Blackburn owners want British managerDecember 14, 2010
By ESPNsoccernet staff
Blackburn Rovers are hoping to appoint a British successor to axed manager Sam Allardyce, who had a "different vision" for the club than new owners Venky's.
The Indian-based poultry purveyors secured a controlling interest at Ewood Park last month and chairwoman Anuradha Desai wants an entertaining team that can finish in the top five of the Premier League.
Blackburn sacked Allardyce on Monday and have already been linked with the likes of Martin Jol, Sven-Goran Eriksson and Diego Maradona but Desai's comments appear to make the appointment of a foreign boss unlikely.
"We want good football and Blackburn to be fourth or fifth in the league or even better," Desai told the Lancashire Telegraph. "The fans should trust us because this is in the best interests of the club. Our thinking now is that it will be a British manager.
"But we are open if there is an outstanding candidate, someone who would be really, really good for the club."
Desai also revealed the decision to dismiss Allardyce was taken before the 2-1 defeat against his former club Bolton on Sunday.
She said: "It has been a long time in our minds. It is nothing against Sam but we have a different vision looking forward and we want the club to grow."
Desai insists they are not looking for a quick fix and are happy to leave the team in the hands of caretaker Scottish coach Steve Kean for the next couple of months through the transfer window.
She said: "We have been studying him and have been very impressed. He works long hours and is talented at his job. He also works well with our very skilful young players and that is important."
According to Desai, John Williams' position is safe - although there is speculation the chairman is deeply unhappy at the events of the last 24 hours.
