I think a lot of people thought that he never looked bothered and rarely put any effort in. Thats why he wasn't "well liked" last year. I think it wasn't clear the extent of the injury he was carrying.
He is 10 times the player he was last year. His contribution is exceptional and if he doesn't sign a new contract, I'll be very sad.
I wish people would stop using the clapping as a cover up for a very poor season by this season's standards.
He certainly looks very sharp this season, but 14 goals in 37 matches, carrying an injury and with poor supply at times, wasn't a 'very poor' return IMO. If he had played a full season he would have been close to 20.
If he improve his discilinary record that will help his return too.