Crisis club Hull City remain managerless, are yet to sign a player this summer, have a threadbare squad depleted further by injury and will open the season against champions Leicester to the backdrop of supporter protest - could they be any less prepared for a Premier League campaign?
The Allam family were on the verge of selling the club to American investors this summer until talks stalled at the 11th hour and it was announced that all takeover negotiations were suspended until September, although Chinese investors have this week opened fresh discussions.
Manager Steve Bruce then quit after becoming frustrated with zero investment in his playing staff and fearing a swift return to the Championship.