The log-headed De la Cruz has fallen out of favour with David O'Leary this season, making just two Premiership starts, and with the World Cup on the horizon he is keen to increase his chances of first-team football. "The manager has not given me the chance to prove myself and yet he has said I can't leave on a free," he said. "I only care to leave because of the World Cup and my family. I need the manager to understand my situation and let me leave on a free transfer."