Probably a controlled leak to set expectations.

If asked, he would not have confirmed that particular statement, the sources said.

Even covered their asses in advance.

I'm disappointed that they didn't ask regardless.

Edit: I somehow forgot to say it, thanks for following up with details!

Probably a controlled leak to set expectations.

If asked, he would not have confirmed that particular statement, the sources said.

Even covered their asses in advance.

I'm disappointed that they didn't ask regardless.