The Football Association has confirmed that Sam Allardyce has vacated his position as England manager after just 67 days and one game in charge.
News of Allardyce’s departure came on Tuesday evening after a day of talks between him and the FA over allegations that he discussed how to circumvent rules on player transfers while speaking to undercover Daily Telegraph reporters.
The 61-year-old departs by mutual agreement with just one match on his record, the World Cup qualifying win in Slovakia.
Gareth Southgate has been appointed interim boss for England’s next four matches.
An FA statement read in full:
“The FA can confirm that Sam Allardyce has left his position as England manager.
Watch the Ryder Cup on NOW TV“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.”
Video footage released by the Telegraph also appeared to show Allardyce mocking predecessor Roy Hodgson, calling Prince Harry “a very naughty boy” and accusing the FA of being “all about making money”.
And among the other allegations was that Allardyce negotiated in principle a deal to travel to the Far East as a paid ambassador for the fictitious businessmen.
Read details of how and where Sam Allardyce goofed.
