Everton striker Cenk Tosun revealed that outspoken critic of Sam Allardyce, Emre Belozoglu, actually encouraged him to move to the Merseyside based club.
Belozoglu played under Big Sam during his stint at Newcastle and said publically on television that Tosun may end up pretty isolated as a striker due to the manager’s tactics.
Tosun was asked about comments made by Belozoglu but it turns out the former Magpies midfielder was full of praise for Allardyce.
“I don’t think like that,” Tosun told the Echo.
“To be honest I am quite surprised because I talked to Emre in private and he told what a great opportunity it was for me to play under Sam Allardyce.”
Belozoglu had told Tivibu Spor: “I’m really happy for Cenk Tosun. I feel it’s easier for Turkish players to go play abroad now than it was in our time.
“Cenk is really professional. He doesn’t see himself better or worse from what he is. He just wants to constantly improve himself.
“The football in England is physical, but Cenk Tosun’s finishing is top class.
“His biggest misfortune, I would say, is Sam Allardyce, who was my coach at Newcastle United.
“Allardyce lets his striker feel alone on pitch and his system can’t really provide for his team’s striker.”
See More: 3 Reasons Cenk Tosun Could End Up Being A Success At Everton
Tosun is set to make his Goodison Park debut against West Brom on Saturday.
The 26-year-old did end up an isolated figure on his debut against Tottenham which ended in a disastrous 4-0 defeat.
The Turkey international could be provided with more support now that Theo Walcott has joined from Arsenal.
Tosun and Walcott are both expected to start against the Baggies.
Allardyce will be hoping the attacking reinforcements get his side scoring against. The Toffees have found the back of the next just twice in their last six games.
Everton have lost their last four games but have only lost one of their last 10 games against West Brom.
