Slaven Bilic says he leaves with his "head held high" after being sacked as West Brom manager.

The Croat, 52, was replaced by Sam Allardyce on Wednesday after 18 months in charge.

"I'm sorry I cannot say goodbye to you all properly at The Hawthorns," Bilic said.

West Brom, promoted from the Championship on the final day of last season, are second bottom of the Premier League.

They have seven points from 13 games and have won only once in the league this season.

"I am incredibly proud that we secured automatic promotion from the Championship in our first season," Bilic said.

"It was a real shame to not have our loyal supporters there with us during that moment and upon our return to the Premier League.

"My staff and I are grateful for having had the privilege to serve them.

"Ultimately, I am sad that is hasn't worked out in the way we wanted.

"But I leave with my head held high, along with some wonderful memories that I will always cherish."