New England boss Sam Allardyce slams misconceptions of his style of play

Sam Allardyce orders his half-time refreshments during the Premier League game between Sunderland and Manchester City on February 2, 2016
© Getty Images
New England manager Sam Allardyce hits back at claims that he only implements long-ball football.

New England manager Sam Allardyce has rubbished suggestions that he sticks to long-ball tactics.

The 61-year-old was appointed the new Three Lions boss on a two-year deal last week, succeeding Roy Hodgson.

There have been questions as to whether the former West Ham United and Sunderland boss will be able to create attractive and attacking football.

During his first press conference as England boss, Allardyce defended his style by claiming that he got the best out of Jermain Defoe at Sunderland by playing him up front on his own.

"The England job is about winning," Allardyce told reporters. "We will adapt our style to play different opponents. I think we need to be more adaptable.

"Everyone thinks I play one style - it's a tag I can't shake but I played with Jermain Defoe up front on his own last season at 5ft 10".

"At Tottenham everyone said he couldn't play up front on his own, and what did he do for me? Played up front on his own all season and scored 15 goals in the Premier League."

The ex-Bolton Wanderers boss has also claimed that it is "too early" to say whether or not Wayne Rooney will remain as captain.

Wayne Rooney of England applauds the supporters after his team's 1-2 defeat in the UEFA EURO 2016 round of 16 match between England and Iceland at Allianz Riviera Stadium on June 27, 2016 in Nice, France
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