Connor Wickham insists there is no issue with Paolo Di Canio and he is excited about his Sunderland future under the Italian.
Whilst Di Canio has spoken enthusiastically about Wickham's ability and potential, he has also criticised the former Ipswich man's attitude, describing him as a 'Playboy model'.
That has led to rumours in the press that the striker would be moved on this summer. Whether that is the case or not remains to be seen, but the player himself seems in no hurry to seek a new club.
Speaking on international duty, Wickham said:
I don’t know (what to make of it). I just saw it. It is just down to me to take on what I see in the papers.
I don’t really read the papers anyway but I am fine, I will get my head down, keep working and show him what I can do when I get back.
Our relationship is fine. He has had words on the training pitch and helped me along.
He said he will help me improve as a player so for me there is nothing but positive vibes from him.
I can’t wait to get back to Sunderland and just work hard again.
I have played the two games that I have been fit for and come on for the other halves.
I feel strong, I feel confident in the manager and that I will get a chance. Hopefully if I do get a chance, I will take it.
I don't think there can be any question at all that Wickham has disappointed since his big money move to the north east. Granted he was signed with the future in mind, but at least some impact in the present should have been expected too and it simply hasn't arrived.
That said, I don't think many fans won't to see him written off quite yet.
There is plenty of talent in there somewhere, and if Di Canio can ignite some desire in the player and push him on, there is little doubt that Sunderland will have a huge asset on their hands.
This can also be considered further evidence that the media storm surrounding the supposed mutiny in the Sunderland squad over Di Canio's strict and somewhat public new regime has been grossly overstated.