England interim football boss Lee Carsley insists he respects the debate sparked by his controversial decision not to sing the national anthem before the 2-0 win against Ireland.
In the spotlight at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Carsley maintained his policy of keeping quiet during the anthem of teams he represents at international level.
Ahead of his first game in charge, the 50-year-old claimed he does not sing the anthem to focus on the match.
But Carsley was in an awkward position as he played 40 times for Ireland and coached England's Under-21s prior to temporarily taking over from Gareth Southgate as Three Lions manager. The former Everton midfielder's stance has angered the more patriotic sections of England's fan base, yet Carsley is determined not to let the row distract him.
"I fully respect both national anthems," Carsley said after goals from Declan Rice and Jack Grealish gave him a winning start in the Nations League Group B2.
"Today would probably be one of the proudest days of my career to lead an England team out in Dublin.
"I've played in teams out there where players are belting the anthem out next to me but also ... in teams where players or coaches don't sing. I don't think it makes me or anyone that doesn't any less committed."
Carsley accepts that not everyone will agree with him but won't be deterred. "I respect everyone's opinion and we move forward," he said.
God Save the King will ring out again when England welcome Finland to Wembley tomorrow for another Nations League tie.
Carsley should arrive at Wembley in confident mood after his side delivered a vibrant display that offered hope of a new, adventurous era for England after the Southgate era's conservatism culminated in a 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final in July.
Midfielder Rice, who switched allegiance to England after making three senior appearances for Ireland, and winger Grealish, who made the same decision after representing the Republic at under-21 level, were both jeered by the 50,000 crowd in Dublin but were hardly bothered.
"They've both been in football long enough now to understand and respect that it was going to be a little bit hostile at times, but in the right way," Carsley said.
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
Lee Carsley, left, listens to the national anthem prior to kick-off against Ireland in Dublin. REUTERS
Declan Rice jumps for the ball while Jack Grealish is challenged by Matt Doherty. AFP, AP
