Sam Allardyce praises Sakho after his goal against Tottenham
Friday 27 February 2015 17:27, UK
Sam Allardyce has singled out Diafra Sakho for praise after the Senegalese international returned to goal-scoring form at White Hart Lane last Sunday.
The summer signing from Metz is the club's top scorer with nine Premier League goals, but prior to his strike last weekend had not scored in the league since New Year’s Day against West Brom.
Though Allardyce was frustrated with the manner in which Tottenham secured a late point, he was heartened by Sakho’s goal, particularly given Andy Carroll and Carlton Cole’s recent injuries.
“I was happy with everyone's performance (at Tottenham)," he said.
"But of course it was nice to see Sakho score, I think he's been working hard it just hasn't fallen for him. He deserved his goal because of his work rate and to get in that position from where he scored in the first place."
After missing out on Emannuel Adebayor on deadline day, Allardyce moved quickly to bolster his forward line by securing the services of 33 year-old Nene until the end of the season.
When asked if the former PSG forward would feature against Crystal Palace, Allardyce said:
“Yes, most likely on the bench.
"Especially with the injury to Carlton Cole, he can play a big part for us and he needs to stake a claim to play for us."
Sakho’s debut for the Hammers came against Crystal Palace back in August and a goal on Saturday would see him reach double figures in his first season in England.
"I am really looking forward to our game on Saturday against Crystal Palace, I look forward to every game but particularly at home, playing in front of our fans," he said.
"Every derby is special for the fans, and for the players also. I'm quickly learning how important London derbies are, and after Palace we've got two more against Chelsea and Arsenal.
"They are all big matches, but honestly, I never get fazed by any match. The Chelsea game next week is huge for everyone. A Wednesday evening game under the lights at the Boleyn Ground is something to look forward to. But, we will only focus on the Chelsea after Crystal Palace."
