Carsley Represents A New Chapter
This match will start a new chapter for England as Lee Carsley takes charge as the interim manager. Since the resignation of Gareth Southgate, there has been a lot of talk of Carsley getting the job on an interim basis. Though he hasn’t had a job in club management, he’s done very well with the England U21s. Last year he won the U21 Euros, so he’s got experience of how to get across the line in major tournaments. He’ll know a lot of the players that have progressed into the senior team. Southgate came from the same exact route that Carsley is taking, so it will be interesting to see if he follows a similar path.
Surprise Call Ups
Last week Lee Carsley picked his first England squad, and it was interesting viewing. The biggest surprise was the call-up of Angel Gomes, who applies his trade for Lille in Ligue 1. The 24-year-old started out life at Manchester United, but he decided to move on in search of first-team football. Carsley knows his qualities from his time in the Under 21s, so that shouldn’t be an issue. The addition of Noni Madueke also raised a few eyebrows. Despite the youth additions, the likes of Harry Kane, John Stones, and Jordan Pickford were all selected. It’s definitely a blend of youth and experience, which should bode well for The Three Lions moving forward.
Back From The Wilderness?
The opposition will also have a new manager in the dugout. The Republic of Ireland have been in the wilderness of international football in recent years, and they’ll be hoping Heimir Hallgrimsson can change their fortunes. Eyebrows were raised when he was appointed, but he does have a good international record. His major achievement was guiding Iceland to the Euros in 2016 and the World Cup in 2018.
The Return Of Ferguson
When it comes to his team selection, the big talking point will be the inclusion of Brighton striker Evan Ferguson. The 19-year-old is very much seen as the future for Irish football, and fans will be glad to see him after he had been sidelined by injury over the last few months. Though he’s a very promising player, I would be surprised if he was quite up to speed. Away from Ferguson, the Boys in Green will have the likes of Seamus Coleman, Will Smallbone, and Adam Idah to rely on.
For this game, I think England will have too much class for the Republic of Ireland. I am not sure how Carsley will set up England, but I would imagine he’d pick quite an attacking team. Therefore, I think England to win with over 2.5 goals at 23/10 isn’t bad value.
Republic Of Ireland V England Selection
England To Win By Over 2.5 Goals (23/10)
