Category Uncategorized

Cricket Australia will make neck guards mandatory for Australia and domestic players from October 1 meaning the likes of Steven Smith and David Warner, among others, will be forced to wear them on their helmets having resisted doing so since their introduction in 2015.Mandatory neck guards are one of a number of changes made to CA’s playing conditions ahead of the 2023-24 season including a change to the automatic six rule for balls that hit the roof at Marvel Stadium in the BBL, with the umpires now to make a discretionary decision on whether the ball was travelling over the boundary. Several other changes were made to speed up play in the Big Bash leagues, including time limits on injury stoppages and streamlining stumping reviews.But the decision to make neck guards mandatory will have the biggest impact on Australia’s men’s players with Smith, Warner and Usman Khawaja among the major names not to use them since their introduction. Players will have to wear neck guards on their helmets when facing fast or medium-paced bowling only. The rule does not apply to facing spinners or for wicketkeepers and close-in fielders.Neck or stem guards were designed in the wake of Phillip Hughes’ death. Warner, who was playing in the game when Hughes was struck, made a very strong written statement in the New South Wales coroner’s inquest into Hughes’ death about why he would not wear neck or stem guards.”I do not and will not wear them,” Warner wrote. “When I turn my head…wearing a StemGuard, it impedes my neck and restricts the movement of my neck when I turn around to face bowlers. I have tried a StemGuard and it digs into my neck. It is uncomfortable and is a distraction.”With safety, the helmets are getting heavier. As a player, it is what you feel comfortable with. I go with being able to see better, and being able to move my neck.”Steven Smith did wear a neck guard briefly in the 2019 Ashes•Getty Images

Smith has also avoided wearing them with the exception of a couple of occasions. He was not wearing one when he was concussed after being hit by Jofra Archer in a Test match at Lord’s in 2019. He spoke about having to wear one on his return from concussion during that series.”I’ve tried them before and I tried them the other day when I was batting [in the nets] and I reckon my heart rate went up about 30 or 40 straight away,” Smith said. “I just feel claustrophobic. I compare it to being stuck in an MRI scan machine.”They’re probably going to become mandatory, so I’m going to have to get used to them. I’m sure the more I wear them, the more I practice with them, my heart rate will come down and everything will be okay.”Smith did wear one in the Old Trafford Test of that series and made 211 and 82 but has avoided using one since with the exception of his three-game stint with Sussex earlier this year as it was mandatory in county cricket under ECB rules – the game was briefly stopped when Smith was told he had to get them added to his helmet. It is not mandatory for overseas players in Test matches in England so he did not wear one during the 2023 Ashes.CA has now introduced similar rules on neck guards to the ECB with umpires to enforce their use in domestic matches, but those standards will apply to Australia’s international players only in all matches both home and away, although international umpires can’t enforce them under ICC rules. Australian players choosing not to wear them will now face CA code of conduct penalties.”Protecting the head and neck is extremely important in our sport,” CA head of cricket operations Peter Roach said. “The neck protector product has come a long way in recent years and the decision to make them mandatory comes off the back of a lot of advice and consultation with a wide range of experts and stakeholders.”A number of players have hit the roof at Marvel Stadium•Getty Images

Changes to stumping reviews

In other changes to the playing conditions, balls hitting the roof at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne are no longer automatically six. The on-field umpires will now make a judgment call on whether the ball was travelling for six and if they decide it was not, it will be a dead ball. This follows several examples where top edges that went straight up into the roof were awarded six runs despite clear evidence that the ball would not have landed beyond the inner circle.Also in the BBL and WBBL, any umpire reviews for a stumping will not include a TV umpire review for caught behind as well. The TV official will only adjudicate on the stumping. Captains will need to use the DRS to query a caught-behind decision and the review must be taken before the TV umpire adjudicates on a stumping.There were also several new conditions added to speed up play. On-field injury assessments, with the exception of concussion assessments, are now limited to one five-minute window. Players needing further treatment will need to leave the field, meaning batters would be forced to retire hurt.CA has also removed the Covid-19 substitute rule from their playing conditions in line with the ICC doing the same.

كشف مصدر بـ نادي الزمالك، حقيقة وجود مفاوضات مع بيرسي تاو لاعب الأهلي السابق للانضمام إلى القلعة البيضاء خلال فترة الانتقالات الصيفة الجارية.

ويسعى الزمالك للتعاقد مع عدد من اللاعبين لتدعيم صفوفه في الفترة الراهنة بعد تعيين يانيك فيريرا مدربًا للفريق.

وكان الزمالك قد تعاقد مع البلجيكي يانيك فيريرا، لتولي منصب المدير الفني للفريق خلفًا لأيمن الرمادي، الذي تم توجيه الشكر له بنهاية الموسم الماضي.

طالع.. خاص | وصول صفقة الزمالك المنتظرة تمهيدًا لتوقيع العقود

وقال المصدر لـ بطولات: “اسم بيرسي تاو تم عرضه على الزمالك بشكل عام، ولكن لم نصل لاتفاق معه أو الاستقرار على ضمه”.

وأكمل: “صفقات الأجانب تحت التقييم بشكل دقيق خاصة أن أي صفقة أجنبي جديدة ستعني خروج أحد المحترفين من الفريق كون الأبيض يضم 4 أجانب حالياً، وهناك صفقة شيكوا بانزا”.

ويُعد تاو من أكثر المواهب المميزة في قارة إفريقيا وقضى مسيرة مميزة مع الأهلي، حيث حصد دوري أبطال إفريقيا والدوري المصري أكثر من مرة، قبل أن ينضم في يناير الماضي إلى نادي قطر القطري.

Amid what appears certain to end as Manchester United’s worst-ever Premier League campaign, the Red Devils will once again be looking to oversee something of a squad overhaul this summer.

The INEOS regime will likely need to be as ruthless as they were last summer, having notably allowed high profile stars such as Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial to depart following the expiry of their contracts.

Equally, the Old Trafford hierarchy also opted to cash in on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer favourites, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Scott McTominay, while a raft of academy graduates were also shown the door, namely Willy Kambwala, Alvaro Fernandez and Hannibal Mejbri.

With new boss Ruben Amorim having already hinted that the club will need to sell before buying this summer, it could be a repeat scenario this time around, with the futures of a number of first-team assets currently up in the air.

Player

New club

Fee

Scott McTominay

Napoli

£25m

Mason Greenwood

Marseille

£22m

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

West Ham

£15m

Willy Kambwala

Villarreal

£9m

Hannibal Mejbri

Burnley

£5.5m

Facundo Pellistri

Panathinaikos

£5m

Alvaro Fernandez

Benfica

£5m

Donny van de Beek

Girona

£400k

Raphael Varane

Como

Free

Omari Forson

Monza

Free

Jadon Sancho

Chelsea

Loan

Anthony Martial

AEK Athens

Free

If recent reports are anything to go by, there could well be a mass exodus from the Theatre of Dreams by the time next season rolls around…

Man Utd's mass summer exodus

As the player has hinted at himself this week, Christian Eriksen is likely to be moving on to pastures new following the expiry of his contract at the end of June, with the Danish playmaker having initially signed on a free transfer back in 2022.

The 33-year-old – as reported by Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst – is likely to be followed by fellow Scandinavian star, Victor Lindelof, with the long-serving Swede also unlikely to be handed a new deal.

Further experienced exits could lie in store for one-time academy graduates, Jonny Evans and Tom Heaton, with both men in line for retirement once their own contracts are up this summer.

As Luckhurst also alluded to, fellow veteran Casemiro is likely to be made available for transfer, despite the Brazilian having recently admitted that he would be willing to see out the remainder of his deal, which expires in 2026.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co are also likely to try and cash in on both Marcus Rashford and Antony, with the pair having joined Aston Villa and Real Betis, respectively, in January.

In the case of the Brazilian, there was no clause included as part of the move to Spain, although Villa do have a £40m option to buy as part of their temporary acquisition of Rashford.

Another man who could also be set for a permanent departure within the Premier League is Jadon Sancho, albeit with the Englishman’s future at Chelsea having been brought into fresh doubt of late.

Man Utd's total cost of signing Jadon Sancho

It is very on-brand for a chaotic club like United that even a seemingly routine obligation-to-buy clause has become rather complicated, with it looking as if the Stamford Bridge side could attempt to back out of the permanent signing of Sancho.

As reported by The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the Blues could avoid paying £25m for the addition of the 25-year-old by instead paying the Red Devils a £5m penalty fee, in order to send the winger back to Old Trafford.

That could potentially see the former Borussia Dortmund man return to Manchester this summer, leaving INEOS with the potential task of trying to find a suitable buyer for him, ahead of next term.

It would be no surprise if Chelsea do opt not to sign the wideman permanently, not least considering his meagre return of just two goals and six assists in 28 games for the west Londoners to date.

After a bright start, which included three assists in his first three Premier League games under Enzo Maresca, the one-time Manchester City youth star has failed to maintain that momentum, with Chelsea hero John Obi Mikel stating that he has simply “disappeared” of late:

Those woes reflect Sancho’s dismal time back at United thus far, with the 2021 arrival having contributed just 18 goals and assists in 83 games to date – a return bettered by Dan James, for instance, who chalked up 18 goal involvements from just 74 appearances.

Described by Solskjaer as “a forward player in the best traditions of Manchester United” upon his £73m switch from Germany, the England international has certainly failed to live up to that price tag, having proven a costly mistake instead.

Not only have the club had to fork out that initial fee, but they have also coughed up over £35m in wages since then, as per Capology, representing a total cost of around £108m in all.

The idea of then being burdened with him again next season, provided Chelsea wiggle out of a move, would be a real concern for the United hierarchy, with INEOS needing to ensure that they finally cash in on Sancho this summer – one way, or another.

INEOS must axe Man Utd flop who's cost them over £50m in wages

He’s likely to be part of the much-anticipated summer clear-out at Old Trafford.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Mar 24, 2025

Ireland international shares third-wicket stand of 186 with Fran Wilson, 48 hours after joining new team

ECB Reporters Network29-Apr-2023

Orla Prendergast celebrates her century on debut•Getty Images

Orla Prendergast scored a magnificent century on debut to propel Western Storm to a convincing six-wicket Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy victory over Thunder at Sophia Gardens.Having joined the staff only 48 hours previously, the Irish international made the best possible first impression, posting a career-best 115 and sharing in a mammoth third-wicket stand of 186 with Fran Wilson, who finished unbeaten on 74 from 100 balls.Prendergast’s superb innings comprised 115 balls and included 11 fours and a six as Storm chased down a victory target of 215 with 51 balls to spare. The pick of Thunder’s bowlers, Mahika Gaur claimed 3 for 39 from her allotted overs.Opener Emma Lamb top-scored with 74 and Deandra Dottin contributed a hard-hitting 41 after Thunder had won the toss and elected to bat.But Storm’s bowlers stuck to their task, Chloe Skelton accounting for Lamb and Dottin in an incisive return of 3 for 36, while Dani Gibson and Lauren Filer claimed two wickets apiece. Thunder’s middle and lower order came up short and they were bowled out for an inadequate 214 in 44.4 overs.Heavily defeated by reigning champions Northern Diamonds at Headingley in their opening fixture, Storm summoned the perfect response, but Thunder are still seeking their first win.Eager to stake a claim for a place in the England team for this summer’s upcoming Ashes series against Australia, Thunder opener Lamb was determined to make a good impression at a venue in which she posted a notable half-century in a T20 match against Storm two seasons ago.But the early going was predictably tough against the new ball pair of Gibson and Filer, who made the England international play and miss on several occasions. Fellow opener Naomi Dattani never looked comfortable and was beaten by movement off the seam, caught at the wicket off Gibson, while former Storm player Fi Morris was comprehensively bowled by a superbly-executed in-swinging yorker from Filer as Thunder slipped to 19 for 2 inside six overs.Unfazed by what was happening at the other end, the meticulous Lamb continued to cut and drive with confidence, collecting seven boundaries on her way to a chanceless 50 from 59 balls. She was afforded valuable support from her captain, Eleanor Threlkeld happily playing second fiddle in an innings of 27 which helped steady the ship. These two added 72 in 13.5 overs for the third wicket to put the visitors in credit, and Storm breathed a collective sigh of relief when Threlkeld inadvertently fluffed her lines, caught and bowled by slow left armer Sophia Smale in the act of driving.Any respite afforded the home team proved short-lived as former West Indies international Dottin picked up the cudgels in progressive partnership with Lamb, the fourth-wicket pair staging a quickfire alliance of 69 in 61 balls, in the process putting a young Storm side under intense pressure.Dottin seized the initiative when harvesting a quartet of boundaries in one over from Filer, this a prelude to launching off spinner Claire Nicholas over long-on for the first maximum of the innings and then cover driving the Wales international for four later in the same over.Desperate to effect a breakthrough and stem the flow of runs, skipper Gibson called upon Skelton’s off breaks with immediate results. The 22-year-old Gloucestershire bowler struck twice in the space of nine deliveries to claim the key wickets of Lamb and Dottin and altogether alter the complexion of the game.Lamb had plundered 74 from 85 balls with eight fours and no doubt had three figures in her sights when she miss-timed a pull shot straight to Wilson at deep mid-wicket, while the aggressive Dottin, having raised 41 from 40 balls and struck seven fours and a six, holed out to Gibson at deep long-on.Sitting pretty at 160 for 3 in the 29th over, Thunder went into freefall thereafter, their last seven wickets falling inside 14 overs for the addition of just 54 runs.Encouraged by their double breakthrough, resilient Storm turned the screw, Filer accounting for Liberty Heap and Nat Wraith adroitly stumping Tara Norris off the bowling of the excellent Gibson. Thunder were by now dependent upon Danielle Collins, but she was bowled by Skelton for 23, after which Alex Griffiths knocked back Gaur’s off stump and then completed a run out to dismiss Alex Hartley and terminate the innings with 5.2 overs unused.Defending a modest total, Thunder required the reassurance of early wickets. Sure enough, Gaur obliged in a new-ball burst of 2 for 8 in five overs, the tall left-arm seamer pinning Griffiths lbw for one and then persuading Emma Corney to edge behind for two as Storm stuttered to 11 for 2, their new-look opening partnership failing to fire for a second successive match.Having only recently arrived from Ireland and still getting to know her new team-mates, Prendergast found herself between a rock and a hard place, charged with the task of rebuilding under extreme pressure in unfamiliar surroundings. She could not have wished for a better partner than Wilson, the former England international bringing all of her vast experience to bear on a tricky situation.Especially impressive in the circumstances, Prendergast played an innings full of calculated risk, punishing anything short of a length to score ostensibly in boundaries while the fielding restrictions were in place and then demonstrating a willingness to take the aerial route when confronted by spin. Warming to her task, the 20-year-old went to 50 in the grand manner, hoisting Morris over square leg for six, attaining that landmark via 49 balls with seven fours.Prepared to play a supporting role and aware of the additional responsibility placed upon her by the injury-enforced absence of Sophie Luff, Wilson batted with a degree of caution, compiling steadily rather than succumbing to any urge to take unwarranted risks. Her 50 comprised 71 balls and included a modest two fours, at which point the unbroken third-wicket stand was already worth 144.Threlkeld tried a final roll of the dice, recalling Gaur, but the young Emirates bowler was not nearly as effective with a soft ball, and Prendergast and Wilson began to relax as the required rate dropped to below four an over.Nevertheless, Prendergast maintained her concentration and poise to register three figures for the first time in senior women’s cricket, turning Hartley down to deep fine leg and running three to bring home supporters to their feet in appreciation. Her second 50 spanned 49 balls in an even-paced innings. By the time she was out, bowled by Dattani in the 38th over, Storm were almost home and dry.

Real Madrid have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Dean Huijsen leaving Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool waiting in the wings.

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Huijsen has a £50 million release clause Madrid are ramping up their efforts for the defender Premier League sides are keenly following the developments Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

According to the La Liga giants are intensifying their interest in Huijsen, which could dash the hopes of several Premier League sides who have been monitoring the highly rated youngster. Los Blancos have already reached "an agreement in principle" with the player and are dealing with Bournemouth to close the transfer.

The 20-year-old centre-back has a release clause set at £50 million ($65m), and his standout performances this season have only strengthened his position as one of Europe’s most coveted young defenders.

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Liverpool have shown sustained interest in Huijsen since April, viewing him as a long-term asset in their backline. Chelsea have also made enquiries, while Arsenal remain firmly in contention for the Spain international. Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur have also kept tabs on the defender, who has quickly made his mark in the Premier League since arriving in England. Despite all the interest from English clubs, Huijsen is reportedly leaning toward a move to the Santiago Bernabéu.

DID YOU KNOW?

Real Madrid’s pursuit of Huijsen comes amid an ongoing injury crisis in their defensive ranks. Currently, Raul Asencio is the only fit centre-back available to manager Carlo Ancelotti as Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Eder Militao are all sidelined. Rudiger and Alaba have recently undergone surgeries and are both in their early 30s, raising questions about long-term reliability. Militao, although younger at 27, is recovering from his second anterior cruciate ligament injury, further complicating Madrid’s defensive outlook.

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Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?

Huijsen represents a rare blend of youth, experience, and tactical versatility. Despite being just 20, he has adapted seamlessly to the Premier League and shown qualities that suggest he could grow into a commanding presence in Madrid’s defence for years to come.

Given his Spanish national team credentials, prior development in Italy with Juventus, and quick adjustment to English football, the Dutch-born defender ticks all the boxes for Los Blancos. The fact that he is reportedly open to a move to Spain only boosts Madrid’s hopes of sealing a deal ahead of the competition.

Rangers legend Ally McCoist has been left stunned by the mention of a potential permanent manager at Ibrox, given his track record in the game.

Rangers searching for permanent manager

Barry Ferguson is currently in interim charge of the Gers, which has proven to be a popular appointment with many supporters, even though there are doubts over his lack of experience managing at this level.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has claimed that the 47-year-old could still be given the role permanently if he impresses enough between now and the end of the season, helped by the fact that he is “already well-backed by the Ibrox crowd thanks to his previous spell as Rangers’ club captain.”

Steven Gerrard also continues to be mentioned as a possible dream appointment for likely new owners 49ers Enterprises, as they edge towards sealing their takeover of the club. The Liverpool legend won the Scottish Premiership title during his first stint there, and may like the idea of making a return.

Kevin Muscat is another potential option for the Gers, with the Australian currently in charge of Chinese side Shanghai Port. Another former Ibrox player, he could be a more experienced option than Ferguson.

McCoist stunned by Rangers manager suggestion

Speaking live on talkSPORT’s breakfast show on Monday [via Glasgow World], McCoist reacted to the idea of Rafa Benitez managing Rangers in shock, after Jeff Stelling read out the suggestion of the Spaniard moving to Glasgow: “I’m a bit speechless. You’ve beat me with that. The only thing he would need, the same as (Ruben) Amorim at Manchester United, is a better squad of players to deal with at this moment of time.”

Meanwhile, Stelling then continued to go into further depth about why the former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss could be the ideal pick to arrive at Ibrox this summer: “He’s got loads of experience, he’s got European experience, top level experience, and he is available.”

Benitez is a manager with genuine pedigree, so it is understandable why McCoist was “speechless” at the idea of Rangers snapping him up as their next boss.

The Spaniard famously won the Champions League with Liverpool back in 2005, beating a star-studded AC Milan side in a memorable final, and he even won the Europa League with Chelsea in 2013, despite being unpopular with many of their supporters because of his Anfield past.

A shrewd tactician with so much experience, Benitez could help bridge the gap between Rangers and Celtic, and if he is backed by the 49ers in the summer transfer window, he could bring in players who are perfectly suited to his style of play.

Whether the 64-year-old is a target remains to be seen, but there are clear merits to the Gers at least trying their luck, and he may like the idea of managing another huge British club.

Celta Vigo

33

1.09

Everton

22

1.14

DL Pro

38

1.16

Newcastle United

146

1.48

Real Madrid

25

2.24

Napoli

112

1.87

Chelsea

48

1.96

Inter Milan

25

1.68

Liverpool

350

1.90

Valencia

160

1.91

Tenerife

46

1.74

Extremadura

92

1.45

Osasuna

2

0.50

Real Valladolid

23

0.61

He is a proven winner who makes teams hard to beat, and while someone like Gerrard is 20 years his junior, going with the more trophy-laden choice could make the most sense.

Shaheen Afridi took four wickets to restrict Bangladesh to 127 in a knockout clash in Adelaide

Alagappan Muthu06-Nov-2022
A team under pressure. A captain refusing to give up. The odds piling up against them. And then one fine day, the stars align.Pakistan cranked up the deja vu in Adelaide on Sunday as they sailed into the T20 World Cup semi-finals. If anyone is still working on time travel, please follow this cricket team. They’ve made it 1992 again.This game wouldn’t even have played out this way if not for Netherlands shocking South Africa. Some people might call that destiny.At the receiving end of this unreal series of events were Bangladesh and Shakib Al Hasan. His wicket turned this game, adjudged lbw on field, and upheld on DRS even though he was absolutely certain he’d nicked the ball.Bangladesh were 70 for 1 after 10 overs. Then they lost their captain and could manage only 127 for 8. Advantage Pakistan.Wasim Akram lite
Shaheen Shah Afridi admitted he’s not 100% at this tournament. Someone should splice that press conference video with the ball he bowled to Mosaddek Hossain. Left-arm. High pace. Around the wicket. Reverse swing. Bowled ‘iiiiimmmmmmm!Growing up, he would have shoved Wasim Akram videos straight into his veins. Now, he’s recreated his idol’s most famous dismissal on the grandest stage with everything on the line. How many people get to do that? How many people are good enough to do that?The good, the bad and the collapse
Najmul Hossain Shanto (54 off 48) was smiling. His leading edge had pretty much bunny-hopped for four over point. That was the first over. Back when Bangladesh had gained a sizeable advantage batting first on a used pitch where shot-making got harder as time went on.Even halfway through, they were sitting pretty. Then it happened.Shadab Khan looped one up over the batter’s eyeline. Shakib accepted the invitation and came charging out of his crease. The legspinner’s dip deceived him. A big hit turned into a scramble to put bat on ball.Shakib thought he did. Umpire Adrian Holdstock on field didn’t. DRS came into play, and everything turned murky. UltraEdge showed a spike, but the third umpire Langton Rusere thought that was bat hitting ground. Only there seemed a fraction of daylight between those two things.The on-field decision was upheld. And Shakib was distraught. He kept standing there, swinging his arms around, wondering what was going on. The Bangladesh captain had to literally be pushed out of the field.That wicket was part of a procession: 6 for 36.Mohammad Haris played a crucial innings of 31 off 18 balls•Associated PressAnother expensive no-ball
The Adelaide pitch wasn’t great for strokeplay. Batters kept trying to hit out but it just wasn’t happening. On the broadcast, a telling stat came up: the strike rate when pace was on was 122, but it was only 28 when pace was off.That kept Bangladesh in it. That’s the reason this game was even alive. Remember, earlier in the day, on this very surface, South Africa came undone against Netherlands’ slower balls to turn this into a quarter-final.Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan put on their first fifty partnership of this T20 World Cup. But Bangladesh fought back.They were an angry team. A team raging against the way the world was working. At one point, when an lbw didn’t go Bangladesh’s way, Shakib grabbed his cap and flung it into the turf. They could easily have been distracted by these things but they kept at it.They pushed this game into the death – and then unravelled.Taskin Ahmed, who could have had a wicket in his first over if not for a bad fumble from the wicketkeeper Nurul Hasan, who has carried his team on his back in these Super 12s, overstepped.The equation was 30 off 28. They had taken a wicket five balls ago. The pressure was piling on Pakistan.Then – much like in that game against India – a team that desperately needed a free-hit got one. And 21-year old Mohammad Haris whacked it for six.Pakistan are into the knockouts now. They even returned the favour to Netherlands, giving them a great chance of finishing fourth in Group 2 which ensures they will play the next T20 World Cup.Now, if India beat Zimbabwe in the last group game on Sunday, Pakistan will travel to Sydney, where once again conditions have been very helpful to slow bowling. Conditions that could favour Babar and his men if they go up against New Zealand in the first semi-final.

Every Leeds United supporter will be hoping that there is no repeat of play-off heartbreak come the end of the season, following the disappointing end to the previous campaign.

Daniel Farke’s side lost to Southampton in the play-off final at Wembley, confining the Whites to another season in the Championship despite looking at one point as though they could secure automatic promotion.

However, they’ve certainly gone the right way about making amends in 2024/25, losing just three times in 26 matches, sitting top of the three with just 20 outings remaining.

More of the same will be expected as we enter the closing stages of the season, but with the transfer market open, the boss may be tempted to delve into the window to make reinforcements to his already impressive side.

Numerous names have already been touted with a move to Elland Road, looking to inject further quality to aid their ambitions over the coming months.

Leeds’ transfer situation in January

A name that appears to constantly be linked with a move to join the club is Borussia Mönchengladbach centre-back Nico Elvedi, who could add needed top-level experience to the backline.

The Switzerland international was reported to be wanting a move to England, with Farke’s side still in the race for his signature after previously monitoring the 28-year-old’s situation.

It remains to be seen if the hierarchy will act upon his latest claim, but he would provide serious competition for the likes of Pascal Struijk and Joe Rodon.

As for the attacking department, Louie Barry is a name that simply won’t go away, still being touted as an option weeks after the original interest in his services.

The Whites aren’t the only club interested in the youngster after his stint at Stockport County, with Derby County also pushing to land the forward before the end of the month.

If the Aston Villa man was to complete a temporary move to Yorkshire, he could form another deadly combination with another target who’s recently been on the hierarchy’s radar.

Transfer Focus

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

Leeds could sign a star with Erling Haaland traits

Striker Erling Haaland is always mentioned within the same sentence as goals, given his stupendous record during his time at Manchester City.

The Norwegian, who moved to the Etihad back in the summer of 2022, scored 36 times during his debut campaign in England’s top flight – a feat that broke the record for the most goals scored by a player in a single season.

He’s since continued his goalscoring exploits, registering 111 strikes in just 126 appearances, helping Pep Guardiola’s side win a plethora of trophies during his short period in Manchester.

However, Leeds could make a move to land a player very similar to Haaland in the form of Brighton striker Evan Ferguson, who could be available this month.

The Republic of international has struggled for game time in 2024/25, starting just two Premier League matches to date, opening the door to a potential loan move.

Farke’s side were mooted with a move back in December, potentially having the edge in the race, with the Seagulls’ reluctance to allow him to join another top-flight side in January.

His decline in minutes is a shock to many, especially considering his previous form which saw him being ranked as a similar player to Haaland by FBref during the campaign in which the Norwegian broke the English record.

How Ferguson compared to Haaland in 2022/23
Statistics (per 90)	Ferguson	Haaland
Games played	19	35
Goals & assists	8	44
Shot-on-target accuracy	48%	45%
Pass accuracy	80%	72%
Take-on success	57%	34%
Carries into the final third	0.4	0.3
Fouls won	1.1	0.8
Stats via FBref

Whilst Ferguson was hugely outscored, he did produce numerous key stats that matched or bettered the leading talisman in key attacking areas.

The Irishman, who’s been dubbed a “superstar” by pundit Danny Murphy, managed to produce a better shot-on-target accuracy rate, highlighting his clinical edge, which could be huge in Leeds’ promotion push in 2025.

The youngster also completed more of his attempted take-ons, whilst managing more carries into the final third, showcasing his all-round attributes, which could also allow Barry to flourish alongside him at Elland Road.

Whilst competition for his signature will be fierce in the coming weeks, the prospect of added game time could give Farke’s men the advantage in the pursuit for his signature.

It’s not often a player of his quality becomes available, with the hierarchy needing to work tirelessly to land the talisman who could play a highly influential role in their pursuit of top-flight football once again.

Farke eyeing big January signing in "tremendous" Rutter repeat for Leeds

Leeds United appear to be targeting reinforcements all over the pitch this January.

1

By
Ethan Lamb

Jan 16, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have been working tirelessly to try and land new players this month to try and combat the injury crisis currently affecting Ange Postecoglou’s side.

Kevin Danso arrived from Lens in the last couple of days, looking to add reinforcements at the back after the injuries suffered by the likes of Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Radu Dragusin.

However, Marc Guehi was also a target for the Lilywhites on deadline day, but it was confirmed that Crystal Palace had rejected a £70m bid from Spurs for the England international.

A deal does seem to be edging ever closer for Mathys Tel though, with the Frenchman flying to the UK to complete a loan deal after previously rejecting a proposal to move to North London on a permanent basis.

He could be joined at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium by one of his compatriots, as the pair look to resurrect what has been a dismal Premier League campaign to date for the club.

Spurs leading the race for defensive star

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Spurs are now leading the race in a move for Axel Disasi after previously exiting the race for his signature.

It was reported that the 26-year-old was not interested in a move to join Postecoglou’s men, but after Aston Villa, his preferred option, pulled out of the race, it’s handed the Lilywhites a boost in their pursuit.

Jacob’s confirmed that they are now trying to revive a move after Unai Emery’s side exited the race, with fresh hope now handed their way in their pursuit of the Chelsea outcast.

It would allow the club to finally solve their defensive option, offering the perfect alternative to Guehi after their rejected bid earlier this afternoon on deadline day.

Why Disasi would be the perfect Guehi alternative for Spurs

Guehi would undoubtedly be a phenomenal addition for the club after his exploits over the last few months which have seen him rise into becoming a full England international and starring under Gareth Southgate at Euro 2024.

However, if the hierarchy are already having bids rejected of around the £70m mark, it could be a deal that would be way too expensive and one that is unrealistic – leaving the door open to potential alternatives.

Numerous names have been touted in recent days including Fikayo Tomori, but it appears that Disasi is now the player of choice, especially after Villa’s withdrawal from the race.

He’s failed to impress current Blues boss Enzo Maresca, making just six league appearances in 2024/25 – leading to his potential exit – but he showcased last season that he’s capable of thriving in England’s top flight.

Games played

31

25

Goals & assists

2

1

Progressive carries

1.1

0.7

Progressive passes

3.9

2.9

Pass accuracy

90%

87%

% of tackles won

77%

58%

Aerials won

2.5

1.3

Aerial success rate

70%

50%

The Frenchman matched or bettered Guehi in multiple key areas, highlighting what a phenomenal addition he would be for Spurs – plus being a much cheaper alternative than the Englishman.

Disasi, who’s previously been dubbed “dominant” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, managed to complete more progressive passes whilst posting a higher pass completion rate than the Palace star – making him a better fit for Postecoglou’s possession-based philosophy.

He also managed to win more of the aerial battles he entered, whilst posting a higher tackle success rate, showcasing his all-round defensive qualities – something which the Lilywhites have lacked during the various injury lay-offs of the first-team stars.

Whilst it’s unclear if any move for the Frenchman would be permanent or on loan, he would be a phenomenal addition, having all of the tools to a lot seamlessly into the current backline.

Given the difference in figures between him and Guehi from last season, he would be saving them a small fortune, offering a brilliant option for Postecoglou as he looks to build on the recent win at Brentford.

Imagine him & Tel: Lange leading late Spurs push to sign their own Rashford

The talented winger would add so much dynamism to Spurs’ attack.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Feb 3, 2025

Tom Price was the tail-end hero with 38 not out from 34 balls as Gloucestershire pulled off a breathless two-wicket Royal London Cup victory against Surrey at the Kia Oval.Ben Geddes, Surrey’s 21-year-old Royal London Cup captain, had done his best to inspire his team by scoring 71 in Surrey’s 292 for 9, running out Tom Smith with a direct hit on the bowlers’ stumps during a tense finish and also juggling his rookie bowling attack with skill.But fast bowler Price, who came in at No 8 with Gloucestershire seemingly making a mess of a chase that had initially looked well on course, kept his head in an unbroken ninth wicket stand of 42 with Paul van Meekeren.Price pulled the winning four off Matt Dunn to clinch a win, with 2.3 overs to spare, that is Gloucestershire’s fourth Group A victory and keeps alive their hope of qualification for the knock-out stages.Earlier, Jack Taylor had followed up his 3 for 38 with five sixes in a 46-ball 51, but Gloucestershire kept losing wickets at vital times as a crowd of more than 3,500 lapped up the entertainment in warm sunshine.Related

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Taylor’s seven overs of leg breaks contributed to 34 overs of spin bowled by Gloucestershire, with Pakistan international Zafar Gohar not conceding a single boundary in his ten overs. Gohar also bowled five of those overs in the first powerplay, having Ryan Patel held on the deep square leg ropes for five and, in the end, impressing with 1 for 35.Gloucestershire’s chase did not start well, with Ben Wells bowled off stump for 12 by a beauty from Dunn and Australian Test left-hander Marcus Harris chopping into his stumps against Tom Lawes.But, from 34 for 2, they counter-attacked through James Bracey and Ben Charlesworth, who added 61 in nine overs with some sparkling strokeplay.Six of Bracey’s first seven scoring shots were fours, including extra cover driven and forced offside boundaries from the second and third balls he faced, from Lawes.On 34, however, Bracey lifted his 25th ball to cover off Cameron Steel’s leg-spin and, on 49, Charlesworth chipped a return catch to Yousef Majid, Surrey’s 18-year-old slow left armer, just out of Cranleigh School.Majid was then struck for three sixes in four balls by Taylor but Gloucestershire’s progress was checked when 21-year-old Oli Price, having batted commandingly to reach 45 from 33 balls with eight fours, was strangled down the legside by seamer Nick Kimber.Gohar made a useful 30 before reverse-sweeping Majid to short third man, and Taylor struck further legside sixes off Lawes and Majid before holing out to deep midwicket in the 39th over. When Smith was run out by Geddes in the next over, the game was in the balance at 252 for 8 – but Price and Van Meekeren were equal to the task in hand.Surrey’s innings was built upon a 102-run second wicket stand in 17 overs between Geddes and Steel, and then a further partnership of 51 for the third wicket by Geddes and Josh Blake.But that initial momentum stalled when Van Meekeren had Steel caught at the wicket for a fine 54-ball 61 with one that bounced and Oli Price’s off spin then dismissed both Geddes and Blake (31) during his excellent seven-over spell of 2 for 34 from the Vauxhall End.Smith’s left-arm spin accounted for both Nico Reifer, brilliantly caught and bowled with a diving left-handed effort for 11, and Sheridon Gumbs, who on 17 was unfortunate to pick out Wells at short third man with a sweetly-hit reverse sweep.Suddenly, 181 for 2 had become 222 for 6 in 11 overs of struggle against the two spinners and it took Lawes’ third successive Royal London Cup half-century to pull Surrey up to a defendable total.Lawes flipped Van Meekeren for an extraordinary six to fine leg when the Dutch international fast bowler was reintroduced for the 45th over, and then produced a similarly cheeky stroke to the next ball to flick it to fine third man for four.Kimber managed a few meaty blows before skying Taylor to square cover on 17 and Gloucestershire’s skipper – taking on the responsibility of bowling three death overs – then dived to his right to send back Conor McKerr for 2 with a smart caught and bowled.Lawes swatted Van Meekeren over deep midwicket for his second six and then reverse-slapped Taylor for four to reach his fifty in the final over before, on 50 from 40 balls, mis-hitting to short third man where Van Meekeren ran in to take a good tumbling catch.