A LACK of discipline coupled with a poor performance against Exeter City on New Year’s Day led to Elijah Adebayo’s departure from Swindon Town, manager Richie Wellens has confirmed.

Wellens, who announced last Saturday that the Fulham loan signing had returned to his parent club, was left disappointed by the 21-year-old’s approach to training after he turned up late every day during the festive period.

His below-par display during Town’s 2-0 defeat to Exeter on New Year’s Day ultimately made Wellens’ mind up for him, as he opted to draft in Reading youngster Ben House in place of Adebayo for the remainder of the season.

“He (Adebayo) is a tremendous kid, but in the last week of his spell at the club he was late every single day,” said Wellens.

“Then it was topped off by a performance that I didn’t think was adequate enough (against Exeter). Therefore, a decision was made.

“He wants to learn, but he will take information in for only one or two days – or games. Then he’ll forget that information.

“He needs to go back (to Fulham) and listen to the coaches there – he’s 6’4” and can run all day, he was the fittest lad at the club.

“His attributes are tremendous, and he will be a top player. But sometimes it’s about what is between the ears.

“His understanding of the game must be better. I was disappointed that he turned up late several times and didn’t perform to the level I expected.

“For all parties, it was best that he takes a break from first-team football and goes back to the environment of under 23s football.”