TheCable

Sam Allardyce has left his position as England manager after just one game in charge, the FA has confirmed.

The news came on Tuesday evening after a day of talks between Allardyce and his FA bosses over allegations he discussed how to circumvent rules banning third party ownership of players on transfers while speaking to undercover Daily Telegraph reporters.

Gareth Southgate also confirmed to take over in the interim for England’s next four matches.

“The FA can confirm that Sam Allardyce has left his position as England manager,” read a statement.

“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.”

It is understood the newspaper reports left Allardyce “deeply embarrassed” and keen to apologise to Hodgson at the earliest opportunity.

‘Big Sam’, as he is fondly called, also released a statement apologising to Roy Hodson, the FA and the public.

“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.”

Allardyce was appointed on July 22, weeks after England’s disappointing Euro 2016 exit at the hands of Iceland.

His only game in charge of the team saw them record a last-gasp winner away in Slovakia as they started their World Cup qualifying campaign for 2018 with a 1-0 victory.