Did the potential sale of Moussa Sissoko push Pardew out Newcastle?

It is fair to say that most managers would not be happy at firstly being told there was no money to spend in the January transfer window and secondly that one of their best midfielders could well be sold should the right offer come in – yet again.

That was the case for Alan Pardew, and couple that with the fact that he has virtually no say over the comings and goings of players and constantly being on the edge about his relationship for the fans, you can forgive him for upping sticks and leaving for Crystal Palace, who despite being in the mix to go down into the Championship, seem to provide Pardew with a much more favourable option.

Not only does he get to move back to his family home in London, he also gets the chance to see what he can do at a club who will allow him to take the reigns and bring in his own players, not to mention get a fresh start with a group of fans who will not start internet petitions should a couple of games be lost on the bounce.

Perhaps the most disappointing thing of all for Pardew, who reportedly still retains an excellent relationship with Mike Ashley, is the fact that Newcastle were willing to sell a player who has become a key asset to their side – and not add to a squad who were flying high not too long ago and will still hold very realistic notions of making it into the top six this term.

The probability of that would take a very obvious dive should Sissoko be sold to suitors Arsenal and the chance to add some quality to the squad passed up.

The real issue for Newcastle fans is not Pardew. It is the fact that they see their club in a vastly different light to owner Mike Ashley.

The fans want European football, a return to their former glory. Ashley may want this but either does not do enough to ensure it for monetary reasons or does not believe it is achievable – how else do you explain his willingness to see Sissoko follow Cabaye and so many others out the door without adequate replacements?

Newcastle United fans. Do you think that Mike Ashley will sell Sissoko this winter? Would you have walked out like Pardew? Let us know your thoughts below, become a guest blogger or tweet us @LaFootyettes.