Hammers have their say on Allardyce appointment
- by Staff Writer
- Thursday, 21st July 2016
West Ham players past and present have been giving their verdicts on the news that former Hammers boss Sam Allardyce is set to become the new England manager.
Following yesterday's revelation that Allardyce is set to be appointed as the successor to Roy Hodgson, several former players and colleagues have offered their views.Rob Green, who played under Allardyce at West Ham for just one season is one of many who believe he will prove a success. "He's always said 'I will manage England and I will adapt to that'" said Green. "But if you believe him, as I do, I think he can do that.
"He can manage flair players and get the best out of them. As a character one of his main strengths in to protect the players and I think that's key to this young England team."
If various reports are true, Allardyce is the perfect choice for England right now. Plenty of people will disagree, only time will tell 1/2
— Matthew Etherington (@mattyethers) July 21, 2016
Trevor Brooking, the current Director fo Football Development at the FA who was instrumental in Hodgson's appointment four years ago agreed with Green. "That’s the thing about Sam," he said. "He’s always made the best use of the players available."
Meanwhile, Neil McDonald, Big Sam's number two whilst at West Ham also backed his former partner to bring a level of success to the England team. "There are a lot of young players in that squad and Sam would bring some fun back," he said. "He’ll lighten the mood and motivate players."
However it's not just Big Sam's former players and staff who are wishing him all the best. Jose Mourinho, who once accused Allardyce of playing "19th century football" said he felt Allardyce was "the right person for the job".
"I think he is a good choice but I think he needs support," he continued. "I think you can do better in respect of that because my experience in your country shows that me you, [the] football world, could do a bit better."
The 'Dinosaur' tag is lazy and ridiculous, he is tactically astute and forward thinking. He knows how to set his teams up to win. End of.2/2
— Matthew Etherington (@mattyethers) July 21, 2016
Finally, Father Joe Young, the former Chairman of Limerick FC - Allardyce's first club in management - offered his own personal blessings.
“He believed in what we were trying to do in Limerick and help young people come through the welfare system," said Father Young. "He believed in it, and I believe in Sam. God bless him, because he is wonderful."
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