Football
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Sam Allardyce says 'entrapment has won' after England exit, future unclear

Sam Allardyce said he was a victim of "entrapment" after leaving his position as England boss following an undercover sting operation and added that he is uncertain whether he will return to management.

Allardyce left his role as England boss by mutual consent just 67 days into the role after being targeted in a Daily Telegraph investigation into alleged corruption in English football and he admitted he had made a big mistake in talking to undercover reporters.

He had told Sky Sports News on Wednesday morning that he had attended the meeting in question as "a favour for friend and agent Scott McGarvey" and later elaborated when addressing the media outside his home.

"On reflection it was a silly thing to do but just to let everybody know I sort of helped out what was somebody I've known for 30 years and unfortunately it was an error of judgement on my behalf and I've paid the consequences," he said.

"Entrapment has won on this occasion and I have to accept that.

"The agreement was done very amicably with the FA. I apologised to those and all concerned in the unfortunate situation that I've put myself in."

He added: "I have a confidentiality agreement, lads, and I've took the time to talk to you on this matter. I can't answer any more questions now, I'm going to go away and reflect on it."

Sky Sports News reported that former Sunderland manager Allardyce, who won his only game in charge of the national team 1-0 against Slovakia, is keen for a return to football management.

However, when asked whether he would take another job, he told reporters: "Who knows? We'll wait and see."

Gareth Southgate will take interim charge of England for the next four fixtures -- World Cup qualifiers against Malta, Slovenia and Scotland, and the November friendly with Spain.

When asked what he would do now, Allardyce said: "I'm off abroad. Just to chill out, reflect and I'd like to wish all the England lads, Gareth [Southgate] and the staff all the very best."

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