Joe Cole praises "phenomenal" Sam Allardyce

West Ham United midfielder Joe Cole has heaped praise on manager Sam Allrdyce for turning the club's fortunes around.

Allardyce, who is out of contract in the summer, earned the Hammers promotion to the Premier League last season in what was his first campaign in charge.

"Sam has done a great job and has been fantastic with me," Cole is quoted as saying by Football365.co.uk.

"He has an unbelievable record as a manager, is an experienced manager and you see what he is about on a daily basis. What a great manager he is.

"The gaffer came in when the club was in a bad state and has done a phenomenal job."

Allardyce has yet to open negotiations with West Ham over a new contract.