Ballsout, I think you were responding to my post before also? Covering the flight controls does not mean your hand is glued to the thrust lever. You can move it (while AT/AP is in) to make MCP selections or allow for PNF to select flap.
I disagree, I think 40 secs of idle thrust late (late being the key - even for maintaining 160 to 4D) on the approach would draw your attention. I would be sat waiting for the thrust levers to come up. If they didn't I would be looking why. A lot of this was going on below 1500/1000ft. You should be configured therefore thrust should be on or coming on. At this point I would want approach thrust set anyway.
Either the thrust levers weren't covered or it was another warning sign missed.
Topslide6 - I totally agree with you.