I have taken my time before replying to this one.
No doubt an incredibly talented player on his day (of which there were many). I will look back fondly on moments like the later winner against Spurs at home and the free kick against Palace, but for all of his obvious talent and ability I have never fully loved him unconditionally. There was always something really rather dislikeable. Be it the the sending off against Cardiff (where his diving was embarrassing), his lacklustre performances in the post-world cup appearances (where clearly his heart was elsewhere), the famous Covid Party before the West Ham game or simply the pathetic penalty against Everton - there is something preventing me from embracing him in the same way I remember Izzet, Thompson etc. Maybe one of you can help me explain what this is??
In terms of his move to Spurs, I find it rather telling that a player with his stats being available for the fee he was, only Spurs came in for him. Doesn't that tell you everything about how other clubs saw him??
Good luck Madders - thank you for the good times.