Monday 21 September 2015 16:42, UK
Paddy Fitzpatrick expects George Groves to hire a new trainer after the Irishman oversaw a third world title defeat.
Fitzpatrick took the reins in late 2013 when Groves parted company with Adam Booth midway through the training camp for the first defeat to super-middleweight world champion Carl Froch.
A knockout in the famous rematch at Wembley followed and, despite tune-up victories over Christopher Rebrasse and Denis Douglin, Groves suffered an agonising split decision defeat in his third tilt at a world crown - losing to Badou Jack in Las Vegas on September 12.
Confusion over the Londoner's future has reigned since as he deleted his social media outlets, and Fitzpatrick told The Clare Champion: "Since the fight, we haven't really spoken to be honest with you.
It's me that's saying this now but if George was to come back he would need, and I think it would be better, to be with a different trainer.
"It's me that's saying this now but if George was to come back he would need, and I think it would be better, to be with a different trainer.
"I've got nothing but full respect for the man. I've enjoyed our journey because we've been in it as a team and we've achieved a lot and overcome a lot. But he has still to achieve a goal that is physically and technically within his grasp.
"Mentally and emotionally, I don't know. He definitely needs a break and there would be no shame either in having a chat to somebody about it over time, somebody that could clear his head out.
"Technically he has everything it takes. Physically he has everything it takes. Mentally and emotionally now I do believe he needs a coach to deal with some of the mental and emotional issues he's had for the last two years."
