WINDOW GAIN FOR BOSSES

DAVID DEIN believes that the closure of the transfer window before the season kicks off could save bosses from the sack.

Dein, in his role as Arsenal vice-chairman, was the man who brought Arsene Wenger to north London back in 1996.

Although Wenger has survived, managers’ longterm job prospects have not been helped by their best players often being sold just two or three games into a new season.

He is delighted that next year all transfer business in England and Wales will have to be completed before 5pm on the Thursday before the new season gets underway.

“I’m a great supporter of moving the transfer window. I believe all the transfer business should be finalised before the season starts.” he said.

‘‘The squads should be prepared before the season, otherwise it is destabilising when players come in late.

“Clubs have got to get their act together. They have enough time – there is the whole of the close season to get their team together.

“What is happening now is destabilising for football clubs.

‘‘We have to be sympathetic to the managers. They have a hard job. The longevity today of the 92 League managers is 12 months.

“They are going to be judged by their squads. So, if everybody plays by the same rules, it’s better.”