Subterranean Homesick Alien

In our own transfer news there's this story from The Mail which suggests that Obertan wants to leave the club. Let's assume the story is true (which requires a leap of faith i'll admit, been checking Manutd.com for any confirmation but as of now nothing), the timing is strange, transfer request on the last day of the transfer window. If we go back to when he signed, we can see what the problem could be, his then manager, Laurent Blanc had this to say -

"Manchester United have been tracking him for a long time. They certainly hope to advance him, something that Bordeaux and Lorient have failed to do. He has the potential, but he must overcome psychological and mental challenges so he can express his true value."

So it sounds like this could well be what's happening here, less a desire to leave, but, given the timing, a sort of "cry for help," the flip-side of a lack of self-belief - a desire for reassurance that he is good enough.

His performance in the FA Cup was certainly not the worst on the night, his cross set up a goal. Definitely showed potential. He should look at the example of Nani who had seasons of underachievement before flourishing. Whatever happens we have the time to convince him of, and help him realise, his worth.

UPDATE - Just seen this -

Obertan's representative, Karim Djaziri, insists the Frenchman has not handed in a transfer request and is happy to stay at Old Trafford.

"I have read that Gabriel has handed in a transfer request, but no he has not done this," Djaziri toldskysports.com.

"He is very happy at Manchester United and he doesn't want to leave.

"He is still learning and he knows he is not ready to be a regular starter in the team, but he is working hard to be a member of the first team."

So there we are.