Yohan Cabaye is comparing the Newcastle of then and the Newcastle of now. He felt moved, briefly, to go on strike as he sought a transfer from the former 10 years ago, eventually leaving for Paris Saint-Germain. Supporters, with hindsight, have some sympathy.
But first, there is another big difference given the passage of time. Cabaye’s hair. His quiff back then was as stylish as the France midfielder was a player. Today, though, he is assistant director of PSG’s youth academy.
‘My hair is finished now?’ he asks, mournfully, the cut somewhat shorter and tidier.