In the tribal world of the English Football League, the East Midlands is no different. In that footballing cauldron, the return of a 'frozen out' player often triggers more debate than the match itself. This was the scene at King Power Stadium during Leicester City's recent mind-boggling loss to Charlton Athletic.
As Harry Winks stepped off the bench to replace Hamza Choudhury, City's Blue Army fan base was a house divided. Approximately half of the ground erupted in supportive cheers, whilst roughly the other half delivered a damaging chorus of boos.
What's the score?
Winks had spent 63 days in the wilderness by this outlet's count. The former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder was 'cast aside' by former LCFC head coach Marti Cifuentes following a dismal performance and substitution against Sheffield United in November.
"63 days later, and Winks was back in blue, receiving a very mixed reaction from supporters. When he replaced Choudhury, it felt like half the stadium cheered him and the remaining half booed him."Leicester Mercury
Compounding the 30-year-old's problems were rumours of training ground friction and a perceived lack of commitment. All this soured his reputation at Seagrave. Yet for interim boss Andy King, the East Midlanders' progress must now outweigh grievances of the past.
Why Leicester City manager Andy King should deploy Harry Winks whilst swallowing pride and ignoring haters
Leicester currently find themselves in a precarious position while tending to injuries to key midfielders like Oliver Skipp and Jordan James. In this context, King's potential decision to reintroduce Winks to the starting XI is not about sentiment, nor forgiving past transgressions: it would be cold, hard pragmatism.
Against the Addicks, in spite of a fractured reception, Winks brought an immediate sense of composure and style. He demanded the ball, recycled possession with trademark efficiency and provided a tactical calmness and poise that had been sorely lacking of late.
While some fans remain anchored to Winks' previous fallouts with (several) management, the reality is that the Foxes are a better side with the England international in the engine room. His ability to progress play (once likened to a "Ferrari" by Enzo Maresca) remains a unique asset in the Championship. It should be, considering the former is the highest paid athlete in the division.
Andy King knows more about Leicester’s DNA than most; here he faces a possibly defining choice. He can side with vocal critics; or he can utilise the most technically gifted midfielder at his disposal to steady a sinking ship. If Leicester is to survive this season - individual reputations and historic baggage must be set aside. For the good of Leicester, it is time to let Winks play.