Sam Allardyce is in the money after keeping Blackburn Rovers in the Premiership.

The Times says on the day that Newcastle United's relegation was confirmed, Allardyce will pocket a £1 million bonus for retaining Blackburn Rovers' place in the Barclays Premier League with his reputation very much restored.

It is an irony that will not be lost on Allardyce, after his dismissal from St James' Park in January last year, and his record of eight defeats from 27 matches since arriving at Ewood Park will make uncomfortable reading at his former club.

Safety was assured at a canter and Allardyce will be operating next season in the top flight with a remit of avoiding the need for nail-biting at this stage next year.