Carsley to focus on club before country

LEE CARSLEY has discussed his return to international football with new Republic of Ireland boss Steve Staunton, but made it clear he wants to re-establish himself with Everton first.

The midfielder earned 29 caps before announcing his international retirement at the start of the 2004-05 campaign, but stated earlier this season that he had given the situation second thoughts.

However, being sidelined with injury since last summer - until his first team return last weekend - had forced Carsley to put on hold any thought of earning more caps.