I liked the new past France player...he worked hard, put in a good shift, was a good captain on the field and gave a 110% to the cause. I do not think anyone would deny he was one of our top players last year...Having said all that, his dedication to drive everything demonstrated to me that he was quite a limited player, whose ability no longer matched his desire.
His free kick accuracy was poor, But he scored a couple of real screamers, but probably only about 1 in 5 were on target. His corner taking became atrocious. His tackling deteriorated as he tired...although much better in the second spell, where his reputation went before him, he seemed he was one step from a booking. And finally although he drove the team on his engine was going.
Bottom line...last year he gained my respect as a player who cared, but was not quite good enough....I suspect....he will deteriorate further this season...We closed the door on him at the right time, but I do wish him well (except against us)...but I am surprised he went to Dyche Burnley team.