England U21 boss Lee Carsley commits his future to the Young Lions after turning down the Republic of Ireland – as he plans to emerge as a contender to succeed Gareth Southgate

Lee Carsley has reaffirmed his commitment to England after the Republic of Ireland pursued the Under-21 coach to resurrect their ailing fortunes.

The former Ireland international had appeared ready to step away from the FA following European Championship glory last summer but opted to stay after talks with technical director John McDermott.

Ireland’s search for a new boss is being led by FAI chief executive Jonathan Hill, director of football Marc Canham and ex-Celtic goalkeeper Packie Bonner and they identified the 50-year-old as their top target.

John O’Shea was appointed interim before an expected announcement next month – but it won’t be Carsley taking over from Stephen Kenny after he ruled himself out.

‘We had an initial conversation in November,’ Carsley told Mail Sport. ‘I went to speak to them. Really informal, enjoyable, for around an hour. It went no further.

Former Man United defender John O’Shea has taken interim charge as Ireland look to replace Stephen Kenny, who left in November after failing to qualify for EUROs 

‘It was good to see what their thoughts were and to explore whether I was ready to take that next step. It just went no further. I didn’t push it.

‘I’ve always said that I’m really privileged to do this job I’m in. I appreciate that I’m in a really good position with a lot of responsibility.’

Carsley is being talked up as a potential successor to Gareth Southgate, whose contract expires at the end of the year.

The former Everton midfielder’s case was strengthened significantly by becoming the first English coach to lift the Under-21 European title in 39 years. He has since been approached several times about club jobs.

Carsley has been talked up as a potential successor to Gareth Southgate, whose contract expires at the end of the year and has been linked with the Manchester United job

Carsley became the first English coach to lift the Under-21 European title in 39 years when the Young Lions triumphed over Spain in Gerogia last summer

‘There was a feeling that I would go and do a senior job after the summer but speaking to John McDermott and other people, I’m committed to this campaign,’ Carsley added.

‘At some point, maybe it’s something I’ll do. I didn’t need convincing. I see myself as a development coach. I’ve not put myself out there, applying for jobs or anything. I definitely wouldn’t go down that route with the position I’m in and how lucky I am.’