The Hatem Ben Arfa Show

After seemingly shrugging off all his transfer issues, Hatem Ben Arfa seems to be back to his dazzling best in the uniform of Nice. He has now scored more goals in 8 games than his former club (Newcastle) has scored all season.

Hatem Ben Arfa was handed a free transfer by Newcastle United in January after his relationship with the club’s backroom staff broke down completely. The fan favourite was loaned to Hull City before signing for Nice in January. But FIFA prevented him from playing in Ligue 1 after sticking to the rule that prevents players starring for more than two teams – with a reserve-team run out for Newcastle against Reading deemed as a full appearance.

After spending time away from the game fans were left wondering if he would be able to rediscover the form that got him noticed as a young magician in the Lyon and Marseille teams. These fears have been put to rest as he has now scored 6 goals and added 1 assist in his first 8 matches of the season.  Is it too early to speak of a France recall?