It also looks better for us, PR wise, if we are beaten by Middlesbrough in a straight transfer fight, than if we just withdraw 'because, erm, the manager suddenly doesnt like him'.
Thats assuming that you believe that Ellis is spinning this. If he was spinning it there are better ways of doing it, and Doug is, if nothing else, a master of spin.
Young Dave O's being very quiet at the moment,.isnt he? Havent heard from him since before Palace. Hopefully kicking some backsides on the training pitches.