Who's next?

As speculation about David Kemp's untenable position as United's manager continues to mount, Rage Online takes a look at potential candidates to lead United out of the wilderness and back to the glory years:

• David Kemp – no chance
• Denis Smith – next to no chance
• Roy MacFarland – an anonymous phone-call to Radio Oxford suggested MacFarland as a possibility, and rumours that Paul Wanless has signed a pre-contract agreement with United strengthen this rumour. It would mean United playing long-ball, but with a manager the players might respect and, more importantly, who might have the nous to lead the U's back into the Second Division, Roy could be the right option
• John Aldridge – a Manor hero, but one who runs the risk of Shottonesque egg on face should things go wrong. In addition Tranmere hardly played the most attractive footy under Aldridge and their position at the foot of the First Division wasn't a fluke. A couple of impressive cup runs and the chance to finally pay his Bicester phone bill aren't enough reasons to try and tempt him to the Manor. Sorry, but Aldo ain't the man
• Mark Wright – another former player, but without the baggage that Aldridge brings, having only played a few games for his local club. Has cut his teeth at Southport but, possibly crucially, lacks League experience. In other circumstances United might be a good club at which to gain League pedigree, but the pressure that might surround a new manager next season could nullify that. Wright has gained a reputation for playing good football on limited resources, which could be handy at Oxford, and if someone like Jim Smith could be persuaded to be his mentor this could prove to be an excellent partnership
• Steve Cotterill – if Cheltenham fail to make or win the play-offs then Kassam could do better than have another pop at getting Cotterill to the Manor (oops, we mean Minchery Farm). Whether he'd be prepared to come here is another matter entirely
• Another option – like, err, who?

Three down, one to go

Last night Luton Town joined United and Swansea in the Third Division courtesy of a 1-0 home defeat to Rotherham. This result had the double impact of denying Joe Kinnear his £300,000 bonus, which is a real shame. Kinnear even managed to get himself sent off whilst protesting against the winning goal, which is also a shame.

Meanwhile tonight Cambridge scored two late goals to come back from 2-0 down at Brentford and leapfrog Bristol Rovers and swindon, who are now one place, and one point, above the relegation zone. Rovers still have two games in hand on swindon, whilst Cambridge have still played one game less than the Robins.

There are rumours that Kinnear wants Kemp to join him at Luton as his assistant, but more believable are the stories that the rat is about to jump yet another sinking ship and take over from Graham Taylor at Watford. One source even suggests that he has already agreed with Andy Scott that the United striker will join him at the Horns next season.