Big Sam’s big call leaves Rovers looking up

SAM ALLARDYCE is not one of those managers who needs an excuse to celebrate his own talents, but even the biggest critics of the self-styled ‘Big Sam’ would not begrudge him a sense of satisfaction on Saturday evening.

Allardyce’s double-substitution at half-time inspired a remarkable recovery from Blackburn, who had looked bereft of ideas for much of a dire first half, and gave them an ideal foundation for what Allardyce believes is a “mammoth” period for the club.

The manager admitted he is now relishing the prospect of the international break before his side embark on “phase two” of their season with a bid to move all the way up to European contention.