What Do You Think of Big Sam?

As predicted on this site, Sam Allardyce became Blackburn Rovers manager yesterday, signing a three year deal. The reaction of fans, from both his present and previous clubs has been mixed. Newcastle United fans claim that he`s the worst manager since competitive football began, which is an interesting viewpoint given that in the past they`ve employed Ruud Gullitt, Glenn Roeder and Graeme Souness and are now led by the splendidly profane Joe Kinnear.

In June, an online petition set up by Rovers fans against Big Sam`s appointment garnered two thousand signatures, possibly leading to chairman John Williams looking elsewhere. Attitudes have mellowed somewhat now. That`s what the fear of relegation does to you. Another theory has it that Williams appointed Paul Ince just to show how bad things could be and that he now has the man he wanted all along – with the approval of the fans. It seems an expensive way to go about things, given that Ince`s severance package is likely to be substantial.

The most diverse response has come from Bolton fans. Some are still grateful for what he achieved at the Reebok and wish him well. Others have likened him to Judas. The pragmatic view is that he is an ex-employee who is entitled to work where he chooses.

Where do you stand? Vote in the latest Vital Bolton poll.