West Ham United boss Sam Allardyce has dismissed his 'long ball' reputation.

The accusation that Allardyce's teams play too direct, with a reliance on long-ball tactics, is one that has developed since he took up his first full management role with Blackpool nearly two decades ago.

"I don't fight against it (the reputation he has gained), I accepted it many years ago," the West Ham boss said.

"I wouldn't encourage anyone to get tagged with that label because once you have got it, it doesn't leave you.

"The perception is totally and utterly wrong because we are where we are because we have many different tactical plans.

"I have been in management for many years now and I have been able to tactically set up against the opposition whichever way it might be.

"At some stage it might be direct. That causes the opposition problems. Manchester United played direct against us on Wednesday night, but everyone chose to ignore it.

"But they played direct better than we can because they have better passers so that's plain and simple for everyone to understand.

"Our form has been exceptional this season."