OPINION: Where do Blackpool go now after Gary Bowyer's exit?

Gary Bowyer could have taken Blackpool forward with some backing

That’s a new low even by Blackpool’s standards.

Gary Bowyer, the architect of the Seasiders’ recent turnaround, managed to work for Owen Oyston for just over two seasons. I doff my cap to him, he must have the patience of a saint.

But that tolerance has eventually worn thin, just as it has done for so many managers before.

Bowyer didn’t just steady the ship after back-to-back relegations, he got it pointing in the right direction.

With a little bit of backing and the right investment, I’ve no doubt he could have embarked on another successful journey.

He was the man responsible for holding things together at the club. Now he’s gone, will things unravel?

I wouldn’t bet against it but where does the club go from here?

Currently, the two favourites for the job – Simon Grayson and Ian Holloway – have already ruled themselves out of the running.

Elsewhere you can find the usual suspects, the likes of Owen Coyle, Dave Jones etc.

Former Seasiders Gary Taylor-Fletcher and Richie Wellens are both keen, although messages from supporters telling them to stay well clear could put them off.

I don’t see Terry McPhillips, the man responsible for looking after first-team affairs in the interim period, having an interest in the post.

So that leaves us with those who will apply through sheer desperation.

I’ve no doubt there will be plenty who apply.

In fact applications had already started to arrive on Monday night, just hours after Bowyer’s departure was confirmed.

But will the required quality be there? That remains to be seen.