All posts by z3u9t.icu

Manchester United are believed to be planning an offer to sign an “unplayable” Premier League player in a potential £65m deal this summer, according to a fresh update.

Man Utd defeat highlights need for signings

The Red Devils were beaten 4-3 away to Brentford on Sunday afternoon, as their hugely disappointing league campaign continues, amid their continued search for Europa League glory later this week.

The loss leaves Ruben Amorim’s side still sitting in 15th place in the table, having lost 16 of their matches in the league in 2024/25, highlighting how important it is for new signings in the summer transfer window.

Bournemouth attacker Antoine Semenyo has been linked with a move to United at the end of the season, following an impressive season for the Cherries that has seen him score nine times in the league, also bagging five assists in the competition.

Meanwhile, Lyon youngster Rayan Cherki has been mentioned as a target for the Red Devils, with the 21-year-old thought to be open about the idea of moving to Old Trafford if he is made the leading man in Amorim’s attack.

Man Utd planning offer for £65m Brentford star

According to a new update from Caught Offside, Manchester United are planning to make an offer for Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, looking to snap him up in the summer window. The Bees could be looking for as much as £65m for the Cameroonian, with Tottenham, Arsenal and Newcastle United also interested in him.

Mbeumo has arguably been one of the Premier League’s most dangerous attacking players throughout this season, scoring 18 goals, which is only fewer than Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, Erling Haaland and Chris Wood.

Meanwhile, his importance isn’t lost on Brentford manager Thomas Frank, who heaped praise on him earlier in the season: “Bryan Mbeumo today was unplayable. The way he holds the ball up and links play, like today to Kevin Schade [for the fourth goal] was very impressive.”

Admittedly, Mbeumo takes up the same right-sided attacking role that Amad Diallo likes to play in, so there is a risk of blocking his path, but strong competition is needed all over the pitch.

The 25-year-old is in the perfect place to come in and be a star man from the off at Old Trafford, having already shown that he can take the Premier League by storm, bagging 68 goal contributions (40 goals and 28 assists) in 133 appearances since joining the Bees.

With the likes of Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund all arguably feeling like flawed attacking options currently, it is essential that a couple of genuinely top-level players arrive in that area this summer.

As bad as Shaw: Amorim must axe Man Utd dud after 4/10 Brentford display

Ruben Amorim must ring the changes for Manchester United’s next game.

ByMatt Dawson May 5, 2025

In Mbeumo, United could have a fantastic option who could be a key man for the next five or six years, producing relentless end product and making Amorim’s men a far greater force.

After suffering the heartbreak of Premier League relegation, Leeds United were forced to bid farewell to a number of players in the summer transfer window, giving new manager Daniel Farke an immediate headache at the start of his tenure.

The former Norwich boss recruited well, however, alongside new owners the 49ers Enterprises, and the Whites are now in the race for automatic promotion alongside Ipswich Town and Leicester City.

Farke's attention may soon turn towards the January transfer window and keeping hold of the new stars that have emerged this season at Elland Road. The last thing he'll want is to do is lose players once again in what would be a major dent in his side's Championship promotion push. And reports suggest that the manager is set to get his wish when it comes to keeping one particular player, too.

Leeds United transfer news

Whilst exits took place during the summer, they did at least give Farke the opportunity to discover new options at Elland Road, whether through the market or the academy. And that includes Archie Gray, who has emerged as one of Leeds' standout stars this season. The teenager has taken his opportunity incredibly well and has quickly become an important part of Farke's side – so much so that the Whites may face a battle to keep hold of him.

Phil Hay shares off-field Leeds agreement from Elland Road

Good news for Leeds fans…

ByTom Cunningham Nov 24, 2023

According to Football Insider, Leeds and the 49ers are set to reject offers for Gray during the January transfer window and are adamant that he'll be staying at the club amid reported interest from Liverpool, Everton and Crystal Palace. The midfielder's current deal runs out in 2025, which hands Leeds a fairly urgent task when it comes to securing his future in Yorkshire, and talks are thought to be in the works over a new contract.

"Fantastic" Gray has become key for Farke

Gray's stats this season show just how important he's been for Leeds. The 17-year-old has started plenty of Championship games throughout the current campaign, whether that be in midfield or at right-back, proving his versatility. Still so young, Gray is only likely to get even better, which is exciting for those at Elland Road.

Farke is certainly a fan too, speaking about Gray's ability to fill in at right-back, saying:

"For Archie, it's definitely not a bad choice at times. We don't play him there just to develop him, it's more we've got the feeling for this game, we need a player there who is capable to handle the pace and the speed and the mobility of the opponent's wingers.

"Also to play a bit more like an inverted full-back, a bit more like a traditional midfield player, Archie would have been the right choice. Thank God he repaid my trust and played some really good games there. He was fantastic in the last home game, solid last away game and he was crucial, especially in the second half."

Everton haven't enjoyed the most productive transfer windows in the last few years, welcoming several players to forget rather than improving their side. Last time out in the market, however, the Toffees did well to sign the likes of Beto and Jack Harrison for Sean Dyche, who is actively guiding his side away from Premier League relegation troubles and into the comforts of mid-table.

Turning things around at Goodison Park, Dyche will hope to breathe new life into previous transfer flops to give himself added reinforcements before the January window even opens. And that could include one particular player with talks underway to re-negotiate Everton's deal, which would hand the Toffees another option on the pitch.

Everton transfer news

When the January transfer window does open, Everton will hope to be in a position to welcome some crucial additions. The Premier League's financial fair play investigation could yet prevent that, of course, or even hand the Merseyside club a 12-point deduction. If Everton are handed transfer sanctions, then they'll have no choice but to turn to internal options for Dyche. With their top flight status potentially on the line, they can't afford to get things wrong, and the return of Dele Alli could help avoid disastrous consequences this season.

According to The Telegraph, Everton are attempting to get Dele's appearance clause waived by former club Tottenham Hotspur. As things stand, when the midfielder reaches 20 appearances, Everton will have to pay Spurs £10m in a deal that is not currently feasible for those at Goodison Park. Dele is currently on 13 appearances for the club, who may limit his game-time unless the aforementioned fee is waived by Spurs.

The former Besiktas loanee is, of course, currently out injured, but when he returns, Dyche may well attempt to rediscover his best form once more. Dyche said recently: ‌“I must make it clear he is on the grass but still a long way from being fit, he is not training with us he is with the sports science staff.

"He is just really getting back to where he was He was drastically unfortunate when the rehab (went) wrong after an operation, and it is almost more time than the original moment. But the specialists advised to leave it alone and just let it heal naturally. He is in a good place, but he is still quite far away (from playing)."

"Very good" Dele Alli can boost Everton

Football loves a comeback story, and Dele has the chance to provide the sport with one of its best yet. At his best, this has been a player touted as the next Frank Lampard or Steven Gerrard. The fact is, if Dyche can get anywhere close to that version of the midfielder back firing, then Everton won't just survive in England's top flight, they'll potentially flourish – Dele's stats at such a young age prove as much.

Player

Premier League Goal Involvements Before Turning 21

Dele Alli

40

Frank Lampard

15

Steven Gerrard

13

David Beckham

12

Jose Mourinho, despite his difficult relationship with the midfielder, has been one of many to praise Dele, saying via BBC Sport: "He could try to score but for Vinicius it was an easy goal. A team player does that, no risk and 2-0. It does not surprise me that he did that. Dele was like the team. A very good first half. In the second half in the first 20 to 25 minutes they closed and tried not to concede more goals."

Tottenham Hotspur signing an in-form star is "on the cards" this winter, and it is believed that manager Ange Postecoglou is personally a "big fan".

Will Spurs sign anyone in January?

While Spurs are absolutely flying under Postecoglou so far this campaign, enjoying their best ever start to a Premier League campaign and most superior since the 1960/1961 season, there is still work to be done on the signings front. Recent Spurs transfer rumours suggest they're chasing the signing of a new central defender for January, with Galatasaray defender Victor Nelsson, Juventus star Gleison Bremer, Bournemouth's Lloyd Kelly and Bayer Leverkusen star Edmond Tapsoba all mentioned as rumoured Tottenham targets.

Meanwhile, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg news over the last few weeks indicates that the Denmark international is now considering his options in the winter window. Juventus are apparently eyeing a move for the Spurs midfielder, who has since found himself on the periphery of Postecoglou's first team despite being a mainstay under Antonio Conte last term. As a result, Chelsea star Conor Gallagher is one of the names under consideration, if he doesn't end up signing a new contract at Stamford Bridge.

While Tottenham are really impressing without star striker Harry Kane, who joined Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich in a multi-million pound move over the summer window, it has also been claimed that a new number nine could join Spurs in 2024. Indeed, the likes of Brentford star Ivan Toney and even marquee Napoli striker Victor Osimhen have been linked in this regard.

Santiago Gimenez transfer news

Another striker who's found himself on the list of Tottenham transfer targets is Feyenoord star Santiago Gimenez. The Mexico international has scored an exceptional 12 goals in just eight Eredivisie appearances this season, making him one of the most in-form strikers in Europe. Postecoglou is currently lacking an out-and-out striker of real quality, with Son Heung-min instead dazzling in a more central role.

The South Korea international has been one of Tottenham's players of the season so far, but if they're to maintain their place among England's most elite sides, more strength in depth may be required. According to TEAMtalk, Gimenez is a candidate to fill Kane's shoes and could even join as soon as January.

Sharing their information at the bottom of a piece about Tiago Pinto, they claim the 22-year-old's potential move to Spurs is "on the cards" for the new year. They add that Postecoglou is personally a "big fan" of Gimenez, who may become one of European football's hottest commodities next year.

Finishing

Holding on to the ball

Passing

Defensive contribution

The North American, branded a "machine" by Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, has been praised by sections of the press for his excellent form this season. Journalist Graeme Bailey, recently sharing his own update on Tottenham's transfer plans to the Talking Transfers Podcast, absolutely heralded Gimenez as one to watch.

“Santiago Gimenez looks sensational by the way, he looks so good. He looks amazing to me,” Bailey said. “Teams have been watching Feyenoord, of which there is a few, they are the best team in Holland, we know Arsenal and Tottenham have been watching Gimenez as of late.”

Tottenham Hotspur have been named as a possible Premier League destination for one young star who's left them "very impressed".

Will Spurs replace Hojbjerg?

Over the last month or so, there have been many reports suggesting that Spurs midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg could depart north London as early as the January transfer window. Despite being a mainstay under Antonio Conte last season, and throughout his entire stay at Tottenham really, the Dane is no longer a lynchpin of their midfield as both Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr are preferred by new boss Ange Postecoglou.

Hojbjerg scored four goals and assisted five others over 35 league starts last term, but this season, he's not even started a single top flight match; making all six of his appearances from the bench. As a result, there have been suggestions that Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher is a target for Tottenham, among others. A new midfielder appears to be on the Spurs agenda if Hojbjerg quits in the winter window, while Spurs are rumoured to be targeting a new striker and new central defender for 2024 as well.

Postecoglou's side have started the season remarkably well; tasting victory in five out of a possible seven league matches so far while scoring 17 goals. However, there may still be some gaping holes to fix in the squad, as injuries to key players could threaten to ruin their exceptional early-season form. Ivan Perisic, Brennan Johnson, Manor Solomon, Bryan Gil, Alfie Whiteman, Giovani Lo Celso and Ryan Sessegnon have all found themselves injured at Spurs recently.

If one of James Maddison, Son Heung-min, Yves Bissouma, Micky van de Ven or Cristian Romero – Tottenham's arguable star players right now – are sidelined, Postecoglou would be in big trouble.

Quinten Timber transfer news

A new option who may emerge for Spurs, as per journalist Graeme Bailey on the Talking Transfers Podcast, is Feyenoord midfielder Quinten Timber; who would seemingly come in as a potential alternative to Hojbjerg. The brother of Arsenal star Jurrien, he already has a very interesting connection to the top flight through Tottenham's arch rivals.

Timber has been in brilliant Eredivisie form this campaign, scoring one goal and assisting three others in seven Dutch top flight starts. According to WhoScored, the 22-year-old is among Feyenoord's best-performing players per 90 this term, a fact not lost on Tottenham.

Dribbling

Aerial duels

Tackling

It is believed that Spurs are "very impressed" by Timber's form, and Bailey urges supporters to "keep an eye" him potentially making a move to England.

“I like Quintin Timber in this role, and so do the teams who have been watching Feyenoord, the likes of Liverpool, Man City, Man United, Tottenham, Arsenal, they have all been very impressed by this young lad, he’s more a midfielder than his twin brother, so let’s keep an eye on him, could we see Timber’s brother in England? I wouldn’t rule it out." said the 90min journalist.

The Dutch midfield ace facing off against his brother would make a rather intriguing development.

Liverpool are facing the extremely real possibility of parting ways with Mohamed Salah in January.

The Egyptian forward’s post-match outburst at Leeds United last weekend outlined in no uncertain terms his view toward being cast to the bench in recent matches. FSG and Arne Slot want to keep the 33-year-old, who extended a new £400k-per-week contract only in April after months of speculation. However, there is an acceptance that the situation may become untenable.

Salah has been Liverpool’s main man in the Premier League for many years. He is an all-time great. But he is also approaching the autumn of his prime years, and there’s no question that he has been well out of sorts this term, five goals and three assists across 19 fixtures.

Salah is off to AFCON after Liverpool host Brighton this weekend, a game that may not see the right winger grace the field. It may be farewell.

Liverpool's plans to replace Salah

Regardless of this developing Salah conundrum, Liverpool plan to sign a wide forward in 2026. Cody Gakpo has flattered to deceive on the left, and Luis Diaz was not directly replaced after his summer sale to Bayern Munich.

Liverpool also need a centre-back, but the urgency for a prolific winger is clearly getting more intense, and that’s why the Merseysiders have been confirmed to be leading the race for Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, who has a £65m release clause in his contract that becomes active in January.

According to Caught Offside, Liverpool have agreed personal terms with the 25-year-old ahead of the winter window, though there is no confirmation over Semenyo’s movements as Manchester City press too.

This is boiling down to something of a jousting match between the English heavyweights, and it’s a battle FSG cannot afford to lose, with the versatile forward having the potential to be Liverpool’s new version of Luis Suarez.

Why Semenyo would be Liverpool's new Suarez

Semenyo, clearly, is not a similar player to Suarez, one of the greatest central strikers of his generation. But the Ghana international is a potent attacking threat and he has been named the “best winger in the country” by pundit Chris Waddle after posting six goals and three assists for Bournemouth this season.

Recognised by teammate Justin Kluivert for being a “world-class” player, so consistent in the final third, Semenyo is clearly itching to take the next step in his career and establish himself for a European heavyweight, and in this, he could make a talismanic introduction in the same vein as Suarez back in January 2011.

Let’s explain. Suarez arrived from Ajax as a raw and talented number nine, but few felt he had what it took to step into Fernando Torres’ boots. The iconic Spaniard forced his way out of Liverpool and signed for Chelsea in a contentious, record-breaking transfer. There he flattered to deceive.

Semenyo could echo this, arriving halfway through the campaign and making headway in Salah’s stead. The circumstances differ, but the Egyptian King is a heralded figure, and he will need someone capable to come in and take his spot, firing Liverpool back into the ascendancy.

Matches (starts)

13 (12)

11 (11)

Goals

4

6

Assists

2

3

Shots (on target)*

2.5 (0.8)

2.4 (1.4)

Big chances missed

6

5

Accurate passes*

21.5 (75%)

19.8 (78%)

Chances created*

2.2

1.0

Succ. dribbles*

0.8

1.6

Tackles*

0.2

1.7

Duels won*

2.3

6.5

Could Semenyo reach the same Suarez-esque level? It is impossible to say, though, how often have we seen a talented star need that level-up at a prominent outfit to unlock the extent of their potential?

The Uruguayan was one of the best in the world, but he started somewhere, and Salah did too, with the winger struggling at Chelsea before making his name in Italy with Fiorentina and then Roma. It was at Liverpool, though, that he became a superstar.

Liverpool football club have an incredible ability to come together during tough patches. It’s never quiet down Anfield Road, and while the Suarez sale felt like the beginning of the end times way back when, it actually precipitated the club’s golden period of modern times.

Jurgen Klopp enjoyed years of illustrious success with Salah as his talisman, but now, the Reds are into a new era, and though the circumstances are unsavoury, the veteran will not be plying his trade for the club forever.

Semenyo would be a fantastic mid-season addition, marking a continuation of Liverpool’s ability to keep on going. When Torres forced his way out, Suarez replaced him and played some of the finest football England has ever seen.

Now, it’s happening again. Semenyo hasn’t reached the top yet, but he has the potential to do so.

He could be captain after Van Dijk: £35m star very keen on joining Liverpool

Liverpool clearly need to fix some defensive problems after a wretched start to the season.

1 ByAngus Sinclair 2 days ago

There have been some outstanding clashes between Liverpool and Manchester City down the years in the Premier League and Champions League, but what are the best?

Arguably the greatest rivalry in English football over the past decade or so, the Reds and the Citizens have locked horns in several title races, as well as meeting in big European and FA Cup games.

In Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola, Liverpool and City had two of the world’s best managers for years, and at their peak, the standard of football in clashes between the pair was unmatched.

The best grudge matches in English football

These teams don’t need to share a postcode to hate each other…

ByBarney Lane Nov 27, 2024

Here are our choices for the seven greatest Liverpool and City meetings – forgive us if you think recency bias has played a part, but there have been some classics in the last few years.

7 Liverpool 3-0 Man City, April 2018 Klopp's Reds stun Pep's City in Europe

When City and Liverpool were pitted against one another in the Champions League quarter-finals in 2017/18, it was a tie that made the rest of Europe sit up and take notice.

Guardiola’s side were cruising in the league, but the Reds had shown that they could hurt them earlier in the campaign, and they stunned their opponents here.

In one of the greatest first-half performances seen at Anfield, Mohamed Salah opened the scoring from close range, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain netted from distance and Sadio Mane headed home, all in front of a delirious Kop.

City looked for a vital away goal in the second half, but Liverpool produced a resolute defensive performance, securing a victory of major intent.

Liverpool's 9 best European nights – ranked

Liverpool have had plenty of wonderful European nights over the years.

ByRoss Kilvington Nov 27, 2024 6 Man City 1-2 Liverpool, April 2018 Liverpool progress in nervy Champions League thriller

In that first leg, Klopp’s men produced a stunning performance, but they knew they still had a lot of work to do in the return fixture.

When Gabriel Jesus fired City in front in the second minute, the Etihad erupted, and Liverpool found themselves on the back foot for the entire first half following a blistering display from the hosts.

The Reds managed to keep the score at 1-0, and as the hosts desperately searched for more goals in the second half, Salah sent the travelling fans wild with a dinked finish on the counter-attack.

Roberto Firmino then put the icing on the cake to seal a memorable 5-1 aggregate triumph.

5 Liverpool 3-2 Man City, April 2014 Coutinho scores memorable winner in pulsating title clash

The oldest game in this list has arguably become a forgotten classic due to there being so many special meetings in the years since.

City’s visit to Liverpool in April 2014 was one of the Reds’ biggest games in their Premier League history as they lay on the cusp of title glory. A victory would be huge – and Brendan Rodgers’ side duly delivered.

When Raheem Sterling (then still a Red) and Martin Skrtel scored first-half goals, Anfield was rocking and truly believing the title was finally heading their way again, but a David Silva strike and a Glen Johnson own goal stunned the home crowd.

There was still time for another twist, with Philippe Coutinho firing home his most important Liverpool goal, and while Jordan Henderson was sent off late on, Liverpool clung to their slender lead.

It was City who would have the last laugh, though, as they won their second Premier League title on the final day of the season.

4 Man City 2-2 Liverpool, April 2022 Nothing separates rivals in relentless Premier League clash

City hosted Liverpool in a massive Premier League encounter in April 2022, taking a one-point lead at the top of the table into the match.

Both knew the importance of victory at the Etihad and how damaging defeat would be, and in the end, both Guardiola and Klopp would have been content with a point apiece.

Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring with a deflected effort to seemingly set City on their way to victory, but Diogo Jota responded before half-time to restore parity. Gabriel Jesus fired the hosts back in front, undoing Liverpool’s hard work.

Mane, playing in his final season at Anfield, stole in behind Kyle Walker to make it 2-2 in clinical fashion, and while both sides huffed and puffed for a winner, the scoreline remained the same. City eventually sealed title glory on the final day following a dramatic comeback at home to Aston Villa.

The best points totals in Premier League history

No room for the Invincibles here…

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 2, 2024 3 Liverpool 2-2 Man City, October 2021 Salah genius lights up Anfield

While the aforementioned 2-2 draw in Manchester in 2021/22 was a great game, this one from six months earlier was even better. In truth, the first half wasn’t exactly the most memorable 45 minutes, but the match came alive after the interval, with the two rivals trading blows spectacularly.

Mane opened the scoring, burying a finish past Ederson after superb work by Salah, but Phil Foden equalised with a ruthless strike of his own.

Salah then scored one of the best goals of his career, weaving past several City challenges before netting from a tight angle with his weaker right foot.

Liverpool desperately tried to cling on for a precious three points, but De Bruyne had other ideas, copying Salah and scoring with his weaker left peg. Rodri superbly denied Fabinho a winner with a crucial block with the Brazilian just about to tap into an empty net, and the scores remained level.

2 Liverpool 4-3 Man City, January 2018 Klopp's Liverpool truly announce themselves to Pep's City

In early 2018, Klopp’s Liverpool showed Guardiola’s City that they were capable not only of matching them, but beating them, as Anfield witnessed a Premier League classic.

Oxlade-Chamberlain opened the scoring with a long-range Kop strike, but a thunderous finish from Leroy Sane ensured that the visitors went in level at the break.

In an unbelievable eight-minute spell in the second half, Liverpool scored three times, with Firmino, Mane and Salah all getting on the scoresheet. The latter was from all of 40 yards out following a poor clearance by Ederson.

In true City fashion, though, they didn’t accept that they were beaten, and late goals from Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan made for a nervy finale. There was even time for Sergio Aguero to hit the side-netting in the dying seconds.

Pep Guardiola's 9 worst defeats at Manchester City – ranked

Pep Guardiola has endured some tough defeats as Manchester City manager, and is now in the worst run of his career.

ByRoss Kilvington Nov 27, 2024 1 Man City 2-1 Liverpool, January 2019 The most high-quality game in Premier League history?

This may surprise some as a pick for No.1, but it gets the nod because there arguably hasn’t been a Premier League game in history played at a higher level.

This meeting at the Etihad in January 2019 saw both City and Liverpool somewhere close to the absolute peak of their powers.

The Reds went into the match seven points ahead of their adversaries, and in hindsight, their failure to avoid defeat ultimately proved costly in this tense title battle with Guardiola’s side.

Liverpool somehow hadn’t taken the lead in the first half when Mane hit the post and John Stones cleared off the line to deny the on-rushing Salah. Aguero then opened the scoring with a brilliant effort, but Firmino finished off an incredible team move to equalise in the second half.

It was left to Sane to separate the two teams, with the German beating Alisson with a shot that went in off the post. The game would be the only one Liverpool lost in the league.

City won the title on the final day, but the Reds had the consolation of sealing Champions League glory.

This was a match that perfectly summed up the level of football these two great sides can produce against each other.

Glasgow Rangers had to settle for a draw in Greece on Thursday evening in their Europa League clash with Olympiacos, relying on Cyriel Dessers to score the equaliser during the second half.

Philippe Clement’s men sit in tenth position in the table, although they still have to play Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in their remaining four fixtures.

At this moment, Europe is considered an afterthought, especially given how poorly the Ibrox side has performed domestically.

Dessers was back on the scoresheet for the second time in five days after his goal against Motherwell in the League Cup semi-final.

Could this be a sign of a resurgence?

Cyriel Dessers' stats against Olympiacos

Danilo was not registered in the European squad, so Dessers was chosen to start against the Greek side.

In true Dessers fashion, he missed two big chances before finally finding the back of the net. The first chance he was through on goal with only the keeper to beat, but fluffed his lines, while the second saw him fire a shot straight at Konstantinos Tzolakis after a cutback from Vaclav Cerny.

He did manage four shots in total during the clash, looking a lot livelier than he had been in recent weeks, while also winning four of his seven aerial duels and being fouled twice.

Goals

1

Touches

36

Big chances missed

2

Possession lost

17

Aerial duels (won)

7 (4)

Total shots

4

Hamza Igamane replaced him with five minutes to go, giving the youngster some precious minutes.

A few other players stood out, none more so than Cerny, who shone on the right flank for the Light Blues.

Vaclav Cerny’s game in numbers vs Olympiacos

A few weeks ago, Cerny was being targeted by a section of the Ibrox support after a few poor displays, which included him missing an open goal in the tie against Lyon.

A month later, the Czech winger has netted five goals and grabbed three assists in his last six matches, showcasing incredible resilience.

Against the Greek side, Cerny not only grabbed the assist for Dessers goal, but he also made five key passes, created two big chances and succeeded with five dribbles from an impressive eight attempts down the right wing.

He looked a menace throughout and if he can maintain this sort of form in the coming weeks, the Gers might just get back to their best domestically.

The winger did lose possession 14 times, but this was the only downside to a display which will further bolster his confidence, no doubt about that.

With a clash against Hearts coming up on Sunday, Clement simply has to keep Cerny in the starting XI, as securing all three points could give the manager some breathing space ahead of the international break next week.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast's Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

A draw against the Europa Conference League winners isn’t a bad result by any stretch of the imagination, but the Light Blues will need to take points off either Spurs or Man United to have a chance of making the knockout stages.

18 y/o gem with over 50 goals in two years training with Rangers first team

He’s been catching the eye with his performances for Rangers B.

ByBarney Lane Nov 7, 2024

Wolverhampton Wanderers secured their first Premier League win of the season yesterday, defeating Southampton 2-0 at Molineux.

Goals from Pablo Sarabia and Matheus Cunha secured the win for Gary O’Neil’s side, putting them just a point off safety after their dismal start in recent weeks.

It gives the 41-year-old an excellent platform to build from going into the third international break of the campaign, potentially being the start of a revival in the West Midlands.

There’s no denying that Brazilian attacker Cunha stole the show in the victory, with his thunderbolt securing all three points – but the same can’t be said for a variety of his teammates despite the win.

It could leave the boss with some crucial calls to make after the international break with one player doing extremely well to retain his place in the starting lineup after his display.

Mario Lemina’s stats against Southampton

Midfielder Mario Lemina started at the heart of O’Neil’s side, lining up alongside Joao Gomes and taking the armband in the process.

However, despite the faith shown in him by the Wolves boss, he was unable to produce an impressive performance, often looking lacklustre and negative in possession.

The 31-year-old Gabonese international may have registered the assist for Cunha’s goal, but it was an all-round afternoon to forget – with Andre needing to be knocking on the door for a start as a result.

Lemina only completed 16 passes at a completion rate of 76%, opting to play three long passes in the process, but was unable to find a teammate with two of those attempts.

He also was dribbled past twice, making just one interception and losing four of the seven duels he entered during the victory.

However, that being said, there was one other Wolves player who failed to impress against Russell Martin’s side – with O’Neil desperately

needing to drop the ace upon the return to action in a couple of weeks.

The Wolves ace who was worse than Lemina

Striker Jorgen Strand Larsen started his 11th consecutive Premier League match after his summer arrival on loan from Spanish outfit Celta Vigo.

He’s registered four goals so far this campaign, only being outscored by Cunha, looking to be an excellent addition and offering the outlet the club have been lacking in recent years.

However, yesterday he struggled massively during the win, featuring for 73 minutes, achieving a tally of just 15 touches – an average of one touch nearly every five minutes.

During his display, he only registered a total of six passes, committing two fouls and winning just one duel – losing a whopping 84% of the duels that he contested.

Minutes played

73

Touches

15

Passes completed

6/9 (67%)

Fouls committed

2

Duels lost

5/6 (84%)

Shots taken

1

Dribbled past

3x

As a result, the 24-year-old was awarded a 6/10 match rating by Sky Sports, the joint-lowest of any player who started the game for O’Neil’s men during the victory.

Whilst Strand Larsen has been an excellent addition since his move, yesterday was by far his worst display – often looking isolated and out of the game for large periods.

Ultimately, he will be lucky to maintain his starting role when Wolves travel to face Fulham upon the return of club football in two weeks time.

Wolves targeted “Europe's most wanted” manager, they got Lopetegui & O'Neil

Wolves almost appointed a leading manager in 2022

ByJoe Nuttall Nov 7, 2024

It's all coming to a head in the Premier League now, with the 2023/24 campaign drawing toward its closing stage and the heat throughout the division intensifying.

Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham Hotspur side recently dispatched Aston Villa away from home to slash their deficit to the fourth-placed team to just two points, and with a game in hand.

While Spurs were dismal for large portions of last season, there has been a refreshing new take under Postecoglou's management that has seen the transfer recruitment polished and the progress on the pitch ramped up, with some entertaining and proactive football to boot.

While the likes of James Maddison, Micky van de Ven, Brennan Johnson and Guglielmo Vicario have been tremendous since completing transfers to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last summer, the club's youthful underbelly speaks of an exciting future fighting for silverware and competing on the continent.

8/10 Spurs star has been even more impressive than Johnson recently

Ange’s side are clicking into gear as they chase down Champions League qualification.

ByAngus Sinclair Mar 12, 2024

While this wave of quality within the Lilywhites academy is far greater and more prolific than anything seen over many years, Tottenham have chugged out a prospect or two over the years (Harry Kane, stand up) but they haven't always been convinced of remaining in north London, with Chelsea winger Noni Madueke a prime example.

Why Spurs let Noni Madueke leave

Days ago, Madueke celebrated his 22nd birthday in London, and while he has yet to cement a regular starting berth for Chelsea after returning to England, he's definitely made some good choices thus far in his career.

Madueke spent much of his teenage years on the Tottenham books, impressing for the academy and even making an appearance back in the 2016/17 U18 Premier League campaign, yet to break into adulthood.

But he departed the club when PSV Eindhoven came calling and detailed in an interview with Sky Sports the reason for making this decision aged just 16.

"Tottenham was a great academy and they’ve got a great development plan. I’d been offered a scholarship agreement at Tottenham but I’d seen a lot of the boys – that were good as well – just kind of get lost in the system and I just didn’t want that for me.

“Going to PSV is not going to harm my development at all and if I’m good enough, I’m going to play quick in the first team, so that was really my mindset. I’m thinking ‘if I jump the queue, I’ll just be better than all my peers because whilst they’re playing Under-18’s and Under-21’s, I’ll be playing against men.”

It's hard to argue that Madueke's thought-out approach to his early development was inauspicious, having caught the eye as one of the Dutch Eredivisie's most promising youngsters after leaving London.

Noni Madueke's transfer value after leaving Spurs

Madueke, despite his youth, posted 20 goals and 14 assists across 80 senior appearances for PSV before leaving, with his performances leading talent scout Jacek Kulig to pronounce him a "wonderkid."

Such displays caught Chelsea's attention around 14 months ago as they looked to combat an abject start to life under Todd Boehly's ownership, and Spurs' London rivals forked out some £29m to snap him up in January 2023.

Spurs made big mistake with £27m flop who's earning more than Van de Ven

This player failed to live up to the hype in the Premier League, albeit with some good moments.

ByAngus Sinclair Mar 13, 2024

Chelsea continue to flatter to deceive and Madueke has not quite enjoyed the return to the capital that he would have envisaged, but he's undoubtedly a top talent and Tottenham might come to regret pushing him toward the exit so soon.

His fleet-footedness and dynamism would be perfect in Postecoglou's system and he certainly offers skill surpassing that of Manor Solomon and Bryan Gil, the latter notably without a single goal or assist in 2023/24.

On a wage of £50k-per-week at Chelsea, Madueke is actually earning the same weekly salary as Van de Ven right now, so were he kept hold of for longer Spurs could have enjoyed his precocity for little expense before, potentially, shipping him out for a lucrative fee.

Or indeed utilising his abilities and bringing him to the fore at an improving and attractive project in N17.

Noni Madueke's Chelsea career so far

Madueke arrived at Stamford Bridge in the middle of a bleak winter, with cash splashed on a slew of stars to shape this new era at Chelsea. It didn't work.

Tottenham did not enjoy a good campaign by any stretch but Chelsea slumped to a 12th place Premier League finish, with 11 victories and 16 defeats.

Madueke was young and untested in English football but he impressed sporadically, starting seven times in the top-flight, scoring once – in a defeat against Arsenal – completing 82% of his passes, averaging 1.1 key passes, 2.8 dribbles and 5.2 successful duels per game, as per Sofascore.

He has the trappings of a real player and Chelsea recognised this, with writer Bobby Vincent speaking of Madueke's potential and the regard that he was held in by the club's powers that be.

The journalist said: "There's a genuine belief from senior officials at Chelsea that the former Spurs youngster can develop into a world-class talent at Cobham. Madueke is a really exciting footballer to watch and he will certainly cause problems for full-backs thanks to his blistering speed, his fearlessness and his directness with the ball at his feet."

The cogs haven't quite meshed together yet but Madueke has some standout qualities that point toward a future of real success, with his core attributes already on show.

As per FBref, he ranks among the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for progressive carries, the top 2% for successful take-ons, the top 1% for touches in the attacking penalty area, the top 17% for tackles and the top 1% for clearances per 90.

But what does that actually tell us? Well, he's got some breakneck pace at his feet, that's for sure, and while he's been neither clinical nor incisive in his goalscoring and playmaking under Mauricio Pochettino's wing, he's deadly on the wing and surges into the danger area with frightening regularity.

Moreover, Madueke is an active defensive member and will always chip in and provide support to his defensive peers, demonstrating the kind of commitment and desire that Postecoglou demands from his players.

1.

Dejan Kulusevski

Tottenham Hotspur

2.

Bernardo Silva

Manchester City

3.

Miguel Almiron

Newcastle United

Had Tottenham given him an opportunity, there's no telling whether he could have garnered a similar fee to the one that pulled him toward Stamford Bridge, but there's no question that a bit more prudence might have been wise, allowing him to complete a series of loan moves to settle his feet on the major stage.

Described as a "mentality monster" by reporter Samuel Isaksson-Hurst in the past, Madueke has everything he needs to find his feet in London, performing from the outset with constancy in the Premier League.

Ruefully, it's a shame it's not going to be with Tottenham.