A Blackburn fan's love letter to Michael O'Neill

As I sat down this morning to write this, I thought about looking up the stats, some kind of in-depth analysis of our season but instead I have decided to write from the heart.

By the time Valerien Ismael exited Ewood Park I was resigned to relegation and baffled as to who would want the Rovers job.

While commentators said it was desirable, it felt for anyone considering the role it would be a slog on and off the pitch.

Then the rumours came of the gaffer, a job-share role with Northern Ireland and I was worried. The club felt like it needed to be someone's priority. Oh, how wrong I was.

From the moment Michael O'Neill entered the building he has gone about his work diligently and with humility.

He speaks well, has connected with the fanbase and has got the best out of a squad ripped apart in the summer transfer window and blighted with more injuries than I can mention.

He has used his international role to his advantage and secured Championship safety which feels nothing short of a miracle.

My relief is palpable. I have spent the morning randomly bursting into tears, but survival should be the bare minimum requirement. The hard work for the club starts now.

The biggest and most important move they will need to make this summer is tempting O'Neill to make this temporary role permanent, when no doubt many other clubs will have been extremely impressed with his time at Rovers.

Whatever he decides my message to the gaffer is clear - thank you. You will always have a place in my blue and white heart.