LONDON, Jan 24: Sven-Goran Eriksson is to leave his post as England coach after the World Cup finals in Germany later this year, the Football Association (FA) announced.

The Swede’s contract does not expire until 2008 but he has recently been at the centre of a series of embarrassing newspaper revelations and following a meeting with FA officials Monday, the governing body announced Eriksson would be stepping down.

“I am happy that we have reached this agreement and can now continue our preparations for the World Cup,” said Eriksson in an FA statement.

“I know that I have the full support of the players and The FA and it is important to stress to everyone just how committed I am to achieving success this summer.”

“This summer is the culmination of everything we have been working towards over the last five years. Let’s go and win the World Cup.”

FA chief executive Brian Barwick said: “The FA and Sven felt it was important to clarify his future. This is for the benefit of everyone connected with English football, especially the fans.

“There has been so much speculation surrounding this matter in recent weeks and months, it was important to resolve it now.

“This is the right outcome and I would like to thank Sven and his advisors for their tremendous cooperation.

“As I have said before, our main objective is giving Sven and the England team the best chance of achieving success at the World Cup.

“Sven is definitely the man to lead us in Germany.

“Now is the time for everyone to get behind the team as we prepare for a tournament that presents us with a genuine chance of success.”—AFP