Emmanuel Eboue is currently training with Sunderland.

The former Arsenal cult hero found himself without a club after his contract with Galatasaray ran out in the summer. Since, the 32-year-old has insisted that he was almost forced out of the club and wasn’t allowed to play. In fact, Eboue’s last competitive match was in May.

Originally he was hoping for a move back to Arsenal, where he became known for his clown-like behaviour, rather than footballing ability, but now Eboue is training with Sunderland.

“I came back for training and was told I would not be playing,” he revealed.

“The president told the manager at the time not to pick me. The way I was treated was very unfair.

“We are looking for options but I’d love to come back to Arsenal.”

Although it’s unclear whether he’ll sign with the Black Cats, I can only wish him luck. He’s not good enough for Arsenal but it’s upsetting to see where his career has led him: club-less and a little hurt. His hopefulness at returning to north London when he won’t be breaks my heart.

Whether his claims that there was some sort of vendetta against in in Turkey are true, I’m not sure. However, as long as he’s out of an environment that clearly felt toxic, that can only be a good thing.