We published the article online: "If Newcastle United are in the relegation zone by Christmas, Mike Ashley will replace the manager".
There have been rumours ever since that his days are numbered, and last night's 4-0 home defeat to Arsenal had many Newcastle fuming that he played an entire reserve side in a cup competition.
The club released a statement confirming their plan to retain his services ... but they will do it ONLY if the club are in a healthy position.
The statement said: “Chris is our manager and will remain our manager, and it is our intention to re-negotiate his contract at the end of the year.”
Trust me on this one - Ashley will do anything in his powers to keep the club in the Premiership and that includes bringing in a new boss ... should it seem necessary.