It would be a major surprise if the twenty men currently managing a Premier League team are still in charge by the end of the season. Indeed, it would be something of a shock if only one or two were axed by their respective clubs, with chairmen getting itchy feet after a few bad results these days. But which gaffer will be the first to get the axe next term? The West Ham manager is favourite, but claims not to be bothered in the slightest.

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The Daily Telegraph report that Alan Curbishley was pleased with his team’s top ten finish last season, which ensured the Hammers were higher in the overall standings than Tottenham and Newcastle. It was a mixed bag of a season for the east London club, who seemed to suffer more than anyone from their ever-expanding injury list.

“I’m not a gambling man so I won’t take too much notice of it,” said Curbishley of his unwanted status. “I had 15 years when I was the outsider [to be sacked] at Charlton so I’ve just got to get on with it. I’ve been here 18 months and I’ve yet to pick my best team or what I would consider to be my best team.

“Last year we just had to get on with it and people have underestimated what we did last year. That’s life and it’s part and parcel of football.”

Indeed, many might argue that West Ham are making progress under Curbs, who had a baptism of fire when replacing Alan Pardew two seasons ago, only just ensuring that the Hammers kept their Premier League status. Their tenth place of last season represented progress of sorts, although is that about as good as it can get for this team?