Allardyce To Step Down At End Of Season

By Ibrahim Taiwo, The Nigerian Voice Sports

Sam Allardyce will step down as West Bromwich Albion manager at the end of the season, the club said after Wednesday's 3-1 home defeat by West Ham United in the Premier League, according to Reuters.

Allardyce took charge in December after Slaven Bilic was sacked but was unable to save the Midlands club from an immediate return to the Championship.

It is the first time the much-travelled Allardyce has been in charge of a team relegated from the top-flight.

"West Bromwich Albion made me a generous offer to stay at The Hawthorns that shows the commitment of an ambitious club," Allardyce said in a statement.

"After serious consideration I have decided not to accept that offer."

Allardyce took charge with West Brom already in deep trouble, having won only one of their opening 13 games.

In April, after back-to-back wins including an incredible 5-2 victory over Chelsea, it seemed that Allardyce might manage a great escape for West Brom.

But a 3-1 defeat by Arsenal on May. 9 condemned West Brom to relegation.

"The club have asked for my opinion on the qualities my successor will require and I have been more than happy to offer my thoughts," Allardyce said.

"The search for my replacement starts after the final game of the season at Leeds United. In the meantime, we will be concentrating fully on the preparation for that game and will do everything we can to finish the season with as many points as possible."

Allardyce's long-time assistant Sammy Lee and first team coach Robbie Stockdale will also depart the club.

Sporting and technical director, Luke Dowling, said: "Sam, Sammy and Robbie came in at a really difficult time for the football club and worked tirelessly in their efforts to keep the club in the Premier League.

"Ultimately, we were unable to accumulate the points total required to keep us here, but Sam certainly restored pride with a number of resilient displays."