But if you look at the full quotes, you get a different impression. Lauren has a 4 year contract and intends to see it out. Like so many players he's found his first season in the Premiership heavy going, but he seems to have a positive frame of mind about it.

If we're yet to see the best of Lauren, then let's hope he does stay. At times last season he looked the best partner for Vieira that we have. Even if he's never more than a squad player he'll be dead useful. Just a shame he's not turned into the right-back we once hoped he would.

What's clear is that he and his wife miss their life in Spain, and he fully intends to go back there. What you have to remember is that Spain is home to Lauren. There's probably little more to conclude from all this than there would be from Steve McManaman saying he wants to return to England some day. See eg BBC Sport for quotes.