Sam Allardyce Steps Down As England Manager

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Sam Allardyce has stepped down as England manager after just two months on the job.

The former Sunderland and Bolton Wanderers boss was forced out after a newspaper sting filmed him telling undercover reporters how to bend rules on third party ownership of players.

He is alleged to have met the bogus consortium of Far East businessmen seeking advice on the English Premier League’s billion pound transfer market.

During meetings with undercover reporters from the Daily Telegraph, Allardyce is reported to have criticised his predecessor Roy Hodgson, saying he “hasn’t got the personality” for public speaking.

The former Bolton Wanderers, West Ham United manager is also alleged to have said England’s players were underperforming because they had a “psychological barrier” and “can’t cope”.

He was also accused of using his position to negotiate a £400,000 deal.

An FA statement said Allardyce’s conduct “was inappropriate” and Gareth Southgate will take temporary charge for the 2018 World Cup qualifiers against Malta and Slovenia next month.

“He accepts he made a significant error of judgement and has apologised,” 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.”