Published 1/4/2013 9:45:03 AM by Roberto Garcia from soccermogul

When he took over the reins at Upton Park in June 2001, Sam Allardyce and West Ham did not immediately appear to be a natural fit. After all, West Ham have enjoyed an historic tradition of attractive passing football, while Big Sam had thrived on a reputation for the long-ball game.

However, one promotion and a good start to the Premier League season later and it appears to be a match made in heaven.  Having chalked up some impressive victories, most notably perhaps against European champions Chelsea at Upton Park, West Ham will be hoping for a top half finish this season. Quite remarkable for a side which was promoted through the playoffs and made only modest summer acquisitions.

Although they may have been modest, they have certainly been impressive signings. Jussi Jaaskelainen is an Allardyce stalwart from his Bolton Wanderers days and is about as experienced a Premier League goalkeeper as they come. Meanwhile, Matt Jarvis has also settled in nicely after signing from Wolves. Andy Carroll may have grabbed the headlines by arriving from Liverpool on loan, but the low-key capture of midfielder Mohammed Diame from Wigan is proving to be one of the buys of the season.

However, West Ham’s success is also down to Allardyce’s growing tactical nous. He is proving once and for all that he is more than just a long-ball merchant, altering games with a quick switch of personnel or formation. For example, the introduction of Diame at home to Chelsea all but changed the outcome of the game.  With Allardyce and West Ham developing in tandem, there could be a rosy future ahead for the Hammers.

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