Allardyce Tactics Should Move Into 21st Century!

Last updated : 21 August 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Brazilian-born defender Claudio Cacapa became Newcastle´s 1,000th player on Saturday when he took to the pitch with just seconds left of the match with Aston Villa.

And although the 31-year-old former Lyon defender is said to be a gifted creative player in the mould of previous Brazilian greats such as Carlos Alberto, Big Sam wants him to keep in plain and simple.

There will be no samba-type Brazilian football from Cacapa if Sam has his way.

Allardyce: "I didn't buy him for that! I bought him for the experience and the rock that he is at the back. His passing and control is an extra bonus.

"His defending against Blue Star was superb, and that's what he's for.

He's a destroyer - not a creator. Any defender who tells you he's a creator isn't telling you the truth.

"Defenders are only there to destroy the opposition's attack."

Sorry Sam ... but get yourself into the 21st century!

Gone are the days of ´Chopper´Harris and Tommy Smith. Defenders are as much ´footballers' as strikers or midfield players.