SAMPSON PUTS FULL FOCUS ON QUALIFIER
UNDER-PRESSURE ENGLAND BOSS READY FOR FIRST GAME AFTER EURO DISAPPOINTMENT
England Women manager Mark Sampson is confident the probe into allegations made against him and the accompanying furore has not disrupted his players’ focus on their World Cup qualification campaign.
The Lionesses’ quest to reach France in 2019 begins against Russia at Tranmere’s Prenton Park tonight, with the spotlight still very much on their manager following the claims of racism and bullying against him made by Eni Aluko, which Sampson denies.
An internal investigation and independent inquiry cleared Sampson of any wrongdoing but last week the Football Association confirmed it has spoken to another England player, Drew Spence, in relation to allegations levelled at her international boss.
With Professional Footballers’ Association chief executive Gordon Taylor now calling for a fresh inquiry, the attention surrounding Sampson and the FA’s handling of the case has not subsided.
However, when it comes to matters on the pitch, Sampson believes it has not hampered his players’ preparations for the encounter with the Russians.
“We have to be professional and go about our business in a professional manner and that’s what the players and the staff have done,” he said.
“Their preparation for this game has been as thorough as it has been for any game, whether it be a European Championship semi-final or a World Cup semi-final.
“The players are ready to play now and they’re looking forward to the game. They are footballers.
“They’re excited about representing their counat try. They’ve worked hard throughout their careers to be given the chance to represent England and they’re looking forward to doing that again.”
With regards to himself, Sampson insists he has also been able to retain his focus.
“It’s my responsibility - my job is to prepare this team,” he added. “My job is to support these players and I’ve continued to do that throughout the course of this camp.”
The Lionesses will be back in action for the first time since exiting Euro 2017 the semi-final stage with a 3-0 loss to hosts Holland in early August.
Alex Scott, 32, was the only player to retire following that tournament after earning 140 caps, while goalkeeper Karen Bardsley remains injured.
“They are excited about representing their country.” - MARK SAMPSON