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Glasgow Rangers don’t return to action until 20 January and Philippe Clement has whisked his squad away to Spain for a midseason training camp.

Having already played 34 times during the first half of the season, the winter break comes at exactly the right time for the Light Blues and will give them a chance to regroup and refocus ahead of the next few months.

With a League Cup trophy secured and progress to the knockout stages of the Europa League, the previous few weeks have been wonderful, but progress never stops, and the Belgian coach will be desperate to win more silverware.

To do this, however, he may need to delve into the transfer market and lure some new players to Ibrox, otherwise his squad may run out of gas towards the end of the campaign.

Rangers transfer news – Josh Doig

Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio (via Toro Goal) announced that Rangers were one of the number of teams keen on making a move for Josh Doig during the January transfer window.

Clement could face stiff competition for the left-back as Torino have reportedly opened up talks to sign the Scot, while AC Monza and Leeds United are two other teams which have been mentioned regarding a potential swoop.

The deal could cost €6m (£5.2m) for whatever team manages to sign him, yet the Gers could perhaps have the upper hand.

Hellas Verona, the team that Doig plays for, are seemingly interested in making a move for Ridvan Yilmaz, according to Di Marzio, and this could play into Clement’s hands rather well this month.

The Turkish defender cost the Light Blues £5m when he arrived from Besiktas during the summer of 2022 and this is around the fee that the Serie A side are wanting for Doig.

Could there be a potential swap deal in the offing should neither side agree on a transfer fee for their respective targets? It might well come down to that, and it could give Clement the perfect opportunity to move the 22-year-old on and bring someone else in.

Ridvan Yilmaz’s Rangers statistics

Giovanni Van Bronckhorst was the manager who brought in the young defender following the 2021/22 campaign as he sought to give Borna Barisic some added competition, especially as Calvin Bassey departed for Ajax.

Upon his arrival, Yilmaz was widely praised by former sporting director Ross Wilson, who said: "Gio and I were clear in our desire to invest in a high potential and high-quality left-back.

"We have now secured that in the signing of Ridvan Yilmaz. He's a talented young player who has been coveted throughout Europe following outstanding performances for Besiktas.”

23.9

24.1

0.7

1.8

1

4

10.8

15.5

2

1

He looked like a wonderful talent and hopes were high that he could eventually displace Barisic and perhaps go down the same route as Bassey and secure the club a major profit in the future.

Unfortunately, his first season didn’t go to plan. The former Besiktas starlet managed to feature just six times before the mid-season break for the 2022 World Cup, while his debut campaign was further disrupted having suffered a hamstring injury in October, and he subsequently missed 29 matches in all competitions.

He finally returned to action towards the end of the season and started all five of their post-split fixtures, thriving under Michael Beale, and it looked as though he could only get better during 2023/24.

The current campaign has seen the 22-year-old start only ten matches and Beale even left him out of the Europa League group stage squad, meaning the Gers had only one senior option at left-back heading into the games.

He has shown glimpses of form under Clement, particularly in the final game before the winter break against Kilmarnock, where he grabbed an assist, created a big chance and provided two key passes in a solid attacking display.

The consistency simply isn’t there, however, and this could give the former Club Brugge coach the licence to ditch him this month and lure Doig back to Scotland, especially as it would boost the homegrown quota for European matches.

Josh Doig’s career statistics

The in-demand talent has plenty of experience in Scottish football, having previously played for Hibernian. The 21-year-old made his debut during the 2019/20 season before firmly establishing himself as a regular the following season, making 35 appearances in all competitions.

His displays convinced Verona to sign him ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, having been given a notable send-off by Hibs hero, Lewis Stevenson at the time, who even likened Doig to a certain Cristiano Ronaldo.

Speaking back in the summer of 2022, Stevenson said: "Josh has potential to go to the top level. He is 6ft 3in, fast, strong. Even just looking at him with his top off – without meaning to sound creepy – he looks like Ronaldo, with that kind of physique.

"He just is an athlete and that is half the battle nowadays. Everyone here wishes him all the best"

Like the former Juventus man before him, the 6 foot 3 defender is currently shining in Serie A, ranking in the top 7% when compared to players in Europe’s top five leagues for successful take-ons per 90 (1.69) and in the top 21% for total shots per 90 (0.94), certainly proving he is a valuable attacking outlet from the left-hand side of the defence.

His defensive abilities have also improved during his spell in Italy and in the league this term, Doig has only been dribbled past on 0.4 occasions per game while he has won 3.1 total duels per game – a success rate of 53% – and there is no doubt he could be an excellent addition to the current Gers squad.

Rangers could sign Barisic replacement in Josh Doig

Rangers could sign a dream Borna Barisic replacement in Hibernian starlet Josh Doig.

Young, homegrown and with a wonderfully “high ceiling” – as so dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig last January – the signing makes perfect sense, and he would be returning to Scotland a much better player than when he left in the summer of 2022.

With Yilmaz struggling to gain regular game time combined with Barisic’s contract expiring this summer, the left-back area is one of immediate concern for Clement.

He could solve this problem by allowing Yilmaz to join Verona this month and securing the services of Doig in return, and it would be a piece of transfer business which could go down rather well with the supporters.

There are still a few weeks to go before the window shuts, and it gives the 49-year-old coach a chance to assess his options, yet Doig clearly has the potential to further improve and become a mainstay at left-back in the coming years, that’s for sure.

Nottingham Forest have swung their managerial axe this term and new boss Nuno Espirito Santo is now set to make a big decision at The City Ground, according to a report.

Nottingham Forest appoint Nuno Espirito Santo

Despite being cherished by the local public, Steve Cooper was recently sacked by Nottingham Forest after going six matches without a victory in the Premier League.

Announcing his decision to sack the Welshman, Tricky Trees owner Evangelos Marinakis said in a statement cited by Sky Sports News: "Everyone at Nottingham Forest would like to thank Steve for his superb contribution to our football club. His achievement in guiding Forest back to the Premier League will undoubtedly remain an iconic moment in the club's history."

He then added: "We thank Steve for his dedication and commitment during his time with us, as well as the incredible connection he forged with our supporters and the city of Nottingham. Steve will always remain a friend of the club and will forever be welcome at The City Ground. We wish him well in his future endeavours."

Nottingham Forest eye January move to bring "amazing" player to City Ground

Forest want to strengthen a key position.

BySean Markus Clifford Dec 13, 2023

At present, the Reds sit 17th in the divisional standings with 14 points from their opening 17 matches and are five ahead of Luton Town, who sit directly below, albeit with a game in hand over their relegation rivals.

Marinakis has moved swiftly to bring in former Wolverhampton Wanderers boss Nuno to help steady the ship at the City Ground. The Portuguese manager has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at his new employers and will take on Bournemouth this weekend in his first fixture in charge.

Now, the 49-year-old looks set to make a big decision at Nottingham Forest that could help to shape part of his dealings in the January transfer window, according to a report.

Nottingham Forest could terminate Divock Origi's deal…

According to reports in Belgium, via Sport Witness, Nottingham Forest could look to terminate Divock Origi's loan deal and use any funds gained from his excess wage expenditure to try and "buy a striker" in the January window.

Divock Origi's key statistics in the Premier League (Sofascore)

Goals

0

Assists

0

Total expected goals

0.17

Shots on target per game

0.1

Total expected assists

0.16

Touches per game

6.5

The report claims that the Belgium international's entourage are "looking for a solution" that will suit all concerned. At the time, the deal to take Origi to Nottingham Forest included an option-to-buy clause; however, it has become clear that he will not sign permanently at the City Ground upon the conclusion of his temporary deal.

Undoubtedly, Origi has had a hard time of things since becoming a Nottingham Forest player and his performances have not been up to scratch, evidenced by the fact he has achieved a match rating of 5.98/10 in the Premier League this campaign (Origi statistics – WhoScored).

With Nuno's reign underway at the Tricky Trees, it looks like his relationship with Origi will be short-lived as both seem likely to go their separate ways in January.

Celtic are considering a move to bring a new goalkeeper to the Scottish Premiership in January, according to a fresh report.

Celtic's season so far

The Hoops have made a remarkable start to the domestic campaign having won 11, drawn three and lost none of their opening 14 games, meaning that they currently find themselves clear at the top of the table ahead of their rivals Rangers.

Whilst Brendan Rodgers doesn’t necessarily need to enter the market to improve his squad given their outstanding form, Joe Hart and Scott Bain will both have reached the expiration of their deals at the end of the season (Celtic contracts), so the manager could do with discovering the availability of goalkeepers.

Celtic signal January transfer plans; Rodgers convinced he can land targets

Celtic are keen to strengthen in January to give them an edge in the hunt for the Scottish Premiership title…

BySean Markus Clifford Nov 26, 2023

Back in 2018, Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin put pen to paper at the Bernabeu Stadium, but during that time, he’s been sent out on three loans to CD Leganes, Real Valladolid and Real Oviedo, showing how low down in the pecking order he is under Carlo Ancelotti (Transfermarkt – Lunin statistics).

The Ukraine international is typically his manager’s third-choice shot-stopper behind Thibaut Courtois and Kepa Arrizabalaga when all members of the trio are fully fit, and with his terms set to run out upon the conclusion of the current campaign (Real Madrid contracts), the 24-year-old has been highlighted as a target at Parkhead.

Celtic eyeing swoop for Andriy Lunin

According to The Daily Record, Celtic are contemplating a move for Lunin at the start of next year, and there's a chance that he could be made available due to his lack of game time and minutes at Real Madrid.

“Real Madrid's backup keeper Andriy Lunin might just be available in January despite a recent run in the team. Record Sport understands he's one of the keepers under consideration at Celtic and while his recent prominence at Real might suggest he'll be a tricky man to land, Carlo Ancelotti dropped a hint that his stint in the team is coming to an end this weekend.”

Lunin could be a "top goalkeeper" for Rodgers

Since the start of his career, Lunin has kept 37 clean sheets from 112 games. Standing at 6 foot 3, Real Madrid’s colossus has made 15 saves from 17 shots on target against this year, giving him a save percentage of 88.2% (FBRef – Lunin statistics), which is higher than the 72% that Hart has managed so far this season (FBRef – Hart statistics), showing that he’d be an upgrade on the existing number one.

Sponsored by Nike, the Ukrainian additionally ranks in the 98th percentile for penalty saves so he has an excellent record when it comes to spot kicks, making him a really well-rounded player and one who would surely decide the odd cup fixture here and there too.

According to Carlo Ancelotti, Lunin is a “top goalkeeper” between the sticks, so if the right opportunity was to present itself, Celtic have to fully pursue a deal for their target by trying to fend off interest elsewhere and secure his services in January.

When Jurgen Klopp took the helm at Liverpool in 2015, few foresaw the magnitude of his appointment and the far-reaching effects it would have on a city desperate for more.

Of course, Liverpool is separated by a contrast of colour, a schism slicing red and blue, but while Everton have been moored in the murky abyss over recent years, the Reds have risen to the fore and secured silverware across a multitude of fronts, notably winning the Champions League and the Premier League in successive seasons.

It hasn't been without a hitch, with the 2020/21 season's slide from title contention a by-product of mounting injuries and the absence of support due to coronavirus restrictions.

And, who could forget, the misery of last season, when a team so mighty suddenly felt startingly sapped of its life and energy, with ageing legs and many years as a unit starting to take its toll, and the intense, high-octane nature of Klopp's system suddenly wasn't implemented in a befitting manner.

Moves were made over the summer, however, to devise an apt solution, which came in the form of a comprehensive midfield restructure. Out with the old; in with the new.

While the Anfield side watches from afar as teams compete in the Champions League, the Europa League presents an opportunity to glean the final piece of elusive silverware to have escaped Klopp's clutch.

And while the current Liverpool team is altered from the imperious outfit of several years back, it undoubtedly boasts enough talent to emulate Klopp's former feats.

Amid all of the alteration, Trent Alexander-Arnold remains at the centre of the project, having graduated from the academy and served as one of the fulcrums of the Klopp era.

How good is Trent Alexander-Arnold?

Ever since an 18-year-old, Alexander-Arnold fired home a free-kick against Hoffenheim in a 2017/18 Champions League qualifier, the Liverpool support have known that they hold a gem in their hands.

And he has indeed proved to be a glittering sensation for his boyhood club, having played an important role in every piece of silverware won under Klopp's leadership, earning praise for his devastating delivery and passing prowess.

Having now completed 280 appearances for his outfit, Liverpool's vice-captain has plundered 16 goals and 73 assists and is regarded to have "qualities that are not far off Lionel Messi" by talkSPORT's Tony Cascarino, who was referencing his ball-playing skills.

As per FBref, he ranks among the top 3% of full-backs across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for assists, the top 4% for shot-creating actions, the top 1% for attempted passes and the top 6% for progressive passes per 90 – very much one of the foremost creators in the game.

Player

No. of assists

Steven Gerrard

92

Mohamed Salah

62

Steve McManaman

58

Trent Alexander-Arnold

55

Andy Robertson

53

The £180k-per-week full-back has cemented himself among the most creative players in world football, let alone Liverpool's squad, and his particular set of skills would be welcomed by the lion's share of European outfits.

Given that he went on a remarkable purple patch in the late days of the 2022/23 season, clinching seven assists across his final ten outings of the Premier League campaign, to take his total tally to ten, it's interesting that a former Liverpool flop managed to equal his tally.

Ryan Kent barely made a scratch at Anfield before moving on after a sole showing, but he has since forged a praisable career for himself.

Why did Liverpool sell Ryan Kent?

In 2019, Liverpool sold Kent to Rangers for an initial £6.5m with a further £1m attainable through add-ons, ending a lengthy stay on Merseyside after joining the Reds aged seven and progressing through the academy.

Long admired for his pace, trickery and effectiveness across both wings, Kent only earned one senior appearance for the club – having scored nine goals and provided six assists across 30 outings for the development squad.

Spending the majority of his early days as a professional out on loan, the Ibrox side sealed a one-year loan deal in 2018 while he was 21 years old, which proved to be the key point of significance in his career so far.

Kent had just won the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award during his loan stay with the Gers, having posted six goals and assists apiece from just 21 starts in the Scottish Premiership that year.

In fairness, Liverpool were probably right to sell Kent, talented as he may be, he did not boast the full gamut of qualities requisite for success under Klopp's ambitious tutelage, and the monetary reward for his sale was well worth the sanction.

Had he remained at the club, inescapably in the shadow of players such as Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, basking in the light would simply have been impossible, and he would have languished during a time when kickstarting his career was the most auspicious move.

How is Ryan Kent performing now?

Having spent five campaigns at Ibrox, Kent joined Turkish giants Fenerbahce on a free transfer after his Rangers contract expired in the summer.

So far, he has been used sporadically but has still posted a goal and two assists from just five starting showings across all competitions.

Once hailed as a “wizard” by former teammate Leon Balogun, the 26-year-old had been an implacable offensive weapon for Rangers, finishing his time at the club with 33 goals and 56 assists from 218 displays, winning the Premiership and Scottish Cup for his travails.

Last season, he secured ten assists himself, matching Alexander-Arnold's seasonal collection; now, of course he does not boast the same level of creative genius as the Liverpool phenom, but it is an illustration of his quality.

Evidently, Liverpool do not miss Kent and have done just fine since his departure, but it is pleasing to witness the increase in quality stemming from the club's academy across recent years, with other stars such as Raheem Sterling, Anthony Gordon and Jack Harrison enjoying themselves in the Premier League after once playing their early days at the side.

And while Kent's creativity deserves applause, he's no Alexander-Arnold, and Liverpool will count their lucky stars that time and energy was invested in nurturing the 25-year-old into the player that he is today.

He’s ranked ninth in the world. He’s regarded as one of the best in any format. But maybe because he is about to play only his 50th ODI that Kagiso Rabada is yet to feel like a leader.So sharp has Rabada’s rise in world cricket been, that it is easy to feel as if he’s been around for years. But although only 23 – routinely winning matches for South Africa, including the first ODI against Sri Lanka where he took four wickets – Rabada still lacks experience on any normal scale.In an attack featuring 22-year-olds Andile Phehlukwayo and Lungi Ngidi, as well as 28-year-old left-arm wristspinner Tabraiz Shamsi, a leader is what Rabada is, even if he doesn’t feel that way.”I have not come to grips with the fact that I am the leader,” Rabada said ahead of the second ODI in Dambulla. “I don’t see it that way. I have a responsibility towards the team as the opening bowler. Of all the bowlers, I have got the most experience along with Shamsi. If you look at it that way, we are sort of leading. I don’t see myself as a much of a leader – all I know is that I have got some responsibility. If someone wants help, then I am all out to give that.”Rabada had been South Africa’s most penetrative bowler in the Test series, but even he had been neutralised to an extent on those dusty tracks. If Sunday’s pitch is any indication, however, the limited-overs matches on this tour are likely to be played on surfaces that offer more to the quicks.On Sunday, Rabada used the short-of-a-length delivery effectively, as he blasted out three top-order batsmen in his first spell. “The Test match pitches were completely different – they were just sand pits,” Rabada said. “It’s different now because the pitches have good bounce. It’s more like a usual one-day wicket.”So long as he stays fit, Rabada is a near certainty in South Africa’s squad for the World Cup next year, but he personally isn’t looking that far ahead. South Africa have a busy ODI schedule before they go to England for the tournament, and coaches have stressed that there is plenty of time remaining to gear themselves up for the big event.”At the moment it’s too early to think about the World Cup. We are working and thinking about this series. That is the priority. You will be working towards the World Cup, and you want to get to a certain level at the World Cup. But right now thinking about how we need to play here.”

When it rains it pours for Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag's men likely still licking their wounds following the weekend's dismal 3-1 defeat at home to high-flying Brighton and Hove Albion – a result that has contributed to the club's worst-ever start to a Premier League season.

With three defeats from five so far, ahead of Wednesday's trip to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League, things on the pitch are going about as well as they are off it, with the former Ajax boss also having to deal with the banishment of both Antony and Jadon Sancho at present.

Those woes have only been heightened by the ongoing injury crisis which has engulfed the club, with the likes of Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat currently sidelined – the latter man having yet to feature since his deadline day arrival.

It is in the defensive ranks, in particular, where the Red Devils currently look particularly depleted, as Ten Hag is set to be without Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia for the foreseeable future, while Raphael Varane has also been absent in recent weeks.

That dearth of options has now been compounded by the news that resurgent right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka is also set to be sidelined over the next two months or so, with the Englishman having sustained a hamstring injury during his brief, late substitute appearance against the Seagulls.

How good has Wan-Bissaka been this season?

After initially enjoying just four minutes of action in the first half of the 2022/23 campaign – sparking speculation that a January exit could be on the cards – it is fair to say that 2023 has been the year of 'The Spider', as he has enjoyed a remarkable return to form of late.

The former Crystal Palace man appears to be in line for a new contract extension such has been his renaissance since the World Cup break, having notably been one of the few bright sparks in the current campaign, providing one assist and averaging 83% successful dribbles per game as a marker of his improved attacking displays.

The 25-year-old was particularly impressive in the win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on the opening weekend after teeing up Raphael Varane for the game's winning goal, having been a 'good performer' on the day, according to Manchester Evening News journalist, Samuel Luckhurst.

For such a promising beginning to the season on an individual basis to be halted by injury will be of real frustration to both the full-back and Ten Hag, with the Dutchman now needing to consider just how he can replace the stricken star moving forward.

Who can replace Wan-Bissaka at Man United?

Of course, the obvious candidate to take on that starting role is Diogo Dalot, with the Portuguese right-back having been deployed in that berth on Saturday after Wan-Bissaka was hampered due to illness.

Games

26

19

Starts

24

16

Goals/Assists

3

0

Tackles and interceptions (per game)

3.5

3.3

Total duels won

65%

55%

Key passes (per game)

1.1

0.8

Avg. match rating

7.05

6.98

While that is the former Porto man's natural role, the 24-year-old has also been forced to cover at left-back this season due to the loss of both Malacia and Shaw, with it likely that he may be asked to slot into that unorthodox role over the coming weeks, if Sergio Reguilon fails to perform.

That latter man did initially impress on debut against Roberto De Zerbi's side after producing a lively, attacking display, although as Luckhurst noted, the Spaniard was 'exploited' for the game's opening goal, while his 'rustiness was apparent in the second half'.

There may be a case to be made that Dalot could shift over to the left to provide greater defensive security, while the right-back vacancy could be taken over by a promising academy talent, despite Ten Hag's prior claim that Sofyan Amrabat can fill in at full-back.

With the Moroccan international needed to help aid United's midfield woes – with that department branded as "non-existent" during the win over Wolves by Gary Neville – Ten Hag would be better served prising Habeeb Ogunneye from the youth set-up instead.

Who is Habeeb Ogunneye?

With the Old Trafford outfit having allowed promising Spaniard and FA Youth Cup-winning defender, Marc Jurado to join Espanyol on a permanent deal this summer, it is young Ogunneye who has stepped up to replace the 20-year-old in the U21 side.

The London-born teenager – who previously made 18 appearances for the U18's, assisting three goals – has played in all four Premier League 2 games so far this term at right-back, while also starting in the EFL Trophy clash with Stockport County last month.

That outing against senior opposition showcased the full array of the 17-year-old's talents, as he made two tackles and two interceptions as a sign of his defensive prowess, while also providing one key pass as a marker of his ability in an attacking sense, as per Sofascore.

It is that threat going forward that has particularly caught the eye in recent times, with the Englishman appearing to possess the ability to simply glide past opponents when carrying the ball out from defence.

Of course, attempting to replicate such displays in the senior ranks is a difficult task, although Ogunneye can likely take inspiration from the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, two teenagers who have already forced their way firmly into Ten Hag's plans.

It may seem too hasty to already be thinking about plunging a 17-year-old into the backline, but with injuries mounting at the Theatre of Dreams, the experienced tactician may have little choice but to put his faith in the gifted and emerging superstar.

With rumours already rife that the United boss is keen to strengthen at right-back next summer – with Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremie Frimpong one name to have been mentioned – he could potentially save the club millions by unearthing an exciting academy prospect such as Ogenneye over the coming weeks and months.

The South Africa fast bowler was punished for a level two breach of the ICC’s code of conduct, when he brushed against Australia captain Steven Smith’s shoulder while celebrating a wicket

Firdose Moonda12-Mar-2018Kagiso Rabada will not play any further part in the ongoing series against Australia after he was found guilty of a level 2 code of conduct offence. The incident took place on Friday when the South African fast bowler made physical contact with outgoing batsman Steven Smith.Rabada received three demerit points, taking his total to eight within 24 months. According to the ICC’s rules, that activates a suspension of two Test matches.CSA and Rabada have 48 hours to decide whether to will appeal the decision and are seeking legal counsel to that end. Should they opt to appeal, the ICC then has 48 hours to appoint a judicial commissioner to hear the appeal, which must take place within seven days of the commissioner’s appointment. In total, the whole process can take a maximum of 11 days. But the third Test in 10, which should rule Rabada out, even if he appeals successfully.There is a chance, though, that CSA could present an argument to the judicial commissioner to allow Rabada to play while the appeal is pending. If the commissioner agrees, that could open the door for Rabada to be part of the XI at Newlands.Rabada was found guilty of a Level 2 ICC code of conduct offence for ‘inappropriate and deliberate physical contact with a player,’ and fined 50% of his match fee by match referee Jeff Crowe. The 22-year old had come under the scanner in the 52nd over of the Australian first innings, when he trapped Smith lbw. In celebration, Rabada screamed “yes, yes, yes,” in Smith’s face and then brushed his shoulder as he went through to the slips.Though Rabada maintained he did not feel any contact at the time, Crowe felt otherwise. “I found that there was contact between Rabada and Smith, and in my judgement the contact by Rabada was inappropriate, and deliberate. He had the opportunity to avoid the contact, and I could not see any evidence to support the argument that the contact was accidental,” he said. “It is also disappointing that this has happened the day after the pre-match meeting I had with both teams, where the importance of respect for opponents was highlighted.”The briefing Crowe referred to took place after an incident-filled first Test, after which three players were charged with disciplinary breaches. Nathon Lyon earned a demerit point and was fined 15% of his match fee for a Level 1 offence while David Warner and Quinton de Kock were involved in a stairwell stoush which escalated to unpleasant levels involving personal insults. They were fined 75% and 25% of their match fees respectively with Warner receiving three demerit points and de Kock one.The nature of the de Kock-Warner spat opened a debate about sledging and Crowe took it upon himself to address the captains and team managers about their behaviour on the eve of the Port Elizabeth Test, where he stressed the need for players to avoid bans.”The conversation we had with the match referee after the Durban Test – he was telling us that it’s important for the rest of the series that we don’t just get players out of matches,” Faf du Plessis said at the post-match press conference. “Obviously talking about Davey Warner’s issue, that he still wanted to keep him in the series. Level three would have been suspension straight away. So I just said I would like the same to apply to KG [Rabada].Faf du Plessis and Kagiso Rabada’s love extended into the press conference•Getty Images

“The charge against KG is a level 2 with three demerit points, and the charge against Davey is a level two with three demerit points. For me, if you look at those incidents, one is brushing of the shirt, the other is a lot more aggressive. My question was: why are both these incidents labeled the same? For me they are not. The contact was very minimal, it was a shirt flick of two players and you would get one or two demerit points as a slap on the wrist because it wasn’t full body contact. But that’s where I’m sitting as a player, not as an official.”The difference lies in the players’ track records. Warner had to be physically restrained from de Kock and could have faced a level three charge but it was his first offence under the current demerit points system and so received the lesser sanction. Rabada also only faced a level two charge but was carrying five demerit points into the match. South Africa carried hope that Crowe would not rule Rabada out of the series, but the trend of repeat offences worked against them.”I take no pleasure in seeing a player suspended, particularly a young player of Kagiso’s talent, but he has now breached the ICC Code of Conduct on a number of occasions,” Crowe said.Rabada also admitted guilt in a separate charge – brought against him in the same match – for his send-off of David Warner on Sunday. He had violated clause 2.1.7 of the code of conduct, which relates to “using language, actions or gestures which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon his or her dismissal” and was a further 15% fine of his match fee. That means he will only take home 35% of the fee for this Test – and an additional demerit point bringing his total to nine. The next threshold for sanctions is 12, which would result in a three-Test ban.Rabada was not the only one in trouble after the second Test. Australia’s Mitchell Marsh accepted a Level 1 charge after violating section 2.1.4 of the code for “using language or gesture that is obscene, offensive or insulting during an international match,” and was fined 20% of his match fee. Marsh was caught on television saying “f*** you, c***” to Rabada after he was dismissed in the first over of the fourth morning.While it may be hoped the dust settles during the break, with three code of conduct violations on each side and the series poised at 1-1, tempers may still flare in the next two matches. Both Smith and du Plessis have endorsed an aggressive, engaging style of play but du Plessis called for consistency in applying sanctions and allowance for personality to come through.”Everyone asks for consistency. One match referee or umpire interprets in another way. For me, if you make it so sensitive, guys will interpret it the wrong way, that’s why I think we’re just going too far on the sensitive side, because every incident on the cameras it’s, ‘Did you see that? Did you see that? Did you see that?'” Du Plessis said. “It’s Test cricket. We as a team have got no issues with the way the Australian team play their brand of cricket. It’s good for the game of Test cricket. People talk about where is the future of Test cricket. This, for me, is an important part of Test cricket – the battles that you face. That is KG running in for 15 overs trying to get someone out and eventually when he gets him out, he has to show that passion. Otherwise you could just put a bowling machine and a robot to bat.”

Following their spectacular end to last season, West Ham United have been enjoying a brilliant 2023/24 campaign, and at the halfway point, they find themselves sixth in the Premier League and through to the knockout rounds of the Europa League.

David Moyes has got his side firing on all cylinders, and while losing Declan Rice in the summer was a serious blow, the players bought in to replace him have been fantastic.

That said, with a real chance of more European silverware come May, the Hammers must make full use of the January transfer window, something it looks like they're doing, as the latest name touted for a move to the London Stadium could become their own Marc Guehi: Wolverhampton Wanderers' Max Kilman.

West Ham United transfer news – Max Kilman

According to sports broadcaster and journalist Ben Jacobs, Kilman is now a player to watch for West Ham in the January transfer window, especially if the potential exit of Nayef Aguerd is confirmed.

The Wolves stalwart was a target for Tottenham Hotspur in the summer, but that interest seemingly fizzled out in August after he signed on to a new deal that does not expire until 2028.

This new contract has given the Old Gold some much-needed leverage in any potential negotiations, and as such, Jacobs expects that it could cost the Hammers up to £45m to secure the Englishman's signature this month.

While that would certainly represent a significant investment from the Irons, it might just be worth it to sign a player who Conor Coady described as "outstanding" when he was Wolves captain.

Max Kilman could be West Ham's Marc Guehi

The Premier League is blessed with an abundance of defensive talent; whether it is William Saliba at Arsenal, Virgil Van Dijk at Liverpool, Rúben Dias at Manchester City or even Sven Botman at Newcastle United, you cannot move for talented centre-backs in the top-flight.

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Yet, one exemplary talent often gets overlooked in such discussions: Crystal Palace's vice-captain, Guehi.

The young Englishman has been instrumental in the Eagles' steady Premier League existence over the last few years and has even won nine senior England caps.

So, the fact that he is viewed as the number one most similar player across Europe's top five leagues by FBref should excite the West Ham faithful, as if the "underrated" Kilman, as described by journalist Jacqui Oatley, ends up performing anywhere close to the level of the Palace star, then they'll have a real gem on their hands.

Position

Player

Club

1

Marc Guehi

Crystal Palace

2

Maxence Lacroix

Wolfsburg

3

Montassar Talbi

Lorient

4

Logan Costa

Toulouse

5

Diogo Leite

Union Berlin

That said, what are the similarities between the pair, aside from the obvious nationality and positional comparisons?

Well, it is in their underlying numbers that you will see most clearly the areas in which they are similar, although the extent to which their numbers match up is quite surprising.

For example, when it comes to non-penalty expected goals and assists per 90, their figures are just 0.01 apart; it is the same story for shots and almost the same for passes received.

Stat per 90

Kilman

Guehi

Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Assists

0.07

0.06

Progressive Carries

0.70

0.58

Shots

0.25

0.26

Passing Accuracy

82.5%

87.0%

Tackles

1.30

1.26

Interceptions

1.00

0.79

Clearances

4.70

4.37

Touches

69.3

67.3

Passes Received

46.9

44.7

Ball Recoveries

5.85

5.42

All Stats via FBref for the 2023/24 Domestic Season

Moreover, the statistical similarities carry over to their defensive metrics, with Kilman, whom Jacqui Oatley dubbed as "pure class", producing 1.30 tackles per 90, while his Palace counterpart produces 1.26, and both make over five ball recoveries per 90 as well.

Ultimately, while £45m is undoubtedly a lot of money for a centre-back, his striking similarities to the incredible Guehi should be more than enough to convince West Ham to pull the trigger on this one.

Wrexham have highlighted a second striker who they are interested in signing alongside Jonson Clarke-Harris in January, according to a reliable journalist.

Clarke-Harris interest

Over the summer, Peterborough United’s Clarke-Harris was heavily linked with a move to join the club, although a deal failed to come to fruition before the deadline, with Posh chairman Darragh MacAnthony detailing the reason why during a public interview.

Speaking on The Hard Truth podcast, he said: "Wrexham contacted me and said they were going to make a bid, which was interesting. It might have seemed a strange move for the player, but if they got him, it would probably mean back-to-back promotions for them so I could see the logic.

"Apparently, Hollywood had approved the move, but then they just went quiet. They never came back to me, which was a surprise, especially when I saw who they eventually tried to sign."

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While Phil Parkinson’s side are still interested in their former target, they have identified an alternative should they once again decide against a pursuit of Clarke-Harris in the form of Sheffield Wednesday’s Lee Gregory, with the manager set to be handed the perfect opportunity to bring him to League Two.

The Owls’ 35-year-old will have reached the expiration of his deal at the end of the season (Sheffield Wednesday contracts), so should he not put pen to paper on an extension, whether that's because he isn't offered one or he doesn't choose to sign one, there’s a chance that his club will consider selling him for a cut-price next month.

Wrexham monitoring Gregory

Taking to X, Darren Witcoop revealed that Wrexham are keeping close tabs on Gregory as they weigh up whether to make an approach during the upcoming transfer window, which opens on 1st January.

He wrote: "Wrexham have Peterborough frontman Jonson Clarke-Harris and Sheffield Wednesday striker Lee Gregory on their transfer list. Phil Parkinson is looking to sign one forward to boost their League Two promotion push next month."

Gregory is an "instrumental" squad member

During his time at Sheffield Wednesday, Gregory has 41 involvements – 29 goals and 12 assists – to his name from 101 appearances, highlighting the positive impact he can make in the final third, but he’s also comfortable playing in several other areas (Transfermarkt – Gregory statistics).

Standing at 6 foot 2, Danny Rohl’s target man is a versatile operator having been deployed in five various positions over the grass since the start of his career, including everywhere across the frontline and even slightly deeper on the left side of the midfield, which will no doubt be another attractive attribute.

Gregory’s former teammate at Millwall, Tom Bradshaw, previously hailed the veteran, stating that he was “instrumental” to their success and had even mastered the way a striker should play, so while he’s not getting any younger, he could yet be a bargain of a recruit for Wrexham should they decide to make their move.

There was only one team in it in the second-half, but the Reds' woeful finishing let them down against the reigning champions

Liverpool will be left wondering 'what if?' after missing a plethora of chances that forced them to settle for a 1-1 draw against Manchester City in a match that has huge implications for the Premier League title race. After falling behind in the first half, Alexis Mac Allister converted a penalty early in the second as the home team took control of matters against last season's treble winners, but woeful finishing from the likes of Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez and Dominik Szoboszlai proved their undoing.

It was a frenetic start to the game for Jurgen Klopp's side in the German coach's final Premier League game against Pep Guardiola. Liverpool found it tough to make combinations high up early on as the City defence doubled up on the forwards. The Reds grew into the game after the first quarter of an hour, though, utilising the movement of Nunez and Harvey Elliott, finding a way to bring Conor Bradley and Diaz into play from the wings and allowing Szoboszlai to drift forward through the centre.

Although the home team managed to work the ball into dangerous areas, they simply couldn't hit the target in the first 45 minutes, and fell behind when an intelligent Kevin De Bruyne corner found John Stones free at the front post to ensure City were ahead at half-time.

Klopp's team needed to come out fighting in the second half and were given a break two minutes in when Nunez pounced on a terrible pass back from Nathan Ake and was clattered into by Ederson, allowing Mac Allister to equalise from the resultant penalty. The injury Ederson suffered in the process prevented City from getting any momentum going and Liverpool stayed dominant throughout the half, but their atrocious finishing haunted them as Nunez and Diaz both scuppered great opportunities.

Despite having 19 shots – 12 in the second half – to City's 10, the hosts were forced to settle for a draw, leaving them level on points with Arsenal at the top and Guardiola's team just one behind them, setting all three up for an incredible run-in.

GOAL rates Liverpool's players from Anfield…

GettyGoalkeeper & Defence

Caoimhin Kelleher (7/10):

Kept out City's long-range shots but was beaten from close-range for the opener.

Conor Bradley (7/10):

Showed glimpses of his youth in a frantic start with heavy touches and dodgy movement, but settled in and became an asset defensively and in the build-up.

Jarell Quansah (7/10):

Didn't give much away and read the game fairly well, but most passes went backwards.

Virgil van Dijk (8/10):

His leadership qualities were on show and he was a rock at the back with vital clearances and tackles.

Joe Gomez (6/10):

Had a difficult time on the left side as City always seemed to find a way past him.

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Dominik Szoboszlai (6/10):

A bit too casual defensively but made some invasive runs to find holes in the City defence before he went off at the hour mark.

Wataru Endo (7/10):

Fought hard to win the ball and his quick passes helped get things going from midfield.

Alexis Mac Allister (8/10):

Put in a great shift battling for the ball and pinging quick passes around to cut through City. Did a great job converting the penalty.

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Harvey Elliott (4/10):

Chased the ball up and down the field like a dog but it seemed to just slide past him most of the time.

Darwin Nunez (6/10):

Gave the ball away, was offside far too often and did nothing to track Stones for the first goal. Won the penalty and was better in the second half.

Luis Diaz (5/10):

Went on some great runs but wanted too much time on the ball against a City defence that swarmed him to nullify the threat. His finishing was terrible.

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Mohamed Salah (6/10):

Came on at the hour mark for Szoboszlai and quickly sent Diaz through with a great pass. Livened up the Reds' attack and had a few shots at goal.

Andy Robertson (6/10):

Sent some dangerous balls in from the left wing but Nunez failed to finish.

Cody Gakpo (5/10):

On for the last 15 minutes but could hardly get involved.

Jurgen Klopp (7/10):

His team recovered from a shaky start to take control of the game, but simply couldn't add the finishing touch to their many promising attacks throughout the final 45 minutes.