January was problematic for Rafa Benitez and Newcastle.
Trust was eroded by what happened in that month, when United did not recruit.
But it was solved by what was a frank meeting in which Benitez presented a detailed business plan to the owner.
The relationship now is unlikely to be patched up by talking.
Benitez feels promises have been broken; Ashley contends otherwise.
The trust has disappeared and it’s difficult to see a way back from here.
But both men know that legally they have a responsibility to say the right things to avoid an even uglier fall-out.
What happens with both men now is going to be fascinating because there is so much at stake.
