Southampton, Leeds and now Blackburn a win against Keegan's beleaguered Man City and Palace's messianic boss will undoubtedly be linked with that job too.

Dowie's achievements make him an obvious choice for any club which needs over-hauling especially if they, like his family, are in the north-west.

And while his new four-year deal a handshake agreement that included heavy squad investment remains unsigned, we will be constantly reminded of the club's vulnerability to football's managerial merry-go-round.

His current deal expires in the summer, and unless funds are made available in January, he is unlikely to stay.

As a manager in demand, he holds all the cards, but Bob Dowie, Harbin and Symons have all signed four-year deals, so would he abandon them and his embryonic squad?

Probably not, but on the field, Dowie's halo is fast slipping as Palace struggle.

After a five-man midfield excelled at Boro, Saturday's team cried out for the leadership of Michael Hughes, as Pompey's veterans ran riot around Fitz Hall.

Kolkka is anonymous, Speroni flits from sublime saves to horrible gaffes, as does Popa and we aren't creating anything for AJ and Torghelle.

Saturday's crunch clash with City could see wholesale changes.