Is a new era necessary at Turf Moor?

[BBC]

[Getty Images]

This may well be the first relegation I have ever been through where I felt nothing. Not anger, not sadness, not relief. As the final whistle went at Turf Moor on Wednesday night, my Dad and I just simply shrugged at each other and walked to the car. We talked briefly about how we at least won't need to put up with VAR next season, but then returned to our conversations about how I go about driving in a European country, and whether I can fix the leak in my bathroom sink myself (conclusion: I need a plumber).

Scott Parker's post-match interview was telling, in that there was no mention at all of his fans. No words of empathy, no encouraging battle cry and no acknowledgement of their likely disappointment. Perhaps that is our own fault - we have not been shy in vocalising our lack of support for him, and despair at his tactical skills - but the rift between club and fan base is, at present, very apparent.

His future is, if you believe the press, now under discussion with no decision yet being made. It seems futile speculating over likely replacements at this stage - he may well be in the dugout come August - but we are looking at a likely exodus of the current squad, a change in manager and only Kyle Walker pledging his commitment to the Championship campaign.

Is a fresh start necessary? Yes, I think so. But I also empathize with a board who don't want to be a "sacking club" and who seek some longer-term stability. Having to start again for the third time since ALK took over is far from ideal. But sleepwalking into a long spell in the EFL is not the answer either.

So if a new era of manager and squad is necessary, get it right this time.

Find more from Natalie Bromley at No Nay Never podcast

Should Parker stay or go? Tell us here

[BBC]