Moderator: “Good afternoon, everyone! Welcome to St. George’s Park for our media conference, where we’ll be announcing the squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. We’re joined today by Lee Carsley. As always, please keep the first round of questions to three per person. If we have time, we’ll return for follow-up questions. Tim, would you like to begin?”
Tim: “Thanks. Hi, Lee. Let’s start with the new faces—Lewis Hall and Taylor Harwood-Bellis. Could you tell us what led to their selections? And do you see Lewis as a long-term solution for the left-back spot?”
Lee Carsley: “Sure! Both Lewis and Taylor have clocked in a lot of minutes this season and proven they can consistently perform at a high level in the Premier League. I’ve known Taylor well from his time at Man City and his role as captain for the U21s. He’s been brilliant, both as a player and a leader. Lewis, meanwhile, has settled in nicely, showing consistency and quality on the left. With the right-back spot so competitive, we see an opportunity for Lewis at left-back. It’s a good challenge for him. Curtis Jones is another player we’ve brought in; it’s a big achievement for him, too.”
Tim: “It’s our first chance to talk to you since Thomas Tuchel’s appointment as England manager. How have your conversations with him been, and has he influenced this squad’s selection?”
Lee Carsley: “Actually, Thomas hasn’t had any input on squad selection. We exchanged congratulatory texts, but he’s been highly respectful of the work we’re doing. He’s left us to get on with things as usual, and I still see this as a huge privilege. It’s been great having the FA’s trust. With these last two games ahead, we’re excited for what’s to come.”
Tim: “You’ve handled plenty of questions about your future in this role. Has this experience made you interested in a longer-term role with the senior team?”
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Lee Carsley: “I’ve enjoyed it immensely, although it has been challenging. It’s a huge honor to have this responsibility. My focus, though, is on doing my best each day, and I’m not looking too far ahead. Of course, it would be fantastic to end this period with two positive results.”
Henry: “Lee, speaking of Curtis Jones—he’s been in the senior squad a few times but hasn’t made his debut yet. What do you think he can bring to the team?”
Lee Carsley: “Curtis is a versatile, well-rounded player with tremendous ability. I rate him highly—one of the best I’ve worked with. His consistency is impressive, and he’s shown he can score and assist at a high level. We’ve worked well together, and I’m looking forward to seeing him progress.”
Journalist: “When Tuchel was appointed, there were reports he signed his contract while you were still leading the squad. Were you aware of the decision before it was announced?”
Lee Carsley: “My focus was entirely on the games. The FA has respected our space to focus on the job without outside influence. After our first game didn’t go as planned, I took full responsibility, and we rebounded well. I think Thomas is an excellent appointment with a proven track record.”
Henry: “You’ve supported Gareth Southgate at tournaments. Will you be working with Tuchel in his backroom staff?”
Lee Carsley: “No, I’ll be returning to the U21s. My role is to help develop players for the senior team, and I’m proud to do that. Having been with the senior setup, I’ve gained insights that I believe will help prepare players for the high standards required.”
Henry: “What do you think English coaches need to reach the level of someone like Tuchel? Is it a matter of more opportunities?”
Lee Carsley: “Yes, opportunity is key. We need more English coaches in the Premier League and the Championship. The experiences provided here at St. George’s Park are fantastic, and I believe we’re on the right path. But ultimately, we need chances to coach at high levels—Premier League, Champions League. The higher we coach, the better for the game overall.”
Tim: “You’ve got two more games with the senior team in the spotlight. What are your main objectives for these matches, beyond winning?”
Lee Carsley: “Honestly, getting two wins is the main goal. But selecting the squad was a real challenge, as a few players not included had excellent seasons. My hope is that everyone stays fit for these fixtures, as some players are managing injuries.”
Henry: “Would you consider this role part of your legacy?”
Lee Carsley: “I don’t see it as a legacy. I’m just doing the best I can and putting the players first. Winning promotion would certainly aid in World Cup qualification, and that’s what matters.”
Journalist: “How does it feel to see U21 players you’ve coached now stepping up into the senior squad?”
Lee Carsley: “It’s incredibly fulfilling. I know these players’ journeys well. When I make that call, it’s a special moment, knowing what they’ve overcome. But now, their challenge is to stay in the squad and compete consistently at the highest level.”
Moderator: “Thanks for your time, Lee. Best of luck in the upcoming matches.”
Lee Carsley: “Thank you, everyone.”
