Magpies should lay off realist Sam

Back in May, Sam Allardyce did his best to inject a dose of reality amongst the usual promises of short to mid-term glory which are made at managerial unveilings these days.

He had spoken at length about the obvious potential of his new club Newcastle - - the great stadium, the passionate fans and so on, but added by way of a disclaimer: “I’m not saying I can get it right at the flick of a switch. If there are some sticky times I hope we can get over them for the best of the supporters and me.”