SAM Allardyce has admitted that his only hope of retaining the services of former France defender Bruno N'Gotty is if the club remain in the Premiership.

N'Gotty has turned in a string of impressively solid performances since making his debut in the 2-1 victory over Manchester United last month.

But he will return to Marseille at the end of the season, unless Wanderers can strike a permanent deal with the Frenchman and his club.

Allardyce should have an idea of how the land lies in January when he plans to hold talks with N'Gotty but, in the meantime, he is just happy to have him around.

"I think Bruno has done an excellent job," the manager said. "His strength, pace and ability was something I felt I had to get into the side. He's never looked back.

"I think he is enjoying his time here now. Early on he got very frustrated because I think he felt he was going to walk into this side.

"They were playing so well he had to be extremely patient. He needed a few weeks to get himself used to life in England, our training methods and the way we play.

"I think that has stood him in good stead. Had he gone in any quicker he may have struggled. He has given us some sound and consistent performances.

"We will review his situation probably at the end of January and see where we are going.

"To take someone of Bruno's status we would have to maintain our Premiership status.

"That's why a loan developed so he can find out about us and we can find out about him.

"If we stay in the Premiership we will be able to proceed on a more permanent basis. If we don't I think we would have to send him back."