England Set for Attacking Approach Under Carsley Against Finland

England's interim manager, Lee Carsley, has pledged to keep his team on the offensive when they face Finland in the Nations League on Tuesday. This follows his successful debut in a 2-0 victory over Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.

Carsley, promoted from his role as the England Under-21 coach after Gareth Southgate stepped down following the Euro 2024 final loss to Spain in July, is now preparing for his first match in charge at Wembley. Declan Rice and Jack Grealish scored the goals in England's win over Ireland, which saw the team produce a strong performance.

Ahead of the Finland match, Carsley emphasized the importance of maintaining attacking momentum. "I still want to see us playing with that control. I think it's important that we're exciting to watch," he said in a press conference on Monday. "I think when fans come to watch England play at home they expect attacking football, they expect chances to be created and to play with a tempo and us to be on the ball. So, yeah, I wouldn't see that being any different (on Tuesday)."

The team's approach against Ireland differed from the more cautious tactics seen during Southgate's tenure, particularly during the Euro 2024 campaign. However, Carsley, a former Everton player who earned 40 caps for Ireland, drew attention for not singing "God Save the King" in Dublin, which stirred controversy.

Despite this, Carsley remains focused on the upcoming match. "It was a really proud moment the other day to be on the sideline, and another great night hopefully for the players on Tuesday night," he said. "Really looking forward to the game. We've had another couple of good sessions since the last match, so I'm excited by it."

Carsley also mentioned plans to rotate the squad, saying, "We'll make two or three changes, freshen the team up a little bit. But what I've noticed with this group is how motivated they are to do well."

Players such as Angel Gomes and Morgan Gibbs-White, who made their debuts as substitutes against Ireland, are in contention for their first starts. Additionally, uncapped players Noni Madueke and Tino Livramento are hoping to make their first appearances. "I think that they've all got a chance of playing," Carsley said. "I think the level that the players have trained at puts everyone in with the chance of getting minutes or starting the game."

Carsley also confirmed that, apart from the early losses of Ollie Watkins, Cole Palmer, and Phil Foden, the rest of the squad remains fit and available for selection.