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.

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.

"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."