Sam Allardyce has defended his record as West Ham United boss, insisting that only Harry Houdini could replicate the magic that he has weaved at Upton Park.

The 60-year-old is out of contract in East London this summer and it remains to be seen if the Hammers hierarchy will offer an extension following a disappointing 2015.

The Irons have picked up just three wins this year and now sit 10th, having been in contention for a Champions League spot at one point back in December.

Slaven Bilic is among those reportedly being considered as his replacement at West Ham, but Allardyce insists that he has done enough to warrant another deal.

"I've done what I was asked to do here as manager – which was to deliver a team that, this time round, has not only been the most successful but the most entertaining, the most thrilling," he told reporters.

"It's the youngest squad we have put together since I have been here.

"So, if you want somebody else to do more than I have done, then I think you will have to be calling for Houdini!"

Allardyce's side will reach 53 points if they win their final two games - their second-highest top-flight total for nine years.