Sam Allardyce has been sacked as England’s manager despite an FA statement claiming that the decision was made by mutual consent.
Allegations in the Daily Telegraph claimed that the former Sunderland, Bolton and West Ham boss had negotiated a £400,000 fee to help a foreign group get around FA rules to bring players to England.
With video evidence of Allardyce to back up the story and more revelations to follow this week, it seemed inevitable that a parting of the ways was on the cards.
The FA statement said: “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, who succeeded Roy Hodgson in July following England’s last-16 exit at Euro 2016 in France, becomes the national side’s shortest-serving full-time manager.