I don't think that is correct about having no effect.Everyone one knows that Rooney has agreed a deal in principal with DC United but until he actually signs for them, he is nothing to do with them.
Likewise, Allardyce was in talks with Everton for a week or so and was agreeing final terms at finch farm on the 29th November and was appointed on the 30th November and so that is when his tenure starts from, not during the negotiation stage.
We were 13th in the table when he was appointed. It is what it is.
I think a new manager watching in the stands waiting to take over the following would of course have influenced the players.
My memory is that Sam said a few words to the players before the game, but I may be wrong about that.
The same would probably have happened with any manager sitting in the stands about to be appointed. It is the bounce we so often see from a new manager.
It is just because it was Sam that some find it so hard to accept.
	







