Barclays Premier League

[Martyn]

Barca is owned by the clubs fans, and will never be sold.

[Rappy Veteran]

Where is gregbob? he could give us his thoughts on all this :p

Russia manager Guus Hiddink says he has been approached to take over as Chelsea manager until the end of the season.

The west London club made a move for the Dutchman after sacking Brazilian Luiz Felipe Scolari on Monday.

Hiddink, 62, who has close links with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, said: "If it was any other club my answer would be a straight 'No'.

"But Chelsea is different because I have good relations with the owner. I would like to help them if I could."

However, Hiddink stressed he will not be relinquishing his duties with Russia and is fully committed to helping the team qualify for the 2010 World Cup.

"This would only be for the next two or three months until the end of the season," he said.

"I will not leave my job with the Russian national team. It's out of the question.

"When I took the Russia job it was a long-term project and I don't like to leave it unfinished."

Chelsea assistant manager Ray Wilkins is in temporary charge of the team until a replacement can be found.

Hiddink has the extensive club and international experience Abramovich is searching for having coached PSV Eindhoven, Real Madrid as well as the Netherlands, South Korea and Australia over a 27-year period.

And he insists juggling both club and international commitments would not be a problem having previously combined both duties in the past.

"I have already done that a couple of years ago when I was coaching Australia and PSV, so I'm familiar with the situation and what it takes," said Hiddink, who is in Turkey for a training camp with the Russia squad.

Billionaire Abramovich has good ties with Hiddink having played an instrumental role in his employment as Russia manager in 2006.

Hiddink was among a host of names linked with the vacant Stamford Bridge job after the surprising dismissal of World Cup-winning coach Scolari.

Former Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard, Italian Roberto Mancini, West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola and ex-Chelsea boss Avram Grant have all been touted as possible successors.

Rijkaard, who left the Nou Camp in May last year, said he would be interested in the vacancy - but would only consider an approach for the start of next season.

"If the job offer is for starting right now, the chances will reduce quite dramatically because he is in a one-year sabbatical and planning to hold on to this," Rijkaard's agent Perry Overeem told BBC Radio 5 Live on Tuesday.

Italian Mancini, 44, who has been out of work since being sacked by Inter last summer, has been linked with a move to the London club in recent months.

However, his agent Giorgio de Giorgis has had no contact with Chelsea.

De Giorgis told the Italian media: "No-one has contacted us, hence, I exclude the possibility that Mancini will go to Chelsea.

"We are aware of Scolari's sacking but they would have contacted us in the case they had thought about Mancini. Instead, they have contacted others."

West Ham have already warned Chelsea that Zola and number two Steve Clarke, assistant to Jose Mourinho during his three-year reign at Stamford Bridge, are not available.

Italian Zola was voted Chelsea's best-ever player in a 2003 fans' poll, while Clarke served as a player and respected coach for 20 years.

But a West Ham board member told BBC Sport: "We have not received any contact from Chelsea and will not welcome any.

"We are delighted with the job Zola and Clarke are doing - they are under contract here for three years and we want them to stay."

Zola's lawyer, Fulvio Marrucco, released a statement insisting no approach had been made from Chelsea.

"At the moment we know nothing about the link between Gianfranco Zola and the vacant position at Chelsea," Marrucco said in a statement.

Edited February 10, 2009 by Rappy

[fatboyuk]

Shame to see Big Phil go - I liked the bloke :)

Makes me laugh that when a team isn't doing well they sack the manager - okay he plans the plays or who is on the pitch but if the lazy beggers on the pitch don't want to play like they are worth the crazy wages they get then why should the boss cop it?

Chelseas boys haven't been playing well but in my opinion they need to step up to the mark and not let the blame lay at the feet on a manager alone.

How long did Big Phil last - just 8 months?!

[gregb0b]

no fear I am here.

Im still ****ed we got rid of Jose Mourinho.... that's what I think about that ;). If we land Hiddink I'd be happy I guess :ninja:

[Dance.]

Scolari was a good manager, shame they let him go. By the looks of it Hiddink & Rijkaard are leading the race :/.

[Rappy Veteran]

Hiddink to be appointed by weekend I am reading on BBC.

[Shibby]

Jeez, Tony Adams can't even win a headline (Have I done that one already)

[Rappy Veteran]

Sky Sports News understands that Portsmouth have made an approach to Sven-Goran Eriksson to become their new manager.

The Fratton Park club are searching for a candidate to fill their hot-seat after sacking Tony Adams on Monday following a brief and unsuccessful stint at the helm.

Eriksson, who is currently manager of the Mexico national side, has emerged as the leading candidate for the Premier League club.

The former England and Manchester City boss is believed to have been sounded out by representatives of the South Coast outfit over a return to club management.

Eriksson led England to the quarter-finals of the World Cup in 2002 and 2006 and to the last eight of Euro 2004 before guiding City to a ninth-placed Premier League finish last season.

Pompey insist they will not be making any official statement until they are in a position to confirm the identity of their new manager.

But given their position just one point above the relegation places it appears that they are keen to move swiftly.

Paul Hart has been placed in caretaker charge of the club and is preparing the team for Saturday's clash against Eriksson's former club City.

Former Nottingham Forest boss Hart admitted to Sky Sports News earlier on Tuesday that he would favour a quick appointment.

[Kralik]

I hear Sven is more interested in Chelsea.. Guus Hiddink is a great manager.. I like him.. and thats why I'm praying he doesn't join Chelksi.. :hmmm:

[nothuman]

Football League managerial departures during Ferguson's reign at Manchester United (Nov 1986)

Liverpool: 4

Kenny Dalglish (1985-91), Graeme Souness (1991-94), Roy Evans (1994-98), Gerard Houllier (1998-2004)

Aston Villa: 6

Graham Taylor (1987-1990), Ron Atkinson (1991-94), Brian Little (1994-98), John Gregory (1998-02), Graham Taylor (2002-03), David O'Leary (2003-06)

Chelsea: 11

John Hollins (1986-88), Bobby Campbell (1989-91), Ian Porterfield (1991-93), David Webb (1993), Glenn Hoddle (1993-96), Ruud Gullit (1996-98), Gianluca Vialli (1998-00), Claudio Ranieri (2000-04), Jose Mourinho (2004-07), Avram Grant (2007-08), Luis Felipe Scolari (2008)

Arsenal: 2

George Graham (1986-95), Bruce Rioch (1995-96)

Everton: 7

Howard Kendall (1981-87), Colin Harvey (1987-90), Howard Kendall (1990-93), Mike Walker (1994), Joe Royle (1994-97), Howard Kendall (1997-98), Walter Smith (1998-2002)

Wigan Athletic: 12

Ray Mathias (1986-89), Bryan Hamilton (1989-93), Dave Philpotts (1993). Kenny Swain (1993-94), Graham Barrow (1994-95), John Deehan (1995-98), Ray Mathias (1998-99), John Benson (1999-2000), Bruce Rioch (2000-01), Steve Bruce (2001), Paul Jewell (2001-07), Chris Hutchings (2007)

West Ham: 6

John Lyall (1986-89), Billy Bonds (1991-94), Harry Redknapp (1994-01), Glenn Roeder (2001-03), Alan Pardew (2003-06), Alan Curbishley (2006-2008)

Manchester City: 12

Jimmy Frizzell (1986-87), Mel Machin (1989), Howard Kendall (1990), Peter Reid (1990-93), Brian Horton (1993-95), Alan Ball (1995-96), Steve Coppell (1996), Frank Clark (1996-98), Joe Royle (1998-01), Kevin Keegan (2001-05), Stuart Pearce (2005-07), Sven-Goran Eriksson (2007-08)

Fulham: 12

Ray Harford (1984-96), Ray Lewington (1986-90), Alan ###### (1990-91), Don Mackay (1991-94), Ian Branfoot (1994-96), Micky Adams (1996-97), Ray Wilkins (1997-98), Kevin Keegan (1998-99), Paul Bracewell (1999-2000), Jean Tigana (2000-03), Chris Coleman (2003-07), Lawrie Sanchez (2007)

Sunderland: 9

Lawrie McMenemy (1985-87), Denis Smith (1987-91), Malcolm Crosby (1992-93), Terry Butcher (1993), Mick Buxton (1993-95), Peter Reid (1995-02), Howard Wilkinson (2002-03), Mick McCarthy (2005-06), Roy Keane (2007-08)

Hull City: 11

Brian Horton (1984-88), Eddie Gray (1988-89), Colin Appleton (1989), Stan Ternent (1989-91), Terry Dolan (1991-97), Mark Hateley (1997-98), Warren Joyce (1998-2000), Brian Little (2000-02), Jan Molby (2002), Peter Taylor (2002-06), Phil Parkinson (2006)

Newcastle Utd: 11

Willie McFaul (1986-88), Jim Smith (1988-89), Ossie Ardiles (1991-92), Kevin Keegan (1993-97), Kenny Dalglish (1997-98), Ruud Gullit (1998-99), Sir Bobby Robson (1999-04), Graeme Souness (2004-06), Glenn Roeder (2006-07), Sam Allardyce (2007-08), Kevin Keegan (2008)

Bolton Wanderers: 6

Phil Neal (1985-92), Bruce Rioch (1992-95), Roy McFarland (1995-96), Colin Todd (1996-99), Sam Allardyce (1999-2007), Sammy Lee (2007)

Tottenham: 12

David Pleat (1986-87), Terry Venables (1987-91), Peter Shreeves (1991-92), Doug Livermore (1992-93), Ossie Ardiles (1993-94), Gerry Francis (1994-97), Christian Gross (1997-98), George Graham (1998-01), Glenn Hoddle (2001-03), Jacques Santini (2004), Martin Jol (2004-07), Juande Ramos (2007-08)

Portsmouth: 14

Alan Ball (1984-89), John Gregory (1989-90), Frank Burrows (1990-91), Jim Smith (1991-95), Terry Fenwick (1995-98), Alan Ball (1998-99), Tony Pulis (2000), Steve Claridge (2000-01), Graham Rix (2001-02), Harry Redknapp (2002-04), Velimir Zajec (2004- 05), Alain Perrin (2005), Harry Redknapp (2005-08), Tony Adams (2008)

Stoke City: 13

Mick Mills (1985-89), Alan Ball (1989-91), Lou Macari (1991-93), Joe Jordan (1993-94), Lou Macari (1994-97), Chic Bates (1997-98), Chris Kamara (1998), Brian Little (1998-99), Gary Megson (1999), Gudjon Thordarson (1999-02), Steve Cotteril (2002), Tony Pulis (2002-05), Johan Boskamp (2005-06)

Blackburn Rovers: 9

Don Mackay (1987-91), Kenny Dalglish (1991-95), Ray Harford (1995-97), Roy Hodgson (1997-98), Brian Kidd (1998-99), Tony Parks (1999-00), Graeme Souness (2000-04), Mark Hughes (2004-08), Paul Ince (2008)

Middlesbrough: 5

Bruce Rioch (1986-90), Colin Todd (1990-91), Lennie Lawrence (1991-94), Bryan Robson (1994-01), Steve McClaren (2001-06)

West Brom: 12

Ron Saunders (1986-87), Ron Atkinson (1987-88), Brian Talbot (1988-91), Bobby Gould (1991-92), Ossie Ardiles (1992-93), Keith Burkinshaw (1993-94), Alan Buckley (1994-97), Ray Harford (1997), Denis Smith (1997-00), Brian Little (2000), Gary Megson (2000-04), Bryan Robson (2004-06)

Wolverhampton Wanderers: 6

Graham Turner (1986-94), Graham Taylor (1994-95), Mark McGhee (1995-98), Colin Lee (1998-2000), Dave Jones (2001-04), Glenn Hoddle (2004-06)

Reading: 8

Ian Branfoot (1984-89), Ian Porterfield (1989-91), Mark McGhee (91-94), Jimmy Quinn/Mick Gooding (1994-97), Terry Bullivant (1997-98), Tommy Burns (1998-99), Alan Pardew (1999-03)

Birmingham City: 8

John Bond (1986-87), Garry Pendrey (1987-89), Dave Mackay (1989-91), Lou Macari (1991), Terry Cooper (1991-93), Barry Fry (1993-96), Trevor Francis (1996-2001), Steve Bruce (2001-07)

Cardiff City: 14

Frank Burrows (1986-89), Len Ashurst (1989-91), Eddie May (1991-94), Terry Yorath (1994-95), Eddie May (1995), Kenny HibbItt (1995), Phil Neal (1996), Russell Osman (1996-97), Kenny Hibbitt (1998), Frank Burrows (1998-99), Billy Ayre (1999-2000), Bobby Gould (2000), Alan Cork (2000-02), Lennie Lawrence (2002-05)

Sheffield United: 8

Billy McEwan (1986-88), Dave Bassett (1988-95), Howard Kendall (1995-97), Nigel Spackman (1997-98), Steve Bruce (1998-99), Adrian Heath (1999), Neil Warnock, (1999-2007), Bryan Robson (2007-08)

Preston North End: 8

John McGrath (1986-90), Les Chapman (1990-92), John Beck (1992-94), Gary Peters (1994-98), David Moyes (1998-2002), Craig Brown (2002-04), Billy Davies (2004-06), Paul Simpson (2006-07)

Swansea City: 12

Terry Yorath (1990-91), Frank Burrows (1991-95), Bobby Smith (1995), Kevin Cullis (1996), Jan Molby (1996-97), Micky Adams (1997), Alan Cork (1997-98), John Hollins (1998-2001), Colin Addison (2001-02), Nick Cusack (2002), Brian Flynn (2002-04), Kenny Jackett (2004-07)

Queens Park Rangers: 12

Jim Smith (1985-88), Trevor Francis (1988-90), Don Howe (1990-91), Gerry Francis (1991-94), Ray Wilkins (1994-96), Stewart Houston (1996-97), Ray Harford (1997-98), Gerry Francis (1998-2001), Ian Holloway (2001-2006), Gary Waddock (2006), John Gregory (2006-07), Luigi Di Canio (2007-08)

Bristol City: 12

Terry Cooper (1982-88), Joe Jordan (1988-90), Jimmy Lumsden (1990-92), Denis Smith (1992-93), Russell Osman (1993-94), Joe Jordan (1994-97), John Ward (1997-98), Benny Lennartsson (1998-99), Tony Pulis (1999), Tony Fawthrop (2000), Danny Wilson (2000-04), Brian Tinnion (2004-05)

Burnley: 7

Brian Miller (1986-89), Frank Casper (1989-91), Jimmy Mullen (1991-96), Adrian Heath (1996-97), Chris Waddle (1997-98), Stan Ternent (1998-2004), Steve Cotterill (2004-07)

Ipswich Town: 7

Bobby Ferguson (1982-87), John Duncan (1987-90), John Lyall (1990-92), Paul Goddard (1994), George Burley (1994-2002), Tony Mowbray (2002), Joe Royale (2002-06)

Sheffield Wednesday: 12

Howard Wilkinson (1983-88), Peter Eustace (1988-89), Ron Atkinson (1989-91), Trevor Francis (1991-95), David Pleat (1995-97), Ron Atkinson (1997-98), Danny Wilson (1998-2000), Paul Jewell (2000-2001), Peter Shreeves (2001), Terry Yorath (2001-02), Chris Turner (2002-04), Paul Sturrock (2004-06)

Crystal Palace: 14

Steve Coppell (1984-93), Alan Smith (1993-95), Steve Coppell (1995-96), Dave Bassett (1996-97), Steve Coppell (1997-98), Attilio Lombardo (1998), Terry Venables (1998-99), Steve Coppell (1999-2000), Alan Smith (2001), Steve Bruce (2001), Trevor Francis (2001-03), Steve Kember (2003), Iain Dowie (2003-06), Peter Taylor (2006-07)

Coventry City: 14

George Curtis (1986-87), John Sillet (1987-90), Terry Butcher (1990-92), Don Howe (1992), Bobby Gould (1992-93), Phil Neal (1993-95), Ron Atkinson (1995-96), Gordon Strachan (1996-2001), Roland Nilsson (2001-02), Gary McAllister (2002-04), Eric Black (2004), Peter Reid (2004-05), Micky Adams (2005-07), Iain Dowie (2007)

Blackpool: 9

Sam Ellis (1982-89), Jimmy Mullen (1989-90), Graham Carr (1990), Bill Ayre (1990-94), Sam Allardyce (1994-96), Gary Megson (1996-97), Nigel Worthington (1997-99), Steve McMahon (2000-04), Colin Hendry (2004-06)

Derby County: 9

Arthur Cox (1984-93), Roy McFarland (1993-95), Jim Smith (1995-2001), Colin Todd (2001-02), John Gregory (2002-03), George Burley (2003-05), Phil Brown (2005-06), Billy Davies (2006-07), Paul Jewell (2007-08)

Plymouth Argyle: 12

Dave Smith (1984-88), Ken Brown (1988-90), David Kemp (1990-92), Peter Shilton (1992-95), Steve McCall (1995), Neil Warnock (1995-97), Mick Jones (1997-98), Kevin Hodges (1998-2000), Paul Sturrock (2000-04), Bobby Williamson (2004-05), Tony Pulis (2005-06), Ian Holloway (2006-07)

Nottingham Forest: 10

Brian Clough (1975-93), Frank Clark (1993-96), Stuart Pearce (1996-97), Dave Bassett (1997-98), Ron Atkinson (1998-99), David Platt (1999-2001), Paul Hart (2001-04), Joe Kinnear (2004), Gary Megson (2005), Colin Calderwood (2005-08)

Doncaster Rovers: 9

Dave Mackay (1987-89), Billy Bremner (1989-91), Steve Beaglehole (1991-93), Ian Atkins (1994), Sammy Chung (1994-96), Kerry Dickson (1996-97), Dave Cowling (1997), Mark Weaver (1997-98), Dave Penney (2002-06)

Norwich City: 12

Ken Brown (1980-87), Dave Stringer (1987-92), Mike Walker (1992-94), John Deehan (1994-95), Martin O'Neill (1995), Gary Megson (1995-96), Mike Walker (1996-98), Bruce Rioch (1998-2000), Bryan Hamilton (2000), Nigel Worthington (2001-06), Peter Grant (2006-07), Glenn Roeder (2007-09)

Barnsley: 12

Allan Clarke (1985-89), Mel Machin (1989-93), Viv Anderson (1993-94), Danny Wilson (1994-98), John Hendrie (1998-99), Dave Bassett (1999-2000), Nigel Spackman (2001), Steve Parkin (2001-02), Glyn Hodges (2002-03), Gudjon Thordarson (2003-04), Paul Hart (2004-05), Andy Ritchie (2005-06)

Watford: 11

Graham Taylor (1977-87), Dave Bassett (1987-88), Steve Harrison (1988-90), Colin Lee (1990), Steve Perryman (1990-93), Glenn Roeder (1993-96), Kenny Jackett (1996-97), Graham Taylor (1997-2001), Gianluca Vialli (2001-02), Ray Lewington (2002-05), Aidy Boothroyd (2005-08)

Southampton: 15

Chris Nicholl (85-91), Ian Branfoot (91-94), Alan Ball (94-95), Dave Merrington (95-96), Graeme Souness (96-97), Dave Jones (97-2000), Glenn Hoddle (2000-2001), Stuart Gray (2001), Gordon Strachen (2001-2004), Paul Sturrock (2004), Steve Wigley (2004), Harry Redknapp (2004-2005), George Burley (2005-2006), Nigel Pearson (2008), Jan Poortvliet (2008-09)

Charlton Athletic: 7

Lennie Lawrence (82-91), Steve Gritt/Alan Curbishley (91-95), Alan Curbishley (95-2006), Iain Dowie (2006), Les Reed (2006), Alan Pardew (2006-08)

Leicester City: 14

Bryan Hamilton (1986-87), David Pleat (1987-91), Gordon Lee (1991), Brian Little (1991-94), Mark McGhee (1994-95), Martin O'Neill (1995-200), Peter Taylor (2000-01), Dave Bassett (2001-02), Micky Adams (2002-04), Craig Levein (2004-06), Robert Kelly (2006-07), Martin Allen (2007), Gary Megson (2007), Ian Holloway (2007-08)

Milton Keynes Dons: 11

Dave Bassett (1981-87), Bobby Gould (1987-90), Ray Harford (1990-91), Peter Withe (1991), Joe Kinnear (1992-99), Egil Olsen (1999-2000), Terry Burton (2000-02), Stuart Murdock (2002-04), Danny Wilson (2004-06), Martin Allen (2006-07), Paul Ince (2007-08)

Scunthorpe United: 7

Frank Barlow (1984-87), Mick Buxton (1987-91), Bill Green (1991-93), Richard Money (1993-94), David Moore (1994-96), Mick Buxton (1996-97), Brian Laws (1994-2004; 2004-06)

Peterborough United: 12

Noel Cantwell (1986-88), Mick Jones (1988-89), Darren Lawrenson (1989-90), Dave Booth (1990-91), Chris Turner (1991-92), Lil Fuccillo (1992-93) John Still (1994-95), Mike Halsall (1995-96), Barry Fry (1996-2005), Mark Wright (2005-06), Keith Alexander (2006-07), Tommy Taylor (2007)

Oldham Athletic: 8

Joe Royle (1982-94), Graeme Sharp (1994-97), Neil Wrnock (1997-98), Andy Ritchie (1998-2001), Mick Wadsworth (2001-02), Iain Dowie (2002-03), Brian Talbot (2004-05), Ronnie Moore (2005-06)

Millwall: 16

John Docherty (1986-90), Bob Pearson (1990), Bruce Rioch (1990-92), Mick McCarthy (1992-96), Jimmy Nicholl (1996-97), John Docherty (1997), Billy Bonds (1997-98), Kieth Stevens (1998-2000), Alan McLeary (1999-2000), Mark McGhee (2000-03), Dennis Wise (2003-05), Steve Claridge (2005), Colin Lee (2005-06), Nigel Spackman (2006), Willie Donachie (2006-07), Richard Shaw (2007)

Leeds United: 10

Billy Bremner (1985-88), Howard Wilkinson (1988-96), George Graham (1996-98), David O'Leary (1998-2002), Terry Venables (2002-03), Peter Reid (2003), Eddie Gray (2003-04), Kevin Blackwell (2004-06), Dennis Wise (2006-08), Gary McAllister (2008)

Stockport County: 9

Colin Murphy (1986-87), Asa Hartford (1987-89), Danny Bergara (1989-95), Dave Jones (1995,97), Gary Megson (1997-99), Andy Kilner (1999-2001), Carlton Palmer (2001-03), Sammy McIlroy (2003-04), Chris Turner (2004-05)

Tranmere Rovers: 7

Frank Worthington (1985-87), Ronnie Moore (1987), John King (1987-96), John Aldridge (1996-2001), Dave Watson (2001-02), Ray Mathias (2002-03), Brian Little (2003-06)

Huddersfield Town: 14

Mike Buxton (1978-86), Steve Smith (1986-87), Malcolm McDonald (1987-88), Eoin Hand (1988-92), Ian Ross (1992-93), Neil Warnock (1993-95), Brian Horton (1995-97), Peter Jackson (1997-99), Steve Bruce (1999-2000), Lou Macari (2000-02), Mick Wadsworth (2002-03), Peter Jackson (2003-07), Andy Ritchie (2007), Ternant (2008)

Colchester United: 12

Mike Walker (1986-87), Roger Brown (1987-88), Jock Wallace (1989), Mick Mills (1990), Ian Atkins (1990-91), Roy McDonough (1991-94), George Burley (1994), Steve Wignall (1995-99), Mick Wadsworth (1999), Steve Whitton (1999-2003), Phil Parkinson (2003-06), Geraint Williams (2006-08)

Walsall: 11

Tommy Coakley (1986-88), John Barnwell (1989-90), Kenny Hibbit (1990-94), Chris Nicholl (1994-97), Jay Sorensen (1997-98), Ray Graydon (1998-2002), Colin Lee (2002-04), Paul Merson (2004-06), Kevin Broadhurst (2006), Richard Money (2006-08), Jimmy Mullen (2008-2009)

Hartlepool United: 14

John Bird (1986-88), Bobby Moncur (1988-89), Cyril Knowles (1989-91), Alan Murray (1991-93), Viv Busby (1993), John MacPhail (1993-94), David McCreery (1994-95), Keith Houchen (1996-96), Mick Tait (1996-99), Chris Turner (1999-2002), Mike Newell (2002-03), Neale Cooper (2003-05), Martin Scott (2005-06), Danny Wilson (2006-08)

Southend United: 14

Dave Webb (1986-87), Dick Bate (1987), Paul Clark (1987-88), Dave Webb (1988-92), Colin Murphy (1992-93), Barry Fry (1993), Peter Taylor (1993-95), Steve Thompson (1995), Ronnie Whelan (1995-97), Alvin Martin (1997-99), Alan Little (1999-2000), David Webb (2000-01), Rob Newman (2001-03), Steve Wignall (2003-04)

Bristol Rovers: 12

Bobby Gould (1985-87), Gerry Francis (1987-91), Martin Dobson (1991), Dennis Rolfe (1992), Malcolm Allison (1992-93), John Ward (1993-96), Ian Holloway (1996-2001), Garry Thompson (2001), Gerry Francis (2001), Garry Thompson (2001-02), Ray Graydon (2002-04), Ian Atkins (2004-05)

Northampton Town: 11

Graham Carr (1985-90), Theo Foley (1990-92), Phil Chard (1992-93), John Barnwell (1993-95), Ian Atkins (1995-99), Kevin Wilson (1999-2001), Kevan Broadhurst (2001-03), Terry Fenwick (2003), Martin Wilkinson (2003), Colin Calderwood (2003-06) John Gorman (2006)

Yeovil Town: 2

Gary Johnson (2001-05), Steve Thompson (2005-06)

Carlisle United: 18

Harry Gregg (1986-87), Cliff Middlemass (1987-91), Aiden McCafferey (1991-92), David McCreery (1992-93), Mick Wadsworth (1993-96), Mervyn Day (1996-97), David Wilkes (1997-99), John Halpin (1997-99), Michael Kensington (1997-99), Nigel Pearson (1998-99), Keith Mincher (1999), Martin Wilkinson (1999-2000), Ian Atkins (2000-01), Roddy Collins (2001-2002), Roddy Collins (2002-03), Paul Simpson (2003-06), Neil McDonald (2006-07), John Ward (2007-08)

Brighton and Hove Albion: 13

Allan Mullery (1986-87), Barry Lloyd (1987-93), Liam Brady (1993-95), Jimmy Case (1995-96), Steve Gritt (1996-98), Brian Horton (1998-99), Jeff Wood (1999), Micky Adams (1999-2001), Peter Taylor (2001-02), Martin Hinshelwood (2002), Steve Coppell (2002-03), Mark McGhee (2003-06), Dean Wilkins (2006-08)

Swindon Town: 14

Lou Macari (1984-89), Ossie Ardiles (1989-91), Glenn Hoddle (1991-93), John Gorman (1993-94), Steve McMahon (1994-99), Jimmy Quinn (1999-2000), Colin Todd (2000), Andy King (2000-01), Roy Evans (2001), Andy King (2002-06), Iffy Onuora (2006), Dennis Wise (2006), Paul Sturrock (2006-07), Maurice Malpas (2008)

Leyton Orient: 8

Frank Clark (1983-91), Peter Eustace (1991-94), Chris Turner (1994-95), John Sitton (1994-95), Pat Holland (1995-96), Tommy Taylor (1996-2001), Paul Brush (2001-03), Martin Ling (2003-09)

Crewe Alexandra: 2

Dario Gradi (1983-2007), Steve Holland (2007-08)

Hereford United: 0

Cheltenham Town: 12

John Murphy (1983-88), Jim Barron (1988-90), John Murphy (1990), Dave Lewis (1990-91), Ally Robertson (1991-92), Lindsay Parsons (1992-95), Chris Robinson (1995-97), Steve Cotterill (1997-2002), Graham Allner (2002-03), Bobby Gould (2003), John Ward, 2003-07), Keith Downing (2007-08)

Wycombe Wanderers: 8

Martin O'Neill (1990-95), Alan Smith (1995-96), John Gregory (1996-98), Neil Smillie (1998-99), Lawrie Sanchez (1999-03), Tony Adams (2003-04), John Gorman (2004-06), Paul Lambert (2006-08)

Brentford: 13

Frank McLintock (1984-87), Steve Perryman (1988-90), Phil Holder (1990-93), David Webb (1993-97), Micky Adams (1997-98), Ron Noades (1998-00), Ray Lewington (2000-01), Steve Coppell (2001-02), Wally Downes (2002-04), Martin Allen (2004-06), Leroy Rosenior (2006), Scott Fitzgerald (2006-07), Terry Butcher (2007)

Bury: 9

Martin Dobson (1984-89), Sam Ellis (1989-90), Mike Walsh (1990-95), Stan Ternent (1995-98), Neil Warnock (1998-99), Steve Redmond (1999-00), Andy Preece (1999-03), Graham Barrow (2003-05), Chris Casper (2005-08)

Bradford: 13

Trevor Cherry (1982-87), Terry Dolan (1987-89), Terry Yorath (1989-90), John Docherty (1990-91), Frank Stapleton (1991-94), Lennie Lawrence (1994-95), Chris Kamara (1995-98), Paul Jewell (1998-00), Chris Hutchings (2000), Jim Jeffries (2000-01), Nicky Law (2002-03), Bryan Robson (2003-04), Colin Todd (2004-07)

Rochdale: 11

Eddie Gray (1986-88), Danny Bergara (1988-89), Terry Dolan (1989-91), Dave Sutton (1991-94), Mick Docherty (1995-96), Graham Barrow (1996-99), Steve Parkin (1999-2001), John Hollins (2001-02), Paul Simpson (2002-03), Alan Buckley (2003), Steve Parkin (2003-06)

Darlington: 13

Cyril Knowles (1983-87), David Booth (1987-89), Brian Little (1989-1991), Frank Gray (1991-92), Billy McEwan (1992-93), Alan Murray (1993-95), Jim Platt (1995-96), Paul Futcher (1995-96), David Hodgson (1995-2000), Gary Bennett (2000-01), Tommy Taylor (2001-02), Mick Tait (2002-03), David Hodgson (2003-06)

Shrewsbury: 9

Chic Bates (1984-87), Ian McNeill (1987-90), Asa Hartford (1990-91), John Bonds (1991-93), Fred Davies (1993-97), Jake King (1997-99), Kevin Ratcliffe (1999-2003), Jimmy Quinn (2003-04), Gary Peters (2004-08),

Gillingham: 13

Keith Peacock (1981-87), Keith Burkinshaw (1988-89), Paul Taylor (1988-89), Damien Richardson (1989-93), Glenn Roeder (1992-93), Mike Flanagan (1993-95), Tony Pulis (1995-99), Peter Taylor (1999-2000), Andy Hessenthaler (2000-04), Stan Ternent (2004-05), Neale Cooper (2005), Ronnie Jepson (2005-07), Iffy Onuora (2007)

Dagenham & Redbridge: 0

Exeter City: 0

Chesterfield: 8

John Duncan (1983-87), Kevin Randall (1987-88), Paul Hart (1988-91), Chris McMenemy (1991-93), John Duncan (1993-2000), Nicky Law (2000-01), Dave Rushbury (2002-03), Roy McFarland (2003-07)

Lincoln City: 13

George Kerr (1985-87), Peter Daniel (1987), Colin Murphy (1987-90), Steve Thompson (1990-93), Keith Alexander (1993-94), Sam Ellis (1994-95), John Beck (1995-97), Shane Westley (1997-98), John Reames (1998-00), Phil Stant (2000-01), Alan Buckley (2001-02), Keith Alexander (2002-06), John Schofield (2006-07)

Aldershot: 1

Len Walker (1986-89)

Morecambe: 0

Notts County: 14

Jimmy Sirrell (1985-87), John Barnwell (1987-88), Neil Warnock (1989-93), Mick Walker (1993-94), Russell Slade (1994-95) Colin Murphy (1995-96), Sam Allardyce (1997-99), Jocky Scott (2000-01), Gary Brazil (2001-02), Bill Dearden (2002-04), Gary Mills (2004), Ian Richardson (2004-05), Gudjon Thordarson (2005-06), Steve Thompson (2006-07)

Macclesfield: 9

Sammy McIlroy (1997-2000), Peter Davenport (2000), Gil Prescott (2000-01), David Moss (2001-03), John Askey (2003-04), Brian Horton (2004-06), Ian Brightwell (2006), Paul Ince (2006-07), Ian Brightwell (2007-08)

Port Vale: 4

John Rudge (1984-99), Brian Horton (1999-2004), Martin Foyle (2004-07), Lee Sinnott (2007-08)

Accrington Stanley: 0

Rotherham United: 10

Norman Hunter (1985-87), Dave Cusack (1987-88), Billy McEwan (1988-91), Phil Henson (1991-94), Archie Gemmill (1994-96), John McGovern (1994-96), Danny Bergara (1996-97), Ronnie Moore (1997-2005), Mick Harford (2005), Alan Knill (2005-07)

Chester City: 9

Harry McNally (1985-92), Graham Barrow (1992-94), Dean Spink (2001-02), Mark Wright (2002-04), Ian Rush (2004-05), Keith Curle (2005-06), Mark Wright (2006-07), Bobby Williamson (2007-08), Simon Davies (2008)

Grimsby Town: 10

Mike Lyons (1985-87), Bobby Roberts (1987-88), Alan Buckley (1988-94), Brian Laws (1994-96), Kenny Swain (1996-97), Alan Buckley (1997-2000), Lennie Lawrence (2000-01), Paul Groves (2001-04), Russell Slade (2004-06), Alan Buckley (2006-08)

Barnet: 9

Barry Fry (1986-93), Gary Phillips (1993-94), Ray Clemence (1994-96), Terry Bullivant (1996-97), John Still (1997-2000), Tony Cottee (2000-01), John Still (2001-02), Peter Shreeves (2002-04), Paul Fairclough (2004-08)

Bournemouth: 6

Harry Redknapp (1983-92), Tony Pulis (1992-94), Mel Machin (1994-2000), Sean O'Driscoll (2000-06), Kevin Bond (2006-08), Jimmy Quinn (2008-2009)

Luton Town: 9

John Moore (1986-87), Ray Harford (1987-90), Jim Ryan (1990-91), David Pleat (1991-95), Lennie Lawrence (1995-2000), Lil Fuccillo (2000-01), Joe Kinnear (2001-03), Mike Newell (2003-07), Kevin Blackwell (2007-08)

Scarborough: 5

Neil Warnock (1986-88), Ray McHale (1989-93), Steve Wicks (1993-94), Ray McHale (1994-96), Mick Wadsworth (1996-99)

Newport County: 4

Jimmy Mullen (1986-87), John Lewis (1987), Brian Eastick (1987-88), David Williams (1988)

Maidstone United: 3

John Still (1986-89), Keith Peacock (1989-91), Bill Williams (1991-92)

Halifax Town: 9

Billy Ayre (1986-90),Jim McCalliog (1990-91), John McGrath (1991-92), Mick Rathbone (1992-93), Kieran O'Regan (1998-99), Mark Lillis (1999-2000), Peter Butler & Tony Parks (2000-01), Alan Little (2001-02)

Kidderminster Harriers: 4

Jan Molby (1999-2002), Ian Britton (2002-03), Jan Molby (2003-04), Stuart Watkiss (2004-05)

Rushden & Diamonds: 3

Brian Talbot (1997-2004), Ernie Tippett (2004-05), Barry Hunter (2005-06)

Boston United: 2

Neil Thompson (2002-04), Steve Evans (2004-07)

York City: 7

Denis Smith (1982-87), Bobby Saxton (1987-88), John Bird (1988-91), John Ward (1991-93), Alan Little (1993-99), Terry Dolan (2000-03), Chris Brass (2003-04)

Cambridge United: 9

Chris Turner (1986-90), John Beck (1990-92), Ian Atkins (1992-93), Gary Johnson (1993-95), Tommy Taylor (1995-96), Roy McFarland (1996-2001), John Taylor (2001-04), Herve Renard (2004), Steve Thompson (2004-05)

Oxford United: 13

Maurice Evans (1985-88), Mark Lawrenson (1988), Brian Horton (1988-93), Denis Smith (1993-97), Malcolm Shotton (1998-99), Denis Smith (2000), David Kemp (2000-01), Mark Wright (2001), Ian Atkins (2001-04), Graham Rix (2004), Ramon Diaz (2004-05), Brian Talbot (2005-06), Jim Smith (2006)

TOTAL - 923 managerial departures in the Football League during Sir Alex Ferguson's time at Manchester United

[Rappy Veteran]

Chelsea have announced that Guus Hiddink will take over as temporary coach until the end of the season.

The Premier League club have also revealed that the 62-year-old Dutchman will meet the players later this week.

"The club would like to take this opportunity to thank the Russian Football Union for their understanding and cooperation," said a statement.

Hiddink, who will continue to coach the Russian national side, replaces Luiz Felipe Scolari, who was axed on Monday.

The Blues currently lie fourth in the table, seven points adrift of leaders Manchester United, who have a game in hand.

Hiddink said before his appointment that he only intended to help out until the end of the season.

"It's a favour for a friend," said the former Netherlands, South Korea and Australia coach, who has close ties to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.

"Abramovich does so much for Russian football that I wanted to give something pack. he called me personally."

[Dance.]

Damn Rappy beat me to it :(.

[gregb0b]

:cool:

[FaRSightxc2]

Wow, this thread moves fast!

I thought you were having a pop at Rafa, sorry :p

It just ****es me off the way the media were rubbing their hands with glee today at the prospect of an upset. What team could we have put out? Torres could hardly run at the end of the derby on Wednesday, and Alonso had a knock on his ankle. The coverage today on Setanta was cringe worthy and really annoyed me and some fellow Reds.

Plus, I don't like Harry Redknapp that much. Did you see that little flowchart that was going around the net about him? It was so true.

Anyway, you pleased to have Keane back?

Well, I was having a pop at him but only a bit of banter :shifty: :laugh:

The popular, tabloid media are are all cretins. Everyone gets it, as a Spurs fan, should know.

As the the Redknapp flowchart, was made by a Spurs fan on a spurs message board I go on ha ha. So true! Not sure how I feel about 'Arry - if he keeps us up, I'm happy and he is making the right signings. We desperately needed to steady the ship, and he was certainly the right man to do it. No doubt he will leave before long, but hopefully he will leave behind a strong, balanced and competitive squad: something we have not had the luxury of for a very long time (Keane and Berba papered over so many cracks it is ridiculous).

As for Keano: he will do well for us. He will score, work hard, add some character and bite and generally fit in where he left off. He is just what we need. His strengths were not played to at Liverpool - kind of like Bent's aren't played to at Tottenham - and he suffered as a result. I still think he would have come good, given time.

[Kralik]

Arshavin training..

[mail]

Arshavin training..

[Kralik]

^^ Of course over-excited.. we signed the "Russian Pele".. he and Cesc can be a deadly combination.. just hoping though that he finds this form fast..

V

V

Coz he's one of the very best in top-form..

Edited February 12, 2009 by Kralik

[gregb0b]

I want the 3 minutes and 27 seconds of my life back

[Shibby]

Pompey beat Man City 2 - 0.

WOOOOOOOOOOOOO

The great escape always starts against Man City!

[Rappy Veteran]

Good win for Pompey, what was done today that wasn't done under Adams?

Scrappy draw for us :(

[FaRSightxc2]

Pompey beat Ceteh. Bad result for Tottenham :s

[Kralik]

The process of sin-binning players has been prevalent in sports such as rugby (both union and league) and ice hockey for many years.

In a bid to dilute the indiscipline that is associated with football, the world's game may now be taking heed of this procedure. The Irish FA have made plans to showcase a proposal to the International FA Board (IFAB) at a meeting in Belfast on February 28, with a view to an authorisation of an official experiment later this year.

...

Irish FA president Raymond Kennedy explained to PA Sport how this system can be implemented into football: "The idea is that when someone gets a card from the referee they would be sent to a sin-bin for a period of time, as they are in rugby.

"If their team is stupid enough to get another during that period they would be down to nine men.

"It would certainly have a marked improvement on discipline on the field, and we believe there is a certain amount of merit in it."

...

On the advantages of the proposed system, Kennedy continued: "We feel that with yellow cards it is another team that gets the benefit.

"We believe the team that the offence has been committed against should be the one that draws the benefit from the punishment. That's the basis for the discussion."

Kennedy indicated that the Irish FA would submitting a formal proposal to the IFAB.

"Hopefully they may put this to the test in the way they do with other things."

:hmmm:

[HilariousNinja]

Actually I think sin-binning could be a very good idea. Yes, its different, but it could very well work. With scraps occasionally in big games, sin-binning to cool down both teams would definitely be beneficial. And the Kennedy dude seems spot on with his analysis of the context of the rule. Although, several trials would be needed to prove that this method could work. But if it is, I'm all for it.

[Shibby]

It could work however, if you look at rugby, you know when you've done something bad as the ref will tell you off and could give you a yellow card.

The problem is in football is the refs aren't as good as rugby refs! If you were to review the yellow cards given out, quite a few you could probably take away as nothing was illegal or harmful.

[Kralik]

Cesc Fabregas is back in London and gradually closing on a return to the Arsenal first team.

...

"It's time for me to be back at the Club now," he told the Official Arsenal Programme.

"There are three stages in the rehabilitation: the first is the operation, the second is to build the muscle in the leg up, and the third is to start running and kicking the ball again. I have now started the final part of the process.

"Over the last couple of weeks I have been going up into the mountains to work and it's been hard but good for my muscles. I'm really happy with how it's going, it's looking good and hopefully in ten days [from the FA Cup replay with Cardiff] I can start to train with the ball, so it's going a bit quicker than I thought it would.

"I've got a good feeling about it, but of course I won?t come back until I'm 100 per cent ready, but the sensations at the moment are very, very good."

The Arsenal captain has scored once in 21 games this season and admits that he was not at his best before suffering his injury in December. Fabregas thinks his enforced absence could be a blessing in disguise.

"In a way hopefully this break will do me good," he said. "I was speaking to [physio] Colin Lewin saying that I hadn't felt completely at my best since the beginning of the season when I had a little injury on my leg.

"Of course I always want to play the games, so it wasn't bad enough to make me stop, but I was feeling it, so when I come back I expect I will be much, much stronger for the end of the season.

"From this week though I will be back at the Club, in the dressing room and around my team-mates, and I will see them going out to training, travelling to the games and that will make me jealous. It will give me more desire to get fit as quickly as possible so I can be in the team again.

?Over the last few weeks I have only thought about my injury, but now it's time for me to come back to the team."