Craig looking to follow in Big Sam's footsteps (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Craig looking to follow in Big Sam's footsteps

10:00pm Wednesday 19th December 2007 in Sport By Gary York, Sports reporter

SAM Allardyce's son - Darwen-based Craig Allardyce - has followed his father into the world of football management.

The 32-year-old has took on a joint-manager role at Bolton-based Turton in the West Lancashire League, a club that Craig once represented as a junior.

Turton lost the vast majority of their players earlier this season when former boss Neil Hart left for Ramsbottom United.

But despite Craig's troubles off the field - he is being sued by international football agent David Abou in the High Court - he has helped turned the club's fortunes around alongside Geoff Boulding.

And Turton secretary Ernest Charnock admits that he is a chip off the old block, Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce.

"On the touchline, Craig's just the same as his dad, although his language is not as colourful!" said Charnock.

"But Craig's a nice lad who loves the club. He played with us when he was a junior years ago and came back to Turton two-and-a-half years ago to play football and try and lose some weight.

"He played for the second-team, in most of the games last season.

"When Neil Hart left us, Geoff Boulding took on the manager's job but brought Craig in alongside him to help out with the first-team.

"They are more like joint-managers now, both making decisions and bringing players to the club.

"Craig's got some good contacts in the area and has already brought a few lads here.So far, he seems to be enjoying it."