Sam Allardyce gave his first press conference as Everton manager today and hit all the right notes before tomorrow’s game at Huddersfield.
Comfortable
The former Bolton man looked comfortable as he faced the media and spoke of the reasons why he took the job. In one answer, he may have thawed the frosty relationship with some fans who were disappointed with his appointment.
When asked why he came out of retirement, the 63 year old said, “Well it’s Everton isn’t it?” This one reply showed immediately that Allardyce is respectful of the club, unlike his predecessor who considered the club a stepping stone to more holidays.
“The call came and within 48 hours I was here” he told reporters. Everton was always going to be a temptation to come out of retirement.
Big Sam’s Big Task Ahead
Big Sam also spoke of the issues that Everton have faced this term and the task ahead of him. He told the club’s website, “It is my job to get Everton moving back in the right direction, then back in the European places, and (to an) FA Cup final.”
“It (Wednesday’s win against West Ham) was only the second clean sheet we have achieved. The defensive solidarity of the team defines the success of the football club. Wednesday’s level of performance is the minimum that I expect from the team.”
Keane Fit For Saturday
Allardyce also confirmed that Oumar Niasse and Michael Keane would be returning to the squad for the tie against Huddersfield. “Fatigue may be a factor because it is such a short period of recovery time,” said Sam. “Looking at the load these players have had, every month has been like Christmas to them so substitutes might be a big play tomorrow.”
This was an impressive first press conference for Allardyce at Goodison. Hopefully he can hit the ground running in his first match in charge against Huddersfield tomorrow.
What did you make of Big Sam’s first conference? Has your opinion changed on Sam? Are you happy to have him at Everton? Let us know in the comments section below.