Carsley hits out at Stan axing

AFTER the assassination, the recriminations. Lee Carsley has become the first Ireland player to speak out at the “poor” manner of Steve Staunton’s sacking as national coach while also expressing reservations that his replacement will fare any better with a worryingly shallow pool of talent.

Carsley, having made his Irish debut in 1997, is one of several players whose bond with Staunton was forged by playing alongside, as well as under, him. The Everton midfielder admitted he was shocked at the clumsy way the FAI handled Staunton’s departure and suggested the players should shoulder much of the blame for his failed reign.

“I’m gutted for Stan,” he said. “The manner he has lost it is poor.