Anyone who has suffered a serious back injury knows the excruciating pain Mr Andrews would be enduring. Mr Merlino, who also holds the education and mental health portfolios, is not expected to run the government with an iron fist like Mr Andrews. Sources suggest Mr Merlino was 'champing at the bit' to get a crack at the top job while Mr Andrews recovers. Equally, the longer Mr Andrews remains in bed, the longer he risks being out shined. While Mr Andrews licks his wounds, speculation is rife they may be about to fester.

Source: Daily Mail March 11, 2021 00:31 UTC