Blackburn owners want British manager

(GETTY IMAGES)

Blackburn's owners have spelt out their vision for the future following the shock dismissal of manager Sam Allardyce.

They want more entertainment from the team, a top five finish at least and ideally a British manager at the helm.

That comment about Allardyce's successor from Venky's chairman Anuradha Desai would appear to rule out the likes of Martin Jol, Sven-Goran Eriksson and Diego Maradona.

She told the Lancashire Telegraph: "We want good football and Blackburn to be fourth or fifth in the league or even better.

"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 revealed the decision to dismiss Allardyce was taken before the 2-1 defeat by 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.

Venky's dispensed of Allardyce's services less than a month after completing their purchase of Blackburn for £23million.

Following the defeat by Bolton, where Allardyce served with distinction, the club lie 13th in the table

Allardyce replaced Paul Ince in December 2008 and having guided Blackburn to safety in that campaign led them to a respectable 10th place last season as well as the semi-finals of the Carling Cup.

Assistant Neil McDonald has also departed, leaving Kean to step into the breach with bottom of the table West Ham arriving at Ewood Park on Saturday.