I've been on the fence for a while on this issue. I have to admit that I wasn't overly thrilled when they got the gig last summer and, like many, was then disappointed with a number of the summer signings. As the season progressed, we seemed to be gradually improving, bar a bumpy Christmas period, and we discovered a formation that suited us, but after the last few games I'm not sure we're anywhere near competing with the best in this league.
We overachieved last season and because, of the loss of such key players, I expected us to take a couple of steps backwards. However, we have the top two left to play and if we lose both games then we could find ourselves in the bottom half. Tommy Taylor put together a brand new team at short notice that finished 10th in 2008, which is a benchmark that we should really at least be able to match this season.
I don't really see the merit in the "review the situation in (say) November" argument. What happens if we decide to replace them? Someone new would then be working with a team that's not his, and then we could find ourselves meandering through another season in mid-table as the new guy sorts things out. I'd rather whoever builds the team in the summer be given all (or most) of next season to prove their worth.
I agree with those who don't want us to be a club that changes managers frequently and I understand that young managers will make mistakes and will also need time to learn their trade. There's no guarantee, either, that a new man coming in during the summer will necessarily do any better. But if you were to ask me the question "Do I believe that next season will be any better than this with the current management?", then my honest answer would be no.
As such, I think it's time for a change. Of course, if they are in charge then I hope they prove me wrong and I, for one, will be renewing my season ticket regardless.
Also, with regard to who I'd suggest as a replacement, how about Martin Foyle? He is currently (non-contract) manager of Northwich Victoria who, as has been mentioned elsewhere, will be kicked out of the NPL at the end of the season. Chances are that he won't want to hang around if they end up in the North West Counties League. Port Vale fans speak highly of the job he did there and he took York to Wembley.