I think most people involved in English football will have read or been told about Kinnears return. I think we're still a laughing stock over it, though just how much of that is based on my personal disgust over it I don't know.
I'd imagine Kinnear will be heavily involved in talking to potential signings, which is why it's such a daft move to bring him in. Onus is heavily on Pardew to present the club in a favourable light, and try and convince players Joe is a senile old bat that we are just keeping amused.