Big Sam ‘more than ready’ for England — Mourinho

Shanghai: Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho on Thursday backed Sam Allardyce’s impending appointment as England manager saying he was a “good choice” for the job.

“I think it’s the right person for that job,” Mourinho told a news conference in Shanghai on the eve of the International Champions Cup match against Borussia Dortmund.

“I think he’s a good choice. I think Sam never had a big chance at the highest level; lots of experience in the Premier League but never that big one and now he has the big one.

“I think he’s more than ready.”

Allardyce is set to be chosen as new England manager, FA chairman Greg Dyke said.

“Big Sam”, as the Sunderland manager is known, is also thought to have received a strong recommendation from former Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson and the new Old Trafford boss agrees.

“I think he’s a good motivator. I think he can create a good team spirit with his players,” said Mourinho.

“And I wish him the best from my side and not just as a friend but as a Manchester United manager.

“The only thing I can promise is that I am going to try to support him in the best way ...to have English players always available in conditions to help him.

“So good luck to Sam.”