John Stones asserts that Lee Carsley's approach is gradually transforming England into a team that mirrors Pep Guardiola's style. Carsley, who is contemplating how to integrate Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Cole Palmer into the starting lineup, has not shied away from altering tactics and personnel since assuming the role from Gareth Southgate on an interim basis. England demonstrated an aggressive front-foot play during their Nations League wins against Finland and the Republic of Ireland last month. The increased focus on possession, fluidity, and playing out from the back has not escaped Stones' notice, who will captain the national team for the first time tonight as Harry Kane is not fit to start.
The Manchester City defender, who knows Guardiola well, expressed optimism about the comparison between Carsley and his club manager. "In some ways, yes, definitely," Stones said. "Every manager has their unique style, but there are commonalities in what they desire. There are many similarities between Lee and Pep in how they view the game and how they want us to play, which we saw last month in the two games. It's been great for me to see the similarities in our playing style."
Carsley's prospects of securing the job permanently will improve if England can dominate Nations League Group B2 by defeating Greece at Wembley on Thursday. A convincing performance is crucial, and it remains to be seen how Carsley will resolve the selection dilemma involving Bellingham, Foden, and Palmer, all of whom prefer central roles. The manager emphasized that his vision for the trio should not compromise the team's balance. "I definitely have a plan in place," he said. "The advantage of this role is the ample time to think. Between games, you constantly consider combinations and relationships.
"Those three players are exceptional, but we have a squad full of exciting, talented players. Each player must feel they have earned their place rather than being forced into positions." Palmer was recently named England's player of the year, despite starting in only two of his nine international appearances. Carsley aims to shield the Chelsea attacker from unrealistic expectations. "Whatever challenges Cole faces, he handles them," he said. "But that doesn't mean we should continually pressure him and hype him up.
"Ultimately, he's still a young player with much room for improvement. Even though he's currently at an incredible level, I believe he can still get better. We must take care of all our young players. Supporting them is crucial. But I have no concerns about Cole." Carsley hinted that he envisions Foden, who has struggled to replicate his City form for England, playing centrally. "Phil is an extraordinary player," he said. "We need to position him where he can significantly impact the opposition. That's where I see him playing—anywhere he can hurt the opposition. Sometimes placing him in wider positions works, but we'd need to adjust our play to maximize his potential. I think central areas are where Phil is most effective."
Jack Grealish is doubtful for the Greece match, while Ollie Watkins is poised to replace Kane, who is unfit to start due to a groin issue.
