Di Matteo was relieved of his duties at The Hawthorns on Sunday after a run of 13 defeats in 18 matches, with first-team coach Michael Appleton placed in charge on a temporary basis. Allardyce was one of several names linked with the post but a source close to the former Bolton, Newcastle and Blackburn boss has revealed he will not apply. Allardyce has been out of work since he was surprisingly sacked by Blackburn in December, despite Rovers sitting comfortably in 13th place in the Premier League. His name was also linked with West Ham when speculation over Avram Grant's future surfaced last month, but he is reported to be keen to try his luck overseas. As well as Allardyce, the likes of Roy Hodgson, Chris Hughton, former Albion skipper Derek McInnes and ex-West Brom player Martin Jol have already been linked with a move to The Hawthorns. Steve McClaren has also emerged as a possible contender after being sacked by Wolfsburg. But sources close to Albion insist no replacement for Di Matteo had been lined up before the decision was taken by the board to dispense of the 40-year-old Italian's services. They have enough confidence in first-team coach Appleton to do a competent job while the search goes on. Former West Brom midfielder Appleton has been coaching at The Hawthorns for five years and has the respect of the players - a crucial factor for the forthcoming home games with West Ham and Wolves. Appleton may even be considered as a candidate - in the same way as Steve Kean has been promoted from within at Blackburn in succession to Allardyce - if he proves his worth in the hotseat. The next head coach will also have to be willing to work alongside sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth. West Brom legend and club record goalscorer Tony 'Bomber' Brown believes Di Matteo should have been given more time to revive the club's fortunes. Brown said: "I am in shock. It has happened so quick. It is all down to results. "They've had this bad spell and the chairman (Jeremy Peace) has decided the manager has got to go. It's as simple as that. "I think every Albion fan will be shocked with it happening like this. "I think Di Matteo deserved a bit longer. We are in mid-stream. What is going to happen now, who is going to take over, who is going to lead the ship? "It's a big job for whoever takes over. It is easy to get rid of your manager. We've had quite a lot. "All it does is cause confusion again at a vital part of the season. "It has got to be someone who is going to get the lads behind him otherwise you are in a bit of a mess."
