Allardyce left Ewood Park in December and, after a bright start under new boss Steve Kean, results have dipped in recent weeks and seven games without a win have left the club just two points above the Barclays Premier League relegation zone.

The former Bolton and Newcastle boss is surprised by their plight as he felt he was doing a good job with a well-balanced squad.

"I've only improved results. I know that sounds like blowing my own trumpet, but that's been the case for me," he told talkSPORT.

"In my lifetime as a manager I've only been relegated once - that was when I took charge of Notts County around February and it was far too late for me to save them.

"I'm surprised because I've worked with those players, I know what they're capable of.

"They're a very good balance of young players and senior players together which is a good blend, particularly for the Premier League.

"You've got very good young players with lots of energy, lots of athleticism and you've got old, experienced players particularly for this stage of the season that's needed to pull you through."