Former Ireland midfielder Lee Carsley appointed England U21 head coach

The English FA were concerned that Carsley would depart their set-up to the FAI in January after Damien Duff’s resignation

Lee Carsley. Photo: Mike Egerton/PA

Former Republic of Ireland midfielder Lee Carsley has been appointed as England’s U21 head coach, appointing Ashley Cole as his assistant.

The English FA were concerned that the 47-year-old would depart their set-up to the FAI in January when Damien Duff’s resignation created a vacancy on Stephen Kenny’s backroom staff but he’s been rewarded for his loyalty by this promotion from the U20 post.