Sam Allardyce admits that he made the decision to leave West Brom because he sees himself as a short-term manager, after announcing that he will be leaving at the end of the season.
The former head of England had held talks with the Sachets following his relegation from the Premier League and will leave after Sunday’s final in Leeds. Allardyce he replaced Slaven Bilic in December, but had a break clause in his contract that could be triggered if Albion, who is second to last, goes down.
They were relegated to the Sky Bet Championship earlier this month and, after Wednesday 3-1 loss to West Ham, Allardyce confirmed his imminent departure.
He had previously said that he would stay if the Baggies gave him guarantees that they would provide funds for a promotional push, but ultimately decided to leave.
Allardyce said: “They gave me assurances on the budget, but regardless of that, it’s about me and I being a short-term manager, that’s my locker, it’s been for six or seven years.
“When they put you in that locker, you better stay there. That’s where I see myself, a savior, a problem solver, whatever you want to call it.
“I felt that I was going to achieve it here, we got very close, although the points do not show it.
“It was a long and difficult decision, a lot of discussion and a lot of deep thinking about what is best for me and for the club.
“No blame was pointed at anyone. I was flattered that they wanted me to stay. But at this point I am retiring after Leeds was disappointed that they had not done more for the team.
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Allardyce praised for his efforts
Albion is second last in the Premier League and has won five games all season.
Sporting and Coaching Director Luke Dowling said: “Sam, Sammy (Lee) and Robbie (Stockdale) came at a really difficult time for the football club. They worked tirelessly in their efforts to keep the club in the Premier League.
“Unfortunately, collectively, we were unable to achieve our goal of surviving the relegation. In the second half of the season we played with passion and desire. We achieved some memorable results with organized and entertaining football.
“In the end, we couldn’t accumulate the total points needed to stay here. But Sam certainly restored pride with a series of tough shows.
“Sam, Ken (CEO, Xu Ke) and I have extensively discussed our plans for the future. We were really looking forward to having Sam in charge for the upcoming season and beyond.
“It has been excellent working with Sam and his coaching staff. I would like to thank everyone for their efforts.
“Sam has given his reasons for leaving and we respect his decision. It has been brilliant working with him. I wish him, Sammy and Robbie all the best in the future. They will always be welcome at The Hawthorns.
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