Manchester United's decision countdown has to end on one of two days

Manchester United Women lifted the FA Cup at 5.03pm on Sunday and a tweet was posted by Ineos at 5.10pm.

"Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Chairman of INEOS: 'Congratulations to the @ManUtdWomen team on lifting the FA Cup today. A proud and historic moment for the team that is testament to their grit, determination and team spirit. A wonderful achievement. Many congratulations.'"

Ratcliffe was sitting in the Old Trafford directors' box at that time, possibly wondering how quicker he would have been emerging from the penalty area than the walking footballer Casemiro. Plenty will feel Ratcliffe's words for the women's team were hollow on a day he spent schmoozing the next prime minister before watching more drudgery from United in another defeat.

But the prompt post is in keeping with Ineos's slickness since the Christmas Eve announcement that Ratcliffe had secured a minority stake. That slickness has to extend to communicating bad news, too.

United have to confirm by Sunday, May 26 at the latest whether the manager is staying or going. They have had enough time to consider the evidence from both sides before delivering their verdict.

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May 26 is Sir Matt Busby's birthday and the anniversary of the Treble but it is not a sacrilegious date. If United beat City in the FA Cup final on May 25 then a communiqué can be delayed until Sunday. If they lose, then a Saturday evening announcement as the dust settles would be appropriate.

Whatever happens over the next 12 days cannot have a bearing on the decision United's new power brokers take with the manager. If Ineos were swayed by three victories within a ten-day