Now we have seen Big Sam’s first England squad, it only goes to highlight that, no matter who the boss is, the squad is generally the same and how few players are available to step up to World Cup football.
I must admit to being a tad surprised at the exclusion of Everton’s Ross Barkley who on his day is top class, but perhaps does not have enough top days, and Sam is well known for wanting players he can rely on.
However, looking at the inclusion of more defenders than in previous squads and the exclusion of Barkley and Jack Wilshere, it does suggest that the new England head coach is going to get them playing his way.
I would expect a higher tempo, high energy, hardworking performance from the team that we have seen before and I am sure it will be a little more direct.
I am not saying it will be a long ball style but in my opinion we will definitely see a more direct way of playing.
However, his Bolton side with Jay Jay Okocha, Ivan Campo and Youri Djorkaeff, alongside players like Kevin Nolan who had progressed through the youth system, played some super football but all with a hard work ethic and intensity that was to be admired.
And with some of those players being World Cup and European Championship winners it shows handling big names does not hold any fears for Big Sam.
I am delighted to see Leicester’s Danny Drinkwater back in the squad and would have liked to see West Ham's Mark Noble given an opportunity.
To see Wayne Rooney named as a midfielder also says a lot about where Big Sam thinks he will be most effective and that his days as an international striker are well and truly over.
Naming only three strikers was a surprise to me especially with Daniel Sturridge’s injury record, although Theo Walcott can also play up front if required.
What we will we see from the team in the World Cup qualifier against Slovakia?
Only time will tell but in my opinion we will see a him utilising the player’s strengths rather than forcing them to play a way that’s is is different to the way they play every week in the Premier League.
Sam came close to getting the England job in 2006 I would imagine he will be desperate to prove the FA were wrong to not give him the job.
However, the big question is will we win anything or at least get closer than we currently do?
Sadly, while I believe changing the head coach is a positive move, I also believe the problems surrounding England and why we don’t win trophies is a lot deeper than simply the man at the top.