The Dutchman showed off his unique skillset at Southampton, and could become a fan favourite with a partner-in-crime up front
Erik ten Hag's job is safe again – for now. Manchester United recovered from their humiliating home defeat to Liverpool by picking up a 3-0 win against Southampton at St Mary's on Saturday, thanks to goals from Matthijs de Ligt, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, moving up to 10th in the Premier League table in the process.
Rashford and De Ligt grabbed most of the headlines, with the former netting his first goal in 189 days and the latter producing a colossal display at both ends of the pitch to show exactly why United paid £50 million ($66m) to sign him from Bayern Munich. But it was the brilliance of United's second summer recruit from the Netherlands that underpinned the crucial victory.
Joshua Zirkzee was handed only his second start for the club since his £36m ($48m) switch from Bologna, and grabbed the opportunity with both hands. All of United's best attacks went through the 23-year-old as the Saints toiled in vain to pin him down. Zirkzee was also guilty of some wasteful finishing again, but he wasn't signed to be the Red Devils' primary marksman.
For so much of last season, United lacked a creative spark; that's what Zirkzee provides. Rasmus Hojlund will certainly have been rubbing his hands together watching Zirkzee's latest outing because the Dutchman looks like the perfect foil for the Dane, who Ten Hag desperately needs to welcome back from injury heading into a make-or-break run of games…
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Constant menace
Zirkzee started in the No.9 role for United on the south coast, and struggled to get involved initially as Southampton dominated proceedings for the first half-hour. The momentum swung in the visitors' favour after Andre Onana kept out a penalty from Cameron Archer, though, with De Ligt rising to head home the opener from a Bruno Fernandes cross just five minutes later.
Rashford then curled home from just outside the box to give United a comfortable lead, and Southampton were left clinging on until the half-time whistle. Zirkzee started to become the main thorn in their side, and picked up from where he left off in the second half, coming deep to show for the ball before pinging off intelligent first-time passes to get the Red Devils up the pitch quickly.
The Bayern Munich academy graduate's intelligent movement helped to draw Southampton defenders out of position, too, as he served as the main link between defence and attack for Ten Hag's side. For the first time you could see Zirkzee developing a rapport with Rashford and Amad Diallo as he held the ball up and looked for combinations, while also showing the confidence to dribble past players in tight spaces. Not everything came off, but he was a constant menace.
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'I'm a little different'
As per , Zirkzee completed 82 percent of his passes against the Saints, the majority of which went forward, won seven of his 11 duels and racked up an impressive expected goals (xG) total of 1.14. The talented youngster scored on his debut to give his new club victory against Fulham on the opening weekend of the new season, but he properly announced himself as a United player at St Mary's.
This was the version of Zirkzee who became a cult hero at Bologna. He doesn't have the selfish mindset to be a prolific goal-scorer, and that's okay; United have signed a technically-gifted forward who always wants to be involved in the build-up play and gets more of a kick out of providing chances for his team-mates.
"I am what I call a false striker," Zirkzee told the in August. "Not a No.9, not a No.10. I am a 9.5! That's my game. Maybe I'm a little different than others. But being different is good, right?"
It certainly is for United, who only scored 57 Premier League goals last season – the joint-worst record in the top 10. Zirkzee gives them a whole new dimension in attack, and crucially, he's not afraid to take risks.
"I want to play a pure game," the Netherlands international added. "Nutmegs, chops and backheels are moments that belong in football. That style has value for me. It's the soccer kid in me because it’s supposed to be fun too. You have to pick the right moments. It's intuition. I think I have excellent skills. I spent a lot of time on that as a kid. But if I lose the ball, I want to regain it immediately with the team. But the fancy footwork is part of my game at the end of the day."
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Zlatan's heir?
Zirkzee's natural desire to express himself bodes well for his chances of becoming a popular figure at Old Trafford. Crowd-pleasing mavericks have been in short supply for United in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, and though Zirkzee's start has been slower than he would have hoped, supporters will embrace him if he continues to push the envelope.
It also helps that he idolises a certain Swede who did the same thing during his time in Manchester. "I would love it if, in a few years’ time, people said that my game looks a bit like Zlatan Ibrahimovic," Zirkzee told reporters last week. "The start, with the winning goal against Fulham, was nice. Then we lost twice – and you know that at a big club like Manchester United the attention then comes full on. I believe it will be fine. I've always had that. I never doubted it would still work out with my career."
Ibrahimovic scored a very respectable 29 goals in two seasons with the Red Devils, but the truth is, they signed him too late at 34. The best years of Ibrahimovic's career came at Juventus, Inter and AC Milan between 2004 and 2012, at which stage he was a masterful playmaker as well as a deadly marksman.
Zirkzee doesn't possess the same instincts in front of goal as Ibrahimovic, but he is equally as imaginative on the ball. And just like the Swedish icon in his prime, Zirkzee uses his imposing physical frame and deceptive turn of pace to barge past defenders at will.
The arrogant streak that helped bolster the Ibrahimovic brand is not so prominent in Zirkzee, but he doesn't want for self-confidence either. In the Southampton game, there were real signs that the Dutch ace could become a similarly inspirational figure for United, especially when Ten Hag can field his strongest team.
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Hojlund holds the key
United have been largely dire to watch in 2024, but on the rare occasions they have clicked as a collective, including in the FA Cup final against Manchester City, Ten Hag has opted to play with split-strikers. The Red Devils look far more fluid going forward with that 4-2-2-2 formation and less open out of possession, which is why it should be revived when Hojlund returns.
Zirkzee and Hojlund could lead the line with Fernandes and either Alejandro Garnacho or Amad backing them up, while Kobbie Mainoo and new addition Manuel Ugarte sit at the base of the midfield in a compact shape that doesn't leave United exposed to swift counters. There is enough firepower there to blow most teams away, too.
Hojlund was starved of service in his debut season at United but still scored 16 goals, so imagine what he could do with Zirkzee next to him. The former Bologna star will hold the ball up and look to pick out the intelligent runs in behind that Hojlund made so often in 2023-24.
Indeed, Ten Hag has already admitted that is his ideal gameplan, telling in the summer: "Joshua Zirkzee & Rasmus Hojlund can play together. They compliment each other."
They look like a match made in heaven on paper. Hojlund's finishing is still quite erratic, but he gets in the right positions and will see a lot more chances with Zirkzee on hand to provide stellar service. The only concern is whether Hojlund can avoid any further injury setbacks, because United don't have another centre-forward to call upon, which has seriously hampered their progress in recent weeks.
Chelsea have now moved ahead of Arsenal in the race to sign Marseille striker Robinio Vaz, having opened talks, and a January offer is now being explored.
The Blues’ interest in signing a new striker perhaps stems from the slow start Liam Delap has made to life at Stamford Bridge, most recently failing to find the back of the net in the 2-0 victory at Burnley, before being replaced by Malo Gusto in the second half.
Michael Owen was critical of some aspects of the striker’s performance too, saying: “I do think in this situation he needs to be a little bit more unselfish, he probably could have passed it a couple of times.
“If he plays this ball in [to Pedro Neto] and makes a run to take the defender away, he will leave Neto with a one-on-one in this area. I think he’s got to do that instead of being a bit selfish and thinking he’s going to score a goal on his own. He takes a pot-shot from 25 yards and it’s not great.”
Ultimately, Enzo Maresca’s side prevailed regardless, but it was another poor performance from the 22-year-old, who is still yet to open his account since moving to west London, and a new centre-forward is being targeted for the January transfer window.
Chelsea make contact to sign Robinio Vaz
According to a report from Caught Offside, Chelsea have now opened talks over a deal for Marseille striker Vaz, having made contact with both the French club and the 18-year-old’s representatives ahead of a potential January move.
The Blues are exploring the possibility of making a formal bid for the youngster this winter, and they have moved ahead of London rivals Arsenal in the race for his signature, with the Gunners taking a more patient approach.
A deal would be relatively affordable, with the Ligue 1 side looking to hold out for €20m – €30m (£18m – £26m), but they are in no rush to cash-in, having already knocked back an offer from an unnamed European club.
The Frenchman has been a breakout star for Marseille this season, managing to become a first-team regular, having only missed one Ligue 1 game, and he has weighed in with four goals and two assists in 12 outings.
Scout Ben Mattinson also clearly believes the starlet has a lot of potential, having singled him out for high praise when giving an overview of his key strengths on X back in February.
Vaz could be a future star, but with a Premier League title push potentially on the cards, Chelsea could do with bringing in a striker with a little more experience in January, rather than yet another youngster.
Enzo Maresca now driving Chelsea move for £79m Premier League star Enzo Maresca now driving Chelsea move for "incredible" £79m Premier League star
The Italian is looking to sign a new defender, who is viewed as an ideal fit for his system.
da realbet： Leeds United secured a superb 3-3 comeback against Liverpool at Elland Road last night to make it four points in the space of a week against big six opposition.
da heads bet： Daniel Farke’s men fell two goals behind just minutes after the break after a Hugo Ekitiké double, but it only seemed to spur the side on to get back into the Premier League clash.
Goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Anton Stach restored parity before Dominic Szoboszlai’s 80th-minute effort looked to have finally handed the visitors three points.
However, it wasn’t meant to be, with the Whites’ never-say-die attitude rewarding them a point, after Ao Tanaka beautifully volleyed home from a corner in the 96th minute.
Despite the impressive fightback against the Reds in Yorkshire, numerous players struggled to impress throughout the clash, which could put their starting roles at huge risk.
Leeds’ poor performers against Liverpool
Jayden Bogle has been Leeds’ number one right-back so far this campaign, but his showing against the Reds was arguably one of his worst of the season to date.
The Englishman was withdrawn with just a minute left in the clash, after giving possession away 11 times, with two occasions coming when trying to take on an opponent.
He also failed to win any tackles against Cody Gakpo, whilst only coming out on top in 25% of the ground and aerial duels he entered against the defending champions.
Bogle wasn’t alone in struggling within the back five, with centre-back Joe Rodon having an uncharacteristically poor performance in the Premier League.
The Welsh international’s misplaced pass handed the ball on a plate for Ekitike to fire home and help the visitors establish their two-goal cushion early in the second half.
He also only managed to win 50% of the aerial battles he entered in the defensive third, but thankfully, he was bailed out by Tanaka for his struggles in stoppage time.
The Leeds star who needs to be dropped after Liverpool
If Leeds are to stay up in the Premier League this season, their ability to get themselves off the canvas on a regular basis could play a massive role in any successful survival attempt.
Few sides in the league would be able to get themselves back within striking distance of sides who possess the quality of Liverpool, with Farke deserving huge credit after such a result.
The German wasn’t afraid of making key changes at crucial parts of the game, with his triple change in the 65th minute seeing Tanaka score, whilst Wilfried Gnonto won the penalty for Calvert-Lewin’s strike.
Brenden Aaronson was also on hand to provide the goods, with the American registering the assist for Stach’s strike – which restored parity for the first time in the meeting.
However, Noah Okafor was just one of the players sacrificed for the aforementioned trio, with the attacker potentially now fearing for his starting role in Yorkshire.
The Swiss international lasted just over an hour before being replaced, but his stats from his time on the pitch showcase how lacklustre his showing at Elland Road was.
He was only able to complete a total of five passes in his 65-minute showing – an average of one every 13 minutes – with his small frame unsuited to the counter-attacking nature in the first half.
Noah Okafor – stats against Liverpool
Statistics
Tally
Minutes played
65
Touches
14
Passes completed
5
Dribbles completed
1
Aerials won
0
Shots on target
0
Possession lost
4x
Fouls committed
1
Stats via FotMob
The 25-year-old tried his best to make an impact on the transition, but largely struggled against the Reds’ backline – as seen by his tally of just one dribble completed.
Okafor also failed to win any of his aerial battles, something which is hardly a surprise given his stature – but also coming up against the likes of Virgil van Dijk.
To top off his disappointing display, he only registered a total of 14 touches during the draw, with goalkeeper Lucas Perri making nearly three times more with his tally of 43.
After such a performance, Farke will be left with no choice but to drop the Swiss international, with the trio off the bench certainly deserving of a start after their impact in the second half.
It’s certainly not a bad call for the manager to make, especially with the recent form creating competition for places – something that will be vital if they are to secure survival.
Leeds now make contact over signing "powerful" star who's been likened to Odegaard
Caretaker’s challenge should not be under-estimated, especially against dogged opponents
Vithushan Ehantharajah24-Aug-2024Not everyone wins their first Test as England men’s Test captain. Not even Ben Stokes.The great saviour of English cricket had an ignominious first go at the big job four years ago. Stepping in for Joe Root, who was expecting his second child, Stokes was on the receiving end of a four-wicket defeat to West Indies at the start of the Covid-19 summer.The lesson here is: it does not matter if you win your first Test. But as Ollie Pope finished shaking hands with the Sri Lanka players and support staff after England had triumphed by five wickets, there was a palpable sense of relief.Victory had taken longer than expected. On day three, both when Sri Lanka were 95 for 4 (27 behind) and 190 for 6 (68 ahead) in their second innings, the end looked nigh. But it was only at 7.18pm on day four, as Pope put his cap back on, tugging it firmly onto his head, that he seemed at ease.Not that this peace lasted long. No sooner had Shoaib Bashir put his arm around him in congratulations, Pope was whisked away for the usual captaincy media duties. He did not mind them, though England captains never do after wins, especially this early into the gig. Thanks to Jamie Smith’s first-innings century and a breezy 39 that lanced the remaining jeopardy from a chase of 205, Pope did not have to talk about himself all that much.For a contest in which England were never really chasing the game, this was the most challenging of four days. It asked of Pope more than he had probably expected to give. There was frustration with Kamindu Mendis’ century and Dinesh Chandimal’s combination of bravery and bloody-mindedness, while the loss of Mark Wood to a thigh injury proved a gross inconvenience considering he had sent Chandimal to the hospital 24 hours before he was heading there for his own scan.Pope fell cheaply in the second innings, reverse-sweeping to slip•Stu Forster/Getty ImagesShorn of a gunslinger that had blown away West Indies’ tail a month earlier, faced with an ever-growing partnership – and target – on a worn pitch that was no friend of batters but even less so of bowlers, Pope had a problem.In that sort of situation, on a slow deck nullifying any lateral movement from the seamers, Stokes tends to bring out the bouncer plan. Hammering a length, fielders spread out far and in close, persisting belligerently as the traditionalists bemoan an empty slip cordon. “If you’ve got the men out, all it is is one tiny mistake where it catches the top half of the bat and goes to the man,” explained Pope of the logic.Unsurprisingly, the stand-in did as the captain would have done. But not for long. Just nine of the 141 deliveries England bowled on the final day were outright short balls, with a further 55 short of a length. Pope gave it a go, but soon realised that Kamindu and Chandimal were actually revelling in it. So, he called it quits.”I was kind of hoping they would just take on every ball and try and pull every ball and eventually one would go to hand,” Pope said. “But they played nicely, they selected which balls they wanted to take on, ducked well. Credit to them for that and that’s probably why we didn’t take it for so long and thought we’d try and play for a few more that scuttle through and go under the bat. But it [the pitch] didn’t quite deteriorate enough to do that.”Sensing the importance of the new ball that would come into play after 80 overs, Pope brought on Matthew Potts and Shoaib Bashir from the 70th over onwards to opt for a fuller, tighter line. And while Kamindu took advantage of the hardness of the new ball to move to three figures, the left-hander was eventually snared with an edge off a good length by Gus Atkinson. Not only was a stand of 117 broken, but it was the first of the final four wickets to fall in the space of 26 balls.Pope dons his blazer in his first Test as England captain•Getty ImagesRoot, who went on to see the chase home, was suitably impressed with Pope.”It wasn’t straightforward,” Root said, having himself captained England in a record 64 Tests. “It was a few different things that you’d have to contend with. It wasn’t your typical English kind of Test match, so hats off to him.”He was very good at changing things up, trying different things, and constantly trying to move the game in the right direction. So again, another step in the way that we want to go as a team. And for us to do it slightly differently this week and still find a way to win is a really good sign for us.”Pope’s batting, however, was the only sour note in what, by and large, was a solid first outing with the armband. On day two, Asitha Fernando bagged his off stump for six. On day four, Pope gave his wicket away in a manner that gave credit to his opposite number.Dhananjaya de Silva had asked left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya to bowl over the wicket to the right-hander. The aim was to frustrate and, in turn, elicit a dud shot. Pope obliged with a botched reverse sweep that fell into the hands of first slip for another score of six.Dhananjaya celebrated exactly as you’d expect; glee across his face, letting anyone and everyone know it was his plan that had come good. Pope, rueful at the time, was not all that dismayed at the end. “It’s an option I like to take,” he explained, as his remarkable century at the start of the year in Hyderabad showed. “Unfortunately it didn’t come off today.”Related
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More broadly, however, he happened upon something to rectify; how to switch from being a captain who thinks about the team to a batter who thinks about himself in the instant between marshalling on the field and preparing to bat at No.3. And do it instinctively.”I think that’s probably one thing I can take from this Test – making sure I’m captain when I’m in the field and around it, but when it’s batting time, it’s batting.”I prepared in the same way. But probably from a mindset point of view, that’s just a little learning for me, that I can just draw a line once we’re off the field, get my pads on and that’s my time to focus on myself because that’s what’s best for the team.”It cannot have been easy for Pope to captain as he would have wanted, even if it was just maintaining the status quo, given that Stokes was still in the dressing-room. Even though Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum were on hand for any pep talks requested during the intervals, Pope had to strike a balance between being a surrogate and just being himself.All in all, he seemed to have managed that pretty well. And maybe the best reflection of that was Stokes’s general restlessness. “I think he was bored at times,” Pope said with a smile. “I think he’d much rather be playing.”It would have helped that the team he was leading had a very different feel and age profile. There were only three survivors in this XI from the one that beat South Africa in Manchester two years ago. Half of those changes are down to a combination of injuries to Stokes and Zak Crawley, and the retirements of Stuart Broad and James Anderson. But this is a team quietly regenerating.”It’s kind of funny,” Pope said, “when you look around every now and again on the bus, you’re like “geez, this is a proper young team’.”For two more games, a 26-year-old will look to scope England’s short-term future. It might only be one Test win in a “tenure” with only two weeks to run. But Pope is already playing a vital role in moulding a team that, once Stokes is no longer around, he might yet call his own.
da gbg bet： Em jogo válido pela 37ª e penúltima rodada do Campeonato Brasileiro, São Paulo e Juventude se enfrentam nesta segunda-feira, às 19h, no Morumbi, em um duelo direto entre dois times que ainda lutam para afastar o risco de rebaixamento à Série B. O Tricolor é o atual 14º colocado da competição, com 45 pontos, e a equipe gaúcha vem um pouco atrás, em 16º lugar, com 43.
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da marjack bet： > Veja classificação e simulador do Brasileirão-2021 clicando aqui
Em seu último jogo no ano em seu estádio, o time são-paulino tenta dar uma resposta aos seus torcedores depois da decepcionante atuação que teve na derrota por 3 a 0 para o Grêmio, na última quinta-feira, em Porto Alegre. O Juventude, por sua vez, foi batido pelo Fortaleza por 1 a 0, na sexta-feira, no Castelão, mas na terça obteve uma importante vitória por 1 a 0 sobre o Red Bull Bragantino, que melhorou a situação da equipe na luta contra o descenso.
Sem jogadores suspensos, o São Paulo de Rogério Ceni pode ter novidades no seu banco de reservas, já que neste domingo os atacantes Luciano (recuperado de uma cirurgia no punho) e Pablo (que superou uma entorse no tornozelo) treinaram sem restrições no CT da Barra Funda. O clube, entretanto, não divulga listas de jogadores relacionados para os seus confrontos no Brasileirão.
Pelo lado do Juventude, a tendência é a de que o técnico Jair Ventura repita a mesma escalação do jogo contra o Fortaleza, pois não tem desfalques por lesões ou suspensões. A única possível novidade seria uma mudança no meio-campo, com a entrada de Chico no lugar deWescley, que não exibiu boas atuações nas últimas partidas da equipe gaúcha na competição nacional.
No primeiro turno deste Brasileirão, Juventude e São Paulo empataram por 1 a 0, no estádio Alfredo Jaconi, em Caxias do Sul, onde Reinaldo abriu o placar para os visitantes aos 39 minutos do segundo tempo, cobrando um pênalti, mas os anfitriões buscaram a igualdade aos 45, com um gol de Ricardo Bueno.
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SÃO PAULO X JUVENTUDE Local:estádio do Morumbi, em São Paulo (SP) Data/Horário: 06/12/2021, às 19h Árbitro: Braulio da Silva Machado (Fifa-SC) Assistentes: Éder Alexandre (SC) e Thiaggo Americano Labes (SC) VAR: Rodrigo Dalonso Ferreira (Fifa-SC) Onde acompanhar:Premiere e Tempo Real na parceria LANCE!/Voz do Esporte
SÃO PAULO Tiago Volpi; Igor Vinicius, Arboleda, Miranda e Reinaldo; Rodrigo Nestor, Igor Gomes, Gabriel Sara e Vitor Bueno (Marquinhos); Rigoni e Calleri. Técnico: Rogério Ceni.
Desfalques: Luan, William, Walce e Galeano (lesionados) Suspensos: – Pendurados:Benítez, Liziero, Arboleda, Gabriel, Marquinhos, Luan, Luciano e Reinaldo Voltam de suspensão: –
JUVENTUDE Douglas; Michel Macedo, Vitor Mendes, Rafael Forster e William Matheus; Dawhan, Jadson, Guilherme Castilho e Wescley (Chico); Sorriso e Ricardo Bueno. Técnico: Jair Ventura.
Desfalques:- Suspensos: – Pendurados:- Volta de suspensão: –
The last few months have been a whirlwind for Tottenham Hotspur supporters, especially considering the topsy-turvy nature of the 2024/25 campaign.
The Lilywhites won the Europa League under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou, with the Aussie delivering on his promise of always winning a trophy in his second season.
However, it was somewhat overshadowed by the 17th-place finish in the Premier League, which ultimately cost the 60-year-old his job in North London.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou
The responsibility of building on the triumph was handed the way of Thomas Frank, with the Dane joining the club from fellow top-flight club Brentford during the off-season.
Despite his arrival, some players have struggled to match the levels they produced last campaign, which will have no doubt been frustrating to the new manager.
The Spurs players who have struggled in 2025/26
After arguably his best-ever campaign in 2024/25, Brennan Johnson has endured a dismal current campaign and has often failed to deliver when called upon by Frank.
The Welsh international has only netted two league goals in 2025/26 to date, subsequently dropping down the pecking order and only making five starts since the Dane’s arrival.
He was even sent off in the latest Champions League clash against FC Copenhagen, which pretty much sums up the decline he’s endured over the last few months.
Johnson hasn’t been alone in struggling to match the levels he produced last season, with midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur another who’s been unable to produce on a consistent basis.
The Uruguayan international has only made eight starts to date, but his numbers from the current campaign showcase his dismal form in North London.
He’s ranked in the 43rd percentile for passes completed and has only been able to make 0.5 interceptions per 90 – often struggling to make an effect in and out of possession.
The Spurs star who needs to be offloaded
The decline of some players has led to the recent additions during the summer, with the hierarchy landing Mohammed Kudus in a £55m deal from West Ham United.
The Ghanaian international has since replaced Johnson on the right-hand side of the attack and has already made an immediate impact for the Lilywhites.
He’s scored once and registered four assists in the Premier League to date, with the latter of the two tallies the joint-highest of any player in England’s top-flight.
Kudus would have been joined in the final third by Dominic Solanke, but the Englishman has massively struggled with injuries and has been out of action since the end of August.
He’s been struggling with an ankle issue over the last couple of months, subsequently restricting him to a total of just 31 Premier League minutes in 2025/26.
As a result, the hierarchy decided to delve back into the transfer market to complete a loan deal for striker Randal Kolo Muani from French side PSG.
The 26-year-old’s move generated huge excitement within the fanbase, but after a couple of months, it’s safe to say that the deal so far has been a disaster for everyone involved.
He’s struggled to adapt to the demands of the Premier League, with the loanee subsequently failing to score in any of his eight outings across all competitions.
His underlying stats also showcase his lack of form since his transfer on Deadline Day, with the former Juventus star undoubtedly struggling to meet expectations in England.
Randal Kolo Muani – PL stats (25/26)
Statistics (per 90)
Tally
Games played
4
Goals & assists
0
Shots taken
0.47
Touches in opposition box
1.4
Aerials won
0.4
Aerial success rate
37%
Fouls committed
1.6
Passes completed per 90
8.2
Stats via FotMob
He’s only registered a total of 0.47 shots per 90 in England’s top-flight – with such a tally ranking him in the lowest 1% of all other attackers in the division this season.
Kolo Muani, who earns a reported £150k-per-week, has also registered just 1.4 touches in the opposition box and 0.4 aerials won per 90, which place him in the first percentile – further highlighting his lack of positive impact to date.
Such form backs up one content creator’s previous claim about the forward, with the Frenchman previously being dubbed “one of the most overrated players in the world”.
It’s evident that the move to date has been a huge failure, with the club desperately needing to cut ties and allow other players to stake their claim for a starting role.
His loan deal shouldn’t be made permanent in either of the two windows before it expires, but it’s crucial the club do invest big and land a new talisman for Frank.
Spurs star was one of the "best in the world", now he's on borrowed time
One Tottenham Hotspur star could be on borrowed time under Thomas Frank in the coming months.
da bwin： Leeds United are now reportedly prioritising a deal to sign a South American defender ahead of Italian giants Juventus in the January transfer window.
Leeds still plotting Farke replacement despite Chelsea win
da fazobetai： The Premier League is a harsh world, isn’t it? The pressure was increasing on Daniel Farke ahead of the Chelsea game, but you wouldn’t have known it after his side swept past Chelsea in a stunning 3-1 victory.
Reports in the build-up to the game claimed the German had to avoid defeat against the Blues and Liverpool this weekend to ensure that his job remains safe. It seemed an impossible task. Chelsea had just pushed Premier League leaders Arsenal all the way with 10 men and Liverpool, even in a difficult moment, remain the champions.
Come Wednesday night, however, there were no complaints from Farke. Instead, there was tactical genius. His 5-3-2 sytem physically outmatched Chelsea and Leeds, against the odds, secured a stunning 3-1 victory at Elland Road.
It would now be easy to assume that Farke’s job is safe. Yet, according to the BBC’s Sami Mokbel, those at Elland Road are still preparing for the worst-case scenario.
The reporter revealed: “Sources have told BBC Sport that the process of identifying potential candidates to replace Farke has begun. It is not unusual practice for clubs to plot a succession plan for their managerial position regardless of the incumbent’s job security.
“But Leeds’ poor form, which left them in the relegation zone before Wednesday’s win, has placed significant pressure on Farke – serving to amplify the club’s movement towards pinpointing possible successors to the German.”
It would be a ruthless decision by the 49ers, but that may not be the only change on the way. With the January transfer window approaching, Leeds have already set their sights on Real Betis star Natan.
Leeds prioritising Natan deal
According to reports in Spain, Leeds are now prioritising a deal to sign Natan from Real Betis in the January transfer window. The Brazilian defender is valued at around €40m (£35m) by the Spanish club and has also attracted the interest of Serie A giants Juventus.
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It’s clear to see why both Leeds and Juventus have set their sights on the 24-year-old. He’s enjoyed an impressive start to the current campaign and could now secure a move, be it in the new year or next summer.
League stats 25/26
Joe Rodon
Natan
Minutes
1,260
1,260
Ball Recoveries
41
50
Tackles Won
10
3
Successful Aerial Duels
41
42
Statistically speaking, Natan would have no trouble getting into Farke’s best side. Compared to Joe Rodon, the South American has thrived out of possession and particularly impressed in the air.
The big question that remains is whether Leeds will be willing to splash out £35m for his signature. Their record signing still sits at £35.5m for Georginio Rutter and it would take some doing to break that as early as the January transfer window.
Best signing since Raphinha: Leeds star is one of "the best" players in PL
The allrounder was unbeaten on 182 at the close, his third century in his last four innings for Western Australia
Andrew McGlashan06-Mar-2021Cameron Green’s spectacular form continued with his seventh first-class century, and third in the Sheffield Shield this season, to put Western Australia in a dominant position on the opening against Queensland.For the second time this season he was within touching distance of a maiden first-class double-century having fallen for 197 against New South Wales in the first part of the summer. For a while it appeared he would have time to reach it within the first day but was content to see through to the close.The innings also gives Green a currently tally in the Sheffield Shield at the Gabba of 382 runs without being dismissed having made unbeaten scores of 87 and 121 early last season – a game where he batted No. 8 in the first innings and No. 9 in the second, the century earning Western Australia a draw.Green’s latest hundred came after an unbeaten 168 against South Australia in the previous round which he followed with a maiden one-day hundred, the small matter of 144, against the same opposition. He had entered the return of the domestic season on the back of a double century in grade cricket.”His technique allows him to bat for long periods but his mental capacity and desire to bat, and bat for longer periods, is unparalleled for a 21-year-old and think that’s what makes him so good,” Western Australia coach Adam Voges said. “He just wants to keep batting and he’s doing it brilliantly well at the moment.”He had come to the crease after an impressive new-ball spell from Jack Wildermuth removed both Western Australia’s openers inside 10 overs, following Queensland’s decision to bowl under overcast skies, and dominated the scoring after getting through to lunch. The third-wicket stand with Shaun Marsh was worth 226 and when Green brought up his century off 138 balls – having gone from fifty to his hundred in 43 balls – Marsh had 37 from 137 deliveries.Shortly after reaching three figures he danced down the pitch to the left-arm spin of Matt Kuhnemann and deposited his second six of the day something he repeated a while later with a monstrous blow over long-on. Throughout his innings the drive – through the off side, straight and through mid-on – was pristine.Marsh’s bid for another century ended when he fended a catch to slip of Mark Steketee but Hilton Cartwright, who battled a back injury last week to help force a draw against South Australia, accompanied Green until the close in a stand worth 83. The toil for the Queensland attack was summed up when Marnus Labuschagne bowled two overs of medium pace late in the day.
The ECB are confident they will be able to fulfil their home international fixture programme despite India being added to the ‘red list’ of countries from which most travel to the UK has been banned due to fears of a new Covid variant.Under new regulations, most people who have been in India in the last 10 days will be banned from entering the UK from 4am on Friday. British or Irish residents, or those with residence rights within the UK, will be obliged to serve a 10-day quarantine period. There is, at present, no dispensation available to allow sportspeople to train out of their rooms while they serve that quarantine period.There is a concern that a new variant of the virus, which appears to be relatively prevalent in India, could spread more easily and prove more resistant to vaccinations. The UK’s Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has cancelled a visit to India which was scheduled to take place next week.India are scheduled to play in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand in June and a five-Test series against England starting in August. Pakistan, which is also on the red list, are also scheduled to play ODI and T20I series in England in the coming months, while India’s women’s team is also scheduled to play a series in June.But although the ECB are likely to require dispensation from the UK government to stage such tours, they are optimistic that all games will be given the go-ahead.Having fulfilled their full home schedule in 2020, the ECB feel they have the experience and capability to combat the demands of the situation. Crucially, they also believe they gained the confidence of the UK government by demonstrating their ability to build an effective bio-bubble and stage matches without compromising safety. England were able to host series against West Indies, Pakistan, Ireland and Australia in 2020 with players of all sides obliged to abide by strict protocols, including serving quarantine periods.”We are currently discussing with Government the impact of countries being on the ‘red list’,” an ECB spokesperson said. “By working collaboratively we demonstrated how we can stage international cricket safely in the middle of a pandemic and hope to be able to do so again this year.”Related
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It is unlikely the news will have much of an impact on England’s players involved in the IPL. While some may be alarmed at infection rates in India – new cases have risen to over 200,000 a day and only the USA has reported more deaths from the virus – the players are already living in bio-bubbles and playing in empty stadiums.It could, however, lengthen the process by which players can appear elsewhere, having been involved in the IPL. That could make it difficult for players at the IPL to be available for the Test series between New Zealand and England which starts on June 2. New Zealand players involved in the tournament include their captain, Kane Williamson, while England players involved include Jos Buttler. The IPL final takes place on May 30.The ICC are also confident that the World Test Championship final, due to be played at the Ageas Bowl near Southampton in June, will go ahead as planned, although they may need the UK government to grant dispensation for the event, and for the hotel at the ground to be considered an approved quarantine centre.”We are currently discussing with the UK Government the impact of countries being on the ‘red list’,” an ICC spokesman told ESPNcricinfo. “The ECB and other Members have demonstrated how we can stage international cricket safely in the middle of a pandemic and we are confident that we can continue to do that and that the World Test Championship Final will go ahead as planned in June in the UK.”
The Herons let a late lead slip in a wide-open contest, but stayed firm favorites for the Supporters Shield after a 2-2 draw
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David Ruiz opened scoring, Leo Campana bagged second
Aleksey Miranchuk late leveler sealed chaotic 2-2
Leo Messi played 30 minutes in second game since injury
Brett Davis-Imagn Images
TELL ME MORE
Inter Miami got off to a bright start, but couldn't hold on as they drew 2-2 against Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
grabbed the lead much against the run of play, David Ruiz finding the bottom corner after receiving the ball unmarked in the box in the 29th minute. Miami entered halftime with a 1-0 lead but Atlanta would respond.
Saba Lobzhanidze equalized for the home side shortly before the hour mark, his deflected header squirming through the legs of Drake Callender in the 56th minute. Yet, Miami appeared to be in winning position as Leo Campana put Miami back ahead within two minutes of Lobzhanidze's goal, with Campana's free kick flying into the net via the legs of Dax McCarthy. Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez would then come off the bench looking to pad the visitors lead.
However, Atlanta would respond again, though. United's new star DP Aleksey Miranchuk curled in an effort into the top corner – his first MLS goal since joining the team this summer. It was no more than they deserved on the night.
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THE MVP
How about a different inverted attacking midfielder impressing on Wednesday? Messi may have had his moments, but this night belonged to Miranchuk. The former Atalanta forward, known for his love of Hip-Hop, provided all sorts of rhythm for his side's midfield on Wednesday night.
He created three chances, played eight passes into the final third, and scored an absolute peach of a goal to grab a well-deserved point for his team. A fine performance from the big-money man.
THE BIG LOSER
What a miserable evening for Dax McCarthy. The veteran midfielder seemed to be at the center of everything that went wrong for the home side against Miami. First, he inadvertently diverted the ball into the path of Ruiz for the visitors' first. Then, he gave up the free kick that led to the second. It seemed to be a benevolent act when he was hooked after an hour.
WHAT COMES NEXT?
Miami's focus remains steadily on their Supporter's Shield hunt. play NYCFC on Saturday, in what will be Messi's first appearance in an MLS match in New York City. The club now needs just nine points to tie up the best record in the league, and prime themselves for a playoff run.