All posts by h716a5.icu

It might be something of an understatement to say that this season hasn’t gone quite how the Tottenham Hotspur faithful would have hoped back in August.

Yet, while they sit 16th in the Premier League, Ange Postecoglou’s side are in with a real chance to lift the Europa League, although before they can think about that, they need to secure passage to the final by keeping or extending their two-goal advantage away to FK Bodø/Glimt on Thursday night.

Unfortunately, they will be without James Maddison, and as things stand, Dominic Solanke could also be set to miss out.

While he’s been effective here and there, the club-record signing has not blown anyone away this season, and that might explain recent reports linking the team to a new centre-forward, who may well be an upgrade on the Englishman.

Tottenham's striker search

Before getting to the player in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other strikers linked with Spurs in recent months, such as Daizen Maeda and Jonathan David.

Transfer Focus

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

The former may spend a lot of time on the wing, but he’s no stranger to playing down the middle, and with a tally of 45 goal involvements this season and a potential price tag of £25m, he could be an incredible signing.

The latter has racked up a sensational haul of 25 goals and 12 assists in 47 games this season and, thanks to his contract expiring at the end of the campaign, will be available on a free.

However, another international striker has now caught the attention of Daniel Levy and Co: Tim Kleindienst.

According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Tottenham are one of several teams interested in signing the German forward this summer.

In fact, the report claims that the Lilywhites are now ready to pay up to £30m for the goalscorer, but so are West Ham United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton.

Moreover, AC Milan, AS Roma, and Bayern Munich are also keeping close tabs on the Bourrusia Mönchengladbach star.

It could be a complicated transfer to get over the line, but it’s one worth fighting for, especially as Kleindienst could be a big upgrade on Solanke.

How Kleindienst compares to Solanke

So, if Spurs are going to go out, get ahead of the competition and splash the cash on Kleindienst, would he come straight into the starting lineup?

Well, when we compare him to Solanke, as he’d be his main competitor, the answer is a pretty resounding yes.

For example, when it comes to the pair’s raw output from this season, which is, of course, the most important metric for a striker, it’s the German who comes out comfortably on top.

In just 32 appearances for Mönchengladbach, totalling 2835 minutes, the “remarkable” 29-year-old, as dubbed by ESPN reporter Archie Rhind-Tutt, has scored 16 goals and provided ten assists.

In other words, the Jüterbog-born poacher is currently averaging a goal involvement every 1.23 games, or every 109.03 minutes.

Appearnaces

32

41

Minutes

2835′

3131′

Goals

16

14

Assists

10

8

Goal Involvements per Match

0.81

0.53

Minutes per Goal Involvement

109.03′

142.31′

In contrast, the North Londoner’s record signing has scored 14 goals and provided eight assists in 41 appearances, totalling 3131 minutes.

That means the Englishman is currently averaging a goal involvement every 1.86 games, or every 142.31 minutes, and while that isn’t bad, it is noticeably worse than his potential competitor.

Furthermore, while the former FC Heidenheim ace has scored four goals and provided one assist in his six senior caps for Germany, the former Bournemouth striker has no goals or assists to his name in three caps.

Ultimately, while Solanke has been a useful player for Spurs so far, it’s clear that Kleindienst is the better goalscorer, and therefore, Levy and Co should go out and sign him this summer.

Not just Davies: Ange must sell Spurs dud who looked like a "pub player"

Tottenham Hotspur failed to impress once again this afternoon, drawing 1-1 with West Ham United.

1 ByEthan Lamb May 4, 2025

Everton manager David Moyes has the opportunity to make his stamp on the first-team squad this summer, with investment expected from the Friedkin Group.

The Scotsman rejoined the club in January after Sean Dyche’s dismissal, returning to the role after previously managing the Toffees over an 11-year period.

He’s led the club clear of any relegation threat and will lead the side into their final ever at Goodison Park against Southampton this weekend – in what will be a memorable occasion for all involved.

The move to the Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium presents a new era for the Toffees, which could lead to added investment and changes in the first-team squad.

With the summer window rapidly approaching, work has already been done behind the scenes to ensure a quick start is made to hand Moyes with the ammunition he needs to make the changes he desires.

The latest on Everton’s hunt for new additions this summer

Various names have already been linked with a move to join Everton this summer, with it unclear how much funding the manager will have at his disposal in the coming months.

The likes of Liam Delap, Emanuel Emegha and Dan Neil have all been on their radar in recent weeks, but no progress has yet been made with any of the aforementioned stars.

However, the hierarchy has already registered interest in another Championship star in the form of Bristol City talent Jason Knight, according to TEAMtalk.

The report claims that the board have been scouting the 24-year-old over the last few weeks and are considering a move for his signature ahead of the summer window.

It also states that the club are targeting younger options at the heart of the side, potentially being a replacement for either of Idrissa Gana Gueye and Abdoulaye Doucoure, with both of their contracts set to expire this summer.

Why Everton’s latest target could be Moyes’ next Cahill

Australian forward Tim Cahill is one of many legends who have previously plied their trade for Everton, starring during his eight-year spell on Merseyside.

He joined the Toffees from Millwall back in 2004 and made over 250 appearances and registered 68 goals – an average of a goal every four games, a solid record over such a timeframe.

His iconic corner flag celebration became a staple during their success under the Scotsman’s reign, with the striker producing countless moments of magic.

Arguably, one of his best goals for the club came against Chelsea, scoring an incredible bicycle kick against the Blues at Stamford Bridge way back in 2007.

However, 13 years on from his departure, Moyes has the chance to land his next version of the Australian in the form of Knight this summer, in a move that would certainly bolster their ranks.

The Republic of Ireland international could replicate Cahill by joining the club from a Championship side, but that shouldn’t take away from the levels produced by the 24-year-old in 2024/25.

He’s played a key role in the Robins’ ability to finish within the play-off places, featuring in every minute of their league campaign – registering three goals and six assists.

Jason Knight

Bristol City

4140

Zak Vyner

Bristol City

4140

Dominic Hyam

Blackburn Rovers

4140

Joe Rodon

Leeds United

4136

Maxime Esteve

Burnley

4057

Jimmy Dunne

Queens Park Rangers

4050

Shane Duffy

Norwich City

4042

Ben Cabango

Swansea City

4034

His underlying stats are just as impressive, completing 56% of the dribbles he’s attempted and creating 1.3 chances per 90 – having the tools to hand the players in front of him.

Knight, who’s been labelled “incredible” by one analyst, has also won 58% of the tackles he’s entered, whilst winning 5.6 duels per 90 – handing Moyes an added defensive presence in the middle of the park.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the Bristol City ace would cost this summer, but it’s clear that he has the potential to make the jump to England’s top-flight and be a success on Merseyside.

If he were to get anywhere near the levels produced by Cahill at the club, it would be a sensational piece of business, allowing the Toffees to have a key player at the heart of the side for many years to come.

As well as Harrison: Moyes' "animal" must now never play for Everton again

Everton are set to part with a host of stragglers this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 14, 2025

Celtic could be in the market for a new forward this summer and have now landed an unexpected boost with an ex-striker keen on a Parkhead return, according to a report.

Celtic prepare for a summer of movement in both directions

Brendan Rodgers is enjoying a brilliant second spell in Glasgow and could end the campaign with a fifth trophy from six attempts if his side see off Aberdeen this Saturday in the Scottish Cup final.

The Scottish Premiership title was lifted last weekend, and was accompanied by the Premier Sports Cup late last year after an intense penalty shootout victory over Rangers at Hampden.

While suspense dominates ahead of their latest outing at the national stadium, Celtic are expected to be busy in the market and have identified several targets to strengthen during the off-season.

Kieran Tierney is on his way back to Scotland and Celtic Park this summer after already reaching a pre-contract agreement with the Hoops when his contract at Arsenal expires.

He could be joined at Parkhead by Tyrhys Dolan, should the Blackburn Rovers winger decide he wants to seek a new challenge away from Ewood Park.

On the same token, Motherwell midfielder Lennon Miller is a target for Celtic and could be thrust into the limelight if Reo Hatate chooses to leave the club this summer after three-and-a-half years in Glasgow.

Celtic could sign "terrific" star who's even more exciting than Tierney

Celtic could land an even more exciting signing than Kieran Tierney by swooping for this star.

ByDan Emery May 19, 2025

From the sound of things, plenty of work is going on in the background to make the reigning Scottish champions an even more competitive force by the time pre-season comes to an end at Lennoxtown.

However, Celtic supporters may be intrigued by recent developments ahead of the window opening for business after a former star striker admitted he would love to return to the club after Tierney.

Giorgios Giakoumakis open to sensational Celtic return

Speaking to The Daily Record, Cruz Azul striker Giorgios Giakoumakis has admitted he would love a return to Celtic after a successful spell at the club that yielded three trophies.

He stated: “You want to set the fire? I would love to play for Celtic again. I don’t know if that’s a utopia or if it could happen again – but who wouldn’t?

“Even if you don’t know what it feels like to be there, when you’ve already been there, you know exactly what it means.”

Giorgios Giakoumakis at Celtic

Appearances

57

Goals

26

Assists

2

Later, he added when asked what it would be like to play in front of the Celtic supporters again: “Oh my God. That would be like an amazing dream. It would be amazing.”

In a career that has seen Giakoumakis become something of a high-profile journeyman, he has registered 118 senior goals for club and country, featuring at clubs in nations such as the Netherlands, Greece and the United States.

Truthfully, it is hard to know at this point whether there would be interest from Celtic, or the scope financially, to bring him back to Parkhead. However, he was a popular figure in Glasgow and is still revered by many supporters, so the saying ‘never say never’ would apply to this particular case.

Tottenham Hotspur are set for a season-defining call over whether to stick or twist with manager Ange Postecoglou, who’s just guided the club to their first major trophy in 17 years whilst also enduring their worst ever Premier League season.

Daniel Levy makes Ange Postecoglou decision at Tottenham

The Australian’s side recorded a record-breaking 22 defeats in the league, which is their highest total in a single Premier League campaign, but their triumph in the Europa League was crucial in more ways than one.

Tottenham plotting bid to sign £195k-per-week France forward on loan

Spurs are eager to bolster their attacking options.

ByEmilio Galantini May 31, 2025

After beating Man United 1-0 during a tense final in Bilbao, Spurs won their first European piece of silverware since 1984 whilst putting an end to their 17-year wait for a trophy overall – giving Daniel Levy some major thinking to do when it comes to Postecoglou’s long-term future.

Reports suggest that Tottenham have started doing their due-diligence by opening discussions with managerial targets, in the event they do decide to sack Postecoglou, and an extremely reliable Spurs source, Paul O’Keefe, actually claims that Levy has already made his decision behind-the-scenes.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

O’Keefe has heard from his sources that the Lilywhites chairman knows what direction he wants to take with Postecoglou, but he’s yet to communicate his call to those within Hotspur Way.

Reliable media outlets report that Postecoglou will learn his fate this week (ESPN), with the 59-year-old again suggesting he wants to remain at Spurs.

“I didn’t want us to just enjoy the moment,” said Postecoglou in an interview with Australian Story, during a family holiday in Greece.

“I also wanted us to think about what’s next, you know – don’t settle for this. We’ve got a taste of it now. My players have got a taste for it. The club’s got a taste for it. Well, let’s make sure we’re back here again.”

Tottenham hold "multiple meetings" with Brentford boss Thomas Frank

According to recent reports, Brentford boss Thomas Frank is becoming a more concrete target.

The “class” Dane’s contract includes an £8 million release clause, which Levy can choose to activate this summer. GiveMeSport’s Ben Jacobs reports that Tottenham have held “multiple meetings” with Frank, who’s a leading candidate to replace Postecoglou.

Frank has done a solid job with very little resources in terms of transfer investment, an undoubtedly attractive aspect of his CV to Levy, with Man City boss Pep Guardiola also calling him “one of the best”.

“They are an extraordinary team,” said Guardiola. “What they do always makes sense. Every corner is a headache. They are compact. This season, they have a high press. Thomas is one of the best.”

Chelsea’s pursuit of Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens seems to have hit a bit of a roadblock. The Blues were ideally looking to bring the winger in ahead of the Club World Cup, in which they will face LAFC in their first game. However, with the deadline at 7pm on Tuesday, it was not to be for the Blues.

They already lost out on a deal for AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano. That means that, after the Gittens deal was not completed in team, striker Liam Delap and defender Mamadou Sarr are the only new players to have arrived ahead of the competition in the USA.

Whatever happens with Gittens in the long run, he might not be the only winger that switches to Stamford Bridge this summer.

Chelsea’s Gittens alternatives

It was confirmed by Romano that the West London outfit want to sign Gittens ‘even if it’s later this summer’, explaining there is ‘no rush’ with the move. That suggests it is an independent move to their pursuit of another Premier League winger.

Transfer Focus

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

This time in conversation with DAZN, Romano suggested that the Blues may still pursue a move for Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho. He explained that the Argentina international is ‘appreciated’ by the higher-ups at Stamford Bridge.

They might not be the only side in contention to sign Garnacho this summer. Bayer Leverkusen, now managed by former United boss Erik ten Hag, ‘called’ for the winger according to Romano, but he explained the player wants to stay in the Premier League.

As for a fee, it was reported by TEAMTalk at the end of last week that the Red Devils would expect at least £50m for Garnacho.

Why Garnacho would be a good signing

Despite a tough season at times for Garnacho, there is no doubt he is an exciting talent, described as a “special” player by football statistician Statman Dave. He ended the campaign in strong fashion, too.

The 20-year-old, who has already won three major trophies for club and country, ended 2024/25 with 21 goals and assists to his name in all competitions. He managed that tally in 58 games for United.

In the Premier League, the former Atletico Madrid academy player struggled for consistency. He scored six goals and assisted twice in 36 games. Almost half of those goal involvements, including this stunning strike away to Brentford, came at the end of the season, where Garnacho grabbed four in nine appearances.

Perhaps Garnacho could actually be considered a bigger talent than Chelsea’s other target, Gittens. Make no mistake about it, the England under-21 international is an exciting player. He managed 12 goals and five assists in 48 games for Dortmund last season.

That is, of course, fewer than the numbers Garnacho put up. With that being said, it is worth remembering that the Red Devils’ number 17 played ten more games, although he was far more productive.

On top of that, Garnacho’s contribution to silverware for United has been imperative to their success. He scored in an FA Cup final against Manchester City in 2023/24, showing a relentless nature to press City and then pounce on an error at the back.

There are also standout statistics on FBref which suggest Garnacho is an even bigger talent than Gittens. For example, in all competitions last season, the United winger averaged 1.68 key passes and 5.8 progressive carries per 90 minutes, compared to the Dortmund star’s 1.07 key passes and 5.53 progressive carries each game.

Goals and assists

0.53

0.49

Key passes

1.68

1.07

Progressive passes

2.22

2.13

Progressive carries

5.8

5.53

Ball recoveries

3.95

3.71

Whilst Gittens would be a strong addition to the Chelsea squad, Garnacho is perhaps a far bigger talent. The 20-year-old has three major trophies to his name, all of which he has contributed to, and the underlying numbers show just how deadly he can be.

£50m could be a bargain for Chelsea, if they decide to pursue a move for a player who can add a whole new dimension to their attack.

Their new Joe Cole: Chelsea have now been offered £70m "superstar"

Chelsea are looking for signings to bolster their attack

ByJoe Nuttall Jun 10, 2025

Manchester City mean business at this summer’s Club World Cup.

On Wednesday, the Citizens announced their squad for this summer’s tournament in the United States and it is certainly star-studded, featuring new recruits Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Aït-Nouri.

The Sky Blues commence their campaign against Wydad Casablanca on Wednesday, before also taking on Al Ain and then Juventus in the group phase, with many backing Pep Guardiola’s team to go all the way.

Meantime, back home, as they turn their attention to the future, are Man City about to secure the services of the “exceptional” next Phil Foden?

Manchester City's spending spree continues

Man City can no longer register any new players for the group stages of the Club World Cup, but that doesn’t mean transfer activity doesn’t continue behind the scenes.

The Citizens have already splashed out around £30m on Cherki, while spending bigger fees of £46.5m on Reijnders and £31m on Ait-Nouri. Their next move could be a great deal cheaper.

Indeed, according to a report by David Ornstein and Jordan Campbell of the Athletic, Manchester City are ‘close to reaching an agreement’ as they seek to sign Sverre Nypan from Rosenborg.

Subject to personal terms being complete, it will be a record fee for a player from the Norwegian top-flight, said to be around £17m according to previous reports.

Transfer Focus

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

The plan is for Nypan to spend next season on loan at La Liga side Girona, also part of the City Football Group network of course, so it’ll be a little while before we see him donning a sky blue shirt, but Man City supporters should still be excited.

How Sverre Nypan compares to Man City's current midfield star

Despite being just 18 years old, having made only 70 appearances for Eliteserien side Rosenborg, scoring 14 goals, Nypan is one of the most highly sought-after young players in the world.

Seb Stafford-Bloor of the Athletic documents his ‘remarkable’ rise, labelling him a ‘mighty prospect’, outlining that he is predominantly a number eight, but can also be deployed as a number ten.

Nypan is Rosenborg’s youngest-ever player, debuting at the age of just 15 years and 322 days back in November 2022, before also becoming the Troillongan’s youngest-ever goalscorer, netting against champions Bodø/Glimt in the Arctic Circle the following May.

​​​​​​​

As part of the Guardian’s Next Generation of 2023 series, Michael Yokhin praised Nypan’s “superb ability to read the game and vision”, analyst Ben Mattinson believes he is an “exceptional talent”, while Jacek Kulig from Football Talent Scout asserts that he has a “huge future ahead”.

So, let’s assess his statistics.

Minutes

2,106

64th

Goals

8

15th

Assists

6

6th

Big chances created

7

22nd

Shots per 90

2

18th

Key passes per 90

1.4

25th

Successful dribbles per 90

1.4

12th

Average SofaScore rating

7.28

18th

As the table outlines, Nypan is the creative hub of Rosenborg’s team, ranking very highly for all metrics included, which is very impressive for an 18-year-old, especially when considering that, according to Global Football Rankings, the Eliteserien is the 26th strongest league in the world.

Right now, Man City’s creator in chief, following the departure of Kevin De Bruyne, is likely to be Phil Foden.

The England international was sensational in 2023/24, picking up every individual accolade going, as the numbers below highlight.

Statistics

Foden

Man City rank

Minutes

4,114

2nd

Goals

26

2nd

Assists

13

2nd

Shots

154

2nd

Shot-creating actions

182

2nd

Goal-creating actions

31

1st

Attempted take-ons

118

2nd

Carries into final third

92

2nd

At his best, Foden is the heartbeat of this Man City side, ranking incredibly highly for every attacking metric, something Nypan is replicating, albeit of course at a lower level for now.

Stefan Bienkowski of Transfermarkt praises Nypan’s ‘exceptionally high football IQ’, adding that he handles the ball very well, much like Foden.

Thus, it is clear that the teenager is a high-potential player, surely making him a Man City star of the not-too-distant future.

Bid incoming: £67m star is now finished at Man City after Cherki arrival

With Rayan Cherki having arrived at Manchester City, as part of the Sky Blues’ big spending spree, one star could be on his way to a PL rival.

ByBen Gray Jun 11, 2025

A “brilliant” Rangers player has been linked with a move away from Ibrox this summer, and the Scottish Premiership giants could even lose him on the cheap.

Rangers exit rumours ahead of Champions League qualifier

The Russell Martin era is now officially underway at Ibrox, with the Englishman’s first task as Gers boss being a Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos at the end of July.

While the new Rangers boss will no doubt be eyeing some new signings who can suit his style of play, some current players could move on this summer, including Gers star Cyriel Dessers.

A report on Sunday even claimed that the 30-year-old attacker could seal a move to Greek side AEK Athens in the space of 48 hours, so he may depart Ibrox imminently, following two years at the club.

Meanwhile, it looks as though Rangers centre-back Robin Propper could also be on his way out of the club, with talks planned with Martin about his future after a disappointing stint. Captain James Tavernier’s legendary spell with the Gers could also reach its conclusion, so it may be all change, and now another exit claim has emerged regarding a different player.

£20m Rangers star wanted by two clubs

According to TEAMtalk, Rangers are now “at risk” of losing Hamza Igamane this summer, amid interest from Ligue 1 side Marseille and Serie A outfit Lazio. In fact, it says that Marseille have now made a new approach to sign the forward over the coming months, which has “rocked” Rangers.

Worryingly, it is claimed that while the Gers have “set a £20m asking price” for the services of the 22-year-old, “this figure could potentially be negotiated”, suggesting that he may depart on the cheap.

Igamane enjoyed such an impressive first season in a Rangers shirt in 2024/25, scoring 15 goals in the Scottish Premiership and Europa League combined, so to lose him so soon would be an undoubted setback for Martin.

The Moroccan has had so many good moments, but a lethal late strike away to bitter rivals Celtic late in the campaign, securing a 3-2 win in the process, endeared him to Gers supporters even more than before.

Meanwhile, pundit Derek Ferguson was full of praise for the impact he made, saying: “Igamane is a real breath of fresh air, the young man. The manager said he was trying to get him up to speed, but in the last few games he has been nothing short of brilliant. He is off the cuff and he had three or four nutmegs this afternoon – and took his goal brilliantly. I don’t know if you remember Ted McMinn, but Igamane’s got that unpredictability.”

A Colak repeat: Club now pushing to sign Rangers star in the next 48 hours

Rangers could repeat their Antonio Colak masterstroke by selling this star this summer.

ByDan Emery Jun 23, 2025

It is understandable why Igamane’s head may be turned by Marseille or Lazio, seeing as they are big clubs in their own right, but the hope is that Martin can persuade him to stay at Rangers, talking up the club’s future under him and promising to make him a massive part of his plans.

Paceman working on variations as he regrets the no-ball wicket that got away against Scotland

Melinda Farrell05-Jun-2024Only 60 balls were bowled in England and Scotland’s washed-out match in Barbados but there was more to glean about the defending champions than there was about their opponents, other than that Scotland have aggressive openers who fear neither express pace nor spin, whether it be the off or leg variety.That an experienced and skilful bowling attack created just one chance in half an innings was notable, alongside an appreciation of Michael Jones’ drives and pulls and George Munsey’s bag of sweeps.Scotland were 31 for 0 in the fifth over when Munsey skied a miscue off Mark Wood that eventually landed in Jos Buttler’s gloves, but a no-ball call from the third umpire halted celebrations. It was just the second front-foot no-ball of Wood’s T20I career, prompting an unfamiliar sensation of dismay.”I was panicking,” Wood admitted, speaking the morning after the match. “You just don’t want it on your mind… I bowled 13 balls yesterday, and one of them is a wicket and it’s the one I’ve no-balled. If any of the others was the no-ball, I’m probably sitting here thinking, I’ve got one-for whatever, it’s not a problem, but because I’m getting the wicket off that ball, it hurts the team.”That’s what disappoints me. If [Munsey] goes on … he reverse sweeps Rash and every time that’s happening I’m thinking, ‘oh no, that’s my fault again’. That’s the feeling I don’t like, letting down my team-mates. I’m come in feeling, ‘oh no, I’ve overstepped, I can’t believe I’ve done that’. I very rarely overstep. In practice I’m diligent with it. [Neil Killeen, England’s bowling coach] is going, ‘It’s fine man, move on. You haven’t a problem’. To have 0 for 11 off two overs in T20, you’d think that’s not bad. But if I was a touch more on it, one for 10 looks a lot better. We were just fractions off yesterday.”Wood was selected ahead of Reece Topley and was handed the ball for the first over of the match, with both decisions raising a few eyebrows. It was a rare occurrence; the only previous time he had bowled the opening over for England in a T20I was a week earlier against Pakistan at The Oval.”I was disappointed with the new ball and felt it could hurt the team,” he said. “I will address it in training before the next game. It will be a squad effort, this. Whether we mix and match next game, I will be ready whenever the captain or team needs me.”Related

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Scotland openers make the running before rain frustrates in Barbados

Matthew Cross: 'We've got four games, and we've got to win four games'

Wood doesn’t expect to play every game of England’s campaign, as conditions and match-ups influence selections. He has been working on a slightly-slower-ball variation which he pulled out in his second over against Scotland. Munsey punched the first of these through the covers, the second time the ball hit the splice of his bat off a good length.”That seemed to go okay,” he said. “I thought yesterday’s wicket was going to be different, when you stood on it it was hard but when you bowled the ball stuck in the wicket a bit, quite slow. So it made the cutters more effective, not the slower-ball ones but the fast cutters. Munsey played one off the back foot for two and patted one back to me that gripped a little … so it’s adapting my game a little bit so it’s not just out-and-out quick as I can – I obviously like doing that – but having a bit more skill around it as well.”Wood has yet to unveil the other variation he’s been developing (“You will see it when I bring it in!”) but agrees that cross-seam bowling of the type mastered by Liam Plunkett in the 2019 World Cup could be key on Caribbean pitches.”‘Pudsy’ did that well in most conditions. But not necessarily a slow slower ball, maybe a drop in pace of 6-7 mph where you’re still driving it in [to the pitch] but it spits or holds a little. That’s what I tried yesterday and felt good with it, so maybe do it again and land it in a decent area.”I’ve bowled them before but not to the extent where I am as accurate with it, so I’m working on being more pinpoint, so not just bowling it and expecting something to happen – the best players pick up everything – but you have to land it in a good place as well.”Wood’s only previous experience playing in the Caribbean was England’s tour ahead of the 2019 World Cup, during which he took his first Test five-wicket haul and was player of the match for the third Test in Saint Lucia. Chris Jordan and Jofra Archer have provided him with local knowledge, as has Kieron Pollard, who – along with Andrew Flintoff – has joined England’s coaching staff as a specialist consultant for this tournament.”I think he’s still feeling his way into the group,” Wood said of Pollard. “But the little bits he has spoken about, everyone’s listened. He carries an aura and is very respected in the group because he’s done so much and I think knowing the conditions is going to be vital going forward. He had mentioned about the pitch yesterday about bowling cutters and the fact that, if you just sort of dib it there, it doesn’t react. You need to drive it in. It’s just little things. It might seem so obvious but those little things people say – the one-percenters – can make a big difference.””[Flintoff] comes up to people individually, pulls them aside and keeps things very simple. He mentioned to me that he didn’t have a slower ball. And I was thinking I very rarely bowl slower balls. He told me had three balls – a bouncer, a fast yorker and a hard length. He’s great to have around the group, easy to talk to and carries that natural aura. He’s a big guy, it’s a clash of the titans with him and Pollard together!”Speaking of big clashes, the shared points with Scotland could have huge implications for Group B and Saturday’s match against Australia.”It puts a different spin. If we win that game compared to losing, it has a different look and feel. Lose, and I’m sure for you guys in the media there will be questions asked like the last World Cup in India, so it’ll be an important game for us and one we’ll be desperately trying to win.”

Thomas Frank will face a huge task during his first season as Tottenham Hotspur manager, after his appointment from Brentford a couple of weeks ago.

The Dane has taken the reins from Ange Postecoglou, with the hierarchy wanting the side to reach the next step during his tenure in charge in North London.

After the Europa League triumph last season, the Lilywhites will enter the Champions League, a situation that presents Frank with his first challenge as the club’s boss.

He will need to strike a balance between Europe and the Premier League, needing to rise up the table throughout 2025/26 whilst being competitive in the biggest club competition on the continent.

If the new boss is to be a success, he will need Daniel Levy to back him in the transfer market and hand him the funds to strengthen in key areas and strike a balance with his players.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer

The attacking department in North London has been Spurs’ main focus over the last couple of weeks, with numerous names on their radar ahead of a potential transfer.

The likes of Arnaud Kalimuendo and Harvey Elliott have both been firmly on the radar of the Lilywhites, but as of yet no deals have been completed for the aforementioned duo.

Whilst talks have been held for the pair, work has also been done elsewhere, with a move for Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman on the cards during the off-season.

The latest report from TBR Football claims that Frank’s side have been in contact with his representatives over a move to North London, with Arsenal also interested in his signature.

They also claim that he could be available for a fee in the region of £43m this summer after registering 20 goals and six assists for the Serie A outfit last campaign.

Why Spurs’ £43m target would be a better signing than Kudus & Eze

Alongside the previous targets mentioned, Eberechi Eze and Mohammed Kudus have both been frequently mentioned as potential additions from fellow Premier League sides Crystal Palace and West Ham United.

The Englishman has starred for Palace throughout 2024/25, registering eight goals and eight assists in the league, even netting the winner in the Eagles’ unlikely FA Cup triumph.

Such form has also led to keen interest from fellow North London outfit Arsenal, with competition appearing to be fierce for his signature throughout the off-season.

As for Kudus, he currently has a £85m release clause in his contract, with a deal for his signature likely to cost around £60m, potentially negotiating a deal with the Hammers after their original contact.

Both players would be excellent options for the Lilywhites in their quest for success, but may prove to be too expensive, especially considering the inflated fees given their English top-flight status.

Lookman could prove to be a much cheaper alternative, but also a better option within the final third, outperforming the Premier League duo in multiple key areas.

The Nigerian, who’s been labelled “world-class” by the BBC’s John Bennett, has registered more goals and assists throughout 2024/25, along with a higher shot on target accuracy rate – demonstrating his threat within the final third.

Games played

31

34

32

Goals & assists

20

16

8

Shot on target accuracy

40%

27%

28%

Progressive carries

5.7

2.4

3.4

Key passes made

2.4

2.1

1.1

Carries into final third

2.8

1.6

2.1

Carries into opposition box

3.2

0.7

1.4

Aerials won

57%

15%

21%

He’s also registered more key passes per 90, along with more carries into the opposition box, showcasing his direct nature, which has allowed him to be a constant threat to countless backlines.

Lookman’s all-round dominance is further highlighted in his tally of aerials won and crosses completed, having the talent in numerous key areas to make him a versatile option in Frank’s system.

It’s unclear which of the three players the club will pursue this window, but it’s evident that Lookman would be the best option for the Lilywhites during the current window.

All three would massively improve the options at the Dane’s disposal, but the Nigerian has the added quality that could take the side up a notch throughout 2025/26.

More exciting than Semenyo: Spurs in talks to sign "generational" £85m star

The brilliant attacker could be just what Spurs need.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 1, 2025

“We are really prepared to be on top of the game in all aspects tomorrow,” says India allrounder

Andrew Fidel Fernando06-Aug-20242:13

Washington wants to ‘get the job done with the bat’

An India-Sri Lanka bilateral series in which India are the team scrambling to prove themselves? Wow. It has been a while. In fact, India have not lost a bilateral series between these teams since 1997.The outcomes of the last two matches are especially surprising given the pummelings India had handed out in these teams’ last two meetings – dismissing Sri Lanka for 50 in the Asia Cup final, and 55 in the ODI World Cup at the Wankhede.Ahead of the final match, it is an India player, Washington Sundar, defending the proficiency of his team’s batters. It has been a meek showing from their middle order so far. Their batting performances have been buoyed primarily by Rohit Sharma’s aggression in the powerplay, with Axar Patel also producing important runs from Nos. 5 and 7.Related

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“We’re quality players of spin,” Washington said on the eve of the third match. The first two games have been played on exceedingly spin-friendly pitches, and more of the same is expected for Wednesday.”We’ve always played on these kinds of pitches, even at home, even in Test matches. In domestic cricket we play a lot of games on such wickets. A lot of our players have done really well, especially in the middle order, especially batting against spin.”It’s just a matter of finding a way in their own individual self, and trying to get the job done. Everyone knows it’s a challenging wicket. The Indian team has always been one where everyone puts their hands up, especially when the challenge arises.”‘A win SL really needed’

The victory against India on Sunday, after Sri Lanka had come into the series on the back of 10 straight losses (across formats) meant plenty to the Sri Lanka team, assistant coach Thilina Kandamby said. But they are not losing sight of taking the series.
“It was a big result actually, The boys were very happy, including the staff. But we have one more game to go, so it’s about keeping focus. Everyone is well prepared, and these are not easy pitches for batting, but we’ve put up competitive totals.
“It’s a win that we really needed, and it came after such a long time. We enjoyed that, but we talked about how there’s another game to win to clinch the series. There’s a good opportunity to defeat India after so many years. We talked a lot about that.”

Where Sri Lanka were so poor in last year’s World Cup they failed to qualify for the Champions Trophy next year, for India, this is essentially preparation for that tournament. There is a chance given India’s objections to playing in Pakistan, that many of their matches could be moved to Sri Lanka – Khettarama the likeliest venue if that happens.That would mean more turning tracks in their future, next February and March. The other possible venue for India matches is the UAE, where, again, spin may play a significant role.Part of India’s problems in this series has been their inability to prevent Sri Lanka’s lower-middle order batters – Dunith Wellalage in particular – from putting together vital partnerships in the last 10 overs.”We’d love to get them out for 200 or less than that,” Washington said. “We had them in that situation in both matches. With big tournaments coming up, we’ll be in similar situations, and it’s an a opportunity for us to find a way to get the job done in crunch situations. We just need to put our hands up and win those critical situations in the game.”On the batting front, India’s challenge has been to counter an unusual Sri Lanka attack. The hosts even have a finger spinner (Kamindu Mendis) who can bowl with either arm – as well as the likes of mystery spinner Akila Dananjaya, who bowls a mix of offbreaks, googlies, and legbreaks. India have tried to counter this by attempting to maintain a left-right combination at the crease through this series, sending left-hander Washington in to bat as high as No. 4 alongside Virat Kohli, in the last game. So far, the strategy hasn’t fully worked.Washington said coach Gautam Gambhir has been vocal as the team has sought to hone their strategy against spin.”There’s been a lot of inputs from [Gambhir]. He’s a high-quality player of spin. We’ve always seen him putting up great performances on such wickets, especially against quality spin-bowling. That’s one of the reasons we came out here today to practice, to try and find a way do those little things tactically. We are really prepared to be on top of the game in all aspects tomorrow.”