England turns focus to World Cup qualifying after Sam Allardyce distraction
After a tumultuous week, England is turning its attention to matters on the pitch rather than off it.
Coach Sam Allardyce's contract was terminated last week after just one game and 67 days in the position. A British newspaper investigation showed Allardyce appearing to offer advice to fake businessmen on how to sidestep an outlawed player transfer practice, and also negotiating a 400,000 pound ($519,000) public-speaking contract.
Gareth Southgate, who has been promoted from the under-21 setup until at least November, will be in charge when England hosts Malta at Wembley Stadium on Saturday and away at Slovenia three days later.
Disgraceful Sam Allardyce scandal a new low for England national team
"We need to build on the three points we won in the last game (against Slovakia), and the other side of it isn't our issue, it's nothing for us to be concerned about," England captain Wayne Rooney said.
"As a group of players we need to stick together and concentrate on the football. For the FA I'm sure it has been a tough couple of weeks but for the players we've been with our clubs and we have to focus on the games."
Scotland also has three points in Group F after winning 5-1 in Malta. It hosts Lithuania before travelling to Slovakia.
