Monday 25 May 2015 01:00, UK
Sam Allardyce insists he has brought success to West Ham and leaves the club in a strong position after it was announced his contract would not be renewed beyond this season.
The club announced on the final whistle in the 2-0 defeat by Newcastle United that Allardyce's four-year stint at the club was over, a period in which the 60-year-old brought promotion and three mid-table Premier League finishes to Upton Park.
Allardyce says the decision is right for both himself and the side, and described his time at the club as "fantastic".
He told Sky Sports: "I have brought success to this football club in the short period I have been there. Promoted first season, 10th, 13th and 11th three years in, and it's got a great foundation to go farther.
"I suppose, in the end, I decided that time was right to talk before the end of season and say, 'Look, let's call it a day, let's move on'.
"I think it's right for both the club and for myself. My time has been a fantastic time, I really enjoyed the London scene, really enjoyed managing the club, really enjoyed the success that we've all gained from the period of time we've been together.
"To rekindle a football club that has been relegated, taking it back into the Premier League in the first year is one of the most difficult tasks you could face. We managed to do that, and to move on from there and stabilise it for the big move to the new stadium is what I've done.
"I've delivered everything that has been asked of me, I've enjoyed doing it, I'm obviously thankful for what the players have done.
"We've built the team to get stronger and stronger. Overall, we've had a fantastic journey together, me, the players, the staff, the owners, the fans, and everybody concerened with West Ham, and they should be looking forward to a bright future. And obviously I'll keep an eye on what they're doing."
Former Bolton, Newcastle and Blackburn boss Allardyce insists he does not know where his next management job will be, but says he will not dive into the first managerial vacancy and will do what is best for him and his family.
He added: "For me, it's time to get out, get away, think about me, only me, and the family for a change, because you sacrifice your life to do this job, sacrifice your family.
"You have to do this job 24/7, and they deserve a bit of my time for them. In a few months time I'll see what happens.
"I don't know [what job is next], it depends what the challenge is. There is no desperate need for me to be jumping back into this game."
