England Face Injury Setbacks as Lee Carsley Prepares to Unveil Final Squad Ahead of Tuchel’s Arrival

With the November international break fast approaching, England’s interim manager Lee Carsley is gearing up to announce his final Three Lions squad before Thomas Tuchel steps into the role. However, Carsley's job has become significantly tougher as several key players face potential absences due to injuries, casting doubts over their availability for England’s Nations League clashes against Greece and Ireland.

After November's Nations League fixtures, interim England manager Lee Carsley will officially step down, making way for German coach Thomas Tuchel, who takes the reins on January 1, 2025. But before the Tuchel era begins, the Three Lions face two pivotal Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. Following a surprise loss to Greece in October, England are keen to secure wins over Greece in Athens and Ireland at Wembley to avoid the pressure of Nations League play-offs in March. 

However, Carsley has an uphill battle on his hands, as several key players are dealing with injuries ahead of his final squad announcement. With doubts hanging over stars like Cole Palmer, Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, John Stones, Jack Grealish, and Harry Maguire, Carsley may have to bring in fresh faces to round out England’s 25-man roster. Additionally, he’ll also have to contend with the absence of Crystal Palace duo Eberechi Eze and Adam Wharton. Already, players such as Angel Gomes, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Noni Madueke have received their first senior call-ups under his guidance, and Carsley is likely to add more new talent.  

Reports suggest that Curtis Jones and Morgan Rogers—both shining this season with Liverpool and Aston Villa, respectively—are expected to be named in the squad. Newcastle United's Tino Livramento is also rumored to be under consideration, adding another layer of excitement as Carsley assembles a squad that’s set to blend youth and experience. Lee Carsley will name his final England squad at 7:30 PM IST (2 PM GMT) on Thursday before the Three Lions travel to Athens to face Greece on 14th November and host Ireland on 17th November. Carsley’s legacy as England’s interim manager rests heavily on these final matches. If he fails to secure automatic qualification in a group where England were clear favorites, his tenure will likely be defined by that disappointing defeat to Greece, casting him as the symbol of a missed chance to rebuild trust in the team. However, securing wins in his last two games in-charge will send a signal that the current England squad is on the right track before Tuchel arrives.  

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