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This season hasn’t been kind to Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s side have had to deal with a torrent of injuries and comical suspensions, all while they’ve seemingly lost the ability to fashion open-play chances.

It looked like the Gunners were on track for another disappointing result at half-time on Wednesday night after Crystal Palace capitalised on Jakub Kiwior’s mistake to take a 1-0 lead.

Fortunately, Arteta made a raft of changes at the break, and for most of the second half, the hosts were sublime, so to ensure they start the right way away to the Eagles this evening, he must be ruthless and drop one of his starters from the week.

The Arsenal starter Arteta must drop

So, the unfortunate reality is that Arteta could and probably should drop the majority of the players who started against Palace on Wednesday night, but we are talking about Ethan Nwaneri.

Now, the first thing to say is that taking the Hale End gem out of the lineup is not a statement on his quality, as we have seen enough in his short cameos and heard enough from those in the know to know ourselves that the future is incredibly bright for the 17-year-old.

However, similar to his substitute appearance against Everton last Saturday, the Enfield-born dynamo was undeniably ineffective, which has not been said often this season.

Minutes

46′

Goals

0

Assists

0

Touches

31

Passes

16

Key Passes

0

Dribbles (Successful)

3 (0)

Duels (Won)

8 (1)

Lost Possession

8

Shots on Target

0

For example, in his 46 minutes of action, he took 31 touches but completed just 16 passes and failed in 100% of his dribbles, which more than justifies the 6/10 match rating he received from the Standard’s Simon Collings.

Furthermore, dropping him ahead of today’s game is also the responsible thing to do for his own development, as he’s still incredibly young and a must-win, extremely intense away game at Selhurst Park is not the kind of environment Arteta should be throwing him into for no reason.

In all, Nwaneri remains an incredibly exciting talent, but he should be taken out of the firing line tonight, especially when there is another incredible player ready to step back into the lineup.

The Arsenal star Arteta must start

It should come as no surprise that the player we are talking about is, of course, club captain Martin Odegaard.

The Norwegian “wizard”, as dubbed by former footballer Babayele Sodade, didn’t have a great game himself against Everton last weekend, but as journalist Charles Watts said, he completely “changed the game” against Palace.

Despite being on the pitch for just one half, the “sensational” midfielder, as dubbed by The Athletic’s Aaron Catterson-Reid, picked up two assists, played three key passes, completed two dribbles and created two big chances.

It was a fantastic showing from the Drammen-born star and a timely reminder of just how influential he can be on the team when in form.

However, it’s not just his performance on Wednesday that should see the former Real Madrid prospect come straight back into the team; it’s also his overall record of 36 goals and 30 assists in 166 games for the club, combined with his experience and leadership qualities, as Selhurst Park will be rocking under the lights.

Ultimately, Nwaneri still looks like he could be the future of Arsenal, but due to the need to protect him and his somewhat underwhelming display on Wednesday, he should be dropped for the incredibly talented Odegaard.

Shades of Bergkamp: Arsenal target "magical" Odegaard upgrade in £40m star

The sensational talent would be an incredible addition to the Arsenal squad.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Dec 20, 2024

Leeds United extended their lead at the top of the Championship table to two points after they picked up a point away from home against Burnley on Monday night.

The Whites secured a hard-fought draw with the Clarets at Turf Moor, with neither side doing much to test either Illan Meslier or James Trafford throughout the match.

Given that Burnley are also competing for automatic promotion and were in the Premier League last season, it was a good test for some of Daniel Farke’s players to see if they have the credentials to make the step up to the top flight.

Sadly, one player failed to prove that he has what it takes to make the grade if Leeds are promoted to the Premier League for the 2025/26 campaign.

Leeds' biggest underperformer against Burnley

The Dutch forward had a terrific opportunity to prove to Farke, and the supporters, that he can be the difference-maker against a potentially top-flight level defence.

Unfortunately, he became just the latest striker to fail to score past England goalkeeper James Trafford, who has kept 19 clean sheets in 28 matches.

The shot-stopper had an easy evening at Turf Moor, though, because Piroe failed to offer much up against CJ Egan Riley and Maxime Esteve, who dominated him all night.

Minutes

71

Shots on target

0

Key passes

0

Duels won

0/2

Pass accuracy

50% (6/12)

Possession lost

10x

As you can see in the table above, the former Swansea man’s lack of mobility and physicality allowed the Burnley defenders to enjoy a comfortable evening, as he failed to win a single duel and did not make any impact at the top end of the pitch.

It was a chance for Piroe to prove that he has the physical and technical attributes to make the step up to the Premier League, and he failed on both counts – which is why Farke must drop him from the team.

Why Farke should drop Piroe

It was a lethargic and poor display from the Dutch striker and it was his third match without a goal in the Championship, recording just one chance created in those three outings.

In fact, Piroe has only scored six goals in his 19 starts in the second tier, with a further four as a substitute, and this shows that he has failed to offer consistent quality in the final third.

The left-footed attacker has lost a whopping 75% of his duels in the Championship this season, which illustrates his lack of strength in physical battles with opposition defenders, and this means that Leeds are not getting a physical presence or regular goals from him as a starting option.

Piroe does have quality as a finisher, as shown in the clip above and by his ten goals from 7.05 xG, but his all-round game and lack of athleticism, as shown in the draw with Burnley, suggests that he does not have what it takes to make it in the Premier League.

Therefore, Farke should drop the Dutchman in the short-term, given his recent performances, whilst also considering what to do with the number nine position heading into next season.

Raphinha repeat: Leeds lining up move for a star who was once worth £59m

Leeds are reportedly one of a number of clubs interested in a deal to sign the midfielder.

ByDan Emery Jan 27, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur were dumped out of the FA Cup by Manchester City on Friday night as Nathan Ake's controversial late goal secured the win for the visitors.

Ruben Dias blocks on Guglielmo Vicario went unpunished and that allowed the Dutch central defender to prod the ball into the back of the net from close range.

There were positives to come out of the match for Ange Postecoglou, though, and one of them was the return of James Maddison, who came off the bench during the second half, from injury.

The England international made his first competitive appearance for Spurs since the 6th of November, against Chelsea in the Premier League.

He has been a terrific addition since his summer switch from Leicester City as an outstanding creative force in the middle of the park for Tottenham.

Daniel Levy and Postecoglou could provide the English wizard with another quality operator to create chances for if they are able to land another striker to the squad before the deadline passes on Thursday this week.

Tottenham's search for a striker

One exciting marksman who has been linked with a possible move to North London is Besiktas and Turkey U19 number nine Semih Kilicsoy

Turkish outlet Fanatik reported earlier this month that Spurs are one of a number of clubs keeping tabs on the talented young centre-forward.

The outlet stated that Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund, and Napoli are also monitoring the 18-year-old attacker as they eye up a possible swoop for his services.

They claimed that scouts from several European sides came to watch the promising talent in action in January, with the teenage whiz breaking into the first-team squad with the Turkish giants this season.

According to Milliyet, via TurkishNewsWorld, Besiktas will demand a fee of at least €25m (£21m) from any of the interested parties to part ways with Kilicsoy this month.

This would be a club-record departure for the Super Lig side as it would be €2.5m more than the €22.5m they received from Premier League side Everton back in the summer of 2018.

The report suggests that their staggering valuation of the teenage starlet speaks to how highly they rate him and his potential to improve over the years to come.

It, however, remains to be seen whether Spurs are prepared to go in with an offer for his services during the current window or if they will wait until the summer to make a move. There is also no mention in either of the reports if any sides are willing to meet Besiktas' £21m valuation of the young finisher.

If Levy can secure a deal for Kilicsoy, though, then Tottenham could bring in a lethal partner for Maddison in the final third, based on his impressive form for Besiktas at youth and senior level.

Maddison's immense creativity for Spurs

The 27-year-old magician is a striker's dream because he has the quality and vision to consistently create high-quality chances for his teammates at the top end of the pitch.

A centre-forward playing with Maddison behind them does not have to worry about a lack of service as the attacking midfielder is almost guaranteed to produce an excellent opportunity for them week-in-week-out.

Over the last 365 days, the former Foxes star ranks within the top 2% of his positional peers across the Men's Big Five Leagues and European competitions for shot-creating actions (6.43) per 90, and the top 4% for Expected Assisted Goals (0.37) per 90.

This shows that he has been one of the best creative threats in Europe over the past year, for Spurs and Leicester, with his defence-splitting passes to create shooting opportunities for his teammates.

His form in the Premier League for Tottenham this season has been particularly impressive as he ranks within the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers within the division for shot-creating actions (8.17) and progressive passes (9.91) per 90 respectively.

This shows that he has been an outstanding creator for Postecoglou in the English top-flight, which is why he is a dream for strikers to play with.

Appearances

11

Sofascore rating

7.91

Goals

Three

Assists

Five

Big chances created

Six

As you can see from the table above, Maddison offers goals and assists from a number ten position and Kilicsoy, if Spurs win the race for his signature, could love to play alongside him.

Kilicsoy's impressive goal record

The 18-year-old marksman is in the early stages of his career and it would be a gamble for Tottenham to bring him to England as he is yet to prove himself out of his home country.

However, his impressive goal record for Besiktas and Turkey at youth and senior level suggests that he has the potential to be a lethal partner for Maddison, who has the ability to create plenty of chances for the young number nine.

The teenage dynamo, who analyst Ben Mattinson hailed as a "powerful" player, caught the eye for his club's U19 side with a phenomenal return of 42 goals and six assists in 64 appearances from the 2020/21 campaign through to the end of last season.

He has also excelled for Turkey's youth teams with 21 strikes in 27 outings throughout the U14, U15, U17, and U19 age groups for his country.

That staggering form for the academy team earned him a first-team chance with Besiktas and he has grasped that opportunity with both hands this season.

Appearances

Ten

Sofascore rating

7.36

Expected Goals

2.85

Goals

Five

Assists

Two

As you can see from the table above, Kilicsoy, who was described as a "hidden gem" by the aforementioned Mattinson, is a lethal finisher who has more than made the most of the xG that has been created for him.

This suggests that he has the quality to outperform his xG, which is a sign of a clinical goalscorer, and that is why he could be a fantastic partner for Maddison in the final third.

The current Spurs whiz excels at creating high-quality chances – providing his teammates with big xG opportunities – and Kilicsoy could turn those key passes into assists for the England international with his superb finishing, if he can translate his form over to England.

Therefore, they could form a lethal partnership at the top end of the pitch for Spurs and Levy should push to secure a deal for his services either this month or in the summer.

Glasgow Rangers have enjoyed plenty of wonderful European nights throughout their history, particularly since they made it to the group stages of the inaugural Champions League campaign in 1992/93.

Prior to that, the Light Blues had reached three European Cup Winners’ Cup finals, winning in 1972, but the club’s exploits in the Champions League and Europa League over the last 30 years have enabled a new generation of supporters to see the Gers do well on the continent.

Season

Competition

Opponent

Score

2021/22

Europa League

Frankfurt

Frankfurt 1-1 Rangers (5-4 pens)

2007/08

UEFA Cup

Zenit

Zenit 2-0 Rangers

1971/72

Cup Winners’ Cup

Dynamo Moscow

Rangers 3-2 Dynamo Moscow

1966/67

Cup Winners’ Cup

Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich 1-0 Rangers (aet)

1960/61

Cup Winners’ Cup

Fiorentina

Rangers 1-4 Fiorentina (agg.)

The Light Blues have a great chance of progressing to the last 16 of the Europa League this season. With this in mind, we have taken a look back at some of the finest European nights the Gers have enjoyed since 1992.

8 Rangers 3-2 Braga Europa League round of 32, 2019/20

Following an impressive start to the 2019/20 campaign, Rangers endured a slump following the winter break, allowing Celtic to take the lead in the Scottish Premiership title race.

The Europa League looked like the only salvation as the club prepared to take on Braga in their last-32, first-leg clash at Ibrox in February.

The Portuguese side took a two-goal lead in Glasgow, but with the clock ticking down, Joe Aribo skipped past several defenders to score.

Bedlam ensued minutes later as Ianis Hagi scored a free-kick before the January signing stole the show with a fine individual effort to seal a 3-2 comeback win. Ibrox was rocking, and they went on to win the second leg 1-0 the following week.

7 Rangers 1-1 Inter Champions League group stage, 2005/06

Domestically, the Light Blues were dismal during the 2005/06 season, finishing third in the league. In the Champions League, however, they made history.

They were a different animal in Europe, defeating Porto in the group stages. In order to secure passage to the knockout stages, becoming the first Scottish club to do so in the process, they had to get at least a draw against Inter at Ibrox.

Adriano opened the scoring for the away side before Peter Lovenkrands scored with a neat finish to send the Gers into the last 16, where they ended up losing to Villarreal on away goals.

6 Rangers 2-0 Parma Champions League qualifying, 1999/00

Parma were one of the best teams on the continent in the mid-to-late 90s, and had won the UEFA Cup the season before this Champions League qualifying clash.

Dick Advocaat’s Rangers side sent them packing in the first leg, as goals from Tony Vidmar and Claudio Reyna secured the club’s finest European result in years.

Many expected Parma to respond in the second leg, but they could only win 1-0, thus losing on aggregate.

5 Leeds United 1-2 Rangers Champions League second round, 1992/93

Rangers weren’t given much of a chance against Leeds United during the 1992/93 season as the champions of England and Scotland faced off in a ‘Battle of Britain’ to see who would seal a place in the group stages of the Champions League.

In the first edition of the revamped competition, two rounds preceded an eight-team group stage, where the winners of the two groups would face each other in the final.

Having secured a comfortable 3-0 aggregate win over Danish outfit Lyngby in the first round, the Gers recorded a stunning 2-1 win over Leeds at Ibrox – but better was to come a few weeks later at Elland Road.

A sublime volley by Mark Hateley put the Light Blues in the driving seat before Ally McCoist netted his 29th goal of the season – in November – via a diving header to ensure Rangers won the battle.

In the end, they missed out on the final by a single point. So close, yet so far.

4 Lyon 0-3 Rangers Champions League group stage, 2007/08

This result proved that Rangers could mix it up with the best teams in Europe. Having won their opening game against Stuttgart, the Gers headed to Lyon to face a club who had won their seventh league title in a row.

First-half goals from Lee McCulloch, Daniel Cousin and DaMarcus Beasley sent the French side into a daze, with the Gers looking imperious.

They even secured a point against Barcelona in their next game. The last three games ended in defeat as Rangers slipped into the UEFA Cup, where another journey was about to begin…

3 Fiorentina 0-0 Rangers UEFA Cup semi-final second leg, 2007/08

Slipping into Europe’s secondary competition wasn’t what Walter Smith would have had in mind, but after sending Panathinaikos, Werder Bremen and Sporting CP packing, all that stood between them and the final was Fiorentina.

A drab 0-0 draw at Ibrox was followed by an even worse game in Italy. It was clear the Scottish side were playing for penalties, but when Barry Ferguson missed their first, it looked as though the plan backfired.

However, it was left to Nacho Novo to send the Light Blues into their first European final since 1972, and he dispatched his effort with ease, sending the travelling support delirious.

2 Borussia Dortmund 2-4 Rangers Europa League knockout round play-off, 2021/22

After finishing second in their group, Giovanni van Bronckhorst led Rangers to the knockout play-offs of the Europa League, yet a clash against Borussia Dortmund – who had dropped down from the Champions League – was only expected to end in defeat.

What happened next will surely go down as one of the most emphatic wins in the club’s European history. They raced into a two-goal lead, before adding a third through John Lundstram.

Dortmund pulled one back, but an own goal saw the game finish 4-2 to the away side.

The following week, a 2-2 draw enabled the Light Blues to seal progression to the last 16 – but that wasn’t the end of the story.

1 Rangers 3-1 RB Leipzig Europa League semi-final second leg, 2021/22

The Gers had sneaked through on penalties in their last European semi-final, but that wouldn’t be the case this time.

A 1-0 loss in Germany left the home side with plenty of work to do against RB Leipzig. Goals from James Tavernier and Glen Kamara gave the Ibrox side a 2-0 lead as they edged closer to the final.

It looked as though Christopher Nkunku’s goal would deny them a place in Seville, although Lundstram had Ibrox shaking as he netted what turned out to be the goal that sent the club to a fifth European finale.

The club may have lost the showpiece event, but the journey was extraordinary.

West Ham United insider ExWHUemployee has shared a contract update out of the London Stadium.

West Ham winless in 2024 amid Moyes concerns

Before the turn of 2024, the Irons seemed in pretty great stead, having beaten the likes of Man United and title-contending Arsenal over the Christmas period.

West Ham reject move for "underrated" star after Sullivan intervention

The Hammers received an under-the-radar proposal.

ByEmilio Galantini Feb 8, 2024

Fast-forward to now, and it appears a New Year hoodoo has struck manager David Moyes' squad. The east Londoners are yet to win a single game in all competitions since leaving 2023, and pressure is growing on West Ham's manager to turn the tide.

Moyes recently confirmed that talks are set to resume over a new deal for him to remain at the London Stadium, and he says they are "well down the line" already, yet some reports after his statement suggest otherwise.

Danny Ings

6.16

Nayef Aguerd

6.50

Kurt Zouma

6.54

Vladimir Coufal

6.70

Michail Antonio

6.74

West Ham are said to be exploring Moyes alternatives, in case they opt against extending his stay, so these next few months could well be crucial in determining what the future holds next season.

If Moyes wishes to remain in charge, West Ham's form will have to pick up and very quickly. There have been few standouts in terms of player form, but one man who's really turned a corner is right-back Ben Johnson.

The Englishman has thrived in a more advanced role, and West Ham are attempting to tie Johnson down with a new deal, potentially as a result. His contract expires at the end of this season, alongside youngster Divin Mubama, with Ex sharing an update on both their situations.

West Ham set to fresh Mubama and Johnson contract talks

Speaking on The West Ham Way, Ex says that West Ham are set for fresh talks on new deals for Mubama and Johnson. He adds that these next few weeks will be "very important", as the Hammers attempt to keep both at Rush Green.

“West Ham are set to re-start talks with both Johnson and Mubuma,” stated Ex.

“Johnson has shown recently how important he is to the side, and we understand the talks will resume in the next couple of weeks. Mubuma is the same, he’s a player the club want to retain, so there is hope both deals can be agreed and signed. The club will work to get these done, with the next few weeks very important."

Johnson in particular is a player they should look to tie down as soon as possible, as the 23-year-old has plenty of interest in his services, recently from Leeds United. Former Moyes assistant Stuart Pearce, commenting on the defender a few seasons ago, tipped him for the very top.

"He's a wonderful professional to deal with and work with," said Pearce.

"We're very proud to have him out of our academy system as well, which is a real plus for us, especially with the connection to this club with the academy. I think he's just developing and getting better and better, and like with all young players, the more game time they have, the better they'll get, so I am delighted for the boy."

Having hoisted aloft the League Cup last weekend, Celtic return to Scottish Premiership action this forthcoming Sunday lunchtime at Tannadice.

By defeating Rangers in the League Cup Final, the Hoops now have 119 major honours to their name, one more than their fiercest rivals, boasting more trophies than the Gers for the first time since 1938.

So, as the Celts go in search of three more Premiership points this weekend, they’ll need to stop one of Scotland’s most in-form strikers to achieve this.

Sam Dalby: on fire at Dundee United

If you recognise the name Sam Dalby, perhaps it’s because you’re a fan of the popular Disney+ documentary Welcome to Wrexham, in which the striker arrives from Southend, before scoring eight goals during the 2022/23 campaign, most notably on target when the Welsh club defeated Coventry City in a massive FA Cup upset.

However, having fallen out of favour under Phil Parkinson last season, seeing less than 1,700 minutes of action across all competitions, he joined Dundee United on a season-long loan last summer and, fair to say, this is going rather well so far.

To date, Dalby has eight Scottish Premiership goals his name, all coming during his last nine appearances in the competition.

This includes scoring in four successive matches, most notably heading home the opener during a credible 1-1 draw at Ibrox, before bagging a brace last weekend at Motherwell, albeit in vain, with the Tangerines beaten 4-3 in a thriller at Fir Park.

Nevertheless, Dalby is now the top-scorer in the Premiership, two goals clear of Celtic duo Kyōgo Furuhashi and Callum McGregor, Cyriel Dessers and Václav Černý of Rangers, as well as St Johnstone’s Benjamin Mbunga Kimpioka.

Only twice before has a Dundee United player ended a season as the top-scorer in the top-flight: Kenny Cameron in 1968/69 and Andy Gray in 1974/75.

Chalkboard

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

So, how do Celtic stop Scotland’s in-form striker? Well, they might just have the man to do it!

The Celtic star who can shackle Dalby

At half-time of Sunday’s League Cup Final, with Celtic a goal down and looking lethargic, Brendan Rodgers decided to substitute centre-back Auston Trusty, replacing him with Liam Scales.

Well, within 15 minutes, the Hoops had turned the tie around to lead 2-1, Greg Taylor and Daizen Maeda the scorers, with Scales’ introduction adding extra in-possession security to their play.

In recent months, the Republic of Ireland international has lost his place in the starting XI to Trusty, who’s formed an impressive partnership with fellow United States international Cameron Carter-Vickers, but how do the trio compare?

Statistic

Liam Scales

Auston Trusty

Cameron Carter-Vickers

Appearances

17

16

14

Minutes

1,383

1,356

1,154

Passes attempted

222

482

444

Pass completion %

93.2%

96.3%

94.6%

Tackles won

15

16

13

Interceptions

14

15

15

Blocks

6

5

2

Touches

267

542

470

Aerial duals won %

72.7%

45.8%

78.6%

As outlined in the table, Celtic’s trio of centre-backs all have very similar statistics this season.

We know, based on four seasons of evidence, that Carter-Vickers will start if fit, which he isn’t all of the time in fairness, meaning it’s a straight fight between Scales and Trusty to be his partner.

Of the 47 matches in which they’ve both featured, Carter-Vickers and Scales have won 37 and lost only five, beaten twice by Lazio and at Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, while the other two defeats both came at the hands of Heart of Midlothian last season.

Following the League Cup Final, Rodgers praised Scales, describing him as “brilliant”, adding the decision to introduce him as a substitute was made because “we looked so clunky and couldn’t get through the pitch… I didn’t like that”.

Thus, the Irishman will be hoping to start at Tannadice this weekend, tasked with preventing the Premiership’s leading marksman from adding to his tally.

Rodgers can forget Ferguson by unleashing his own 24-goal Celtic machine

The Celtic B team star has been on fire at youth level so far this season.

1 ByDan Emery Dec 18, 2024

One of the most exciting talents on Leeds United’s books right now is certainly Harry Gray. The 17-year-old centre-forward comes from a long line of Leeds players.

You can trace that back as recently as his brother Archie, who now plays for Tottenham Hotspur, and his grandfather, Eddie, a Leeds legend.

The England under-17 striker is an excellent talent. He’s shone for Leeds’ academy this season, with four goals in four Premier League 2 games, impressive in itself but even more so given he’s playing four years up.

Last season, Gray – who recently put pen to paper on a new deal in Yorkshire – was given his first-team debut by Daniel Farke, although he has not had that opportunity this term.

That might be due to Farke’s reliance on experienced players.

Farke’s reliance on experience over youth

Whilst the Leeds manager gave the youngest Gray brother his first taste of senior football at the end of last season, he isn’t one to turn to youth players a lot.

In fact, when he played former academy star Archie Gray 52 times in 2023/24, that was certainly more of an outlier.

This season, in Leeds’ battle for Premier League survival, Farke has relied on a more experienced group of players. The Whites have the seventh-highest average age in the top flight in 2025/26, at 27.1 years old, according to FBref.

There is only one player under 25 who has made an appearance this season, namely Wilfried Gnonto, who is 21 years of age.

In theory, that experience should certainly help the West Yorkshire outfit in the top flight.

Some players have years of Premier League football under their belt.

Yet, Leeds are just three points above the relegation zone, and things are not really working out for Farke’s experienced squad this season.

Perhaps it is time to take a punt on someone younger, like Gnonto or Gray.

Well, if recent reports are to be believed, Farke could soon be out of a job and replaced with someone who trusts the youngsters.

Why Leeds could benefit from a change of manager

There have been reports this week which have tipped the Whites to replace Farke with Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior. Whilst former Leeds star Aidy White says that the appointment would be a “huge gamble,” there are plenty of merits to the move.

Firstly, the former Hull City manager has an impressive record in Ligue 1. He’s coached 42 top-flight games in France, winning 21, drawing ten and losing the other 11.

His average of 1.74 points per game is a real standout and a testament to his ability to churn out results.

Games

42

Wins

21

Draws

10

Losses

11

Goals for/against

73/54

Points won

73

Average points per game

1.74

The London-born manager is certainly a highly rated coach. Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley said he is “one of the best emerging British coaches,” which he proved during his time in the Championship with Hull.

He guided the Tigers to seventh in 2023/24, including fantastic performances like this. His side narrowly missed out on a playoff spot.

It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Rosenior try and bed the younger players into the first-team fold at Leeds. He is known for trusting those with less experience, as showcased in the average ages of his squad at Strasbourg this season.

The French side have comfortably got the youngest squad in Ligue 1, fielding a side with an average age of just 21.6 years old. However, this is not an anomaly.

The situation at Hull was the same. In his only full year on Humberside, his squad was the joint sixth youngest, with an average age of 25.4.

It is easy to see why Rosenior could be the perfect head coach for someone like Gray. The homegrown star is a talented youngster who is putting up some excellent performances in the academy.

A coach like Rosenior, who values the academy players and the breakthrough stars, could well give him a chance to shine at senior level.

Manager Focus

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If Farke is removed from his post, the Strasbourg boss could be the dream man to take charge and really shake things up at Elland Road.

Leeds star was their best signing since Raphinha, now he's on borrowed time

This Leeds star has fallen out of favour this season under Daniel Farke.

ByJoe Nuttall Oct 23, 2025

Liverpool are flying. Of course, they were held to a draw against Newcastle United on Wednesday evening, dropping points in the Premier League after seven victories on the trot in all competitions, but the incredible start to the season remains intact.

It’s foolish to think that Arne Slot’s Reds will win every game they play, though it’s frustrating that Fabian Schar was able to restore parity late on.

Defensively, Liverpool have been solid this season, making improvements on last year’s efforts. The Anfield side top the Premier League and Champions League tables so far, but in order to achieve illustrious heights across many years under Slot’s wing, some areas do need some work.

The areas where Liverpool need to improve

Liverpool flattered to deceive in defence at St. James’ Park, lacking the robust and steely quality that Ibrahima Konate brings to the table, fusing his athletic skillset with Virgil van Dijk’s cultured style.

Of course, Van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold are both out of contract at the end of the season, and though FSG are hoping to tie down both stalwarts to fresh deals, it’s gravely concerning all the same.

Losing two core parts of an imperious backline would be to Slot’s detriment, for both stars transcend their so-called defensive roles and operate at world-renowned levels.

Liverpool could also add an extra element to the thriving midfield. Ryan Gravenberch has been in fine fettle this season but looked tired against Newcastle and needs some competition at number six. Martin Zubimendi, who is still believed to be of interest to Liverpool, could be the missing component there.

Elsewhere, though, there are one or two mainstays who could actually find themselves dislodged from their starting position. While he’s been an integral part over the years, Andy Robertson may be one of them.

Why Liverpool should replace Andy Robertson

Liverpool signed Robertson from Hull City in 2017, completing a £10m transfer that was met with derision from many pockets of the Premier League.

This young and relatively unknown Scotsman was surely not the kind of player that Jurgen Klopp’s project needed to propel themselves to new heights. Liverpool, it seemed, were content with mediocrity, settling back into the familiarity of passableness.

How the detractors were silenced. Robertson is one of the greatest left-backs in Premier League history, conqueror of the biggest prizes and only trumped in creativity by his prodigious partner Alexander-Arnold.

1.

Trent Alexander-Arnold

61

2.

Andy Robertson

59

3.

Leighton Baines

53

4.

Graeme Le Saux

44

5.

Antonio Valencia

39

The thing is though, Robertson’s creeping toward his 31st year and has served tirelessly within Liverpool’s highly-charged system for many years, completing 316 appearances.

Described as a “Duracell Bunny” by Liverpool writer Leanne Prescott, Robertson has operated at full throttle for many years and indeed is starting to look like a lesser version of the superstar who was hailed as “the best left-back in the world” by Klopp about three years ago.

There’s still a lot to like about the veteran, who ranks among the top 1% of full-backs across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for passes attempted, the top 2% for progressive passes and the top 3% for shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref.

But then he’s found himself jockeying with Kostas Tsimikas for that first-choice spot this season, Slot seemingly unsatisfied with the £160k-per-week Robertson in phases.

Though he’s regarded as one of Alexander-Arnold’s “closest friends” – as revealed below – the Tartan Army skipper cannot keep his place in the side over the coming years if it is going to hamper Slot’s system from hitting its apex.

Liverpool need to be ruthless, and though tying Alexander-Arnold down to a lucrative new contract is crucial, so too is the good of the collective team.

Former scout Mick Brown, recently speaking to Football Insider, believes that the Reds are getting ready to focus on strengthening the left-back position in 2025, with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and Antonee Robinson – who has been recently hailed as “one of the best left-backs in the world” by journalist Dougie Critchley for his exploits at Fulham – at the very top of the shopping list.

Compared to Robertson, it’s perhaps fair to say that both carry greater athletic and rounded qualities at present and that Liverpool might be wise to make the bold move.

Matches (starts)

13 (12)

14 (14)

14 (14)

Goals

0

0

1

Assists

0

4

2

Touches*

68.5

72.1

51.3

Pass completion

88%

82%

83%

Key passes*

1.5

0.9

1.0

Dribbles completed*

0.2 (33%)

1.4 (67%)

0.5 (70%)

Ball recoveries*

4.0

3.8

4.1

Tackles + interceptions*

1.7

4.6

2.5

Ground duels (won)*

1.7 (51%)

4.6 (59%)

3.0 (65%)

This isn’t to say that Liverpool’s long-time servant needs to be sold, but a reduced role might be on the cards over the coming campaigns and this would only prove to elevate Slot’s exciting system higher.

Ultimately, Liverpool still have a reliable left-back in their mix, with elite ball-playing skills and a wealth of experience besides. The Redmen need to evolve over the coming years though, and Robertson might need to be axed at some point soon.

Ignored by Klopp: £32m Liverpool flop is now outscoring Salah in 2024

Klopp sold a star at the beginning of his Liverpool era, and now that very flop is outscoring Mohamed Salah in 2024.

ByAngus Sinclair Dec 6, 2024

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has shared an injury update on his squad, and they could be without one of their players until after the new year.

The Blues made light work of London rivals Tottenham in their last outing, cruising to a 1-0 win on enemy turf, and Thomas Frank’s side hardly laid a glove on them.

It was a much-needed victory for Maresca’s men, who were dispatched by newly-promoted Sunderland in their previous Premier League clash the weekend prior.

The loss at home to Regis Le Bris’ side sparked major outrage after what was a very disappointing performance, with reports in the aftermath suggesting that Maresca’s long-term Chelsea future is far from certain amid interest from Juventus.

Luckily for the Italian, Chelsea have responded to that defeat in good fashion — knocking Wolves out of the Carabao Cup via a dramatic 4-3 win at Molineux to then claim the London derby spoils.

It has been a mixed start to 25/26 for Chelsea after what was a stellar summer, having won both the Conference League and Club World Cup earlier this year, but Maresca is believed to be dissatisfied with the squad at his disposal overall.

Chelsea ended the last summer transfer window as one of England’s most lavish spenders, investing nearly £300 million in new recruits, but the west Londoners failed to shore up their centre-back options or bring in a world-class goalkeeper.

Rank

Club

Gross Spend

Sales

Net Spend

20.

Bournemouth

£136.7m

£202.5m

+£65.8m

19.

Brighton

£67.7m

£127.5m

+£59.8m

18.

Brentford

£92.8m

£152m

+£59.2m

17.

Wolves

£105.6m

£126.5m

+£20.9m

16.

Chelsea

£296.5m

£314.4m

+£17.9m

BlueCo are reportedly ready to prioritise the signing of a centre-back for Chelsea in January, but Maresca hasn’t exactly been helped by injuries and suspensions either.

Summer signing Liam Delap was missing for weeks with a hamstring problem and couldn’t play against Tottenham last weekend after his red card at Wolves.

Malo Gusto was also suspended recently, with Trevoh Chalobah, Robert Sanchez, Joao Pedro and Delap all sent off in the last 44 days alone.

Chelsea’s current disciplinary issues are a real conundrum for Maresca to solve, and it’s the last thing he needs considering their troubles with fitness issues this campaign.

Right now, Pedro Neto, Benoit Badiashile, Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill and Dario Essugo are all unavailable through injury, and Maresca might not welcome back the latter until 2026.

Chelsea could be without Dario Essugo until January

Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of their Champions League clash with Qarabag, Maresca suggests that Essugo could be out injured until January.

Essugo, who’s been called a ‘frightening’ player by members of the media like journalist Antonio Mango, hasn’t been able to showcase his best since joining Chelsea in the summer, and it’ll be a while before he gets to do so.

That being said, there is some good news.

Chelsea’s manager believes that star forward Palmer, who’s been battling a niggling groin problem since the start of the season, could return for their blockbuster European showdown against Barcelona.

Chelsea play their last game before the next international break against Wolves this weekend, and their Barça clash is scheduled to take place around three days after they return to action away to Burnley on November 22.

An “amazing” Leicester City January transfer target is keen on joining the club so he can play under Ruud van Nistelrooy, according to a new report. The Dutchman gets his Leicester reign underway on Tuesday evening, as the Foxes welcome West Ham United to the King Power Stadium.

Leicester City now want to sign £25m+ Olympic winner for Van Nistelrooy

He could be the perfect man to kickstart their great escape.

ByBen Browning Nov 30, 2024 Leicester transfer news

This is Van Nistelrooy’s first permanent role in England as a manager, and he will be hoping it goes as well as his interim spell in charge at Manchester United did. The first task for Nistelrooy is to turn this current form around, as the club have failed to win in their last six games in all competitions.

The good news for the new Leicester manager is that January is not far away, and he may already have his eye on a few players he would like to bring to the club. It has been reported that the Foxes are interested in signing Valencia forward Diego Lopez, as the young forward is seen as a “fundamental pillar of their sporting project”.

Leicester have also been linked with a move for Hertha Berlin’s Ibrahim Maza in the past, and he could be one they look to bring to the King Power Stadium in the New Year. There are several Premier League clubs keeping an eye on his situation, and he could be available for around £17 million. Van Nistelrooy’s arrival could help Leicester a lot when it comes to transfers, and that appears to be the case already, as one target is keen to join the club and play under the Dutchman.

Ferguson keen to sign for Leicester so he can play for Van Nistelrooy

According to Football Insider, Brighton’s Evan Ferguson is keen to make the move to Leicester City as he wants to work under van Nistelrooy. The 20-year-old has been with the Seagulls since January 2021, but it wasn’t until the last two campaigns that he really started to impress in the first team.

In the 2022/23 season, Ferguson, who has been described as “amazing” by former teammate Alexis Mac Allister, scored six goals in 19 league games. He followed that up by scoring six goals again last season in 27 Premier League matches, but he has struggled for regular minutes in this campaign, starting just one of eight league games he has featured in.

Therefore, a loan move in January looks to be on the cards, and Leicester are interested in securing his services. This report now states that working under van Nistelrooy would be a “great opportunity” to develop his game, and while there is still work to be done on completing a deal, Ferguson is keen to make the move with the promise of increased playing time.

Apps

55

Goals

13

Assists

2

Leicester see the Republic of Ireland international as “pivotal” in their fight to stay in the league, but Brighton have yet to decide whether they will accept loan offers in January. Ferguson is keen to remain in the Premier League should he move and would welcome the chance of becoming a key player for the Foxes. Furthermore, he would love the chance to learn from van Nistelrooy, who knows what it takes to be a top striker in England.