Hatem Ben Arfa has revealed he will not change his maverick tendencies but insists he is becoming more professional.
France international feels at home with the Toon Army
Hatem Ben Arfa has revealed he will not change his maverick tendencies but insists he is adopting a more professional approach to his game.
The Newcastle forward has produced the type of dazzling performances in recent weeks - three goals in five matches - that are seeing him finally fulfil his potential.
Ben Arfa, however, was renowned in France for his technical ability and playground dribbles.
He gave an example of it the other day in training as he went around the goalkeeper, and then waited to beat him again, before shooting wide.
His impudence prompted some of his team-mates to scold him but after recovering from his double fracture of the leg, the France international maintains he will not change his game.
Professional
"I have matured and grown, especially with this long injury but, deep down, I remain the same," he told
The Independent.
"The other day in training everybody shouted at me because after tricking the goalkeeper I then waited again to trick him again and then shot wide. I know it annoys everyone and I know I won't change. But, it's that kind of football that I like.
"However, I am adapting and I am correcting myself to fit into the professional mould because I know I am paid to win matches and not to amuse myself, but learning to adapt doesn't mean I will forget my instinct."
As a youngster much was expected of Ben Arfa who at times has struggled with the responsibility that accompanies being a professional footballer.
Respected
However, at Newcastle, he seems to found a spiritual home and a place where maverick footballers are adored by the public.
He added: "I feel right here. I do not want to leave England. This is real football, it is here that you have it, with passion, excitement, and the public.
"I have already played in Milan, Madrid and Barcelona but it is here that I feel right on the pitch. And also it is here that the players are respected.
"You need to realise and can you believe it that when Newcastle was relegated in 2009, the players did a lap of honour and the fans still applauded them during that last match.
"Since I was a young child, everyone is waiting for me to produce. To resist all that, you have to be more solid. The problem is that I often feel I have disappointed more than pleased people."
