The new owners of the club, Venky's Group has sacked the former Bolton Wanderers and Newcastle United manager following the side's 2-1 defeat away to the Trotters on Sunday.

Allardyce took over from Paul Ince as Rovers manager in December 2008, and this season has led the club to 13th in the Barclays Premier League.

Allardyce's assistant Neil McDonald will also depart, with first team coach Steve Kean stepping into the breach temporarily.

A statement on the club's official website read: "The Venky's Group, owners of Blackburn Rovers Football Club, has today confirmed the departure of manager Sam Allardyce and assistant manager Neil McDonald with immediate effect.

"First team coaching duties will be taken on by Steve Kean (currently 1st team coach) for the immediate future.

"We have taken this decision as part of our wider plans and ambitions for the club. We would like to put on record our thanks to Mr Allardyce for his contribution to Blackburn Rovers Football Club."

Allardyce said in a statement released by the League Managers Association: "I am very shocked and disappointed to be leaving Blackburn Rovers.

"I am extremely proud to have managed this club and I enjoyed a fantastic relationship with the players, my staff and the supporters during my time in charge.

"I now wish them and the football club every success for the future."