The opposition MPs would meet behind closed doors at the University of Otago Staff Club this morning, with Mr Goff certain to retain his position despite speculation over his leadership, University of Otago politics lecturer Dr Bryce Edwards said.
"Sadly, for Labour there is no credible, impressive person to come through," he said.
Those tipped to do so, including David Parker and David Cunliffe, did not have the public profile to improve Labour's situation, and it was "too early" for former Dunedin man Grant Robertson to make his mark, Dr Edwards said.
A lack of regeneration over the last decade had hurt the party, with much of that blame resting on former leader Helen Clark, who failed to bring enough young talent through to the front bench, he said.
Dr Edwards expected Mr Goff's handling of the Hughes investigation - and subsequent admission he had not informed party president Andrew Little - to be the first item on the agenda.
"It can't be anything other than that."
Mr Goff accepted Mr Hughes' resignation last week, following revelations police were investigating a sex complaint involving an 18-year-old university student.
While the Christchurch earthquake was the biggest political issue of the year, the fallout over the Hughes affair was the biggest issue facing Labour before the election.
Mr Goff could still win the election but needed the "stars to align", such as improving poll results and the possible return to Parliament of Winston Peters, Dr Edwards said.
"It is still a possibility."
