Shame this hasn't worked out.
There's a talented player in there and he's clearly a lovely guy. I know someone who lives in the same building as him in Manchester and says he's always smiling, happy to chat, walking his dogs, etc. I think he loves being here as well - a bit overawed by it maybe but he got well involved during the treble celebrations and didn't just sit at the back. Everyone plays a part and even though he's not been on the pitch much he's no doubt lifted morale and spirits behind the scenes.
But it's obvious he's been hit badly by that recurring shoulder injury which means he won't get to the standards we require. He's slowed down a lot from his Leeds days and he seems uncomfortable whenever he's moving. Watching him actually reminds me of what happened to Negredo once he left City - his career was similarly hampered by almost the exact same injury at almost the exact same point in his career. You must just lose confidence in your body after something like that.
He's never complained, he's never moaned - I think it's just the case that sometimes transfers don't work out. And when you've got arguably the world's best DM in competition with you, getting the minutes you need to build up any speed or momentum becomes even harder. I hope he gets his move this summer instead of having to hang around for another year so he can start playing again. But I wish him well if he does end up going. We'll always have this at the very least.