Former England boss Mark Sampson ‘apologises unreservedly’ to Eni Aluko and Drew Spence after bullying and racism accusations

Former England boss Mark Sampson ‘apologises unreservedly’ to Eni Aluko and Drew Spence after bullying and racism accusations
Former England Women manager Mark Sampson has issued an ‘unreserved’ apology to Eni Aluko and Drew Spence as he spoke for the first time since his sacking by the Football Association.The 36-year-old was dismissed in September 2017 following the emergence of “inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour” in his previous role as manager at Bristol Academy.3

Sampson was accused of racism by Aluko (left)

He had also been the focus of bullying and racism claims, first made by Aluko, and then Spence.The FA said the allegations were investigated, and Sampson was cleared of any wrongdoing.But Sampson, who reached a financial settlement with the FA over his dismissal earlier this month, said he should have handled the claims differently.Speaking to The Times, he said: “I answered based on my recollections and what I felt was true to my character and the way I use language.3

The England players caused controversy when they celebrated with Sampson during a game with Russia

“I believed strongly that the way the team worked, if I had said something that offended anyone it would have been brought up at the time.“I was wrong. Ultimately, two players were offended by language I used. For that I apologise to Drew and Eni unreservedly.“I certainly should have played a much more active role to ensure they [the complaints] were handled more respectfully. That’s a big regret I will always have.”Sampson was sacked one day after England beat Russia 6-0 following a previous safeguarding investigation into his time at Bristol, where he had a six-month relationship with a player aged over 18.3

Aluko is now playing for Juventus out in Italy

“I wasn’t as mature as I should have been during my time at Bristol,” said Sampson.“My behaviour was unprofessional, which I acknowledged. I crossed a professional boundary. I shouldn’t have, and I fully recognised that.”Sampson also revealed he has spent six weeks on a Kick It Out educational course, but admitted the investigations into his behaviour and subsequent dismissal have taken their toll.He added: “When an investigation like that is played out so publicly, the stress, the pressure, it was the most difficult time of my life.“Not a night or day has gone by where it hasn’t dominated my thoughts, and that will continue for a long time.”

---

MORE STORIES; Tottenham train ahead of clash against Burnley as boss Mauricio Pochettino admits he 'wishes' to play Champions League last 16 at club's new stadium
Predicted Tottenham Hotspur line-up to face Tranmere in the

---

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo remained coy when asked about a move for Villa loan star Tammy Abraham - but did not rule it out. Wolves, who lost 2-0 to Crystal Palace on Wednesday night, are
Wolves Boss Refuses To Discuss Transfer Rumours After Abraham

---

Manchester United news: Marcus Rashford postpones contract talks amidst worries over the club's direction under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Talksport Angel Gomes reveals childhood pal Marcus Rashford

---

News about Victor Anichebe on Sports Mole with the latest player news, biographical information, pictures and more. Manchester United move into fifth place in the Premier League table with a
Press Gossip - 2019 | Page 47 | RedCafe.net

---

Chelsea information: N'Golo Kante 'may need had sufficient' - shock Maurizio Sarri give up declare thesunbest 0 November 29, 2018 12:26 pm That's the view of former Chelsea participant Tony Cascarino.Kante has arguably been one of the best defensive midfielder within the Premier League
Good morning Chelsea! Pulisic hijacking, Kante wasted

---

Manchester United have been named as bookmakers favourites to sign Diego Godin in the January transfer window. The Atletico Madrid defender is out of contract at the end of the season and is being
Manchester United January transfer news: All the latest

---

Sadio Mane's brace inspired Liverpool to a convincing 3-1 win at Bayern Munich and a place in the Champions League quarterfinals. The Senegal forward's excellent 26th-minute opener gave Jurgen Klopp's side a priceless away goal but, in a similar vein to the goalless first leg at Anfield, the action was fitful and error-strewn for the most part.

---

Ajax 2-3 Tottenham: Injured Harry Kane inspired Spurs to

---

Gonzalo Higuain was supposed to take Chelsea penalty instead

---

League Two round-up: Lincoln crowned champions with goalless draw against Tranmere as Forest Green confirm play-off place. Goalless stalemate against Tranmere helped Lincoln secure League Two title
Lincoln City confirm League Two title after draw with Tranmere

---

ARSENAL are reportedly preparing to battle it out with Tottenham for Borussia Monchengladbach star Matthias Ginter. Both the North London clubs are looking to strengthen their defence this summer. 3
Arsenal transfer news: Unai Emery eyes move for Germany

---

Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino plays down Hugo Lloris injury fears after goalkeeper misses Man City defeat Tottenham remain third in the Premier League but they are in with just four
Chelsea vs Tottenham: Mauricio Pochettino says Spurs may need

---

Manchester United and Molde agree fee if Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

---

Liverpool news: Jurgen Klopp hopeful Virgil van Dijk will be fit to face Leicester City. The 27-year-old has been an ever present in the league for the Reds this season and would be a huge blow if
Liverpool vs Leicester preview: Jurgen Klopp hopeful on

---