Sam Allardyce is facing the biggest season of his managerial career as he prepares to oversee the return to pre-season training ahead of a critical West Ham 2014-15.

The 59 year old is bidding to bring in a further five players, including two more strikers, knowing that he needs a massive campaign.

With his contract running out next summer, Allardyce is desperate to earn another deal which will see him take the Hammers into the Olympic Stadium.

But ClaretandHugh has learned that he will need to produce “a totally spectacular” campaign for that to happen.

Although the ‘Sam Out’ campaign has cooled as the summer has kicked in, the mood within the club remains as it was at the end of last season.

One of our most trusted sources made it clear that the team has to produce a top ten finish as a minimum requirement.

But he added: “Sam Allardyce will need an entirely spectacular season to be looking at a new contract offer.. We can’t dwell anymore on last season – it’s all about what happens in 2014-15.

“The requirements are now well known. We want to see the fans relationship with the manager restored and a more attacking and attractive type of football played.

“It’s a very big season for everybody and Sam knows where is with everything and what’s required.

“What won’t do and what isn’t acceptable is to claim that survival is an achievement – nobody wants top be hearing that again.”