Albion owner-chairman Tony Bloom has just made the biggest call he is ever likely to make on the future direction of the club he cherishes.

Removing Chris Hughton after he has kept the Seagulls in the Premier League, just, for a second season could go one of two ways.

Albion might progress onwards and upwards. Alternatively, it could have a destabilising effect and send them downwards.

You do not make the fortune Bloom has in business without a ruthless streak.

Axing the man who took over four-and-a-half-years ago with Albion close to the Championship relegation, the morning after Manchester City's title crowning at the Amex, feels brutal.

So much depends now on who comes next and how that works out.

Swansea's Graham Potter is the early favourite with bookmakers.

Somebody like Frank Lampard at Derby would appear to have strong credentials.

Who ever it is, Hughton will be a hard act to follow.