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Soccer

Gareth Southgate says football is an industry that 'at times I don't like'

England interim manager Gareth Southgate has expressed concern about the football business, descr...



Gareth Southgate says football...
Soccer

Gareth Southgate says football is an industry that 'at times I don't like'

England interim manager Gareth Southgate has expressed concern about the football business, describing it as "an industry I sometimes do not like".

Southgate succeeds Sam Allardyce, who was forced out of the job by an undercover investigation by The Daily Telegraph into alleged corruption in football. 

Speaking at his first news conference, Southgate would not comment on the detail, but said he was troubled by elements within the game. 

"I'm involved in a sport that I love and an industry that at times I don't like," he said. 

"I genuinely was locked away last week, so I've heard names mentioned but I don't know the detail. 

"There is lots about (this) industry that I don't like, but I love representing my country and they're the bits I have to focus on in taking the team forward." 

Southgate says he has prepared his family for the increased level of scrutiny that comes with the most high-profile job in English football.

"I am prepared. The key for me is how it affects my family. They're ready for that. My wife has been through the doorstepping experience, so we know that one. 

"How it affects your children comes into your thinking. But I'm excited by the challenge and looking forward to it."

Southgate has been appointed for England's next four matches, starting with 2018 World Cup qualifying matches at home to Malta on Saturday, and away to Slovenia a week on Tuesday.

In November, England play a home qualifier against Scotland before a friendly against Spain on 15 November. 

The Football Association will then formally begin the process of recruiting a full-time manager.

Good results will put Southgate in a strong position to take the job.

He said he had no hesitation in stepping forward to take over in the short-term, but is not looking beyond the coming matches. 

"I realise that the last week has been difficult for our organisation, so I felt it was important to step forward in a leadership position.

"As the week has gone on I have been reflecting on how proud I am and patriotic.

"Nobody will be able to take this honour away from me and I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"I've got seven weeks to prepare the team in the best possible fashion and to give the players an experience I think they'll enjoy.

"After that seven weeks everyone will take a step back and think about the future."

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