How to make friends and influence people

Over the summer, some fans voiced suspicions that Papiss Cisse's dispute with the club over wearing the Wonga-branded shirt was all just a ruse for the striker to force a move or secure an improved contract. Perhaps he's right in thinking he has bridges to build with supporters, then - bridges he's tried to build by inviting some over to his house for barbeques and games of pool. It's a novel approach, to be sure, and a generous gesture - though the odd sparkling performance and goal would be equally effective...