Would he have been mys first choice (before this season) – no not at all. But I like the idea of building slowly – removing unrealistic expectations.

But now he is in situ – Ashley appears loyal (as I would be) to those who stick by him – and CH has done well so far – so I expect to see him appointed.

He hasnt done a great deal wrong but what I am fearful of – is that as soon as a few games go bad – the crowd will turn quickly – for that reason it could be a bad appointment.

I know I am waffling a bit here as its an incredibly tough call – unlike some – once it is made I will recognise the difficulty in making it (either way) and not pillory the man who made the choice either way.

Just to be clear – I dont like you – please feel free to ignore me.

However do you know what’s the best way to cook Stardust?

Evertime I go fishing for them catch one. Is it better to pan fry or batter them first?

‘What other conclusions can be drawn’?

Well what about:

Ashley tells Shearer there’s absolutely no way he can put his hand in his pocket and buy players and just for good measure he will be choosing the players that are bought and sold.

That is a possibilty as we know for a fact that Ashley is doing that.

They couldnt agree to work to a framework and it was for Shearer to accept the realities and not demand – as if he didnt work within parameters (like most eople) the viscous circle stated again.

What other conclusions can be drawn?

How do you know he walked away? Might Ashley just not have offered him the job?

Nobody knows.

Ashley has every right to be able to spend his money how he wants. But the logical amongst us realise an owner shouldn’t choose the players who are bought.

Although I always have and always will maintain that if someone buys a football club they should expect to have someone else spending their money, otherwise don’t buy a football club.

You interpretate Shearer not getting the job as him turning it down, without any clear, factual evidence to support that view. It’s just as easy for someone else to say Ashley didn’t make him an offer and told him he was selling so I won’t be appointing anyone to th position.

Of course there are other conclusions too. Just that nobody really knows.

Your ‘fact/theory’ alternate methods are canny impressive like Stardust. I’ll give you that.