England interim boss Lee Carsley admits picking the squad is one of the hardest aspects of the job.
Carsley is set to lead the Three Lions into battle two more times before handing over to Thomas Tuchel in 2025.
England will travel to Greece on November 14, before hosting the Republic of Ireland three days later.
And the Under-21s boss has named his final squad, with a few more notable young players involved.
Lewis Hall and Taylor Harwood-Bellis have both been selected, while the likes of Angel Gomes and Curtis Jones are also involved.
And speaking to the media, Carsley admitted it is tough picking just 26 players, but that he enjoys making the phone calls.
Your #ThreeLions for their final camp of 2024! 🦁
— England (@England) November 7, 2024
He said: “I found a real big challenge of this job is to pick the squad. There are four or five players that can be disappointed they didn’t make this squad because they are having good seasons.
“We know a lot of the squad are managing injuries. Hopefully, we get a full set and pick the strongest team we can.”
“I feel it’s a really big responsibility. You have to earn your right to be in this squad. They are great phone calls to make.
“You know what they’ve gone through in terms of their journey. The fact I have been able to make those calls is something I don’t take for granted.
“The challenge for them now is to stay there and compete.”
Carsley did stand in the dugout for Greece’s first-ever win against the Three Lions and he was criticised for trying something different with the formation.
He has also reflected on the moments he has been in charge and says self-doubt does creep into things.
We’re LIVE from St. George’s Park to hear from Lee Carsley on his #ThreeLions squad for November! 🚨 https://t.co/R6sEjyp0sP
— England (@England) November 7, 2024
He added: “”I think it’s made me and the staff a lot better. The experience we’ve had can only help. We speak about comfort zones and this has been right out of it.
“It’s something we’re stronger for. It wasn’t a great experience losing against Greece. You doubt yourself after making a lot of changes, trying something different.
“We’re moving in the right direction and we’ll be judged on results – hopefully we can finish on a high.”
