Allardyce would drink to booze ban

Bolton manager Sam Allardyce has revealed that if he could enforce an all-time ban on his players drinking alcohol he would take that path.

He made his comments in a week which saw Jermaine Pennant sent to prison for a string of driving offences.

Allardyce was dismayed at the conduct of a player he sold to Arsenal during his time in charge of Notts County.

The Bolton boss believes alcohol can only hinder, not help, such are the demands of the modern game.

He said: “Our players are not encouraged to drink at all during the season because of the detrimental effect it has on the body for training and playing.

“But you have got to understand that not all players will adhere to that because you can’t put it in your rule book.

“If you could put it in your rule book and the PFA (Professional Footballers’ Association) pass it, then we would put it in.

“If you caught anyone taking alcohol then could you could fine them accordingly.”

Allardyce has given his players some leeway, however, adding: “What you ask them to be is sensible at the right times...the odd couple of glasses of wine, here and there, a couple of beers here and there, rather than a full night out.

“Alcohol has a huge detrimental effect on a player.”

Bolton are back in action on Monday and defender Nicky Hunt could face Manchester City despite dislocating his shoulder at the weekend in the defeat by Newcastle.

Hunt, who had an operation on the shoulder in the summer, has made a rapid recovery and Allardyce said: “He may have the chance of being selected.”

Midfielder Kevin Nolan returns to the squad after suspension but striker El-Hadji Diouf remains doubtful with an ankle injury.

Allardyce is looking for his team to bounce back after their 10-match unbeaten run came to a halt at St James’ Park but he knows that traditionally it’s tough against City.

“It doesn’t matter whether they are playing good bad or indifferent, we are usually rubbish against them, “ he said.

“We really have to turn it around this time and that starts by not conceding a goal.”