Really? Imagine, if you will, that the allegation is that our beloved CEO punched a first teamer, to which Pardew was witness and didnt side with NC and was therefore sacked on trumped up "not performing" charges. I think that *might* have some effect on the team,especially if it meant someone high up had to leave.
Of course, what I have typed it a total fabrication, but it is one of many scenarios that could have happened.