Steve Bruce would be sacked this week, we were told. Newcastle United's new owners had realised how his presence could have a negative impact during their first game at home to Spurs on Sunday.
Sources say that opinion has not changed. Yet here we are and Bruce remains, even scheduled to speak to the media on Friday afternoon.
Players are confused, it is said, and want clarity. Many of them want a change of manager but, more so, they want to win their first match of the season. If Bruce is going to be in charge then they should know, allowing for greater focus.