Allardyce ready to face Newcastle

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce insists he does not fear the reception from the Newcastle fans on Saturday.

Allardyce was axed from his job as Newcastle boss in January 2008 and will return for the first time after leaving the club this weekend.

He said in The Sun: “My question is, why should I get any stick? Newcastle had 26 points when I was sacked and we were 11th.

“There seems to be a perception put about that I did a bad job – even though, in our first 10 games, we had the best start for a decade.

“If you look at Kevin’s and Joe’s record I think mine stands up against theirs.

“My time there was not a disaster like some people make it out to be. The first 10 games were a big bonus for me. It was a really good achievement.

“I had changed the vast majority of the playing and the backroom staff. And those backroom people are all still employed throughout the leagues, many in the Premier League.

“They are very good at what they do. I chose the right staff for Newcastle and I don’t think I have to justify myself.”

[Source: The Sun]