In my universe I am in a very small minority of Nolan fans. Even those who are usually not given to blind prejudice (including an ex journalist) were pleased with his red card because it kept him out. Those around me in the Rio lower vent their anger at him at every opportunity. In my opinion he is like Lomas or Carrick: a player you don't appreciate until he is missing. We have needed Nolan a lot, for his playing and leadership skills.