It would sort of makes sense for him to wait until there are manager sackings in the Prem. There is always at least Prem 3 casualties during the season and sometimes more. Perfect for Hughton to go in and save or manage a club for the remainder of the season. I think Allardyce got £3m to save...
When he was here there is no doubt that he was looking at us being his long term project, and with the extended contracts he was given he had every reason to believe this.
At his age now though I would question whether he would really want to set his heart and soul on any other long term...