Ahead of TheGame: Get ready for the axe to fall

In today's e-mail bulletin, Ciaran asked: "Are you surprised that there have not been any managerial changes thus far this season compared to the situation last season? Is this due in part to the financial constraints brought about by a weak global economy or have clubs finally realised that chopping and changing managers is not always the answer? Or is this the calm before the storm?"

Russell Kempson responded: "I fear it may be the calm before the storm, with the "sacking season" usually getting into full flow in late November and early December. Chairmen do tend to panic when Christmas is coming up and Santa's sack of presents is looking rather empty! The New Year is also a favourite time to start afresh.

"I'm not sure that the global recession has any bearing on the current managerial climate although I do understand that some managers are now insisting on having clauses in their contracts stating that, if they are sacked, they have to be paid the full amount of their remaining deal. This is making owners/chairmen think twice before pulling the trigger."

We also reported on Arsenal's confirmation that Robin van Persie will be out for six weeks with ligament damage and Graeme Souness distancing himself as a potential replacement for George Burley as Scotland manager.

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