Morgan Gibbs-White Backs Lee Carsley for Full-Time England Role

Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White has thrown his support behind Lee Carsley for the permanent England head coach position, describing him as a perfect fit for the role.

Gibbs-White, recently named in Carsley’s squad for the Nations League matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland, is among four newcomers. Noni Madueke, Tino Livramento, and Angel Gomes also join the squad for these fixtures.

The 24-year-old, who has previously worked under Carsley with England’s youth teams, was a key figure in the Under-21 team that clinched the European Championship in Georgia in June 2023. His endorsement of Carsley is rooted in their shared history and his admiration for Carsley’s management style.

“I know how he works; he’s a great manager tactically, and his man-management is excellent,” Gibbs-White said. “I was thrilled when I heard he got the job because he truly deserved it, and I feel like it suits him perfectly. Hopefully, the upcoming games go well for him, and you never know what the future holds.”

Gibbs-White, along with Gomes, also boasts a winning background from their Under-17 World Cup triumph in 2017. He believes this winning mentality will be an asset as he aims to establish himself in the senior squad.

“I’d say I’m experienced in that sense, and I’ll try to bring that winning mentality to this group,” Gibbs-White noted.

Despite the intense competition for places, with Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Cole Palmer unavailable, Gibbs-White remains optimistic about his prospects. He acknowledged the challenge of competing with some of the world’s best players but is determined to seize this opportunity.

“It’s unfortunate they can’t be here,” he said. “I’ve waited for this chance for so long, and I’m going to take it with both hands and hopefully secure my spot. Being behind them is both a good and bad thing.”

Gibbs-White also shared his anticipation leading up to his call-up. “Before you get the actual text, you get a message to say you’re on the long list,” he explained. “I’ve been getting that message since the Euro U21s, since we won that, so about a year and a half. Then it was just waiting to get the call.”

As England prepares for their Nations League fixtures, Gibbs-White’s optimism and readiness could play a crucial role in his quest to become a regular fixture in the senior team.