As distasteful as it might seem, John Dempster is under immense pressure at Mansfield after just a handful of games.

He's become heavily criticised for his side's start to the season, with just two wins from their 11 opening fixtures. After narrowly missing out on promotion last season, Stags' fans were hoping for much more.

He's been well-backed over the summer, bringing in experienced players such as Nicky Maynard and Andy Cook, but it just hasn't worked. They've lost three of their last four, with both Maynard and Cook now out injured.

The defensive strength that became the hallmark of their promotion push has gone, with four goals conceded at home against Cambridge on a horrible afternoon for the club.

Now, former manager Stuart Watkiss has been forced to defend Dempster, but without a couple of wins, he is going to continue to be the focus of intense speculation.

If Mansfield do decide to dispense of his services, we think these three could be in contention for the role.

Tim Flowers

There are three ways Mansfield could go with a new boss; a manager currently impressing in the National League would be top of the list.

Clubs such as Lincoln have had great success plucking a manager from a smaller club and giving them a chance, which is something Mansfield might consider with Tim Flowers.

The former Blackburn keeper has done a great job at Solihull Moors on a tight budget and that surely strikes a chord with the ambitious Stags owners.

Ian Culverhouse

They could look to a manager who is perhaps better known as an assistant higher up the ranks. Ian Culverhouse is best known for his playing career and his spells as an assistant at Aston Villa and Norwich.

However, he's doing a grand job on his own at King's Lynn and perhaps could be set for a spell in the Football League. He was linked with the Lincoln job a few weeks ago and whilst that would have been a big step up, perhaps Mansfield would be a great move.

Nigel Adkins

Of course, they could go tried and tested and if the budget is there, Nigel Adkins would be a good candidate. He's pensive, reserved and knows League Two and League One.

He's got good contacts in the game and is surely itching for a chance to get back on the horse after leaving Hull. Whether he'd be willing to drop down so far is another question.

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