Malcolm Macdonald: "Is’s funny how it happens, but Hatem Ben Arfa has become a better footballer by not playing.
"That goal he scored at Everton has been played over and over again in the minds of people until he’s painted as United’s saviour.
"There’s no question that the Frenchman is hugely talented – he showed glimpses of it at Nottingham Forest in the Carling Cup – but I fear for him because the pressure on young shoulders is becoming huge.
"What is required is for Newcastle to nurse him back and everyone to give him time when he does return to Premier League action.
"It’ll take time. The guy is not a miracle worker.
"Certainly Hatem is a Newcastle type of player.
"The fans love flair, that something different, even though on occasions it brings frustration rather than adulation."