England manager Sam Allardyce has resigned after being caught in an undercover sting where he explained how to get around transfer regulations.
He was also caught on video agreeingย to receive ยฃ400,000 to help who he thought was a football agency from the Far East, bypass such regulations.
The English Football Association released the following statement on Tuesday night confirming that the manager had offered to step down rather than be sacked.
โThe FA can confirm that Sam Allardyce has left his position as England manager,โ officials said in a statement.
โAllardyce's conduct, as reported today, was inappropriate of the England manager. He accepts he made a significant error of judgment 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.
โThis 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.
โGareth 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.โ
It is the shortest ever tenure as English manager.
โIt was a great honour for me to be appointed back in July and I am deeply disappointed at this outcome,โ Allardyceย said.
โThis afternoon, I met with Greg Clarke and Martin Glenn and offered a sincere and wholehearted apology for my actions.
โAlthough 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.
โAs 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.
โI also regret my comments with regard to other individuals.โ
