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After eight seasons outside the luxuries of the Premier League, it’s fair to say Sunderland returned with a bang against West Ham United.

The first half played out as a tense 0-0 affair, before the Black Cats then suddenly burst into life as Eliezer Mayenda, Daniel Ballard, and Wilson Isidor all found the back of the net in quick succession to hand Regis Le Bris’ underdogs a glorious 3-0 win.

Off the back of such an impressive victory, Sunderland find themselves just below top spot in the Premier League on goal difference, owing to Manchester City’s slightly more emphatic 4-0 success.

The aim will be to continue to put wins on the board to ensure a heartbreaking relegation doesn’t happen, with more signings looking to be in the pipeline, too, in order to help matters on the pitch.

Sunderland explore move for £30m star

Sunderland really have been one of the big spenders in the Premier League this summer, despite their newly promoted status.

£141.5m has been splashed out in total on 12 brand new signings, with the Black Cats adding former Bayer Leverkusen right-back Nordi Mukele to their camp just after the resounding triumph over the Hammers for £9.5m.

More cash could soon be spent on landing Getafe attacker Christantus Uche, with both Leeds United and Wolverhampton Wanderers also keen on the Nigerian forward, on top of Le Bris’ outfit further taking a fancy to this new £30m target to upgrade their options up top.

Indeed, it had been reported that Sunderland had lodged a £27m bid for Leicester City star Abdul Fatawu. An update from BBC Sport confirms that the Wearside club is exploring a possible move for the standout Foxes winger, but a move may well prove to be tricky to get over the line, owing to his pricey valuation, which is now allegedly closer to £30m.

That means any move for the Ghanaian to join the Stadium of Light ranks would match their record transfer fee for Habib Diarra.

It could well be deemed a gamble worth exploring, with a potential here for Sunderland to pick up their next Amad Diallo if Fatawu goes on to be as tricky and effective as the Ivorian was all those years ago donning the famous red and white stripes.

How Fatawu could be Sunderland's next Amad

Amad would never get to grace the Stadium of Light turf in the Premier League.

Instead, he proved to be a dangerous spark throughout his loan stint in the Championship for the Wearside outfit, with Sunderland fans still possessing a fondness for the slick 23-year-old two years on from his explosive stint at the club.

14 goals and four assists would fall into Amad’s lap from 42 memorable appearances for the Black Cats, with his game then taken to that next level back at parent employers Manchester United, leaving him with a healthy haul of 14 goals and 12 assists for the Red Devils from 65 outings.

Fatawu will hope he can become as established in the Premier League if a move to Sunderland does manage to get off the ground, having already been dubbed “unplayable” for his heroics in the EFL by scout Jacek Kulig.

Fatawu for Leicester (23/24)
Stat – per 90 mins*	Fatawu
Games played	40
Goals scored	6
Assists	13
Big chances missed	0
Big chances created	32
Total duels won*	6.1
Stats by Sofascore

During Leicester’s title-winning exploits under Enzo Maresca, Fatawu would routinely light up the Championship – in a similar rampaging fashion to Amad on Wearside – with the right-sided winger accumulating a ridiculous 19 goal contributions from 40 clashes.

Staggeringly, 32 big chances would also be created from those contests, with the 21-year-old always on the front foot, wanting to make openings happen, much like his fellow left-footer Amad always looked to dazzle and please supporters when situated at Sunderland.

The next big stride Fatawu will have to make is translating this jaw-dropping Championship form over to the Premier League regularly, having managed to amass two assists at the level last campaign, before a cruciate ligament nightmare took over.

Sunderland might well be the best place for him to explode into life even more, based on their gung-ho performance against the Hammers, with the opportunity there for him to emerge as the next exciting young talent on the right flank, in the mould of Amad before him.

Moreover, their glittering track record with up-and-coming gems coming good is also in their favour here, as another major buy looks to be completed by the ambitious, top-flight newcomers in the nick of time.

An Adingra repeat: Sunderland submit huge bid to sign "unplayable" star

Sunderland aren’t done just yet with their excessive summer spending.

By
Kelan Sarson

Aug 19, 2025

Manchester United are looking to spark a resurgence this year, but the first couple of fixtures since the off-season have issued a reminder that this squad has a long way to go before it gets to where they need to be.

Ruben Amorim has recently spoken of his belief that the Red Devils are closer to their goals this season, but then you would hope that this is so, for United finished 15th in the Premier League last season and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur, now excluded from European competition.

Fans would be understood for wanting a few more additions before the close of the transfer window, United having claimed one point from their opening two league fixtures.

The frontline has been reshaped, and efforts for Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens continue, yet Amorim remains intent on signing a central midfielder to establish the balance he needs for his tactical engine to start purring.

Man United searching for a midfielder

Much had been put into the bid for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba this month, but the Seagulls have barred the Cameroonian’s exit, and so INEOS have shelved their interest for the time being.

But a deal for another midfielder could yet be struck before the end of the window, with GIVEMESPORT revealing that Kobbie Mainoo could leave Old Trafford, and a replacement brought in.

It’s an ambitious one, but that player could be Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, with The Athletic’s Mark Critchley and Laurie Whitwell confirming on Tuesday United’s interest in the England international.

It seems unlikely that the Eagles would sanction their prized midfielder’s exit at this late stage, but it’s encouraging to note that Man United’s interest is genuine, though they would have to cough up something in the ballpark of £100m, a fee that would eclipse the club’s transfer record.

What Adam Wharton would bring to Man United

Described as “the best deep-lying English midfielder since Scholes” by a CONCACAF-certified coach, need we really say anymore?

Wharton, 21, has only been at Crystal Palace since January 2024, joining from Blackburn Rovers in the Championship, but already he has showcased a considerable degree of quality in Oliver Glasner’s trophy-winning system, and England’s top outfits have taken note.

At the Theatre of Dreams, Wharton would occupy a role currently being filled by Bruno Fernandes, who has moved into a deeper berth than he has principally played across his four-and-a-half years as a Red Devil.

Fernandes, 30, has been the subject of transfer speculation brewing from the Saudi Pro League this summer, but he issued an emphatic response, rejecting the concerted approach from Al Hilal.

It’s a good thing too. Not only did the Portugal international score 19 goals and supply 19 assists across all competitions for Man United last season, but he also inspired and roused the rabble as they flattered to deceive.

His playmaking knows no bounds, and that’s why signing Wharton could work so well for the overall fluency of Amorim’s unit, allowing Fernandes to shift back into a more advanced role, facilitated by Wharton’s presence.

Most Chances Created in 24/25 PL

#

Player

Chances

1.

Bruno Fernandes

91

2.

Mohamed Salah

88

3.

Cole Palmer

86

4.

Enzo Fernandez

75

5.

Bryan Mbeumo

70

Data via StatMuse

Hailed as a “generational talent” by journalist Matthew Stanger, Wharton’s 2024/25 campaign was affected by injury, limiting him to just 16 Premier League starts, but he still ranks among the top 12% of midfielders across Europe for progressive passes and the top 8% for shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref.

Signing him would open up a fluent channel between the thirds, Wharton’s passing feeding into Fernandes’ more prolific take on the ball-playing art.

There’s no denying that Man United’s midfield talisman has looked somewhat out of sorts over the first couple of weeks of the term, but Wharton could revive him, all right, and take this proud football club right back to the forefront of domestic and continental football.

Related Better signing than Baleba: "Phenomenal" star now wants to join Man Utd

Manchester United could make an even better signing than Carlos Baleba by landing this star.

Posts ByDan Emery Aug 25, 2025

Liverpool may well be lining up an explosive late move for Alexander Isak in the ongoing transfer market but for Arne Slot and Co, further strengthening the forward line should not be the priority.

After all, despite adding Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong to their ranks, the Reds’ defence looks worse than it did last season.

Trent Alexander Arnold and Jarell Quansah have both left, Joe Gomez is injured and Ibou Konate could follow Trent to Real Madrid.

As a result, Slot has had to tinker with his backline during pre-season. The likes of Wataru Endo, Ryan Gravenberch and young Trey Nyoni have all played in the centre of defence in recent matches.

With Liverpool dreaming of retaining their Premier League title this season, they need someone to partner Van Dijk.

Liverpool's search for a new centre-half

In the centre of defence, the Reds have had two main targets this summer.

They first looked at prising Dean Huijsen away from Bournemouth but they were left frustrated by Madrid yet again. The Spaniard only wanted Real and he headed back to his homeland.

Marc Guehi is another priority target for Liverpool and according to reports, they are set to step up their pursuit of the Crystal Palace captain after the Community Shield on Sunday.

Valued at £45m, they are due to hold talks with the Eagles about signing the centre-back before the September 1st deadline.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Yet, he’s not the only defender on the club’s radar. Indeed, according to Football Espana, Barcelona star Ronald Araujo has emerged as an option.

They reveal that Chelsea, Liverpool and Spurs are also showing ‘serious interest’ in the 26-year-old. Manchester United are also said to hold ‘long-term interest’ in the Barca defender.

How Ronald Araujo compares to Marc Guehi

At just £45m, bringing Guehi to Anfield would be a brilliant piece of business. He’s 25, thus approaching his prime, he’s Premier League-proven and having captained Palace, he’s a natural leader.

Including the brilliant price on offer, there are very few cons to signing such a proven player in the remaining weeks of the window; he’d surely hit the ground running swiftly.

However, Araujo is a genuine elite defender and has shown as much for one of the greatest clubs in the land in recent years.

Described by legendary centre-back Carles Puyol as “one of the best defenders in the world”, Araujo could be a brilliant market opportunity for Liverpool.

He’s capable of playing in the middle of defence but also competently at right-back. After missing the first half of the 2024/25 campaign with a hamstring injury, the defender went on to play 24 times at centre-back and played a starring role at the back as Barcelona reached the Champions League semi-finals.

Unlike Guehi, he’s playing at the very highest level and he’s more versatile too, having played seven times at right-back in the last two seasons.

So, what sets him apart?

Passes completed

79.3

43.3

Pass accuracy %

92%

84%

Key passes

0.48

0.47

Progressive passes

5.83

3.94

Progressive carries

0.71

0.65

Attempted take-ons

0.12

0.44

Tackles won

1.07

1.00

Interceptions

1.07

0.82

Aerial duels won

3.93

2.00

Over the last year, Araujo has showcased that he is an elite defender in a number of metrics. He ranks inside the best 2% of positionally similar players in Europe’s top five leagues for aerial duels won per 90 minutes.

In the air, he’s evidently streets ahead of Guehi. His pass success rate of 92% betters Guehi and ensures that the Barca stalwart ranks within the best 12% of centre-backs in Europe for that metric.

A beast in the air, Araujo also possesses the ability to play out from the back, making him the perfect fit for Slot’s backline.

Cut from a similar cloth as Virgil van Dijk in terms of his physicality, if Konate does end up leaving for the Bernabeu, then there are very few better replacements around the continent.

Slot's next Gravenberch: Liverpool lead the race for "incredible' £50m star

Liverpool are hoping to sign a PL star this summer, and it’s not Alexander Isak.

ByAngus Sinclair Aug 10, 2025

After missing out on Hugo Ekitike to Liverpool, Newcastle United are desperately assessing their options in a bid to improve their firepower.

Toon supporters can perhaps rest easy knowing Alexander Isak is likely to stay at St James’ Park but without competent backup – William Osula is still young – they know recruits are needed.

Since that move for Ekitike fell through, the Magpies have reportedly cast their eyes upon the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Julian Alvarez. Dominic Calvert-Lewin is also reportedly an option.

Newcastle's Ekitike alternative

Forgetting those names, Newcastle United are also exploring a deal for Brentford striker Yoane Wissa, with the 28-year-old emerging as a serious option after the club missed out on top target Ekitike.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

According to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, the Magpies are feeling that a “deal should get done” for Wissa, in spite of having a £25m bid rejected.

Downie reveals that the Toon are set to return with a £30m bid plus add-ons for the centre-forward.

With interest growing from Tottenham and Nottingham Forest as well, Newcastle are weighing their options carefully.

A previous price tag of £50m had been set by Brentford, and that is seen as negotiable by interested parties. Personal terms are not expected to be a stumbling block.

BBC Sport reported that Wissa is keen on a new challenge and eager to play European football, a prospect that may sway him towards St. James’ Park.

Brentford, meanwhile, are being picked apart, and Wissa could be next out the door.

Manager Thomas Frank has left, replaced by set-piece coach Keith Andrews, along with key players such as Bryan Mbeumo, Christian Nørgaard, and Mark Flekken.

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is urging patience in the transfer market, stating the club must invest in “the right players” rather than rushing big-money deals.

However, Wissa’s Premier League pedigree, versatility, and recent form make him a standout candidate.

Why Yoane Wissa would be a good signing for Newcastle

After Ivan Toney’s move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli last summer, Wissa stepped up as one of Brentford’s main attacking threats.

Only Mohamed Salah scored more non-penalty goals in the Premier League last season, as Wissa found the net 20 times and added four assists.

Over four seasons at Brentford, Wissa has netted 49 goals in 149 appearances – a consistent return for a player who cost just £8.5m from Lorient.

Among his positional peers – Erling Haaland, Alexander Isak, Liam Delap, Dominic Solanke, and João Pedro – Wissa stands out in several areas.

Data from FBref shows that he has more shot-creating actions per 90 than Solanke, more touches than Pedro or Delap (34.1), and a greater pass completion rate than Isak and Haaland.

His minutes played (3,072) were second only to Isak, demonstrating not only quality but reliability and rubberstamping why European football expert, Zach Lowy, thinks he’s had a “remarkable rise.”

As a result, the potential signing of Yoane Wissa has drawn comparisons with former Magpies fan favourite Demba Ba.

The Senegalese forward, who arrived from West Ham in 2011, became a cult hero at St. James’ Park after firing 16 goals in the 2011/12 season, forming a lethal partnership with Papiss Cissé and helping Newcastle to a fifth-place finish.

Like Ba, Wissa would arrive from a fellow Premier League club and is known for his instinctive movement, sharp poaching instincts, and ruthless eye for goal.

The same data from FBref shows that while Ba scored 16 and assisted twice in 2,721 minutes during his most prolific Premier League campaign, Wissa bettered those numbers last season, scoring 20 goals and notching 4 assists in 3,072 minutes.

Ba averaged 1.39 shots on target per 90 in that 2011/12 season, while Wissa registered 1.26 per 90 in 2024/25, slightly lower, but still consistent with the profile of a reliable finisher.

Importantly, Wissa also outperformed his xG, underlining his sharpness in front of goal.

However, there are some caveats.

At 28, Wissa doesn’t fit Newcastle’s preferred age profile of 24 and under, and he may miss part of the 2025/26 season due to AFCON duties with DR Congo.

Still, for a club that needs ready-made depth up front and a player who knows how to find the net, Wissa ticks plenty of boxes.

Given the departure of Callum Wilson and other targets like Calvert-Lewin being considered, Wissa presents a compelling blend of Premier League experience, positional intelligence, and proven end product.

If Newcastle can negotiate the fee down, Wissa could well become the Magpies’ new Ba – an underrated Premier League poacher with the potential to light up St. James’ Park.

He's Bruno Guimaraes 2.0: Newcastle considering move to sign £50m "machine"

Newcastle could consider a move for an English midfielder

ByRoss Kilvington Jul 22, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have now made contact over a deal for a “generational” Premier League midfielder, as they love his versatility, according to a report.

Spurs vying to sign new midfielder amid Bissouma uncertainty

There has been a great deal of speculation surrounding Yves’ Bissouma’s future in north London, with the likes of AC Milan and Fenerbahce being named as potential suitors, although the midfielder has made it clear he is keen to remain in England.

With the central midfielder’s contract set to expire next summer, it would make sense for Spurs to get him off the books this summer, while they can still receive a fee, and they have recently stepped up their pursuit of a potential replacement.

Bayern Munich’s Joao Palhinha is among the main targets, with Fabrizio Romano recently revealing that contact has been made with the Portugal international’s camp, but the Lilywhites also have a Premier League player in mind as an alternative option.

Indeed, according to a report from GiveMeSport, Tottenham have now made contact with Manchester United over a potential deal for Kobbie Mainoo, with his contract situation at Old Trafford still unresolved, potentially opening the door for an exit.

Informal enquiries have been made, in order to assess whether a deal for Mainoo would be possible, with Spurs said to be big fans of the midfielder’s versatility.

The 20-year-old has found it difficult to force his way into Ruben Amorim’s plans, and the north Londoners are hopeful that United will be willing to cash-in this summer, but a deal may be on the expensive side, with the Red Devils reportedly set to hold out for £70m.

"Generational" Mainoo could be better long-term signing than Palhinha

Palhinha was very impressive during his time with Fulham, being lauded as “world-class” by reporter Dom Smith, but the Bayern midfielder is now 30-years-old, making him ten years Mainoo’s senior.

Tottenham now eyeing shock move for "unbelievable" £265k-a-week Arsenal ace

Spurs are keeping tabs on a player from one of their major rivals, a report has revealed.

ByDominic Lund Jul 27, 2025

Not only that, but the Portuguese maestro has failed to kick on since moving to Bayern, making just 17 Bundesliga appearances last term, indicating that he could be better-suited to playing for a smaller club like Fulham.

The United midfielder, on the other hand, has been lauded as a “generational” player by writer Liam Canning, and he has already made 72 first-team appearances for the Red Devils, picking up seven goals and two assists.

The Stockport-born midfielder has also displayed his versatility by regularly featuring in both defensive and attacking roles, but his performances are yet to justify a £70m price tag, and Spurs should try and get a deal done at a lower price.

There is never a moment to catch your breath with Chelsea.

One second, the Blues are lifting the Conference League trophy, and the next, they’re making it to the next round of the Club World Cup.

It’s not just on the pitch where the West Londoners seem to work at breakneck speed either, as it’s been a busy summer of transfer business so far, with the likes of Liam Delap, Dario Essugo and Mamadou Sarr already through the door, and links to Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho refusing to go away.

Fortunately, there are other reports suggesting the club are preparing an offer for someone who’d be a far better signing than the Argentine.

Chelsea moving to sign Garnacho upgrade

The first murmurings of a potential transfer to Chelsea for Garnacho appeared just ahead of the winter transfer window this season, but as we know today, those links never amounted to much more than rumour.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Things are a little different this summer, though, as with it now known that the young winger has been told to leave United, the links to Chelsea in recent days feel like they carry a little more weight, especially as some have claimed that contact has been made.

However, it would be fair to say that this is not a move that many supporters want to see happen.

So, fans should be particularly excited about the intensifying links to a far better alternative: Jamie Gittens.

Yes, according to a recent report from talkSPORT, Chelsea have maintained their intense interest in the Borussia Dortmund star this summer, despite seeing a number of offers for him already rejected.

In further good news, the story claims that the West Londoners are in advanced talks and are now preparing a third bid for the player worth around £45m and hope it will be enough to convince the German side to sell.

It’s a lot of money to spend on a youngster, but Gittens looks like he could be something special, and he’d undoubtedly be a better signing than Garnacho.

Why Gittens would be a far better signing than Garnacho

There are a few key reasons why Gittens would be a far better signing for Chelsea to make than Garnacho this summer, and the first stems from their respective output this season.

Appearances

49

58

Minutes

2803′

3568′

Goals

12

11

Assists

5

10

Goal Involvements per Match

0.34

0.36

Minutes per Goal Involvements

164.88

169.90′

For his efforts, the United ace was able to score 11 goals and provide ten assists in 58 appearances, totalling 3568, which comes out to a reasonable enough average of a goal involvement every 2.76 games, or every 169.90 minutes.

However, the Dortmund star has a better minutes-to-goal involvement ratio of 164.88, as in his 49 games for the German giants this year, totalling 2803 minutes, he scored 12 goals and provided five assists.

The second reason for signing the Englishman over the Madrid-born star is the fact that his slight advantage regarding their respective output becomes far more significant when we take a look under the hood at their underlying numbers.

While the eight-capped Argentine does do better in a few areas, like progressive passes and carries, he is massively outperformed by the former Manchester City prospect in so many other, arguably more important metrics.

Non-Penalty G+As

0.56

0.33

Progressive Passes

2.13

2.22

Shots

2.58

3.61

Goals per Shot

0.16

0.06

Shots on Target

1.06

1.22

Goals Per Shot on Target

0.39

0.16

Expected Assists

0.20

0.12

Passes into the Penalty Area

1.20

1.05

Crosses into the Penalty Area

0.27

0.17

Shot-Creating Actions

3.57

3.63

Goal-Creating Actions

0.45

0.37

Tackles

1.44

1.05

Tackles Won

0.79

0.65

Blocks

0.89

0.77

Interceptions

0.48

0.45

Clearances

0.38

0.37

Successful Take-Ons

3.57

1.31

Carries into the Final Third

2.96

2.93

Carries into the Penalty Area

3.06

3.04

For example, not only does the Reading-born gem score more goals from his shots, but he also creates more opportunities by completing more passes and crosses into the penalty area or being the far more accomplished dribbler.

Moreover, he is an incredibly hard worker, as evidenced by the fact he makes more tackles, blocks, interceptions and clearances than his potential competitor per 90.

Ultimately, while Garnacho is a talented player, he’s simply not as good as Gittens, with the latter outperforming him when it comes to raw output and everything that goes on under the hood as well, which is why Chelsea should be doing all they can to sign the Dortmund star this summer.

He'd be a dream for Ekitike: Chelsea move close to signing £55m star

The tremendously exciting attacker could become a superstar at Chelsea.

2 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 24, 2025

USA will want to take down another Full Member nation in what is likely to be their last game at the World Cup

Alan Gardner22-Jun-20241:23

Do England need Jacks for better balance?

Match detailsUSA vs England
Barbados, June 23, 10.30am local timeBig picture – Can USA upset calculations?If this is the end of the road for USA’s memorable T20 World Cup 2024 journey – they could still squeak into the semi-finals, but the odds are very much against them – then what a stage on which to bow out, facing up to the defending champions with one last chance to cause an upset.England and USA have met at both football and rugby World Cups but this will be their first cricketing encounter of the modern age. Jos Buttler’s side have endured a choppy campaign so far, winning three and losing two to go with a no result in their opening match at Kensington Oval. But they return to Barbados knowing that a convincing performance will go a long way to ensuring their title defence continues into the knockouts.Related

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What do South Africa, England and West Indies need to do?

Victory will put them on four points, and a margin of more than ten runs (batting first) will ensure their net run-rate goes above that of South Africa, who then take on West Indies in the final Group 2 game later on Sunday.England’s cushion comes from their convincing win over the other co-hosts West Indies at the start of the Super Eight, and Buttler remained upbeat after his side lost a close game to South Africa in St Lucia. England have rarely been at their best over the last three weeks in the Caribbean but there have been signs that their game is coming together at the right time for a tilt at becoming the first team to successfully defend the T20 World Cup trophy.Before they get that far, they must avoid a mishap against a USA side that burned brightly at the start of the tournament but has looked to be running low on gas after three defeats in a row against Full Member oppositions. Their success has already put the names of Aaron Jones, Monank Patel and Saurabh Netravalkar in lights. If they can summon one final effort and become the latest former colony to put one over on the mother country, it will add another sprinkle of Hollywood stardust to cricket’s American adventure.Form guideUSA LLLWW
England LWWWLLiam Livingstone nearly took England home against South Africa•ICC/Getty Images

In the spotlight – Aaron Jones and Liam LivingstoneAaron Jones’ six over midwicket to seal a rousing opening-night win over Canada was the shot that was heard around the World Cup. He followed up a career-defining 94 not out by helping secure the tie that eventually led to USA’s Super Over victory over Pakistan, but has found the going tougher since then, with scores of 11, 0 and 11. Taking on the captaincy, in the absence of the injured Monank, has added to his burden. But he has another chance to impress at a ground where he played in four first-class matches for Barbados during his time in West Indies’ domestic system.An innings of 33 off 17 balls in a losing cause might not sound much, but could it turn out to be the spark Liam Livingstone needed? Livingstone’s attempt to get England over the line against South Africa, helping to revive their chase while adding 78 for the fifth wicket alongside Harry Brook, was only the second time he has scored more than 30 in 22 T20 innings this year. His power when taking down Ottneil Baartman at the death was a reminder of what he can do, and suggested that he may be ready to repay England’s faith that he remains the answer in the finisher role.2:19

Stuart Law: ‘If we’re not winning, we’re learning’

Team news – England unlikely to make any changesUSA have been without Monank since their group-stage win over Pakistan, but head coach Stuart Law suggested he was close to returning from a shoulder injury. “He’s getting better, we’re constantly assessing him,” Law said after the defeat to West Indies on Friday. “Unfortunately, he nearly made it for this one. So, we’re constantly assessing it.”USA (probable): 1 Steven Taylor, 2 Andries Gous (wk), 3 Nitish Kumar, 4 Aaron Jones (capt), 5 Corey Anderson, 6 Shayan Jahangir, 7 Harmeet Singh, 8 Nosthush Kenjinge, 9 Shadley van Schalkwyk, 10 Ali Khan, 11 Saurabh NetravalkarEngland may be unchanged for the third match running, having apparently settled on Jonny Bairstow at No. 3 and Sam Curran as the extra bowling/left-hand batter option. Chris Jordan could replace Mark Wood to add further depth to the batting.England (probable): 1 Phil Salt, 2 Jos Buttler (capt & wk), 3 Jonny Bairstow, 4 Moeen Ali, 5 Harry Brook, 6 Liam Livingstone, 7 Sam Curran, 8 Chris Jordan/Mark Wood, 9 Jofra Archer, 10 Adil Rashid 11 Reece TopleyPitch and conditionsKensington Oval is one of only two venues at this World Cup to have seen a 200-plus score, but generally, the pitches have been on the tacky side. The forecast for Sunday has improved although there is still a chance of rainfall interrupting proceedings.Stats and trivia This will be the first meeting between England and USA with full international status in any format England have played 13 completed T20Is in Bridgetown, winning six (including the 2010 T20 World Cup final) and losing seven Sam Curran needs one more wicket to reach 50 in T20IsQuotes”We’ve just got to win the game. We haven’t played them before so it’ll be a good challenge and we’re looking forward to it. The games come thick and fast now so we’ve got to dust ourselves down and go again. We’ve had a great win against the West Indies, a great game today which was a shame not to win but we’re still in it and looking ahead to the next one.”

“I think every match we play, obviously, representing the country is important. So, we’ll definitely go hard against England and try to finish well. Obviously, we can’t advance to the next round. But as I say, I think every match you play for your country is important. So, we’re definitely going to try to win the game for sure.”

Celtic fans are taking some time to wind down after a hectic campaign, but Brendan Rodgers is already reportedly on the brink of sealing their first summer signing.

Celtic reflect after ending campaign with two trophies

Domestic doubles are a strong marker of success at Parkhead. However, Celtic will feel they let the prospect of a clean sweep in Scotland slip away during an unfateful Scottish Cup final loss to Aberdeen last weekend.

Coming down to penalties, claiming another prize proved to be a step too far for Brendan Rodgers’ men, who ended extra time with an unfamiliar line-up that illustrates their need to strengthen again this summer.

Showing faith in his manager to get it right in the market, Celtic defender Liam Scales has backed his compatriot to bolster squad depth ahead of another long campaign.

He stated: “He always wants the club to improve year on year. Since I arrived four years ago, it seems to keep getting better at every transfer window.

“I think that’s obviously going to be the focus, especially with the Champions League coming up. We need to qualify for that. If we do, we want to be strong going into that as well.”

Celtic’s summer schedule
Cork City (A)	SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh
Newcastle United (H)	St James Park – Adidas Trophy
SPFL opening day	Weekend of August 1st to August 3rd
Champions League playoff round	19/20th and 26/27th August

Jeffrey Schlupp could be set for an extended Celtic stay and is in discussions over signing on a permanent basis at Parkhead. Greg Taylor could make way following six years in Glasgow.

Either way, it is all change at the Hoops ahead of next season, though a familiar face could now be set to return between the sticks.

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According to Press and Journal, Aberdeen goalkeeper Ross Doohan has signed a pre-contract with Celtic and will return to Glasgow following three years away from his boyhood club.

Labelled “brilliant” by Graeme Shinnie, the former Scotland Under-21 international has kept five clean sheets in 18 appearances across all competitions this season.

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Scott Bain has entered the final year of his deal at Parkhead and is expected to make way this summer, creating the path for Doohan to come in as third-choice behind Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo.

In addition, the 27-year-old will help Celtic in their quest to meet UEFA’s squad registration rules, given he is homegrown and also a club-trained asset.

Celtic will make more eye-catching signings this summer, but being able to call on a familiar presence to integrate withing the goalkeeping group at Lennoxtown could be a savvy move.

Doohan spent seven years at Celtic in his first spell at the club. Now, he will have the opportunity to be part of a successful dressing room in the prime of his career.

The 49ers Enterprises must make the next manager of Glasgow Rangers the correct appointment. That is certainly non-negotiable, especially if the Ibrox side are to challenge their Old Firm rivals next season.

Not since Steven Gerrard have Rangers reached the summit of Scottish football and that was way back in 2021.

The process has been drawn out as, despite sacking Philippe Clement in February, the the Light Blues still haven’t appointed a permanent successor.

A new man must be in charge sooner rather than later, especially with the transfer window opening soon.

The 49ers must avoid bringing in someone like a Clement or Giovanni van Bronckhorst type. Someone who excels in Europe but fails domestically.

What went wrong for Clement and van Bronckhorst at Ibrox

Clement led the club into the last 16 during both of his European campaigns in charge of the Light Blues but it was under his predecessor that success was seen on the continental stage

Indeed, Van Bronckhorst will be remembered as the man who led Rangers to the 2022 Europa League final, defeating Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig and Braga along the way.

While the final ended in defeat, the Dutchman still led the Gers to the Champions League group stages the following campaign, although that ended without a win in six matches.

At the time of his dismissal, Clement had won just 17 of his 27 league games throughout 2024/25.

Van Bronckhorst also had a shoddy league record before he was sacked in November 2022. He won ten of his first 15 games, but his team slipped behind Celtic in the title race.

Both of these managers won league titles prior to joining Rangers. Van Bronckhorst in the Netherlands and Clement in Belgium. This didn’t exactly lead to success in Glasgow, however.

Now, they must learn from that.

Rangers could be on for a repeat scenario

Brian Priske certainly falls into the same sort of category as the aforementioned managers. The Dane has won league titles in Denmark and the Czech Republic, while also winning domestic cups in both countries.

Well, according to reports, Priske has held discussions about becoming the new manager of Rangers, but would it be a smart move by the board?

Brian Priske’s managerial career
Club	Matches	Points per game
Feyenoord	33	1.85
Sparta Prague	96	2.19
Royal Antwerp	49	1.53
FC Midtjylland	68	1.88

He took over at Feyenoord last summer, yet he departed in February, despite beating Bayern Munich 3-0 in the Champions League.

Like Clement and Van Bronckhorst before him, Priske failed to mount a title challenge with the Dutch side, winning only 11 of his opening 21 league games.

The Danish coach tends to use a 3-4-3 formation, which isn’t a style used by previous managers, including Clement, Van Bronckhorst and Gerrard.

He does, however, place a strong emphasis on pressing in the opposition half while expecting his team to be dynamic when they have the ball.

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Given how stale the football was under Clement, this could perhaps offer a refreshing change of mentality indeed.

The Ibrox faithful have been here before, though. A foreign coach with a decent CV on the continent, arriving with much fanfare in Glasgow.

While he might enjoy a decent start to life in Scotland, Priske may well go down the route travelled by several coaches before him.

Something that the supporters don’t want to see again.

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2

By
Dan Emery

May 25, 2025

It’s been challenging to find the positives for Tottenham Hotspur this season.

Across all competitions, the North Londoners have lost 22 games, only one fewer than they’ve won, and if they don’t get to the Europa League final next month, it could go down as their worst campaign in a generation – or two.

However, there are, in fact, reasons to be optimistic for the Lilywhites faithful, as they have a collection of seriously exciting youngsters already in the senior side and the academy.

In fact, one youngster in particular looks like he could be a real world-beater, even in Tottenham’s answer to Lamine Yamal, if you will.

Spurs' most exciting youngsters

Before we get to the prospect in question, let’s take a look at some of the other sensational talents Spurs have on the books, including one teenager who is already playing senior football, just not in England: Luka Vušković.

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The Croatian wonderkid is one of the most exciting centre-backs around at the moment, as, on top of being labelled a “monster” for his defensive efforts by respected analyst Ben Mattinson, he’s also a serious goal threat.

For example, in just 32 appearances, he has already scored seven goals and provided two assists, which comes out to a frankly staggering average – for a centre-back – of a goal involvement every 3.55 games.

A talent far closer to home but no less exciting is Tyrese Hall.

The 19-year-old prospect is enjoying a stellar season in the academy this year and has amassed a tally of six goals and five assists in only 28 appearances.

That means the teenage phenomenon, who Jermain Defoe claims has a “Luka Modric vibe” is currently averaging a goal involvement every 2.54 games, which is certainly encouraging.

However, there is another youngster who is even more exciting, someone who could be the club’s answer to Yamal.

Spurs' answer to Yamal

So, while some of you may be thinking of the incredibly promising Mikey Moore, you’d be mistaken, as the academy gem in question is actually a year younger.

Despite being just 16 years old, Luca Williams Barnett has been causing quite a stir this season, as every week, regardless of the opposition, he seems to deliver.

For example, in just 18 appearances, totalling 1465 minutes, the Luton-born prodigy has scored a whopping 19 goals and provided nine assists.

Appearances

18

Minutes

1465′

Goals

19

Assists

9

Goal Involvements per Match

1.55

Minutes per Goal Involvement

52.32′

That means he is currently maintaining an otherworldly average of 1.55 goal involvements every single game, or in other words, he produces one every 52.32 minutes.

It is this simply sensational rate of return, combined with the kind of hype that has seen Mattinson describe him as “one of England’s best talents,” that makes comparisons to Yamal seem so easy.

After all, the young Spaniard earned his first start for Barcelona when he was 16 years old, and if the Lilywhites’ new superstar in the making continues to put up the numbers he is now, then we see no reason why he couldn’t get his first start next season, also at just 16 years old.

Finally, on top of being a pure output machine, the teenager has also played in several positions on top of his natural attacking midfield role before, including left-midfield, left and right-wing and even up top, which lends credence to Spurs’ expert John Wenham’s description of him as a “cheat-code.”

Ultimately, while it’s still very early in his hopefully long career, Williams-Barnett looks like he has everything needed to be a genuine superstar in the future. Who knows, maybe he’ll be talked about in the same way Yamal is now in a few years.

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