I would hazard a guess that media work is not particularly high on John Eustace's list of favourite activities expected of today's coaches. More so given the defeat in midweek at QPR, followed up by the cup exit, itself after a somewhat underwhelming January transfer window. His postmatch demeanour and curt response to the latter was both telling and predictable.
Almost 12 months ago to the day, his predecessor, Jon Dahl Tomasson, was prevented from delivering post-match remarks, which was on reflection, even more damning. The common ground and object of their ire was undoubtedly the Ewood hierarchy and, by association, the owners.
In recent seasons the club has been badly affected by rank bad decision making and poor judgement. There appears to be no shortage of discontent and disenchantment around Ewood. John Park, for example, has left not once but twice in a very short space of time whilst Stuart Jones is understood to be working his notice.
Tony Mowbray in his final season was left in limbo over a possible contract extension, up to the point where he had to force the issue and announce his intention to depart the Rovers at the end of that season.
His successor, Jon Dahl Tomasson was in almost constant disagreement with the CEO and the Director of Football, Gregg Broughton to the point that "ask Gregg" became common parlance.
The Club is unstable and confounded by crooked thinking. The "model" if one exists, appears to be based purely on "keeping the lights on" - the problem with that is that when the well of available talent runs dry you are at the point of no return. It may well be that Rovers have reached that point.
Waggott and his cohorts have had little to add to the narrative but no doubt in the days to come he will stick his head over the parapet and with weasel words give the impression that it's business as usual and the owners remain fully committed to the Club.
I am writing this piece in advance of the formal announcements at Ewood but would make the point, particularly to those who are wondering why a coach would leave a team in the play off places, to manage a team in the relegation zone, which is, that even in football there is such a thing as job satisfaction.
Quite clearly John Eustace's discontent and disconnect with the Ewood hierarchy has undermined his hopes of moving Rovers forward. Supporters might not like it but it makes sense to me.
The absent Owners have presided over 12 managers/coaches since they purchased the club.
Those savvy enough have walked away. It is likely that John Eustace will join them.
