Sam Allardyce bid goodbye to his dream job before it even really began after the England manager was caught in an undercover investigation. The former West Ham, Bolton and Sunderland manager left by mutual consent after holding a meeting with FA chiefs on Tuesday.
It looked like his position as the England manager would be deemed untenable after the Daily Telegraph published transcripts and videos of a sting operation, wherein Allardyce is seen making statements on circumventing FA's rules on transfers, specifically related to the highly-controversial third-party ownership.
"Further to recent events, The FA and I have mutually agreed to part company," Allardyce said in a statement. "It was a great honour for me to be appointed back in July and I am deeply disappointed at this outcome.
"This afternoon, I met with (FA chairman) Greg Clarke and (FA chief executive) Martin Glenn and offered 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 recognise I made some comments which have caused embarrassment.
"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."
Allardyce, in the job that he has dreamt about during his entire career, lasted just one match, a World Cup qualifying win over Slovakia earlier this month. Gareth Southgate will take up the interim role, for the next four matches over the next two months, against Malta, Slovenia, Scotland and Spain, until the FA finds a suitable successor. There is also a chance that Southgate could stay on in a permanent capacity if he impresses in those four matches.
"Allardyce's conduct was inappropriate of the England manager," The FA said in a statement. "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."
