The original kick Dele got from Jose worked, he was our best player in those first few games. I'll be honest and say I can't quite remember what happened post those games for Deles star to fade so dramatically.
I'm not sure whether Jose is playing the longest long game ever
But the road back for Dele, set by Jose, it would appear is almost impossibly long.
It could simply be tactical, for where we are at the moment (similar to why he's reluctant to use Bale)
It could be Dele has tinkled Jose off. Regularly not in prem matchday squads and struggling to start in EL games would suggest it's beyond strictly footballing reasons.
But No dissenting voices from Dele?
Dele very very best (and almost only worthwhile position beyond 'doing a job') is very niche and we have all seen the set up that works best for him. That is not our setup at the moment and could reasonably be argued, never will be. Even from a formation point of view, a 433 discounts Dele completely. A 4231 gives him a chance but not if we play counter attack with that. I mean, if Jose doesn't see Dele fitting in tactically, why would he give him game time.
Of course whatever the reasoning, it is all a bit tragic as every single one of us has witnessed the magic Dele can dish up.