Fisher had spent close to a decade predicting that Jellicoe would lead the British battle line to its decisive victory. His predictions connected the outbreak of war with completion of work on the Kiel Canal. He had also cast himself as Jervis to Jellicoe's Nelson, presenting the younger officer as his intended naval successor. That public investment would make removing Jellicoe for rejecting an impractical operation difficult. Jellicoe would have room to insist on troops and a revised plan, although he could not simply remove Fisher either.
Notable Point · 1:39:50-1:41:16
Why Fisher could not readily dismiss Jellicoe
Years of Fisher's public support would give Jellicoe room to demand troops and a revised plan before risking the Grand Fleet.