Can Sam Allardyce take West Ham up?
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Subscribe to Football League by EmailWest Ham’s previous season was quite unpleasant. A horrendous run-of-form coinciding with a lack of decent managerial skills, led The Hammers into constant relegation battle throughout the course of the season, ending with an almost inevitable slide into the Premier League.
Avram Grant’s departure came soon after the end of the season to the joy of many West Ham fans. Grant’s managerial credentials have been put into question after his abysmal time at the reputable London club. On June the 1st 2011, Sam Allardyce was appointed as the new manager at Upton Park. West Ham fans must have been delighted with the arrival of Allardyce. Big Sam – will most certainly implement his style of play into the squad by enforcing first and foremost an impenetrable defence. Anyone following the Carling Cup betting should also remember that promotion will be the side’s first priority, so they may field a weakened side in that tournament.
However, he does face a battle to hang on to big names. Speculation regarding Scott Parker’s future has been rife. At first it seemed as if Tottenham were leading the race to acquire the signature of the talented midfielder, but things have changed and it now seems that Queens Park Rangers are favourites to sign him due to being the first team to lodge an official bid. The Hammers may well struggle for promotion without their inspiring playmaker, but they will have replacements in mind should he decide to leave.
One of Big Sam’s first transfers was Newcastle United’s key man – Kevin Nolan. Last season saw Nolan make some inspiring performances and really aided The Magpies in their 2010/11 Premier League campaign. Allardyce paid a fee thought to be in and around the region of £6 million on a 5-year contract. Anyone looking for Betfair FA Cup tips will know just how good Nolan is on his day.
The Hammer’s chances of promotion this season look to be a distinct possibility, particularly so if the likes of Carlton Cole and John Carew manage to hit a good run-of-form.