Eddie Howe almost sounds like a jilted lover when talking about Dan Ashworth leaving Newcastle

It was inevitable that Eddie Howe would be bombarded with questions about the Dan Ashworth situation in his pre-match presser on Friday morning.

Talk of Dan Ashworth quitting Newcastle United to move to Manchester United as dominated the NUFC news space this week as the saga rolls on to a seemingly inevitable conclusion of Newcastle losing the key man to their long-term project.

Ashworth was brought in to be the main man to drive the PIF's vision of making Newcastle an elite-tier club competing for trophies on a consistent basis, but less than two years into his stint, he looks to be ready to turn his back on the club and move to Manchester United of all places.

What is going on at Newcastle United?

It's a kick in the teeth to fans, whether you're an Ashworth believer or not, and there are many who question what he's actually done for us, you can't deny that having the main man walk away from the project so early does not send a good message.

Indeed, this morning when Eddie Howe faced questions on the situation (via The Chronicle), if you read between the lines, he sounds really unhappy with what's going on.

"It's an unusual situation. I'm used to speculation around players but this is different. Hopefully, there's a quick solution.

"It's a difficult one when you're in that role, you need longevity to actually see the fruits of your labour. People have done it best in the Premier League with a period of stability. It takes a long time to get those processes right. Let's see what happens."

Tell me that doesn't sound like Howe is fuming that Ashworth is potentially not giving the project a chance to get going before walking away.

Reading between the lines makes it all sound like a bitter teenage breakup

"Football always moves on very quickly and I say that regarding the manager's position. Newcastle is a huge football club and will continue to work in a very efficient way. We've got some very capable people here, in all departments, so we carry on.

"There has to be a succession plan. For everyone. There is a strategy from the board above."

That's totally Howe saying "Well, balls to you, Ashworth, we never needed you anyway, we'll be fine without you, just go. And take your blender and your crappy DVD collection with you"

Whatever the truth, the sooner this is all resolved the better. This season has just been one irritating challenge after another and I honestly just can't wait for it to end at this point so we can start fresh next season.