Roy Hodgson has admitted to a "feeling of sadness" at leaving West Brom but believes the role of England head coach was something he could not turn down.
Hodgson will be in charge of Albion for the final time in Sunday afternoon's home Barclays Premier League clash with Arsenal.
But he is quick to praise the support he has received during 15 months at the Hawthorns and hinted he would have signed a new contract had England not offered him the role.
Hodgson, in his programme notes for Sunday's game, said: "I must confess to a feeling of sadness at leaving West Brom.
"I have been very happy here and it is no secret that I was in advanced talks with the club over a new contract.
"I was not looking to leave the club but as a proud Englishman, when I was offered the opportunity to manage the national team, it was something I could not turn down.
"I would like to say thank you to everyone who has worked with me at the Hawthorns in terms of the football staff and those elsewhere at the club who have all worked so hard to help take the club forward."
Hodgson added: "Above all I would thank the supporters for the way in which you have backed the team from the moment I arrived here.
"The support we received at Bolton last Sunday was extraordinary and I was particularly touched by the warmth of your support for me as I go off to join England.
"You have played a great part in making this a very rewarding period of my career and I will never forget that.
"I am delighted that I am leaving the club on the brink of an unprecedented third successive year in the Barclays Premier League because it is a well deserved achievement."
Hodgson is due to address the Baggies fans from the pitch after the clash with the Gunners.
