Lee Carsley has announced his England Nations League squad for the upcoming November fixtures against the Republic of Ireland and Greece. This marks Carsley’s final selection as interim manager before Thomas Tuchel takes the reins, adding an intriguing layer to these matches. In his last squad announcement, Carsley continues his trend of entrusting young talent, with potential debuts on the horizon for Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Lewis Hall. This follows his previous decisions to award first caps to Angel Gomes, Noni Madueke, and Morgan Gibbs-White, all moves seemingly designed to provide Tuchel with a broader spectrum of players to consider as he prepares for his tenure.
England faces a crucial task in these November games, needing maximum points to secure the top spot in their Nations League group, especially after a setback against Greece at Wembley in October. The team will travel to Athens to face the group leaders on Thursday, November 14th, before returning to Wembley to host the Republic of Ireland on Sunday, November 17th. Winning both matches is imperative for England’s Nations League ambitions.
However, squad selection has been significantly impacted by withdrawals following the weekend’s club fixtures. Eight prominent players are unavailable for selection due to fitness concerns. Aaron Ramsdale, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Levi Colwill, Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Jack Grealish, and Phil Foden are all sidelined, forcing Carsley to make considerable adjustments to his roster.
Lee Carsley, Interim Manager of England, looks on during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League B Group B2 match between England and Finland
In response to these withdrawals, Carsley has introduced five fresh faces into the squad. Morgan Rogers receives his first senior call-up, while Jarrad Branthwaite, Tino Livramento, James Trafford, and Jarrod Bowen also join the ranks. While Livramento and Trafford are yet to earn their first senior caps, their inclusion signals Carsley’s intent to explore all available options within the England talent pool.
This Nations League campaign serves as a vital platform for England to build momentum and refine their squad composition as they look ahead to future international competitions, including the path towards the 2026 World Cup. The blend of experienced players and emerging stars in this Euro England Roster will be closely watched as Carsley aims to leave a positive impression before Tuchel’s arrival.
England Nations League Squad: The Full Team
- GK: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace)
- GK: Jordan Pickford (Everton)
- GK: James Trafford (Burnley)
- DF: Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace)
- DF: Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa)
- DF: Rico Lewis (Manchester City)
- DF: Kyle Walker (Manchester City)
- DF: Lewis Hall (Newcastle United)
- DF: Taylor Harwood-Bellis (Southampton)
- DF: Tino Livramento (Newcastle United)
- DF: Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton)
- MF: Conor Gallagher (Atletico Madrid)
- MF: Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest)
- MF: Angel Gomes (Lille)
- MF: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
- MF: Curtis Jones (Liverpool)
- FW: Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United)
- FW: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
- FW: Noni Madueke (Chelsea)
- FW: Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
- FW: Dominic Solanke (Tottenham)
- FW: Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
- FW: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham)
England Fixtures and Results: Nations League November Games
September 7: Republic of Ireland 0-2 England
September 10: England 2-0 Finland
October 10: England 1-2 Greece
October 13: Finland 1-3 England
November 14: Greece v England, Athens Olympic Stadium, Athens, Greece
November 17: England v Republic of Ireland, Wembley Stadium, London, England
Manager in Focus: Lee Carsley
Lee Carsley’s brief tenure as interim England manager is a significant moment in his career. Having transitioned from a Premier League playing career to managing England’s successful European Under-21 Championship team, Carsley’s approach emphasizes fluid, intelligent football. His mission for these Nations League games is twofold: integrate promising young players into the senior setup and reignite fan enthusiasm for the national team. His work is seen as crucial in bridging the gap before Thomas Tuchel’s permanent appointment.
Star Player Spotlight: Jude Bellingham
England Euro 2024 squad Jude Bellingham of England during the Semi-Final match between Netherlands and England
Jude Bellingham’s stature in world football has grown exponentially, highlighted by his Champions League victory with Real Madrid. Despite missing the initial Nations League games due to injury, Bellingham’s return is a major boost for England. His dynamic midfield presence and attacking capabilities make him a central figure in Carsley’s plans and for the team’s future under Tuchel. Bellingham’s role, potentially evolving into a more box-to-box position to accommodate other attacking talents, underscores his adaptability and importance to the euro england roster.
