"With regret the FA and Glenn Hoddle have today agreed to terminate Glenn's contract. "After more than 24 hours of meetings and discussions it became apparent to all those concerned that this was the right decision for English football.

"The position had become increasingly untenable for both the FA and for Glenn. He accepts he has made a serious error of judgment and of course has apologised.

"The past few days have been painful for everyone involved, but that is as nothing compared to any offence that may have been caused to disabled people in our community and in our country. We accept this wasn't Glenn's intention.

"It's unquestionable though that the controversy over whatever was or wasn't said had damaged both Glenn and his employers.

"The FA has rightly considered all the options over recent hours. Glenn has served the England team with dedication and with loyalty.

"But eventually all parties agreed that in the circumstances this was the correct way forward.

"Howard Wilkinson is being asked to take charge of the England team for the game with France on February 10th."