Hein Vanhaezebrouck insists there is no problem between him and his star striker Gift Orban, after the Nigerian frowned at bench role.
The winger came off the bench to score in Friday’s 3-1 win over Westerlo at home.
Prior to that Orban has failed to score or assist a goal in any of his last four game, forcing the manager to drop him from line up against KVV Westerlo.
After the game, Orban took to the media to express his frustration over the choice of the coach.
“Look, I’m a player who has to grow in a match. I always want to play. I know I still have steps to take, but even if I played at a bigger club, I would also say this: I deserve to play, period,” he said, as quoted by Voetbalkrant.
“In the end, I can say what I want, but it is the coach who decides. I will have to do my best.”
In separate interview, Vanhaezebrouck played down the Nigerian interview, stating that he has no problem with his desire to play from the start.
“I have yet to meet the first player who thanks me for being on the bench.
“He is a young guy. He has made a great start here. Everything he touched went in. Also today. But he still has steps to take in other areas. We’re not worried.” He said.
Orban has ten goals and two assists in eleven league matches for Gent.