The Football Association (FA) wants to extend the contract of Lee Carsley as England’s under-21 manager following tomorrow’s European Championship final against Spain.
According to the Daily Mail, there have been discussions regarding Carsley’s future between FA technical director John McDermott and the manager during the tournament in Georgia.
The FA’s chief executive Mark Bullingham will officially present the former Everton midfielder with a new contract later this month.
Carsley has impressed the FA with his exceptional leadership over the past month, guiding the under-21 team to their first major final in 14 years.
However, he is on a 12-month rolling deal with a break clause that activates this summer.
Consequently, the FA aims to extend his contract, especially given his recent accomplishments.
Carsley has also emerged as a candidate for the vacant Republic of Ireland managerial position.
The 49-year-old also wants to manage at club level which could force him to think twice.
Carsley’s affiliation with the FA began three years ago when they appointed him the under-20 coach.
He assumed the role of under-21 manager a year later, succeeding Aidy Boothroyd.
Carsley has established himself as a highly regarded figure at Wembley. His excellent work has put him on the Football Association of Ireland’s shortlist.
Interestingly, as Gareth Southgate’s contract nears expiration in 18 months, Carsley could even be considered a potential replacement for the England manager’s position.
The FA wants to appoint a home-grown manager, making Carsley an appealing candidate. They believe it is the ideal next step.
Carsley and Southgate share a close relationship. The latter attended several of the England Under-21s group-stage matches in Georgia. Southgate will likely fly out to watch tomorrow’s final against Spain.
The Young Lions strode over Israel to enter the final, but they have an enormous task to overcome tomorrow. Spain are one of the most successful teams at this level.
