Lee Carsley has been appointed as the interim manager of the England national football team following the departure of Gareth Southgate.

The FA’s decision to appoint him is seen as a strategic move to ensure stability and continuity while they search for a permanent successor.

Carsley’s tenure as the U21 manager demonstrated his ability to develop young talent and implement a dynamic playing style, traits that are likely to benefit the senior squad.

“As I am very familiar with the players and the cycle of international football, it makes sense for me to guide the team while the FA (Football Association) continues the process to recruit a new manager,” said Carsley.

“My main priority is to ensure continuity, and our goal is to secure promotion in the UEFA Nations League.”

Meanwhile, FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said, “Lee is a fantastic coach who is well known to the majority of our current senior squad, having worked with most at international or club level.

“He offers us a very strong interim solution, and we are confident he will perform well in the UEFA Nations League games ahead. We are grateful to Lee for stepping up to manage the team while we continue with our recruitment process.”

Carsley, who led the U21s to European Championship glory last year, replaces Gareth Southgate, who stood down days after last month’s Euro 2024 final loss to Spain.

During his playing career, Carsley earned 40 caps with the Republic of Ireland and has spent the last four years working for the English FA with the U20s and U21s. It’s uncertain if Carsley is looking for a long-term role, but this opportunity could serve as a great trial for him and the FA, similar to how Southgate progressed.

Southgate moved up from the U21s in 2016, initially taking on four games as interim manager before being offered a four-year contract as the England manager. Meanwhile, Ben Futcher will oversee the U21s in Carsley’s absence.