'I find it bonkers' - Gary Lineker gives his verdict on new England boss Lee Carsley amid anthem-singing row

Carsley was at the centre of a media firestorm last week as he confirmed he would not sing the national anthem after being appointed as England's interim manager. He represented the Republic of Ireland during his playing days, winning 40 caps, and explained that he finds himself to be so focused on football that he didn't sing the anthem while representing Ireland either.

The national press had a field day, nevertheless, with criticism coming from all directions, but Lineker insists that the media are attempting to "stir things up", having also been the target of newspapers during Euro 2024 after claiming that Gareth Southgate's side were "sh*t" in the group stages.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Lineker said: "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."

Alan Shearer added: "You’re going to be judged on bloody football results. It’s not whether you sing the national anthem or not."

England play Finland in the Nations League on Tuesday in Carsley's second game in interim charge. They beat Ireland 2-0 over the weekend in their first match since Southgate's departure.