Gary Lineker defends Lee Carsley over England national anthem refusal

Former Tottenham Hotspur forward Gary Lineker has defended Lee Carsley for deciding not to sing England’s national anthem during the UEFA Nations League game against Republic of Ireland on Saturday.

Before the game, the Three Lions’ interim boss had confirmed that he wouldn’t sing the anthem and that is not owing to his affiliation with the Republic of Ireland.

Despite being born in England, the former Everton midfielder represented the Boys in Green, having been qualified to do so through his paternal grandparents.

Speaking before Saturday’s clash, Carsley had confirmed that he would not sing God Save the King, just like he did during his reign with U21s.

Quizzed about his decision to do so, Carsley said that it might affect his concentration for the upcoming game and has always refused to sing the anthem since his playing days.

“I was really focused on the football and I have taken that into coaching. We had the national anthem with the under-21s also and I am in a zone at that point.”

“I am thinking about how the opposition are going to set up and our first actions within the game. I fully respect both anthems and understand how much they mean to both countries. It’s something I am really respectful of.”

The 50-year-old came under intense criticism after his statement but it must be noted that he isn’t the first person to do the same.

Manchester United legends Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville also did the same on some occasions during their playing days. 

Lineker has leapt to the defence of Carsley as he feels that the media have blown his behaviour out of proportion.

“Crikey, they do like to stir things up, don’t they? I find it bonkers. I remember some players didn’t sing because they’re too shy. I used to kind of sing a bit but not too loud because my voice is terrible. I always felt a little bit self-conscious singing on a football pitch, didn’t feel comfortable with it. I don’t know. I just think it’s a bit weird.”he said on The Rest Is Football Podcast 

Carsley will lead the Three Lions for the second time when they face Finland in matchday two of the UEFA Nations League tomorrow at the Wembley Stadium.