Former Everton manager Sam Allardyce has weighed in on the prospective appointment of Rafa Benitez as the Toffees’ new tactician.
Allardyce, whose last job was an unsuccessful bid to keep West Brom in the Premier League last season, guided the Toffees to an eight-placed finish during his spell at Goodison Park during the 2017-18 season.
Former Liverpool and Newcastle boss Benitez will be hoping to deliver success to the blue half of Merseyside, with Sky Sports revealing that Benitez could be appointed as early as Tuesday.
Speaking to Sky Sports News (28/06/21 at 9:10 am) [via HITC], Allardyce likened himself to Benitez based on his tactical approach, depicting himself as ‘exactly the same’ style of manager as the Spaniard:
“I have seen there are a lot of Everton fans unhappy about the situation because of the rivalry between (Liverpool) the two clubs,” said Allardyce.
“Rafa’s track record is very good, in terms of the time he has had as a manager. But I have to say, if you call me a defensive-minded coach then Rafa’s exactly the same as I am.
“He bases his performances on clean sheets and building from there and he has done that throughout his career.
“So, if they are talking about open and expansive football then I don’t think that’s the case with employing someone like Rafa. I think that will come eventually, depending on what players they let go and bring in.”
Read Everton Verdict
With a deal looking imminent for Benitez, who delivered 2005 Champions League success to Liverpool, fans will quickly have to accept Benitez’ style of play.
There is some credence to Allardyce’s claims. Benitez prefers a methodical, structured approach to build-up play that adds deep responsibility to midfield enforcers.
Direct play and counter-attacking will be familiar to Evertonians, with Benitez under immense fan scrutiny before he is even through the door.
Positive signs will need to be seen from day one if the controversial appointment is to cool the worst fears of many fans.
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