Lambert has a last chance to survive

PAUL LAMBERT’S job is on the line when Stoke City travel to Swansea tomorrow in a battle for the wooden spoon.

Sportsmail understands Lambert is rated at only ‘50-50’ to continue as manager into next season after overseeing the club’s relegation. Lambert has fought dressing room indiscipline and was backed by the board in his hard-line approach, but a run of only one win in 14 matches leaves his position precarious. A post-relegation club statement signed by chairman and vice-chairman Peter and John Coates noticeably made no reference to Lambert, though it is understood a victory at the Liberty Stadium would benefit his case. Another defeat, however, would be a factor in discussions over his future. Stoke were the first side to drop this season and the club’s hierarchy do not want to finish bottom. Beating Swansea could move Stoke up a place and would at least provide a crumb of comfort at the end of a disastrous campaign.