As the transfer window closed at midnight on 2 September, rumours started to appear in the press stating that Keegan was extremely unhappy with Director of Football Dennis Wise's interference in team matters. The following morning Keegan had a meeting at St. James Park with Wise and managing director Derek Llambias, it is unknown what exactly was said in the meeting but witnesses saw Keegan storm out of the meeting claiming to be sacked. Keegan drove to Manchester to consult with the League Managers Association chief-executive Richard Bevan, while in this meeting it is thought Ashley found out from Llambias of the row and attempted to contact Keegan. On 4 September, Keegan resigned from the club following days of talks with the board of Newcastle United headed by Llambias. This led to prolonged protests by fans directed chiefly against Ashley and Wise, being dubbed the "Cockney Mafia." The club was warned by the League Managers Association the next day, to develop a structure which would satisfy the next manager to replace Keegan to avoid a similar situation repeating itself and damaging the club's image.