Their personalities have rubbed against each other for a while now. It played out behind the dressing-room door, away from the cameras.
Outlook
Likely to settle unless repeated within the next few weeks.
No natural role in the current formation
Serious
Cause
His preferred position simply isn't in the current shape.
Wants to head back home
Serious
Cause
After a long, difficult settling period he is openly hoping for a move home or to a familiar club. (A move home or to a favoured club has been linked.)
Outlook
Likely to settle unless repeated within the next few weeks.
Looks a level above his new surroundings
Major
Cause
A reputation gap between senior and lesser players is the friction point. The gap in reputation between them is being felt in the dressing room.
Outlook
Contract request risk increased.
Reassured by a calm full-time message
Minor
Cause
The moment called for a quiet show of support.
Outlook
Trend is improving — relationship should keep strengthening.