Carsley to lead Young Lions with assistant Cole

Lee Carsley has been appointed as the new England men’s under-21 head coach and will be assisted by former Three Lions defender Ashley Cole.

The former Republic of Ireland international ​will step up from the Under-20s to replace Aidy Boothroyd, who ended his five year stint in charge of the Young Lions after their disappointing showing at the European Under-21 Championships. Cole, meanwhile, will combine his England duties with a role at Chelsea’s academy.

Regarding the appointment, the 47-year-old Carsley said: “I see it as a massive honour and achievement to coach the U21s. It is a really prestigious position with a lot of responsibility as has been proven by the calibre of predecessors in this role.

“Gareth and Steve Holland have always been very supportive and I'm looking forward to working more closely with them.

"We have a great opportunity to help the senior side by developing the best young talent in this country while combining that with the aim of being successful at U21 level."

Cole, who won 107 caps for his country, said: “I am really happy to get this opportunity to support Lee and work with the best youngsters in the country. I loved playing for the national team and to now get the chance to work as an England coach is a special feeling."

Carsley's first game in charge of the Young Lions will be a clash against Romania in Bucharest on 3 September.

We’re pleased to announce Lee Carsley as the new head coach of our #YoungLions, with Ashley Cole joining as his assistant.

— England (@England) July 27, 2021