Football

Nations League: Rice, Grealish score as England beat Republic of Ireland

Lee Carsley started his reign as England’s interim manager with a UEFA Nations League win against the Republic of Ireland, with Declan Rice and Jack Grealish both scoring against the country they used to represent.

Carsley, also a former player for the Irish Republic, is in charge of England for at least two games following Gareth Southgate’s departure after Euro 2024.

And he had a largely untroubled start as the Three Lions overcame a lively atmosphere at a sold-out stadium in Dublin.

Rice, who played three senior friendlies for the Republic of Ireland before switching allegiance in 2019, silenced the jeers from the home fans after firing home in the 11th minute when Harry Kane’s shot was blocked.

Rice chose not to celebrate, while Grealish, who represented Ireland at youth level, put his fingers in his ears after scoring on his return to the England side following his omission from Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad.

His goal followed a slick move in the 26th minute, with Rice providing the assist.

The Republic of Ireland had started well in Heimir Hallgrimsson’s first game as boss.

They were presented with a golden chance to open the scoring in the third minute but Jayson Molumby, who was unmarked, headed over from close range.

And Sammie Szmodics forced a save from Jordan Pickford before England moved through the gears to take command.

This England team looked refreshed and re-energised from the side that trooped wearily off the pitch in Berlin after losing the Euro 2024 final to Spain 55 days ago.

It was a highly satisfactory first game in charge for Carsley, who will look to build on this positive showing when Finland visit Wembley on Tuesday, with captain Kane expected to win his 100th cap.