Sunderland aren't pleased with the FA interviewing Sam Allardyce
Sam Allardyce is inching closer to becoming England's next manager, but his current club, Sunderland, seem to be growing weary of the whole process.
The club confirmed Wednesday that Allardyce had been granted permission to speak with the FA after rumors (and accompanying pictures) of Allardyce meeting with FA executive David Gill emerged on Tuesday.
The distraction of having their manager courted by England has apparently weighed heavy on the Sunderland brass, though, which isn't eager to let Big Sam walk.
Club comment - Sam Allardyce https://t.co/Scrp0HBogI
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) July 13, 2016
"Sam is very much key to our plans. After what was an extremely challenging season, we are keen to see a period of stability, both on and off the field, and we want him to remain as manager of our football club," the club said in a statement.
Sunderland have staved off relegation for years now, but are hoping to take the next step. In their eyes, Allardyce is the man to guide them to the next level and stop battling the drop year after year.
"The ongoing speculation over Sam's position is extremely damaging to Sunderland AFC, particularly at this crucial time of the season and we urge the FA to respect the disruption that this process is causing and bring about a swift resolution to the matter."
Here's the thing: This is the England job, and it's being covered by the English press. The FA's penchant for foot-dragging when it comes to finding a manager is eclipsed only by the English media's infatuation with the process. So, while it's understandable that Sunderland are put off by the distraction, it'd also be helpful if they didn't take it personally.
As for Big Sam, taking the England job -- should it be offered -- would be a no-brainer. The 61-year-old missed out on the gig 10 years ago, and while the scrutiny that's attached to such a high-profile position is far greater than at a club like Sunderland, England is a viable destination.
And if England decide to go in a different direction, at least Big Sam knows his bosses at Sunderland would welcome him back with open arms.
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