Allardyce reportedly standing by to take over as Crystal Palace manager

Sam Allardyce is reportedly waiting in the wings to take over as Crystal Palace manager if they lose to Southampton today.

Allardyce has recently been touted as a possible replacement for Alan Pardew, who is expected to lose his job as Palace boss if they are beaten by the Saints.

The Telegraph say former England manager Allardyce is interested and is likely to be called upon if the axe falls on Pardew.

Former Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is also said to be interested in taking over at Selhurst Park.

The Independent go a step further, reporting that Allardyce will be appointed by Palace if they lose today.

Chairman and co-owner Steve Parish has been supportive of Pardew but is reportedly coming under pressure from the club’s American co-owners.

Pardew effectively admitted at his pre-match press conference on Friday that he needs a positive result this weekend in order to keep his job.

“I’m a realist. I understand the situation with the Premier League,” he said.

“I have got to make sure the next result is a positive one for us. That pressure I will put on myself. I have to get results. That’s the position I’m in.

“Steve and I always have meetings, and we speak almost every day.

“That relationship is strong, and I want to repay the faith he’s shown in me.”