The defining moment of the night in Athens arrived at the 82nd minute, as England's youthful squad played with the exuberance of pampered schoolboys, showcasing nimble footwork and precise one-touch passing. On the right flank, Morgan Gibbs-White, a former under-21 player under Lee Carsley, deftly flicked the ball towards the center where Curtis Jones, another of Carsley's protégés, executed a perfectly timed drag-flick into the far corner, sealing a 3-0 victory. This marked the final significant act of England's penultimate game under an interim manager who, it seems, possesses a revolutionary spirit, akin to a Martin Luther in snugly fitting lycra.

Given a fair run, it's a pity Carsley isn't being considered for the full-time role. He's energetic, subtly rebellious, and makes bold, unconventional decisions. The Wembley match against Greece was a disaster, a misguided attempt to create an omelette from unconventional ingredients. Yet, it stemmed from a genuine place. Carsley's approach is to unleash potential, though perhaps not to the extreme. Is it too late to reconsider? Ninety percent of success is showing up, and Carsley consistently does.

Throughout the game, England maintained control against a mediocre Greece team. When they excelled, it was in a distinctly Carsley style. Over 90 minutes, seven players with Carsley's coaching experience showcased well-defined roles, forming a technically proficient team that values possession and passing.

While England didn't look like World Cup winners, they exuded a sense of cohesion and shared purpose. The interim manager has faced challenges, but Carsley's decision to drop Harry Kane, a move beyond Gareth Southgate, was a bold gambit. Kane had never been dropped before, raising questions about tactical flexibility. Picking Ollie Watkins wasn't about superiority but about injecting new energy. Football is about systems and combinations, not fame.

Dropping Kane felt doubly courageous given the team's recent tensions. The Olympic Stadium, with its retro-futuristic design, seemed to echo this dynamic. Carsley's decision paid off instantly as Watkins scored with his first touch, assisted by another Carsley-trained player, Noni Madueke. Madueke's fearless running and Jones's ball-playing skills were highlights.

England's performance was a moment of clarity and vindication for Carsley, suggesting he could be a lot of fun in the role.

Source link:   https://www.theguardian.com