The managerial shortlist

[Josh1873]

While it sounds like the club is not at fault in this instance it does raise the problem that whoever they appoint now is a firm second choice. Given it has already taken almost 3 weeks it's not a great look, beyond the clubs control or not.

At no time did the club announce that it was Wicky.  Many deals with potential
managers fall down at the negotiation stage so that the eventual appointee was never the first choice.

Exactly this. Who is to say that Wicky was the club's preferred choice in terms of fit? He could have been the first choice because he was seen as more cost efficient, the next manager they approach could have been their preferred target but a more expensive one. 

You really can't say unless you're privy to the full facts. 

In any case. First, second, 10th choice. The new manager will not care, as long as they're paid on time and have the support of the board.