Marko Arnautovic has again been the centre of attention — showing his frustration after being substituted against Birmingham and then the transfer speculation.
I’m not qualified to comment on transfer stuff on any player because it’s nothing to do with me, but I know he loves this club — and we love him.
With regard to being substituted, the touchline staff thought he was feeling his back but he said he was fine, so there was a breakdown in communication. He was frustrated because he had scored and probably thought he could get one or two more.
I wasn’t in the squad and was sitting with my son but I went into the changing room, had a chat with him and said, “Come and watch the game because the last thing you want to do is leave early with the hump”. I know he spoke to the manager afterwards, though, and everything was fine.
Overall, it was a really enjoyable December. It’s been almost impossible to play to a high level in every game, unless your name is Declan Rice — but he’s only 19 and should be able to play every two days.
We’ve come out at the other end with five wins out of seven and are through to the next round of the FA Cup, so it went well generally.
The fatigue does creep up on you and we were nowhere near it against Burnley, who played really well.
We’re looking forward to tomorrow against Arsenal. The way we’re playing, we could have joy against any team and we’re approaching the match to win it because that’s what the gaffer demands.
