Other "Martin Montoya" cases in Luis Enrique's history hint at reprieve

Martin Montoya has seen the light at the end of the tunnel. It's too early to draw conclusions but after kicking up a fuss about leaving in January, he's been played for two games in a row, against Huesca and Cordoba.

The case of the right-back being out of favour then back in is not unusual in Enrique's history. He has accumulated a curious history which shows he often judges players as unworthy or reserves, then over time reconsiders and grants second chances to them.

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PARALLELS IN BARCA B

Both Andreu Fontas and Ilie Sanchez had similar treatment under Enrique. The centre-back had nothing to do with Lucho until a string of injuries forced him to play the Banyoles born player. Until then he was only ever used as back-up to Oriol Romeu in midfield. He soon became a fixture in the side. Later he joined Celta Vigo, where Enrique had been managing. 

The situation for Ilie was similar, as from the fringes he eventually became a key player. The coach often states Ilie as an example of not giving up and showing perseverance to win his place. 

PROBLEMS IN ROME

Lucho's controversial relationship with Francesco Totti upset the Italian media. He left the "Capitano" out and gave opportunities for other players, but eventually re-installed him, and Totti was key in the final stretch of the season.

It was diametrically opposed to the situation of Pablo Osvaldo. The Italian-Argentine's time at the Olimpico started in the team but had huge disciplinary problems, including an incident where he punched Erik Lamela. However, injuries and Boriello being sold meant Enrique used him again later in the season. 

REINFORCED IN VIGO

Lucho's history grew in Vigo. Borja Oubina also had his ups and downs with Enrique, but the cases most similar to Montoya were Jon Aurtenetxe and Fabian Orellana. 

The former, a full back, had played 20 games with Celta but was not in Enrique's plans. However, after the first two months, became more important to the coach. 

Orellana's situation was more radical still. In August 2013 he stated that he did not need the Chilean, and he was left out of several squads. However in the 10th gameweek of the season, Orellana was brought back in and became one of the most important players in the squad. Lucho admitted his mistake in January 2013, saying: "Coaches love to eat their own words when they make a mistake."

Time will tell if Enrique has turned the Montoya situation around or if it's just a mirage. For now, there is a lot of precedents which suggest Enrique may still be able to call on the full-back.