Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce has admitted that he is pleased to see Jose Mourinho back in management in the Premier League at Manchester United.
The duo will link up for a charity match at Old Trafford on Sunday evening, as an all-star cast of English celebrities face off against a Rest of the World side managed by Claudio Ranieri.
Allardyce will take the lead role due to Mourinho's recent commitments with his new club, but he is expecting the Portuguese to quickly settle into life at the Theatre of Dreams as he reignites his rivalry with old foe Pep Guardiola in the English top flight.
"It's attracted the best managers in the world now," Allardyce told reporters when asked about the current stature of the Premier League. "I think with Manchester City employing Pep, we have to compete against the best managers. And it is the best league in the world so we will look forward to next season.
"I wished Jose all the very best for next season - apart from when he plays against Sunderland. It is great to see him back. I am glad he stayed in the Premier League and I think he is great for the Premier League.
"He has a fantastic club to try to turn back into a winning team and, on the basis of his record, I'm sure he will be very successful."
Mourinho's first piece of business as Man United manager could be securing a £31m transfer for Villarreal defender Eric Bailly.
Daniel Lewis
