Sam Allardyce lifts the lid on Sir Alex Ferguson Man United chat amid Casemiro red card verdict

Former Premier League manager Sam Allardyce has opened up on what he and Sir Alex Ferguson talk having been spotted alongside each other at Manchester United's latest outing

Sam Allardyce was spotted sitting next to Sir Alex Ferguson during Manchester United's victory over Chelsea – and he has revealed how they often discuss tactics while watching matches together.

The former Premier League boss, whose latest role was at Leeds United, was present to witness the Red Devils claim only their second triumph of the season. He sat alongside Old Trafford stalwart Ferguson, with the duo having faced each other on countless occasions throughout their managerial careers.

Considerable attention was paid to the conversation between the two men, and Allardyce reveals that the bulk of their discussion focused on the match and potential substitutions they would implement.

Speaking on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, he explained: "We talk about why we think United have dropped off, talk about how they need to push up. There are things we chat about in general about what's happening in the game, and say what we think. Do we think they'll get a sub on?".

United's triumph occurred despite both sides being reduced to ten players after Robert Sanchez and Casemiro received their marching orders in the opening 45 minutes.

The Brazilian was dismissed for accumulating two yellow cards, creating a nervy conclusion for the home side, and Allardyce confesses he would have substituted the midfielder. He said: "I would've taken Casemiro off after his yellow. Have you seen how many times he's been sent off? A man of his experience and his age who can't control himself, he's just an old player. He's not an experienced player.

"He's been doing the same things for all his career that he should've cut out years ago, and particularly now he's not as quick as he used to be, he should be using his experience to make sure that doesn't happen, but he's not. He's doing the same old things he's always done, diving in, jumping in."

Despite Ferguson and Allardyce frequently clashing during their managerial careers, the Scot maintained genuine respect for the one-cap England boss, who continues to be a close friend. In 2010, he was scathing about Blackburn's choice to sack him whilst they sat 13th in the Premier League.

"I've never heard of such a stupid decision in all my life," declared the former United manager. "I don't know what they're doing up there, but deary me. It confounds common sense. Absolutely ridiculous."

---

Here at the Manchester Evening News, we’re dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

Make sure you don’t miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.

You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day’s biggest stories.

Click here to read article