If Neil's successor had gathered 7 points from 15 against teams that are unlikely to threaten top 6 then there would be more pressure on the new manager than the current one.

The fundamentals of the team don't change. Average scouting, poor progression from within and a style of play that means that any new face would have challenges in getting the instant results we demand since we became a bit of a yo-yo club. The immediate problem as far as I can see is that when a group realises that it's leader's authority diminishes by the month (and his loyal support know they go with him) then motivation goes as well. Players get less scared or respectful of him each week that we progress or plateau.

If we are neither threatening promotion or relegation by Christmas then I think the best option is a new manager that has the players for a number of months and is able to have the time and space to shape something for next year.