Dowie may claim he isn't a gamble for Hull, but his chequered CV suggests otherwise

By Brian McNally

Published 12:56 19/03/10

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Despite his protestations to the contrary, Iain Dowie's appointment as Hull City manager is a massive gamble by chairman Adam Pearson.

Dowie will net £1million for four wins  

Dowie's claim that "I am not a gamble. Look at my record, it stands up," unfortunately isn't proven by his chequered CV.

Almost a year ago he arrived at St James' Park with Alan Shearer on April Fool's Day on a similar rescue mission and with another incentivised package.

Then as assistant to Shearer there were eight games to save Newcastle, but the duo failed to prevent the Magpies falling into the Championship.

His other cracks at the Premier League provide little supporting evidence that he is a saviour in waiting.

He guided Crystal Palace to the Premier League via the play-offs in 2004, but suffered instant relegation.

Next up for Dowie was Charlton Athletic in 2006, but after being giving large funds to spend he was sacked just 15 games into the Premier League campaign after a disastrous start. Charlton were relegated that season.

Spells at Coventry and QPR both ended controversially and without enhancing Dowie's reputation.

Yes, Dowie may be "down to earth" as Pearson claimed at the unveiling, but I am afraid his record suggests that Hull may be going down to the Championship.

Does Dowie owe his Hull gig to a PowerPoint presentation?

Rocket science, own goals and bouncebackability - The life and times of Iain Dowie  

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