Allardyce critical of ‘immature’ AVB

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has accused Andre Villas-Boas of displaying “immaturity” for reacting angrily to criticism in the media.

Villas-Boas argued with a reporter after Tottenham’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Manchester United on Sunday, having taken exception to an article written last week. The Spurs boss also responded to Alan Sugar mocking his tactics by insisting he is the victim of an “agenda” directed by the club’s former chairman.

Allardyce insists he is unwise to answer his critics in public. “You have to use the criticism as a motivational drive to show these people that they are wrong. You’ve got to take it on the chin,” Allardyce said.

“I think he’s just showed a little bit of immaturity. It can get under your skin, but you can’t let that happen because you’re not going to win.”

The pressure on Allardyce’s own position eased with Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Fulham, although the result had the opposite effect on Martin Jol, who was sacked by the Cottagers 24 hours later.

Jol’s fate was shared by ousted Wigan boss Owen Coyle yesterday, while Dave Jones was axed by Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday night.

Allardyce’s Hammers travel to Crystal Palace tonight (8pm, live on BT Sport 1).