SAM Allardyce's time as England manager is over after one match after his contract was terminated by mutual consent with the Football Association.

Allardyce was targeted in a Daily Telegraph investigation into alleged corruption in English football, and the departure of the 61-year-old after just 67 days at the helm was announced following crisis talks involving FA chairman Greg Clarke and chief executive Martin Glenn.

"Allardyce's conduct, as reported today, was inappropriate of the England manager," read an FA 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.

England Under-21 boss Gareth Southgate will take charge of the senior side for the next four games in an interim capacity.

Allardyce described the Three Lions post as the culmination of his career in football and his dream job, but it has ended in embarrassment and recrimination.

When taking the reins from Roy Hodgson in July, following an abject Euro 2016 performance, he had denied the England national side was at rock bottom.

It seems impossible to reject the same contention now, as evidenced by the grave language used by the FA.

"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," continued the statement.

"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."