Monday 25 July 2016 18:29, UK
At the age of the 61, Sam Allardyce is perhaps a bit too much of a wise head to be enjoying his ‘first day at big school’ but that’s how it looked as the man they call ‘Big Sam’ excitedly took his seat in the press conference room at St George’s Park for the first time as England manager.
A few questions in to Allardyce's opening England news conference, Sky Sports News HQ chief football reporter Nick Collins remarked that the new boss was clearly excited by his role, and Allardyce couldn't deny it.
"It's a huge thrill for me to sit here, and I think the chair fits!" he said.
And that it did. Flanked by FA chief executive Martin Glenn and technical director Dan Ashworth, Allardyce exuded confidence, a relaxed attitude and also a subtle authority that said he was in control and ready for the battle ahead.
Allardyce's first day in charge was delayed slightly by traffic heading to St George's Park - perhaps he was following the heavy media presence - but he didn't let that delay his appointment with the awaiting press.
Following Allardyce into his news conference was Sammy Lee, who will make-up some part of the England backroom staff - and that was Allardyce's first little surprise nugget for us all. As Nick asked who will be part of his coaching team, he pointed out Lee and left us in no doubt as to who will be making the key decisions.
We also saw Allardyce the comedian this morning.
There were several chuckles in his 25 minute news conference, but he saved the biggest one for one of his final answers when he was asked what would bring out his famous dance that we have seen spread on social media. After a roar of laughter he simply answered: "Being successful."
I think a World Cup victory would warrant a boogie or two from the new England manager.
Media duties weren't the only item on the Allardyce agenda for day one in the job. After the customary scarf shots on the main England training pitch, it was straight down to meetings.
It was here that Allardyce decided he didn't want his first match in charge to be friendly at Wembley on September 1, but rather he wants to spend more time with his players ahead the World Cup qualifier in Slovakia on September 4. It's quite the statement of intent from the new man at the helm.
Allardyce had completed his media tasks suited and booted, but in the afternoon came a chance for us to see him in an England tracksuit for the first time. He spoke to a group of young people at the FA headquarters for a 'Football Futures' leadership programme - and once again we saw his humorous side. He cracked several jokes along the way as he faced a Q&A from the youngsters in attendance. It was tougher than the grilling he got from the professionals according to Big Sam!
What came across quite clearly today was this is a man who is totally comfortable with the challenge that lies ahead of him. It's also evident that he still harbours a bit of regret that he didn't get this job ten years ago, but my goodness is he going to give it his best shot now.
So what's the report of the first day of school? A student with lots of enthusiasm and commitment, and most importantly, great potential.
