Championship new managers

All doing well by the looks of it.

When a new manager comes in their first test is to improves things with what they have. If they cannot or don't then it is a pointless appointment and should not be allowed to continue. Such is the nature of the beast.

OK lets look at the new guys on the block:

Russell Slade (Cardiff): Seems to have made Cardiff a difficult team to beat at the CCS with what looks like not impressive football. Without doubt there is scope for improvement and he has the tools but he has passed that initial test.

Gary Rowett (Birmingham): Perhaps the most impressive new boss . He has come from a league even lower than where Slade came from, took on a squad that is no where near the standard at Cardiff and has come away with some good results including a 2-1 debut win against high flying Watford. Birmingham are now out of the relegation zone although they have some way to go before becoming comfortable.

Neil Lennon (Bolton): Has inherited a reasonable squad and with his experience he would be the best bet to do well out of all the new managers. Those of us who watch Bolton tear us a new arsehole will tell you Bolton are back and will climb the table. Lennon was interested in the Cardiff job, we might just regret not talking to him.

Lee Clarke (Blackpool): The most difficult new job going but at least he is under no pressure to turn things around. However and much to all the Blackpool fans surprise things are looking a lot better. A more tight knit team now with some of there experienced players starting to enjoying their football. This season is perhaps too late to survive but you do get the impression they could bounce back straight away from league one.

Kit Symons (Fulham): The most impressive of the new guys on the block although he had a distinct advantage over the rest as he was promoted within so therefore knew his squad. Even so the step is still a hard one to take and he has taken it well. Some are now betting the Londoners will be up there and top 6. Although they had a bit of a hiccup this weekend at Brentford I personally think it would be a good bet for a top 6 finish.

Watching how well these guys are doing just makes it more painful thinking about the appointment of Ole.