Big Sam: Five things he'll find in his England in-tray

Sam Allardyce will have his work cut out as England manager Credit: PA

Sam Allardyce has taken up his role as England boss with immediate effect.

Here is what he could find in his in-tray:

  • Restore confidence

England's players looked gripped by fear when the going got tough againstIceland. Allardyce is famed for his man-management and credited with reviving the careers of players who many thought were past their prime. Repairing the damaged confidence of the likes of Raheem Sterling and Ross Barkley would be a good start.

  • Sort out the set pieces:

England's Harry Kane could be taken off corner duty under Big Sam Credit: PA

Harry Kane taking corners? Not on Big Sam's watch. Allardyce is meticulous when it comes to working on set-piece routines on the training ground. England need to be more of a threat from dead-ball situations, and better at defending them after being undone by a simple long throw in the defeat to Iceland.

  • Stick square pegs in square holes:

Former boss Roy Hodgson during Euro 2016 training Credit: PA

Wayne Rooney is not a midfielder. Daniel Sturridge is not a winger. Hodgson's muddled thinking cost England dearly in France. Allardyce chooses a system and sticks with it, picking the best players in those positions. Although his preference for one up front may leave a few strikers disappointed.

  • Be a Hart-breaker?

England goalkeeper Joe Hart Credit: PA

Joe Hart's unconvincing displays have left a question mark over his previously undisputed role as England's first-choice goalkeeper. With Jack Butland expected to be fully fit in time for the new season, the number one shirt is up for grabs and Allardyce has a big decision to make.

  • Play the England way

Could Big Sam bring back the glory days Credit: PA

The Football Association still appears wedded to the concept of the 'England DNA' but there is a strong case for English players getting back to doing what they traditionally do best. Defensive solidity allied to attacking with power, pace and aggression, precisely what Allardyce preaches. It may not be pretty, but pragmatic football did not do Portugal any harm this summer.