Lee Carsley calm about selecting Declan Rice and Jack Grealish to face Ireland at the Aviva Stadium

Lee Carsley says he has no concerns about playing Declan Rice or Jack Grealish at the Aviva Stadium as the former Republic of Ireland international prepares to lead England out as interim manager for the first time in Saturday's UEFA Nations League opener.

After Gareth Southgate called time on his eight-year England reign following the narrow loss to Spain in July's Euro 2024 final, Under-21s boss Carsley was promoted to caretaker senior boss as the FA considers its next steps.

The 50-year-old's first match in charge comes against the country he represented 40 times as a player, adding extra spice to a fixture that also sees Rice and Grealish return to Ireland.

Rice won three senior caps for the Boys in Green before switching allegiance to England, shortly after Grealish did the same, having represented Ireland up until under-21 level.

Asked whether he has any concerns about playing them at the Aviva Stadium, Carsley said: "No, not all.

"We spoke - not only (to) Jack and Declan, to the whole squad - we spoke about the atmosphere we expect it to be.

England manager Lee Carsley expects to face a "highly-motivated, energetic" Irish side at the Aviva Stadium #IRLENG #COYBIG #rtesoccer #NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/9pqPNexY97

"Exciting, passionate, loud, but it'll be no different to what the players are used to in Premier League games or high-level games. I think they'll be ready for whatever comes out."

Quizzed on what reception he expects back in Ireland, the interim England boss said: "I'm not sure, to be honest. Probably the same.

"But if the reception that we had off the kids outside (the hotel) was anything to go by it will be very positive."

Carsley was in relaxed mood at Carton House where England are based for this match.

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