Sam Allardyce (left) embraces Jose Mourinho (right) [GETTY]
Chelsea's lead at the top of the Premier League was cut to four points yesterday with their 1-1 draw at Manchester United.
But it is Southampton in second place after City's shocking 2-1 defeat at West Ham on Saturday.
Allardyce's side impressed against Manuel Pellegrini's men with their attacking threat and the Hammers boss admitted Mourinho was quick to send him a thank you text.
25.10.14 ; Sam Allardyce press conference
"Jose has just texted me to say 'Well done big man', Allardyce said:
"This shows how important it was for him, never mind us.
"He goes to Manchester United knowing his team will go and perform at their best and if they win it makes the gap even bigger.
"The result wasn't for him. It was for us and everyone at West Ham. It will benefit him if they go and get a result at Manchester United."
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