BLACKBURN Rovers’ players have been left stunned by the sacking of their well-liked manager Sam Allardyce.

One player, who wished to remain unnamed, labelled yesterday’s decision a disgrace while many of his senior team mates have expressed their shock.

Norwegian midfielder Morten Gamst Pedersen said: “Of course it’s as big a shock for me as for all you that the manager Big Sam has departed the club.

“We have absolutely not done badly this season and with victory against Bolton yesterday we would have been in a very comfortable sixth place.

“And the table situation does not reflect on how our performance has been in this year’s Premier League season.

"But this is the football game and the new owners want new ideas into the club.

“Therefore, I hope, and expect that the new manager is someone who is skilled enough and prolific enough to take us one step further.”

Club skipper Ryan Nelsen echoed Pedersen’s sentiments and admitted he was devastated by Allardyce’s departure.

“Just absolutely shocked and devastated for him,” he said.

“He had a fantastic relationship with all the players and he took the club out of the doldrums – we were in massive trouble – and with no money he’s solidified us.

“It has completely come out of the blue.”

Meanwhile, striker Jason Roberts, who had fallen out with Allardyce, was also quick to wish his former manager all the best for the future.

“When you’re not playing, you’re never happy and I was certainly not happy to be not playing,” he said.

“There was no doubt that me and the manager had our share of fall-outs but I certainly wouldn’t have wished this on him.

“I don’t know how to feel about it, it could change my circumstances, but even though we never got on I certainly wouldn't have wished him to get the sack.”