Lee Carsley Changes England's Coaching Staff

England's interim manager, Lee Carsley, is making significant changes to his backroom staff as he prepares for his inaugural match in charge of the national team. In a notable shift, Carsley has decided to part ways with two long-serving analysts from Gareth Southgate's tenure, Mike Baker and Stephen O’Brien. While both analysts will remain employed by the Football Association, they will no longer be part of the close-knit team supporting the senior squad, marking the end of an eight-year collaboration with Southgate. To fill the void, Carsley has promoted James Ryder, previously an analyst for the Under-21s, to work directly with him. The analyst department, led by Rhys Long, plays a vital role in developing game strategies by compiling and analyzing footage from matches involving both senior and junior players. This restructuring reflects Carsley’s intent to establish a fresh approach as he takes the helm of the national team. Additionally, Carsley has made further appointments, including Under-21s goalkeeping coach Tim Dittmer moving up to the senior team. Former England internationals Ashley Cole and Joleon Lescott have also joined as assistants, enhancing the coaching lineup. Meanwhile, the short-term contracts of Southgate’s coaches, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Paul Nevin, are unlikely to be extended. Despite his temporary status, Carsley enjoys the full backing of the FA, bolstered by his recent success in leading the Under-21s to victory in the Championship in Georgia last summer, which underscores his capabilities as a manager.