Lee Carsley insists he will never name a 'copy and paste' England squad with players picked on merit

Lee Carsley insists he will never name a 'copy and paste' England squad with players picked on merit

Dominek Szoboszlai Returns to England Squad After 7-Year Absence

In a surprise move, Hungary-born English midfielder Dominic Szoboszlai has been called up to the England national team squad for the first time in seven years. The 23-year-old’s inclusion is part of a 24-man squad named by interim manager Lee Carsley for the upcoming Nations League matches against Greece and Finland.

Squad Selection Focuses on Merit-Based Approach

Carsley, who has opted for an experimental approach to the team selection, insists that no player has been included without earning their spot through their performances. He emphasized that he wants to see "the right balance" among the players and that every player has something unique to offer.

Szoboszlai’s Redemption

Szoboszlai, who has played for Bournemouth and currently features for Tottenham Hotspur, was close to making the team in previous squads but injuries and misfortune kept him out. Carsley acknowledged that he is a player he has worked with and is well aware of his abilities.

Harry Kane Defends Under Fire Captain

In a separate incident, Harry Kane, England’s captain, has been criticized by German media after his performance in Bayern Munich’s defeat to Aston Villa in the Champions League. However, Carsley defended Kane, citing his impressive goal-scoring record in Germany and stressing that he needs support to thrive.

Long-term Future of Lee Carsley Remains Uncertain

While Carsley has dismissed rumors of seeking a longer-term contract with the English Football Association, the possibility of him continuing as England’s manager remains uncertain. The FA is yet to make contact with potential successors, including Jurgen Klopp, Eddie Howe, or Thomas Tuchel, to name a few.

Key Inclusions in the Squad

Other notable inclusions in the squad include Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, and Cole Palmer, all of whom will return from injury. Meanwhile, the likes of Conor Gallagher, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Angel Gomez have received their first senior call-ups.

Experimental Approach Promises Excitement

As Carsley’s temporary tenure as England manager enters its second leg, his willingness to experiment with different players and formations promises to make for an intriguing two-game stretch in the Nations League. Whether Szoboszlai can reclaim his place among the team’s regular starters remains to be seen, but the inclusion of his talent injects a much-needed fresh injection of blood into the squad.