By Martin Graham
Sam Allardyce is often labeled as a traditional manager who stripped football down to its essence. However, early in his career he earned a reputation for curiosity and experimentation, embracing ideas that were uncommon in English football at the time.
This forward thinking left a deep impression on the players who then went on to coach. Wayne Rooney is a case in point, explaining on his podcast that his spell with Allardyce at Everton came at a time when he was already planning life beyond playing.
Rooney said that during the 2017-18 season he watched Allardyce closely, paying attention to decision-making, daily routines and interactions, using the experience as an informal education as he prepared for his own managerial journey.
American influences and early innovation
A major turning point in Allardyce’s thinking came during his time in the United States in the mid-1980s. While playing for the Tampa Bay Rowdies, he observed how American football teams approached preparation, personnel and preseason work.
Exposure to NFL environments, especially the structure and resources surrounding players, reshaped his perspective. When he later moved into management, he made a point of trying out unfamiliar ideas wherever he worked, especially during his years in the lower divisions.
His longest and most influential spell was at Bolton from 1999 to 2007. There, he introduced elements such as performance data, specialist nutrition, structured recovery and advanced medical practices at a time when such approaches were rare in England.
Building the unity of the behind-the-scenes staff
Allardyce placed a lot of emphasis on collective responsibility beyond the players themselves. Departments were divided and leaders were encouraged to look for improvements that football had yet to widely adopt, from hydration options to post-match meals.
This culture extended to recognizing the contribution of non-playing staff. Rooney recalled that during his England captaincy, he personally funded trips and events for staff members, believing the players’ gestures helped boost confidence and morale.
Allardyce echoed that belief, describing the support workers as a “team behind the team”. He highlighted the importance of roles such as Player Liaison Officers, who dealt with housing, finances, family events and overnight travel, playing a vital role in keeping teams settled.
Change of dynamics with the owners of the club
Alongside internal relations, Allardyce emphasized the value of direct contact with club ownership. He argued that modern structures often place layers of employees between managers and owners, reducing the emotional connection.
He cited his time at Crystal Palace, recalling a heated exchange with owner Steve Parish after a crucial defeat, which he believed reflected a genuine passion and honesty rarely seen these days.
Rooney shared similar frustrations from his own managerial experiences at Birmingham City and Plymouth Argyle, where foreign ownership made face-to-face interaction more difficult, even when the owners remained supporters of their clubs.
