In many ways it is the most likely outcome. Ben Arfa will know what a talented player he is, and that there will be no shortage of takers should he decide to leave. It would not surprise anyone, if Ben Arfa is not back in the side against Norwich, to see the first signs of rumblings and discontent. Should that stretch into Christmas and the New Year, he may flat out ask to leave. In that scenario, Pardew's hand may be forced, and an unhappy player might be transfer listed, but that may adversely affect the player's value. If he is planning to sell the Frenchman, Norwich may be an ideal opportunity to give him some pitch time and hope for a value-friendly performance. St James' Park has long been viewed as a shop window, yet apart from Andy Carroll in recent years, no one has left for big money. He was seen as invaluable and as the heart of Newcastle. Yet we may be witnessing a hugely more talented player go to waste. It may be time for Ben Arfa to look elsewhere.
I am from Bangor, aged 24, and possess an MA in Journalism from The University Of Ulster. I have had work published in the Belfast Telegraph and interviewed several local footballers and Olympic athletes. I also run my own sports blog, 'Sporting Thought' in addition to contributing to What Culture.
