England Manager Sam Allardyce Caught In Newspaper Sting, Leaves Job After One Game In Charge

Sam Allardyce has left his job as manager of England’s national soccer team following a newspaper investigation that claimed he offered advice on how to “get around” rules on player transfers.

England Manager Sam Allardyce Caught In Newspaper Sting

Allardyce, 61, left by mutual agreement with the Football Association after just one match and 67 days in charge.

The manager is also alleged to have used his position to negotiate a deal worth £400,000 ($521,000) to represent a Far East firm.

During meetings with undercover reporters from The Daily Telegraph, Allardyce reportedly criticized his predecessor, Roy Hodgson, mockingly calling him “Woy” and claiming he “hasn’t got the personality” for public speaking. Allardyce also criticized Gary Neville, one of Hodgson’s assistants.

Former Bolton Wanderers, West Ham United and Sunderland boss Allardyce replaced Hodgson as England manager in July, following England’s embarrassing elimination by Iceland at UEFA Euro 2016 in France.

Allardyce is also alleged to have stated England’s players were underperforming because they had a “psychological barrier” and “can’t cope.” He also suggested players who were not being played for their clubs should not be picked for England, and described the FA’s decision to redevelop Wembley Stadium as “stupid.”

“He accepts he made a significant error of judgement and has apologized,” the FA said. “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 step in as England’s interim manager. Allardyce is now the national team’s shortest-serving full-time manager.

Allardyce met FA chairman Greg Clarke and chief executive Martin Glenn on Tuesday to offer what he called 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 recognize I made some comments which have caused embarrassment,” he added.

“As part of the 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.”

BURTON-UPON-TRENT, ENGLAND – JULY 25: Newly appointed England manager Sam Allardyce poses after a press conference at St. George’s Park on July 25, 2016 in Burton-upon-Trent, England. (Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty Images)

Article by Pablo Mena