The first Premier League manager speaks out over Jose Mourinho's Chelsea sacking

Allardyce and Mourinho have had a fiery but respectful relationship

 

SAM ALLARDYCE says he is shocked at the sacking of Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho.

 

Sunderland will be the first team to face the champions after Mourinho's dismissal when they travel to Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

But Allardyce, who has had a fiery relationship with the Portuguese manager over the years, was saddened by the timing of his demise.

"I'm shocked, I have to say," said Allardyce.

 

"The timing is quite amazing, irrespective of whether he should or shouldn't (be sacked).

"Just a couple of days before the game they're playing against us, is something I thought wouldn't happen.

"And at this period of time at Christmas when you're trying to bring in a manager with all the games, is a strange choice.

 

"We don't know what's happened, what's gone on, but we have to face Chelsea on Saturday and try to get a result.

"It will be really strange not seeing him on the bench and not having a chat with him beforehand and after the game.

"It's another casualty in the Premier League, which is what we expected this season based on the pressures of the new financial deal."

 

When Allardyce was West Ham manager, Mourinho criticised his side for playing '19th century football' but still includes the Sunderland boss on his Christmas card list, as revealed in his last interview as Chelsea manager.

The ex-Chelsea boss described the Sunderland manager as a 'good guy', a feeling reciprocated by the Englishman.

Allardyce said: "He's a great character and I think you want to pitch your wits against the best. And he's one of the best in the world.

 

And he's one of the best in the world.

"His CV has proven that over the years since he left Portugal and came to Chelsea the first time around.

"He's gone all over Europe and been successful.

"He's one of the big challenges you had as a manager. How could you work out the tactics for your team to get a result against them which generally shouldn't happen?"