Sam Allardyce has admitted he was shocked to see Everton sell one player during the summer of 2023.
Allardyce has been out of work since departing Leeds United at the end of the 2022/23 season. It was a quickfire stint at Elland Road but certainly eventful.
The former Everton boss has delved into the world of podcasting, which has become the norm when players and managers hang up their boots.
Sam Allardyce shares surprise at Everton departure
Speaking on the latest episode ofNo Tippy Tappy Football, the 69-year-old shared his view on Ellis Simms’ Goodison Park departure.
The 23-year-old has found his feet at Championship side Coventry City and is set to feature against Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-final on Sunday afternoon.
After a difficult start to life in the Midlands, Simms now looks like the player Mark Robins expected. 18 goals in all competitions is a commendable return for the striker.
Considering his current form and Everton’s goalscoring woes, Allardyce cannot understand why he was allowed to depart.
“I was surprised Everton let him go,” he explained. “How many goals has he scored for Coventry? I think he’s on 18. I know it’s not the Premier League, but with them struggling that much.”
Does Sam Allardyce think Everton will stay up?
It’s not just Simms Allardyce has been vocal on. The former England boss has also cast his thoughts on whether Everton will avoid relegation to the Championship.
“I think they’re safe this year, I don’t think there’s any doubt about that,” he told talkSPORT Breakfast.
“Obviously, the teams that have come up haven’t been as strong as what’s come up in previous years. They’ve got two games in hand so I think they’re going to be safe this year.”
Everton’s survival could hinge on Sunday’s massive clash against Nottingham Forest. A loss would significantly boost Nuno Espirito Santo’s side and leave the Toffees staring down the barrel.
We will know much more about Everton’s survival hopes after the games against Forest and Luton Town.
