Lee Carsley's latest advice for Thomas Tuchel… beware of service stations and West Ham fans
As Lee Carsley prepares to hand over the reins of England to Thomas Tuchel, he has shared some final words of wisdom.
England's Nations League clash against Ireland will be Carsley's He will last as interim boss of the Three Lions before Tuchel takes over on January 1.
The next six-match spell in charge has certainly been an eye-opening experience for Carsley, who will return to the familiar surroundings of England Under-21 duties.
But during Carsley's time in charge of the senior national team, he has learned first-hand how committed people across the country are to the team.
That's why Carsley will tip Tuchel Aim to avoid gas stations if you don't want your team selections and tactics to be questioned.
“It makes me laugh that everyone has an opinion on the team,” Carsley said.
“I'm on the road a lot, so gas stations are where I seem to get the most advice. Some are good, some not so much.
“I think I met a lot of West Ham fans, a lot of Jarrod (Bowen) fans.
“It's mainly about team selection… I was in line at Starbucks and a guy was talking about the false nine and tactics, after the Greece game. I just wanted a soy latte.”
However, Carsley is smart enough to recognize Tuchel's managerial pedigree, so he won't need to give much advice anyway.
“He's in a better position than me in terms of experience and personnel,” Carsley said.
“It'll probably be more about the players, the personalities and things you won't see on TV.
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“I'm collecting a lot of ideas, just like the rest of the staff.
“I hope to catch up after camp and I hope we can leave the team in a good position.”
Although Carsley's caretaker tenure will have only lasted six matches, he has played a key role in bringing in some of England's next generation.
Morgan Rogers, Morgan Gibbs-White, Angel Gomes, Noni Madueke, Curtis Jones and Lewis Hall all made their senior debuts for Carsley, and all six players are aged 24 or under.
According to the interim coach, it is about giving Tuchel more options to choose from when the March international window arrives.
“What we've tried to do is increase the number of players available to Thomas,” Carsley said.
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“It feels like the fans are really connected to the team. They like the fact that it looks younger, more energetic and fresher.”
Carsley will look to guide England back to the top flight of the Nations League by beating Ireland at Wembley on Sunday.
