Their personalities have rubbed against each other for a while now. It played out behind the dressing-room door, away from the cameras.
Outlook
Repeated incidents may damage dressing-room status.
Praised privately for his recent performance
Major
Cause
The discussion focused on his recent performance level.
Left out of the matchday squad
Moderate
Cause
The current formation has no natural role for him.
Outlook
Repeated incidents may damage dressing-room status.
Asked the manager for a private conversation
Moderate
Cause
He has unresolved concerns over his contract. His relationship with the manager is steady but tense. He has already raised this with the manager recently.
Outlook
Contract request risk increased.
Left out of the matchday squad
Moderate
Cause
The current formation has no natural role for him.
Outlook
Likely to settle unless repeated within the next few weeks.
Frustrated by his tactical role
Major
Cause
A change in shape has shifted what is being asked of him.
Outlook
Manager intervention may be required if it persists.