James Lawton: Allardyce's weasel words pollute understanding

Will "big" Sam Allardyce ever look around and see a picture somewhat more expansive than his vision of what is best for himself and Bolton?

Football precedent is not encouraging, any more than his own weasel words. Here is Allardyce's central argument in defence of El Hadji Diouf's gut-wrenching dive for a penalty this week: "I don't understand why they are having a go at him because he is only doing what other players are doing. People are suggesting I should criticise my players in public, but this never happens at any other club so why should I?"

If he doesn't know, at his age and with his status and rewards, can anyone wonder why the sewer gates of football are open so wide?