I am really, really hoping for a different direction. The new companion (do we know her character’s name yet?) reminds me rather a lot of Amy in terms of general demeanor. I enjoy the big switches in personalities of the companions even more than changes in the Doctor. We haven’t had a companion who was craftier than the Doctor but I sure would like to see one.
So what do we think of the new companion? 
Me likey. He can be quite flummoxed by her. So the arc for the rest of the season will be Who is Clara Oswin Oswald? BTW they are already bringing old enemies back to WHO to. The 50 anniversary is going to be block buster. Bring on the Fields of Trensalore. 