Let us disregard the succession just for a moment and agree that if Mike Ashley departs Newcastle United, it will be a reason to celebrate.
If he finally sells, it will feel as if a shadow has gone. It will feel as if a yoke has been removed. It will feel as if Tyneside is finally rid of a man who knew the price of the club but never, ever came close to understanding its value.
Ashley has tried to impose his cynicism and his opportunism on a club and a culture that runs on loyalty and passion.