Stan Collymore reacts as Sam Allardyce already creates stir at Leeds United in front of media
Stan Collymore reacted with a smile to the bold claims of Sam Allardyce after he was unveiled as the new head coach of Leeds United last week, as reported by the Sunday People, [Page 61, 07 May.]
As his comeback to Premier League football was confirmed, the veteran boss claimed that he was on the same level in management as Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, and Mikel Arteta.
Collymore backed the self-confidence of Allardyce but warned him against complacency given the precarious position that the Whites are in, with just three games to go, to avoid a return to the Championship.
“We all had a good guffaw at Sam Allardyce’s claims as he was unveiled as Leeds manager, but I do understand what he was getting at,” he said.
“And do you know what? There’s nothing wrong with thinking that way because in any walk of life, you have to think you’re the best.
“I just question whether Sam needed to say it on day one because, frankly, with Leeds in the state they are in, he has bigger fish to fry.”
Actions speak louder than words
Leeds have only taken one point from the last six games, so despite the positive reaction to the performance against Manchester City on Saturday, it will count for nothing if the next game has the same outcome.
Newcastle United visit to Elland Road on Saturday in what is a must-win game for the hosts. The late rally at the Etihad Stadium has to be the catalyst for something more, this weekend before it is too late.
That is the main problem facing Allardyce. Small marginal gains mean nothing unless he can instantly deliver results in what is a very short-term assignment.
Four games with one down already. The next one, his first at home is massive. Get a win, somehow, and the supporters will believe. If another defeat comes on Saturday, then the doubt will take over.
This time last year, a frantic final day saw Leeds secure their top-flight status away to Brentford. A very similar conclusion to the campaign could be set to unfold.
In other Leeds United news, American studio panel has erupted after ‘unbelievable’ footage emerged from Thorp Arch.