IT is presented as a mystery whodunit.

At least, that is, by this paper as today we devote eight pages to the subject of how Southampton Football Club has gone from being one of the most impressive teams in the country to, well, something alas that is fast becoming a national joke.

With five first team high-profile players already sold, two more reportedly at the checkout, a bitter war of words between management and at least one international player, fans accusing the club’s owners of a sellout and even the most ardent supporter left mystified by what is taking place, there are certainly grounds for concern.

Yet is there really a smoking gun?

Does someone have a plan or are Saints just victims of circumstances caused in part by their own success?

We debate this issue today.

But one thing is certain: only time will truly tell if this is a new start or the end of a chapter in the great club’s long history.