LEE CARSLEY has emerged as the new frontrunner with the bookies to become Republic of Ireland’s next manager – which could scupper England’s future plans.
Stephen Kenny departed his job as Ireland boss after FAI brass confirmed they won’t be offering him a contract extension last week.
That news comes after a horrific Euro 2024 qualifying campaign in which his side won just two games.
That led to speculation that Manchester United’s legendary Irishman Roy Keane could make a sensational return to management.
And the 52-year-old emerged as the early favourite with some bookmakers.
However, his odds have now drifted as England U21 head coach Carsley was installed as the new 2/1 favourite, having been 9/2 before the weekend.
The 49-year-old ex-Everton Premier League midfielder won 40 caps for the Irish during his playing days after qualifying through his grandmother, who is from County Cork.
Since hanging up his boots, the Birmingham born ace has continued his coaching journey that began when he started taking his badges while still a player.
Carsley has worked for the likes of Coventry City, Sheffield United and Manchester City’s academies as well as being part of England’s youth set-up.
Then, having initially been England Under-20 head coach, he stepped up to the U21s in July 2021 and embarked on a stunning two-year journey through qualification to glory.
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Carsley’s Young Lions beat Spain 1-0 in July to be crowned European U21 champions, their first title in the competition since 1984.
He remains in the role, and former FA technical director Les Reed says the Three Lions should not be afraid to appoint Carsley ahead of a “celebrity, hobby manager” once Gareth Southgate leaves the seniors.
Southgate’s contract runs until the end of next year and many would be surprised to see him still in charge for the 2026 World Cup — or Euro 2028 on home soil.
However, we revealed back in September that Ireland were plotting a swoop for Carsley and now it seems that the bookies believe that move is on the cards.
Betfair spokesperson Sam Rosbottom said: “England Under-21 boss Lee Carsley is the new favourite to be the next Republic of Ireland manager, having been 9/2 before the weekend.
“Roy Keane had been the early frontrunner to replace Stephen Kenny, but the former Man United captain’s odds have drifted to 9/4 from 15/8, while Chris Hughton is a 10/1 outsider for the job.”
THE LATEST ODDS FROM BETFAIR
Lee Carsley 2/1 (was 9/2)
Roy Keane 9/4 (was 15/8)
Chris Hughton 10/1
Neil Lennon 12/1
Steve Bruce 16/1
Robbie Keane 20/1
Sam Allardyce 20/1
Gus Poyet 20/1
Neil Warnock 20/1
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