Big Sam wants out by 2013

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce has spoken of his desire to become an international manager and flagged his intentions to quit Ewood Park within three years.

Allardyce has enjoyed successful periods with Premier League clubs Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn but can't see himself managing beyond 2013.

It was widely reported that 'Big Sam' was close to snaring the England job in 2006 and managing a national side is clearly something that is still on his to-do list.

"I would like to coach a national team, if one came up, in another two years. Another two to three years in the Premier League is about what I want to do," he told the Daily Star.

While his comments may unnerve some Blackburn fans, they can be assured that Allardyce will be doing everything in his power to ensure the Rovers progress as a side.

"We will see how far we can take Blackburn Rovers," he said.

"We'll see if we can get them beyond where most people expect and then, after that, managing a national side would be very interesting."

In stark contrast to their big spending before the 1994/95 Premier League season in which they won the title, Rovers are operating on a more stringent budget these days.

Blackburn is in Australia for the Sydney Festival of Football and lost its opening game 2-1 to Glasgow Rangers on Sunday.