So, as we argued yesterday, the whole thing turns out to be a bit of a jape. Still, it was fun while it lasted wasn't it? Agonising over whether his undoubted talents crossing the ball and from dead-ball situations were worth putting up with his on-field violent nature and off-pitch embarrassing behaviour....

Actually we don't suppose many Arsenal fans gave it a moment's thought. Not those that saw his studs-high "tackle" on Stephen Hughes 9 days ago, anyway. Plus we haven't got anyone to get on the end of his crosses.