England
England coach Sam Allardyce resigns after "error of judgement"
England coach Sam Allardyce has left his job after a newspaper sting operation saw him make a "serious error of judgement"
Alladrdyce steps down as England coach
Sam Allardyce has stepped down as England coach this Tuesday, less than 24 hours after the Telegraph published details of a sting operation against the manager in which he was caught offering advice to agents on how to get around FA laws on third party ownership and negotiating a £400,000 a year contract to advise potential investors in the Far East.
Allardyce spent Tuesday in talks with the FA bosses at Wembley, before deciding to step down as England coach. Gareth Southgate will take over for the next four matches, while the FA look for the new England coach.
FA statement
The FA released the following statement:
"The FA can confirm that Sam Allardyce has left his position as England manager.
Allardyce’s conduct, as reported today, was inappropriate of the England manager. He accepts he made a significant error of judgement and has apologised. However, due to the serious nature of his actions, The FA and Allardyce have mutually agreed to terminate his contract with immediate effect.
This is not a decision that was taken lightly but The FA’s priority is to protect the wider interests of the game and maintain the highest standards of conduct in football. The manager of the England men’s senior team is a position which must demonstrate strong leadership and show respect for the integrity of the game at all times.
Gareth Southgate will take charge of the men’s senior team for the next four matches against Malta, Slovenia, Scotland and Spain whilst The FA begins its search for the new England manager.
The FA wishes Sam well in the future."
Allardyce apologised to the FA
Sam Allardyce meanwhile released his own statement:
Further to recent events, The FA and I have mutually agreed to part company. It was a great honour for me to be appointed back in July and I am deeply disappointed at this outcome. This afternoon, I met with Greg Clarke and Martin Glenn and offered a sincere and wholehearted apology for my actions.
Although it was made clear during the recorded conversations that any proposed arrangements would need The FA’s full approval, I recognise I made some comments which have caused embarrassment. As part of today’s meeting, I was asked to clarify what I said and the context in which the conversations took place. I have co-operated fully in this regard. I also regret my comments with regard to other individuals.
