Steve Bruce admits it will help everybody if Newcastle United get a clear decision from the Premier League on their long running takeover saga.
The Magpies entered the top-flight's owner's and director's test stage 14 weeks ago with top-flight chief Richard Masters admitting that the outcome would be known "shortly" today.
Yet Bruce was the recipient of more questions about the Middle East consortium's bid today.
Bruce said: "We can't influence it or make it an excuse.
"We are professionals and just have to get on with it.
"We need a decision to be made, let's hope it's sooner rather than later."
United go into their final seven games of the season looking to stave off the shrinking threat of relegation but also in with a shout of the top 10.
A possible Europa League place is also up for grabs in eighth place.
Bruce said: "I think the average of the last five seasons has been something like 42 points, which the club has achieved, so we've given ourselves a wonderful opportunity to be better than what we've average over the last five years.
"That's got to be the aim."
