The FA caused a stir by appointing Thomas Tuchel as Gareth Southgate’s permanent successor.
Tuchel was appointed before the conclusion of England’s Nations League campaign but his contract doesn’t actually start until the clock strikes 12 on New Year’s Day.
That meant interim gaffer Carsley, who has returned to his role as Under-21s boss when the German sets down his ‘World’s Best Boss’ mug on his desk at Wembley, oversaw the Three Lions’ final group games in the Nations League.
Despite being one of the highest-profile managers in Europe thanks to his track record of winning trophies, sections of the English press and some pundits were critical of Tuchel’s appointment because of his nationality.
If he leads England to World Cup glory in 2026, thus ending the country’s 62 years of hurt, then those very critics will, no doubt, be quick to laud the decision, but that tournament is still a long way off.
Tuchel’s first job as manager could have been a little less glamorous if the Three Lions were involved in the Nations League promotion/relegation play-offs.
But a 3-0 victory against Greece ensured they avoided the additional games by bagging automatic promotion battle to League A of the Nations League.
That means Tuchel’s first game as England manager will be a friendly during the next international break between Thursday, 20th March and Tuesday, 25th March.
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