Lee Carsley hands England player first call-up since 2017

Another bold decision

Spurs striker, Dominic Solanke has had an impressive run of form for Ange Postecoglou’s side, scoring three goals in as many games.

Interim England manager, Carsley is said to be impressed by what he’s seen and will pick him to be a part of the squad which will face Greece and Finland in the Nations League next week.

The 27-year-old last played for England in 2017 when he came on as a substitute in a game against Brazil.

If he plays for the Three Lions, it will be the longest gap between England caps since Ian Walker (February 1997 – June 2004).

Ready to go again. 🦁🦁🦁

— England (@England) October 3, 2024

He moved to Spurs from Bournemouth in summer for £65million but picked up an ankle injury ruling him out for two games.

Since then he has found his form, finding the net against Brentford, Qarabag and Manchester United.

Solanke is set to be joined by captain Harry Kane and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins as Carsley’s attacking force.

In defence, Harry Maguire will lose his place after he lost his place in Erik ten Hag’s starting XI as Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez are the Dutchman’s preferred centre back pairing.

Since taking over from Gareth Southgate last month, Carsley has got himself a reputation for making bold calls.

During the last international break, he dropped experienced full back Kyle Walker and handed Angel Gomes and Morgan Gibbs-White their senior debuts after working with them at Under-21 level.

Kyle Walker returns to the squad for these Nations League fixtures while Jarrod Bowen and Eberechi Eze miss out.