BIG SAM’S BIG MOMENT

HE was his normal, animated self but Sam Allardyce has much work to do if he is to save Sunderland from relegation.

FORMATION

Allardyce (below) named two forwards on his team-sheet, raising expectations of a 4-4-2 system to kick-off his reign, but once they lined up it was clear Fabio Borini was deployed in a wide role, albeit a fairly attacking one, with Steven Fletcher ploughing a lone furrow through the centre. Later in the game, 4-5-1 became 4-3-3 as his side chased an equaliser.

INTENSITY

Allardyce’s angry reaction, hurling his chewing gum to the ground, when West Brom scored underlined his passion.

COMMITMENT

There was no major problem with their endeavour. Allardyce has Sunderland working hard.

RECEPTION

He received a warm ovation from the 3,000 away fans.