FOR the last few years, in the Premier League, you're either Manchester United or an also-ran.

The same is true in the world of football management games - if it isn't Championship Manager, you need not apply.

Even with its latest revision, FA Premier League Manager doesn't capture the throne, although at last it is easier to keep track of exactly how well your players are doing during the game. Don't choose the options that give you game highlights, though. They may look quite pretty, but they're also worthless for figuring out how things are going.

One thing that does work faster than Championship Manager is the transfer market. You'll not be caught with a player on the transfer list for over a year here. Usually, they're gone by the next week.

Getting players in, however, can be more difficult.

The game seems to run on rails in many respects, so often you'll find yourself replacing like with like because players just don't want to join you.

Maybe it's just like life, but as a game, it's frustrating.

Graphics: 3/5

Sound: 4/5

Gameplay: 3/5

Gamespan: 5/5

Overall: 3/5