In June 2005, Allardyce's assistant Phil Brown, left Bolton to take up the challenge of managing Derby County[1] and he was replaced by coach Sammy Lee.

[2] He was interviewed for the England manager vacancy during the Spring, though the news broke that the FA wanted Brazilian Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Between the middle of March and the beginning of April with rumours surrounding Allardyce in terms of taking the England job, Bolton's form hit an unexpected slump with five successive defeats seeing the side slide to eighth.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.