth Southgate…Speaking on The Rest is Football, he said: “It’s interesting as well, isn’t it, that perhaps some of the things fans were most disappointed about in the Euros – well, probably three things, maybe more.”But everyone wanted Anthony Gordon to play on the left because we all saw a weakness and an unbalance on that side.”Also that he can run behind players because Kane likes to come short and you’ve got to have a threat behind so he did that.”The other thing was he [Southgate] left Jack Grealish out of the squad which a lot of people were bemused by and he’s come in and performed really well. “And obviously, he never really trusted Trent Alexander-Arnold. In the first game Carsley has come up with all these things and a lot of us are going ‘you see? We told you’.”He added: “I’ve got lots of opportunities, I’m very open-minded to what’s next.”That might be in football, that might be outside of football. I’m just going to take some time, refresh, recharge and go from there.”I think at the moment, people know that I need to get my energy back.”Southgate’s successor, Carsely, has got off to a perfect start since taking over the senior team.He has overseen 2-0 victories over Ireland and Finland in the Nations League.The win over Finland saw Harry Kane mark his 100th England cap with a deadly double.England’s Euro 2024 row with punditsBy Tom Barclay, Football ReporterHistorically, it has been the newspapers that the England team have directed their frustration at when not playing well in a major tournament.But at this summer’s Euros it was the pundits in the firing line rather than the traditional press as Gareth Southgate’s side laboured out of a dream group.The first half an hour of the opening 1-0 win over Serbia aside, Southgate’s struggled badly in their opening three fixtures which included poor draws against Denmark and Slovenia.It prompted fierce criticism from England legends Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker in particular.Shearer hammered the team for their 1-1 with the Danes on BBC commentary, claiming there was “no excuse” for the lacklustre display.Lineker was also deeply unimpressed, commenting on his Rest is Football podcast: “I mean, you can think of all sorts of words and expletives if you like, but it was s***”.Captain Harry Kane held a press conference a few days later ahead of the Slovenia game in which he was asked about Lineker’s X-rated verdict.The Bayern star said: “What ex-players who are pundits now have got to realise is it’s very hard not to listen to it now, especially for some players who are not used to it or are new to the environment. I always feel like they have a responsibility as an ex-England player that a lot of players looked up to.”Social media was also predictably awash with flak for the team and it spilled out into the stadium after the 0-0 draw with Slovenia, when boss Southgate had three empty beer cups chucked at him as he went to applaud the fans at full-time.Southgate claimed he was “oblivious” to the pundit stick he was getting – including from ex-team-mates – but tellingly did brand the atmosphere he was working in as “an unusual environment”.England were a last-gasp Jude Bellingham overhead kick away from a humiliating exit in the last-16 to Slovakia, continuing their underwhelming form before turning it round in extra-time.An irked Bellingham hit out at some of “negativity” surrounding the team in his post-match press conference.While Southgate also opened up on the personal nature of the attacks on him, saying: “I can’t deny that some of the personal nature, you know… This is a job where you get ridiculed, and your professional capability is questioned beyond belief, and I don’t think it’s normal to have beer thrown at you either.”Southgate would go on to take England to the final, where the team lost 2-1 to Spain thanks to a heartbreakingly late strike from Mikel Oyarzabal, before stepping down the following week. 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      Gareth Southgate drops biggest hint yet over next job amid Man Utd links after stepping down as England manager

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE has no plans to jump straight back into the dugout following his England exit.The 54-year-old resigned from his role as Three Lions boss in July following the nation’s second straight Euros final defeat, a 2-1 loss to Spain.Gareth Southgate resigned from his role as England manager after their Euro 2024 final defeat to SpainCredit: PAThe 54-year-old won’t be rushing back into managementCredit: REXSouthgate has hinted that his next job might not be in footballCredit: RexSouthgate’s success at the England helm has put him on the radar of several clubs.And the former England international is understood to be on Manchester United’s shortlist of candidates to replace Erik ten Hag.But he’s revealed his next job might not even be football-related.He told Sky Sports: “I’ve got lots of opportunities, I’m very open-minded to what’s next.READ MORE ON SOUTHGATE”That might be in football, that might be outside of football. “I’m just going to take some time, refresh, recharge and go from there.”I think at the moment people know that I need to get my energy back.”The FA have yet to appoint a permanent successor for Southgate, who spent eight years in charge of the Three Lions.Most read in FootballLee Carsley will remain in interim charge of the side while FA chiefs continue their search for a new gaffer.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSouthgate’s England legacy should be celebrated, not torn downBy Tom BarclayGareth Southgate claimed that only winning Sunday’s final would earn England the respect of the footballing world.Spain proved a last-gasp comeback too far in Berlin, but defeat did not change the fact that Southgate’s eight-year transformation put respect back into the world of England football.Critics will pick apart his cautious tactics, his selection choices and his record in the most high-pressurised games – with some legitimacy.Yet what is quickly forgotten is the laughing stock our national side had become before he took over in 2016.A shambolic Euros exit to Iceland that summer had been followed up by Sam Allardyce quitting just one game into his tenure thanks to his pint of wine with undercover reporters.Then came Southgate, with his decency, his humility, his understated eloquence and his vision for a better, different future.He had analysed why England had so often failed in the past, from lack of preparation at penalty shoot-outs to players being bored out of their minds during major tournaments.Southgate took those findings and implemented a culture where players wanted to play for their country again – and it led to back-to-back finals for the first time in our history.Instead of going to war with the media, he opened his doors to them and discovered, shock, horror, that it was met, generally, with support. It did not stop him from being criticised when required – we are no cheerleaders, here – but the vitriol of yesteryear – or today on social media – was largely gone.No manager is perfect and neither was Southgate. We cannot pretend his teams played like those of Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp.But in the fullness of time, his feats will likely be revered because the results speak for themselves.Hopefully his successor can go one step further and bring football home. To do that, they must show respect to what Southgate has created and build on it, rather than rip it down.To read more from Tom Barclay click HERE. Southgate has paid little attention to the noise surrounding his departure, including criticism from pundits like Gary Lineker.He said: “There’s no point in me talking about the team now.’Get him in’ – England fans reveal who they would like to replace Gareth Southgate after Euro defeat”It’s for me to let other people take over, to give them the space to go and take the team on to the next challenges.”There’s no point in me getting involved in anything like that.”Despite ultimately failing to end the nation’s long wait for silverware, Southgate insists he’ll look back at his time in charge of the team with great pride.He said: “We raised expectations and that was important. “We needed to put English football back on the map.”He added: “I think it was probably the right time for change.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I don’t think you can have regrets. “We made decisions with the information we had at the time to try and produce a winning team.” More

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      ‘Are you seriously talking about that?’ – Jack Grealish told off by England interviewer after being asked about Kane

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      JACK GREALISH had a message for England centurion Harry Kane following the striker’s 100th international cap on Tuesday.Kane scored twice to lead England to a 2-0 win over Finland at Wembley Stadium.Harry Kane scored twice on his 100th England appearanceCredit: GettyThe striker reflected on his achievement after the matchCredit: Instagram @englandJack Grealish joked about assisting Kane’s ‘main goal’Credit: Instagram @englandIt was the perfect way to mark his 100th senior appearance for the Three Lions.Reflecting on the occasion after the match, the Bayern Munich star said: “Pretty special night, you know. I couldn’t do it without the boys in here. The staff, everyone.”I think whenever you have a night like this you obviously want to go out there and first and foremost perform for your team.”So if you score two goals it’s really special. And yeah, I couldn’t be prouder.READ MORE ON ENGLAND”It means a lot. It’s been a great journey so far and hopefully many, many more great memories ahead.”The interviewer in the England changing room then turned to Grealish to request a few words.And the Manchester City star responded: “I’ve seen a different side to him this camp! Nah, only joking. Unbelievable!”I assisted, I think, his main goal against Germany…”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBefore he could continue, the person conducting the interview chimed in to say: “Are you seriously talking about that?!”But after joking with the England captain, Grealish went on to add: “No I’m only messing. Unbelievable captain. Unbelievable guy.England’s player ratings against Finland”I think tonight showed what he’s all about. Scored two goals for us to get the win so very proud to play with him.”The goal in question was Kane’s strike against Germany in the Euro 2020 round-of-16.Grealish assisted the striker in the 86th minute to make the score 2-0 at Wembley.England went on to reach the final, but missed out on the European Championship title following a defeat on penalties to Italy.England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham. More

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      England in World Cup 2026 boost as major Uefa change all but guarantees Three Lions top seed in qualification

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      ENGLAND are set to receive a massive World Cup seeding boost – after a Uefa rethink.Euro chiefs had indicated that seeding for December’s qualification draw in Zurich would be determined entirely by Nations League places, with the best 12 performers getting the advantage.England have received a massive boost ahead of the 2026 World Cup drawCredit: AFPThat meant England, relegated to League B after their 2022 horror show performances, could not gatecrash the top seeding pot even with a 100 per cent record under interim boss Lee Carsley.Three Lions’ sources had accepted the apparent reality and the risk of having to beat one of the likes of France, Spain, Portugal to Germany to take an automatic place in the USA, Canada and Mexico.But it has now emerged that Nyon chiefs have refined the seeding plans – effectively guaranteeing England top spot unless they suffer a major meltdown over the next two months.Instead of the top 12 League A sides being seeded, the new plan will see the top two in each of the four pools earning that ranking.Read More on EnglandBut the four remaining top seeds will be the best four sides in Fifa’s world rankings that have not earned their spots through the Nations League.And with England’s position in fourth in that Fifa table – behind only Argentina, France and Spain – strengthened by the back-to-back wins over the Republic of Ireland and Finland, it is almost certain that they will be rewarded by a place in the top pot.The expansion to a 48-nation tournament means Europe will get 16 teams in the revamped tournament, up from 13 in 2022.Uefa agreed to downsize qualifying groups to ensure all the group matches are played between March and November next year.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThere will be 12 groups, six of which will have four teams and the others containing five sides.Only the group winners qualify, with the runners up joined by four sides from the Nations League campaign in a series of sudden-death play-offs for the final four places in March 2026.Lee Carsley reveals he is ‘not speaking’ to Ben White as he gives update on Arsenal star’s England careerWinning their League B pool would ensure England have a fall-back place in the play-offs even if they blow up in the qualifying campaign.But even as top seeds, England will still probably be in one of the five team groups with at least two qualifying matches before the end of this season, in the March and June international breaks.England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham. More