The match was changed in the 53rd minute by a flash of brilliance from Harry Kane, who returned after being left out in favor of Ollie Watkins in the 3-0 win in Athens and facing some potentially unflattering criticism after another slow performance in the first half.
The 31-year-old England captain looked heavy-legged and off the pace in a dire first half from both sides, but showed the enduring quality that makes him invaluable when he displayed impressive vision and passing range from the left touchline to choose from. He finished off Jude Bellingham in the area with a perfect right foot.
Bellingham was brought down by Irish defender Liam Scales, who received a second yellow card. Kane scored his 69th goal for his country from the penalty spot and the game was over.
Kane has been a central figure in Carsley’s reign in charge, not least with his public and unusually frank slap at the English players who dropped out of the team for these two internationals.
He then doubled down on his message, insisting it jeopardized the culture that former manager Gareth Southgate had built during his eight years in charge, when it became a pleasure to play for the country again.
Kane spoke as England’s captain, important figure and statesman, but that did not stop Carsley from showing his own strength in his decision-making, choosing Watkins ahead of the country’s top scorer in Athens.
It was a choice well rewarded with an early goal from the Aston Villa striker turning a potentially dangerous task into an easy one.
Kane remains England’s first choice, but Carsley’s willingness to use Watkins and the success of the move showed he need not be the only option.
Tuchel will feel the benefit of Carsley’s temporary spell due to his determination to introduce youth, further paving the way from under-21s to senior level, all helped by his insider knowledge of the talent coming through the England system. .
Carsley used 32 players in total, giving debuts to eight: Morgan Gibbs-White, Angel Gomes, Lewis Hall, Harwood-Bellis, Curtis Jones, Tino Livramento, Noni Madueke and Morgan Rogers.
All can reflect with satisfaction on their contributions, especially Liverpool midfielder Jones, who has looked classy in his two starts, while Chelsea striker Madueke has looked a constant threat.
Gomes made a good impression as a midfield option, Gibbs-White showed he can be a creator, while there is a big opportunity for Newcastle’s Hall at left back, where Tuchel’s options look slim.
19-year-old couple Rico Lewis and Kobbie Mainoo, of Manchester City and Manchester United respectively, also added to their experiences in England, which will be a positive point in Carsley’s transfer.
