The Sunderland boss is already discussing his reunion with Newcastle United this weekend.
Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce says he won’t be affected by abuse from Newcastle fans when his side host the Magpies during this Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby, according to the Daily Star.
Sunderland have had the edge over their fierce rivals in recent derbies but Steve McClaren’s men will go into this fixture high on confidence after a 6-2 win over Norwich City.
On a more personal note, however, Allardyce produced an amusing response when asked if he expects abuse from the Newcastle faithful.
The Sunderland boss told reporters: “Only the players can make me smile next week when we play them. Do I expect abuse? Have you seen the thickness of my skin?”
So the first Allardyce reunion takes place next weekend, when the Sunderland boss will more than likely face abuse from Newcastle’s supporters and, as he jokes, probably won’t take any notice.
Another return that will likely cause friction will be when Sunderland play West Ham United for the second time this season.
Big Sam clearly doesn’t care what fans of his old clubs think of him and that’ll ensure there’s never a dull moment for the Black Cats on the road.
What the Sunderland boss will surely love is giving the Newcastle fans a reason to take aim at him – something like another Tyne-Wear derby victory for his side over their great rivals.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
