Jeers and boos are the usual accompaniment to a final whistle that confirms a team’s relegation from the Premier League.

But instead of disapproving jibes, applause rang out around Cardiff City Stadium despite the Bluebirds becoming the first team in the history of the competition to be relegated twice at the first time of asking.

The faithful fans remained in their numbers to celebrate the battling spirit shown by their side after they became the fourth side in three seasons to be relegated by Crystal Palace.

Goals from Wilfried Zaha and Michy Batshuayi either side of Martin Kelly’s calamitous own-goal meant Cardiff’s second stint in the Premier League ended the same way as their first, before Andros Townsend finished the job with a stunning solo effort.

The gloom briefly lifted when Bobby Reid grabbed a late consolation, but nothing could distract from the gut-wrenching realisation that their Premier League chapter had finally come to a close after a testing campaign tarnished with tragedy.

Warnock had vowed to remain at the club to help map-out a future where they can consistently compete in the top-flight, but now it sounds as his final year in management will be away from the Welsh capital.