SAM Allardyce received a call from the Football Association on Thursday - but it was not the offer of a job.

The Wanderers boss, the bookies favourite and people's choice to succeed Sven-Goran Eriksson as England manager after the World Cup, has been charged with improper conduct relating to comments he made about referee Mike Riley after the Blackburn game.

Allardyce, who has previously been fined by the FA for criticising the Leeds official, accused Riley of 'almost causing a riot' with his handling of the Ewood Park derby in which he sent off Wanderers midfielder, Hidetoshi Nakata.

He has until February 10 to reply to the charge.

Meanwhile, as a poll of English players came out in support of Eriksson's successor being home grown, Allardyce moved to end the speculation touting him as favourite.

He said: "Everybody's documented my thoughts over the last few months regarding the England situation and, basically, I don't think I really have to comment any more on that, other than make sure I look after Bolton Wanderers and not get distracted.

"I've been distracted somewhat this week regarding the situation and I don't want to be distracted any more. I am just focused on keeping winning with this football club.

"If the bookies have made me favourite, that's fantastic and I appreciate it. I am very pleased to be in the frame, it's a great honour for me, but after that it's finished."