The Newcastle United squad will have everything crossed in the hope that Eddie Howe does not leave.
The Toon boss is currently the talk of the nation, with the FA identifying Eddie Howe as a candidate for the England job.
News of Gareth Southgate’s departure has resulted in wild speculation that the Newcastle manager could replace him, with the likes of Jamie Carragher calling on Howe to get the England job.
There is no doubt that he would be perfect for England, but he is also perfect for Newcastle United.
Toon fans do not want him to leave, while CEO Darren Eales has made it clear that the club would like to keep Howe at St James’ Park for the foreseeable future.
But that might depend on the will of Howe. If the FA decide that he is the best candidate for the job then an approach will come his way – then it will be up to him to decide what to do.
Lee Carlsey could become England’s interim manager
Alternatively, the FA do have other options on their radar. Pep Guardiola has been linked with the England job, and that could result in an interim boss being appointed until 2025 – which is when Guardiola is predicted to leave Manchester City.
If the FA do go down the route of an interim manager, the leading candidate to come in would be Lee Carsley.
He has been linked with replacing Southgate, having done so well with the England Under-21s. While he would not be a glamorous appointment, he is perhaps the most sensible.
And it would be a decision that would likely delight Anthony Gordon.
Appointing Carsley would be perfect for Anthony Gordon
After a scintillating season in black and white, it was a disappointing summer for Anthony Gordon.
The 23-year-old only made one appearance at Euro 2024, with Southgate refusing to turn to the Newcastle winger, despite clearly needing an injection of pace and width.
It was extremely frustrating for Gordon, but his time with the Three Lions will come. And it could come very soon if Lee Carsley gets the job.
As Under-21s manager, Carsley won silverware last summer. His side won the European Championship, and they did it with Gordon leading the line. He was a key player under Carsley, and their success together played a key role in Gordon enjoying the season he did with Newcastle United.
If Carsley got the England job, it would increase Gordon’s chances of playing international football – a chance that Southgate would not afford him at the Euros.
And appointing Carsley would actually be a double win for Gordon, as it would also mean he can continue working and improving at Newcastle under the watchful eye of Eddie Howe.
It would be the perfect solution for Gordon, and it would be great if that is how things play out.
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