The failure of the Albion rests squarely on the shoulders of Dick Knight.

After the resignation of Peter Taylor, he interviewed Steve Coppell and Terry Burton.

He also received two letters from Alan Mullery offering to give advice on the appointment of a new manager.

But Dick decided to appoint an inexpensive (so far as salary was concerned) and inexperienced youth coach to the job with obvious consequences.

I imagine Steve Coppell will soon get a big offer from one of the bigger clubs and that will be bye-bye. Why should he stay?

The club have no money and, even if they get permission for the Falmer development, will struggle to get back to the first division unless they can get in some really good players.

Furthermore, they will now lose a substantial amount of revenue from the TV channels.

I can only wish Steve Coppell good luck. He is a fine, underrated manager who deserves the resources of a top club, which is sure to come about before many weeks have passed.

Alas, for the Seagulls - whom I have supported since 1936 - a long future ahead in Division 2 beckons, I fear.

I am very saddened because it need never have happened.

-Mike Barrett, London SW7