Perhaps a bit help from the North-East’s big three clubs could have saved them the sight of the hang-man's noose.
Hartlepool boss Neale Cooper is willing to accept our help (should we need it) and says he is keen to strengthen Hartlepool United’s links with Newcastle, Sunderland and Boro.
The Pools boss has already enjoyed an encouraging, hour-long meeting with Tony Mowbray at Middlesbrough’s Rockliffe training ground.
And he will now approach both Newcastle United and Sunderland in a bid to set up similar face-to-face discussions.
Neale Cooper: “I don’t think relationships with the other clubs have been done enough at this club, and it wasn’t when I was here last time.
“If we can speak face to face and meet up, all the better.
“It was great to meet Tony, he’s a total gentleman, and I enjoyed it.
“It was funny because when we were chatting we realised that we both had similar problems – creating chances and scoring goals.
“But his ideas are positive and good. I listened to his problems, and he listened to mine. I enjoyed it, and I hope he did.
“It’s nice to talk to fellow coaches, and I think it’s important in this area to have that relationship.
“If we can meet up with the other clubs, then that would be great.
“I know John Carver (assistant manager) at Newcastle, and it would be nice to get five minutes with Mr (Alan) Pardew."