McKenna

But that did not make the sound of Michael Salisbury's final whistle at St James' Park any less painful for boss Kieran McKenna and his players, who looked crestfallen as they applauded their fans at full time.

McKenna, meanwhile, admitted he had come to terms with the prospect of relegation following the 2-1 defeat by Wolves at Portman Road earlier this month.

It is not difficult to understand why McKenna cut a resigned figure after the Wolves defeat, which left the Tractor Boys 12 points adrift of safety with seven matches remaining.

"There are so many lessons," McKenna said.

McKenna's future will also be up for speculation.