Carsley hails new generation as he passes England reins to Tuchel

England's interim manager Lee Carsley reacts before the UEFA Nations League win over Ireland (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Lee Carsley predicted that competition for places in Thomas Tuchel’s first squad will be fiercer than ever, after his stint as England’s interim head coach ended with a 5-0 thrashing of the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League.

Carsley, who said there was relief at returning to the top tier of the Uefa competition, can take pride in fulfilling his brief before stepping aside for Tuchel in the new year. The 50-year-old has used the Nations League campaign to blood a host of youngsters and the growing talent pool was clear as England, who could begin 2026 World Cup qualifying in March, clinched top spot in Group B2 by demolishing 10-man Ireland.