Sam Allardyce planning West Ham victory

SAM ALLARDYCE is planning to win the tactical battle against Jose Mourinho and make life even worse for 'vulnerable' Chelsea.

Big Sam reckons he can make life difficult for Jose Mourinho [CHARLIE CROWHURST/GETTY IMAGES]

The West Ham boss knows the derby clash at Upton Park is vital for both clubs.

But as Bolton boss, Allardyce lost four of his six clashes with Mourinho, conceding 14 goals.
The Hammers chief has been taking heart from the way Newcastle (2-0) and West Brom (2-2) got results against Chelsea.


Allardyce said: "With those two results, there is a chance for you to see where their weaknesses lie.
"The players will have to be on top form - anything less will make life difficult for ourselves.

“The players will have to be on top form - anything less will make life difficult for ourselves”

Sam Allardyce

"If we can do that, then we can cause them one or two problems. No doubt about that.
"As Newcastle showed, they were able to frustrate Chelsea - they played like an away team at home and counter-attacked. They kept a clean sheet and first scored from a free-kick. Their tactics worked brilliantly, sucking Chelsea in and then hitting them on the break for a second goal.

"It shows there is vulnerability there if your team masters the tactics needed to beat a side as big and as talented as Chelsea."

Allardyce did not use a recognised striker when they beat Tottenham 3-0 last month.
Big Sam said: "Our strikers are not delivering goals, despite the fact we are creating chances. We have got to get our act together."