Alan Shearer’s decision to take the reins at Newcastle makes him the 7th member of England’s Euro96 squad to step up into management. Unfortunately for the Toon the omens aren’t good. Every other member of Terry Venables’ squad to try their hand at management has found the going pretty tough at the top.
Tony Adams
Perhaps there’s such a thing as thinking too much. From no-nonsense centre-back to reasoned philosopher via Caprice and alcoholism, Adams has won a combined total of 16 games in 75 attempts at Wycombe and Portsmouth.
Paul Gascoigne
Cut his coaching teeth during a two month spell in China with Gansu Tianma and then six weeks at Portuguese outfit Algarve United. Took the reins at Kettering Town but was dismissed after 39 days after accusations of drinking on the job.
Gareth Southgate
The only current top-flight incumbent, Southgate is unlikely to hold onto that tag for too much longer. Middlesbrough are currently teetering on the brink of relegation with one league win since November.
David Platt
Briefly took charge at Sampdoria before being ousted by a manager-led revolt at his lack of qualifications. Had little more success at Forest where he alienated fans and senior players, before failing to guide England U-21s to EURO 2004 qualification.
Stuart Pearce
Took the reins as player-manager at Forest in 1996 with relegation following in '97. Became Manchester City manager following Kevin Keegan’s departure and guided the team to 15th and 14th place finishes during his two seasons in charge.
Paul Ince
Promising spells at Macclesfield and MK Dons preceded his undoing at Blackburn. Clearly struggled to cope with the pressure, claiming a conspiracy was out to undermine him and describing Paul Robinson as the best goalkeeper in the Premier League.