BURTON-UPON-TRENT: New England manager Sam Allardyce vowed on Monday to break the psychological barrier hindering the performance of the country’s big-name players at international level.

Allardyce also revealed he has not yet made a decision on who will captain England, which leaves the Manchester United skipper Wayne Rooney — heavily criticised for his performances at Euro 2016 — sweating on whether he will retain the armband.

Holding his first news conference since being named as Roy Hodgson’s successor, Allardyce said he will seek to address that faulty mindset as England bid to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

“The pressure on players at international level we will be looking at in depth,” said the 61-year-old Englishman.

“I will exploit all areas for the benefit of the players. The key element is to get the staff in place and talk about the programme going forward, particularly psychologically.

“It’s not about potential now. It’s about standing up and being counted even though some of those experiences have been bitter.

“Potential is a word I don’t like to use too much. You want the actual quality of the player producing his best immediately.

“I think this group is very experienced and going forward can be producing more performances and better results. It’s not just about qualifying, but going as far as we can.”

Asked if Rooney would be his captain, Allardyce said it was “far too early” to decide.

He added that he first needs to meet with his players and staff before England’s qualifying campaign for the 2018 World Cup begins in September.

Allardyce has a reputation for turning around struggling clubs but has never won any domestic silverware.

However, he rejected suggestions his style relied on playing route one football, highlighting his work at Sunderland last season when he saved them from relegation.

“Style of play has always been a tag for me I can’t shake,” said Allardyce, overlooked by England 10 years ago in favour of Steve McClaren.

“Choosing styles or systems depends on the players available and then who we’re playing. My coaching technique is to try and give the players the opportunity to win a football match wherever they are playing, be it home or away. And to make them aware of the opposition, which may change the style of how we play.”

Allardyce said man-management was his main attribute.

“I’ve managed some world class players. I think I have got the experience to challenge this England team and myself. I think I can create a good environment,” the former defender said.

“Man management is my biggest asset, to help players enjoy themselves and be better than they already are. It worked everywhere else I’ve been.”

Published in Dawn, July 26th, 2016