Time United fans were put out of their misery

willing and capable of paying the price is found they come with considerable extra baggage.

We all know why there has been a delay.

The record of the Saudis demands thorough investigation over human rights and TV piracy charges – very serious stuff. It is not Amanda Staveley or the Reuben brothers who require close inspection but then the Saudis are the most important part of the consortium as they are providing 80% of the funds.

Of course, hope has remained steady if twitchy.

Ashley is happy with the price, a deposit has been paid and every discreet leaked word has been positive.

It is only a matter of time – but how long is a piece of string? Cynics would say, of course, that all the reassuring has come from the camp of the buyers – Ashley has remained tight-lipped as always – and those wanting to take ownership would keep reiterating that all is well. Their job is to be positive.

Yet no, it should go through. Will go through.

I honestly believe that – despite time rolling on and on and on.

It is a double dilemma for Geordies, of course. Not only do they crave an owner who harbours a modicum of their dreams but they desperately want to see the back of Ashley.

So there we have it. The Premier League are very busy people right now but as far as Toon Travellers are concerned it is not Project Restart which is centre stage but Fit And Proper Person.

Get on with it guys. Make a decision and put your most northerly subjects out of their agony. Enough is enough.