Newcastle United fans were watching on nervously as Lee Carsley’s England side lost 2-1 to Greece on Thursday night.
The Three Lions put in a really poor performance, as Lee Carsley lost for the first time as England’s interim manager.
He changed things tactically, and it backfired in a big way. Carsley opted not to play a conventional striker, and instead chose to shoehorn as many creative players into his side as possible.
One of those players was Anthony Gordon. The Newcastle United winger did play well, and Gordon has been criticised by Alan Shearer for his performance.
England’s performance raised questions over the prospect of Carsley getting the job on a full-time basis, with Eddie Howe also a target for the FA.
What Eddie Howe has told the FA about leaving Newcastle United
But while the FA are interested in Eddie Howe, he is not going to be leaving his job at St James’ Park.
That is according to the Telegraph, who report that Howe’s representatives have told the FA that he is not interested in becoming the next England manager after they made an informal approach.
They report that Howe is very happy with his job at Newcastle United, and that there have been no further talks about becoming Gareth Southgate’s successor.
The Telegraph add that Howe’s camp are of the belief that Carsley is going to get every chance to prove that he should get the job on a permanent basis.
England job would be very appealing for any manager
Based on the Telegraph’s report, Howe has made it very clear that he wants to be Newcastle United manager, not England manager.
That is a big statement of intent from Howe, whose future has felt uncertain over recent months amid tension behind the scenes at St James’ Park. Paul Mitchell‘s arrival caused issues, and there was a feeling that the situation could culminate in Howe walking away to become England boss.
And it would be an appealing prospect. This is an extremely talented group of players, while the World Cup is less than two years away. Whoever manages England at that tournament, assuming they qualify, will have the chance to immortalise themselves, as the Three Lions will go into the next World Cup as a contender to win it.
Howe was even encouraged to take the England job by Gary Neville, who saw it as the next natural step in his already impressive career.
Newcastle United must back Eddie Howe amid England stance
But Howe is focussed on Newcastle United. He does not want to leave, which at least suggests that the behind the scenes issues have gone or that they are not going to stop Howe from doing his job. It has been reported that Howe and Mitchell’s relationship has improved, as they begin to make plans for the January transfer window.
With Howe committing himself to Newcastle by turning down the FA’s informal advances, it is vital that Newcastle show their commitment to Howe. He needs the support of those above him, and needs to be given an environment where he can be successful.
That starts in January, when the Magpies will have the chance to bring in reinforcements. Newcastle’s priority is to sign a winger, while Paul Mitchell is keen to make a big money signing if the right player is available.
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