Tino Livramento’s gratitude to Lee Carsley extends beyond first England call-up

Tino Livramento’s gratitude to interim boss Lee Carsley extends well beyond giving him his first England call-up, such was the interim manager’s support during the talented right-back’s long injury lay-off.

The 21-year-old Newcastle defender was one of four uncapped players to get the nod as the England Under-21s boss gets the post-Gareth Southgate era under way against the Republic of Ireland and Finland in the Nations League.

Livramento has long been tipped for a call-up but had to overcome a major setback to reach this point, with a serious injury cutting short his breakthrough season at Southampton, having left Chelsea in 2021.

It took 392 days for the full-back to return from his anterior cruciate ligament injury and he only made one further substitute appearance for Saints before leaving for Newcastle last summer.

Livramento has kicked on after a promising first season at St James’ Park and now gets a first chance with England’s senior team in the first matches under Carsley, who he played for at under-21s level.

Asked if he had an inkling he might be in this squad, the full-back said: “No, I didn’t know anything.

“Obviously, with Lee getting called up to be the seniors’ manager, I’ve seen it as a good opportunity for me because obviously, I knew him.

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“But I think it’s down to you as a player with how you play every weekend for your club. I think that’s the main thing. I feel like I’ve started this season alright, so this is a good opportunity for me.”

Livramento will never forget the call from Carsley on the way to training last Thursday, nor his support during his frustrating injury absence.

“He’s obviously a great coach but as a person, he’s someone that’s kind of