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.
Praised privately for his recent performance
Major
Cause
The discussion focused on his recent performance level.
Left out of the matchday squad
Major
Cause
The current formation has no natural role for him.
Outlook
Repeated incidents may damage dressing-room status.
Frustrated by his tactical role
Moderate
Cause
A change in shape has shifted what is being asked of him.
Outlook
Manager intervention may be required if it persists.
Reassured by a calm full-time message
Minor
Cause
The moment called for a quiet show of support. His professionalism usually steers him back from these moments.
Outlook
Trend is improving — relationship should keep strengthening.
Returned to full training after injury
Minor
Cause
The medical team cleared him, but the staff are protecting him from a rushed comeback.
Left out of the matchday squad
Serious
Cause
The current formation has no natural role for him.
Outlook
Manager intervention may be required if it persists.
Left out of the matchday squad
Serious
Cause
The current formation has no natural role for him.
Outlook
Manager intervention may be required if it persists.
Asked the manager for a private conversation
Moderate
Cause
His relationship with the manager has soured. His relationship with the manager is steady but tense. He has already raised this with the manager recently.
Outlook
Contract request risk increased.
Criticised in a full-time post-mortem
Minor
Cause
It was a private show of faith after a tough recent run. His professionalism usually steers him back from these moments.
Outlook
Manager intervention may be required if it persists.