All posts by z3u9t.icu

Rangers boss Gio van Bronckhorst is going to have a lot to digest on his plate in the summer as he looks to shape his squad ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

He will need to make key decisions on players he wants to bring to Ibrox to bolster the team whilst also deciding on the players he feels will not be useful to him moving forward.

The Dutchman, and Ross Wilson, will be hard at work to plot what they want to do in the next window as rumours have started circulating in recent weeks.

According to Football League World, one player the Gers are interested in is Stoke attacker Jacob Brown as they have joined a clutch of clubs chasing his signature.

The report claims that the Potters may find it difficult to turn an offer down as Rangers, West Ham, Brentford and Burnley all line up swoops for him.

Brown has been sublime in the Championship this season and would be a fantastic addition to van Bronckhorst’s team. He has 13 goals and registered four assists in the second tier as he has been able to make himself a goal threat for Stoke after only finding the back of the net five times in the previous campaign.

Potters boss Michael O’Neill has dubbed him as a “threat” and “unselfish” this term and his impressive statistics show that he is deserving of praise.

Meanwhile, Cedric Itten is a player on the other end of the scale. The £14k-per-week outcast has failed to score in five matches in the Premiership this season, which highlights both his lack of form in front of goal and his lack of involvement in the team as he has not been deemed good enough for regular minutes in the side.

In the first half of the campaign, he bagged twice in 12 outings for Greuther Furth in the Bundesliga as he averaged an underwhelming SofaScore rating of 6.65. This shows that he has not been able to pull up any trees elsewhere and has not shown any signs that he will come good for the Gers any time soon.

He is not positively contributing to the Glasgow giants on the pitch and must be shifted on in the summer to make way for a new addition – Brown. Rangers must bring the 24-year-old Scot to Ibrox to replace Itten and improve their attacking options, handing more help to the likes of Kemar Roofe and Alfredo Morelos next season.

AND in other news, In talks: Rangers now closing in on 1st summer signing, Van Bronckhorst surely buzzing…

Despite all of Derby County’s well documented off-field issues, Wayne Rooney’s side’s performances in the Championship so far this season have actually been relatively impressive, with the Rams picking up 10 points over their opening nine fixtures of the campaign.

However, it is undeniable that, following their 12 point deduction for entering administration, as well as a likely further nine-point deduction for breaching the EFL’s financial rules, Derby will need to pull off a miracle if they are to secure survival in the Championship this season.

So, with a win against Reading desperately needed this evening, will Rooney make any changes to the team that started in the Rams’ 1-0 loss to Sheffield United last weekend? Here’s how we think Derby could line up against the Royals, along with the latest team and injury news…

With Kelle Roos’ red card against Sheffield United, coupled with the continued absences of Festy Ebosele, Colin Kazim-Richards and Krystian Bielik due to injury, we predicted that Rooney will make three changes to his starting XI for the visit of the Royals.

Indeed, Roos’ suspension forces the 35-year-old into one change in defence, with Ryan Allsop – who replaced the dismissed goalkeeper against the Blades – coming in between the Derby sticks, while the back four of Lee Buchanan, Curtis Davies, Phil Jagielka and Nathan Byrne remains unchanged.

In midfield, Graeme Shinnie and Max Bird keep their starting spots in the middle of the park, however, both 32-year-old Sam Baldock and £2.7m-rated Louie Sibley – who started on the left and right flank respectively last time out – drop out of the XI for Kamil Jozwiak and the £5.4m-rated Jason Knight.

Meanwhile, Ravel Morrison and Tom Lawrence keep their places in attacking midfield and centre-forward, despite neither player having scored or assisted a goal in their past four appearances.

In other news: Derby County dealt injury setback ahead of Reading clash, Wayne Rooney will be gutted

Former Manchester City defender Steve Howey believes playing in La Liga would suit Bernardo Silva. 

The £63m-rated 27-year-old joined City from Monaco in 2017 and has featured in over 200 games for the club. In his time at the Etihad Stadium, Silva has scored 35 goals and assisted a further 44.

Bernardo has also helped the Cityzens win a plethora of trophies in his time at the Etihad. The club have won four successive Carabao Cups, three Premier League titles, two Community Shields and an FA Cup.

Whilst he has been highly successful in his time with City, it appears he could be looking for a fresh challenge as Pep Guardiola told the Manchester Evening News: “He’s our player. Not just Bernardo, there are two, three or four players that want to leave but they are our players under contract and when they bring some offer and their agents come here and they want to leave we are open to discuss absolutely everything, but it depends on them.”

Mundo Deportivo reported earlier this month that both Spanish giants Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were interested in the Portuguese international, with former City assistant manager and now Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also interested in Bernardo according to a report in the Daily Mirror.

Bernardo doesn’t appear to be short of options should he choose to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer, but Steve Howey believes a move to La Liga would suit the playmaker, telling Transfer Tavern: “You’ve seen his performances whilst he’s been at City, you know, a fantastic player. I think technically, playing in La Liga would probably suit him as well, so I think it could be a move which could suit all parties, but ultimately, only if Man City get the money that they want for him.”

Southampton extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to four games following their 0-0 draw with West Ham in the Premier League on Saturday.

The Saints worked hard defensively to ensure that they came away with at least a point, as they kept the likes of Michail Antonio – who was sent off late in the game – and Jarrod Bowen at bay.

Whilst there were some strong performers on the day, with the likes of Jack Stephens, Alex McCarthy and Mohammed Salisu impressing at the back, there were also some disappointing showings. One player, in particular, who struggled against David Moyes’ side was Norweigan international Mo Elyounoussi.

Ralph Hasenhuttl ditched his favoured 4-2-2-2 formation to line up with a 4-1-4-1, opting to select Elyounoussi as one of his two central midfielders – alongside James Ward-Prowse – ahead of Oriol Romeu in the holding midfield position.

Unfortunately, the 27-year-old – who was on loan at Celtic last season – was unable to showcase his quality in a new position. He was given the lowest SofaScore rating (6.1) out of the 22 starters in the game, as he failed to adapt to playing centrally instead of in his more natural wide role in the side.

Defensively, he offered almost nothing. Per SofaScore, he made zero tackles, blocks or interceptions in 90 minutes on the pitch. He was also dribbled past twice and lost a whopping 85% of his duels, losing nine of his 10 battles on the ground and two of his three in the air.

This suggests that he was not up to the physical battle in the middle of the park as West Ham’s players dominated him in one-on-one duels. He needed to be stronger  in order to either retain possession for Southampton or win the ball back, rather than being a liability by allowing the Hammers to consistently come out on top in battles.

Offensively, he did not fare much better either. Per SofaScore, Elyounoussi had fewer touches (33) than goalkeeper Alex McCarthy (41) and he lost possession 11 times from those 33 touches. This means that he gave the ball away once every three touches, which shows that he was not secure enough with the ball at his feet to be effective in midfield for Hasenhuttl’s team – only creating one chance all game.

The Austrian head coach put his faith in Elyounoussi by deploying him in a brand-new role, but the dud let him down with his performance. He offered next-to-nothing defensively and was not up to the physical challenge of playing in the engine room against West Ham, which is why Hasenhuttl will surely be disappointed with his performance.

AND in other news, “That’s his level” – Exclusive: Pundit drops verdict on Southampton ace after transfer claim…

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp ‘really wants’ Karim Adeyemi to join his squad as negotiations with RB Salzburg are ongoing, according to journalist Ekrem Konur.

The Lowdown: Sizzling Salzburg Striker

Adeyemi, 19, has caught the eye of some of the best clubs in Europe with his terrific record at Red Bull Salzburg, with the Germany international scoring 21 goals in 66 appearances, assisting 17 also.

The striker has come on leaps and bounds since making his debut and is now the Austrian club’s main man up-front following the departure of Patson Daka to Leicester City last summer.

With the striker showing his worth in the Champions League this season, the chances of a move elsewhere next summer will increase as his performances continue to stand out.

The Latest: Klopp keen on Adeyemi

According to Konur on Twitter, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp really wants to sign Adeyemi and talks between the two clubs are continuing on financial issues.

Konur also stated that Adeyemi wants to play in the top-level leagues and prove himself, following in the footsteps of Erling Haaland, who now plays for Borussia Dortmund.

Germany head coach Hansi Flick labelled Adeyemi ‘ice-cold’ after the teenager scored on his national debut.

The Verdict: Future move

The signing of Adeyemi would fill the hole that Liverpool have missing in the middle of their front three. With Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota alternating in that role, they lack an out-and-out striker, offering Klopp the chance to rest and rotate his key forwards.

Only 19, the German striker has years to grow and adapt to English football, but his track record in front of goal demonstrates his ability.

Whilst Daka has struggled to adapt to the Premier League, Haaland’s record at Dortmund since joining has placed him as one of the best strikers around and Adeyemi will be hoping to replicate the Norway international’s rise.

In other news, this Liverpool target would prefer a move to this league. Find out more here.

Fabrizio Romano has dropped an exciting Arsenal transfer claim which will leave fans buzzing.

What’s the story?

Mikel Arteta’s side endured a nightmare start to the Premier League season on Friday night as they lost 2-0 to newly-promoted Brentford.

However, Romano has now delivered a transfer update which should raise optimism levels at the Emirates Stadium.

Writing on Twitter, the journalist revealed: “Arsenal are prepared to make a bid to sign Martin Ødegaard on a permanent deal. He’s always been Edu and Arteta’s priority as number 10. #AFC Once Real Madrid gives the green light, Arsenal will submit the proposal. Aouar, also in the list. Maddison, never been close.”

In a follow-up tweet, he added: “Martin Ødegaard would love to re-join Arsenal. He was really happy during his loan spell last season and he’s waiting for Arsenal bid to be accepted by Real Madrid, once the green light arrives. #AFC Ødegaard has a great relationship with Arteta and board members too.”

Fans will be buzzing

While some Arsenal fans may have been enamoured by potentially signing Leicester City star James Maddison, bringing in Odegaard would be a significant step to ensuring they strengthen their creative options in the number ten position.

As per WhoScored, despite only coming in on loan in the January transfer window from Real Madrid, Odegaard averaged 1.4 key passes per game in the Premier League, which was the joint-highest of any Arsenal player.

Emile Smith Rowe was left to carry the Gunners on his back against the Bees on Friday night, and it was all too clear that the young starlet desperately needs support.

It’s exactly why Romano’s claim that Arsenal are now prepared to make an official bid to sign Odegaard, and that crucially, the Norway international is very much keen on a move to the Emirates, will likely leave the club’s fans buzzing.

Meanwhile, David Ornstein dropped an Arsenal update on Lautaro Martinez…

Manchester United have not been involved in the winter transfer window this January so far after spending £133.7m in the summer, but that could be about to change as an update emerges on a potential target.

What’s the word?

SPORT1 journalist, Patrick Berger, has taken to his Twitter account to add further developments to the rumoured potential move for Denis Zakaria from Borussia Mönchengladbach to Manchester United.

Berger tweeted:

“Man United are def interested in Denis Zakaria. There have been good talks with Rangnick, Judge & player agents. #MUFC discussing about winter transfer. Gladbach would let Zak go for €6-7m. Open race as #BVB, Juve & Liverpool interested too. No bid of any club so far.”

Manchester United have been linked to the player since the transfer window opened, but will need to compete with a number of other clubs interested in signing the Swiss defensive midfielder.

Fans surely buzzing

Signing a defensive midfielder has been a long term prospect for Manchester United, even when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was in charge at Old Trafford so the fans will surely be buzzing at the developments in the potential signing of Zakaria.

Fans have been sharing their thoughts on bringing the Bundesliga player to the Manchester club since the update on talks opening, with one Red Devils fan tweeting: “£7m for Zakaria is a real deal just get it done already @ManUtd.”

According to FBref, the Switzerland international has shown how much his presence has an impact on his current side this season winning 0.97 aerial duels per 90 minutes, averaging at 4.14 tackles and interceptions per game this season, as well as racking up 2.48 blocks per 90 minutes too.

These statistics display the positional awareness that the 6-foot midfielder offers in his defensive actions, which is something that the current Manchester United midfield is lacking in terms of physical presence and ball retention in the centre of the pitch.

For instance, Bruno Fernandes gave the ball away 26 times alone in their 1-1 draw against Newcastle United last month.

Rangnick will need to stay close to Zakaria over the next few weeks, as other clubs are speculated to be interested in securing the signing of the £51k-per-week star, and although the German coach suggested the club won’t be getting too involved in the window, he may be left no choice but to make an offer for Zakaria in January to push off competition for him.

After all, it’s a signing, given his quality and what United lack in a vital area, that would delight supporters at Old Trafford.

In other news: Romano reveals talks for Eric Bailly move

Aston Villa full-back Ashley Young is a doubt for Sunday’s trip to Brentford after the 36-year-old picked up a foot injury.

What’s the latest?

Villa manager Steven Gerrard has stated that Young has an “outside chance” of being available for the trip to West London on Sunday.

The versatile veteran is currently nursing a toe fracture and may struggle to be ready in time for the Villans’ next game, although the 41-year-old claimed that Young is “trying his best to be available.”

Young missed the 3-1 Boxing Day defeat to Chelsea and looks likely to sit out on a second consecutive game for the first time since Gerrard was appointed manager.

Villa fans will be worried

Although not a top performer within the squad, Young has been consistent for the Midlands side since his return to Villa Park last summer, ten years after departing for Manchester United.

The 36-year-old has featured in all but one of Steven Gerrard’s seven Premier League games in charge of Villa, missing the defeat to Chelsea. Moreover, he has contributed two assists under the 41-year-old and also helped his team towards two clean sheets in that time.

Despite being predominantly a right-back, Young’s versatility has proven quite beneficial this term, with the veteran being deployed in a variety of defensive, midfield and attacking positions.

His experience has been of great use all season and arguably deserves more credit and recognition from outsiders than what he’s received since returning to England from Italian outfit Inter Milan. Therefore, Villa fans may be rather worried to hear that he only has an “outside chance” of featuring against Brentford this afternoon, having just started to become a near-constant in the team.

One positive is that the injury doesn’t appear hugely serious and Gerrard should have one of his most reliable assets available for upcoming fixtures as the Villans look to stake a claim and make a serious push for European qualification under the 41-year-old.

In other news – “It’s a goer”: Ashley Preece drops exciting transfer claim which will leave Villa fans ecstatic

David Moyes will be looking for his West Ham side to continue their momentum when they return to Premier League action later this afternoon.

The Irons have won four straight matches across all competitions since they returned from the international break and a fifth successive victory away at Aston Villa today could see them level on points with defending champions Manchester City, who are in third place.

West Ham head into the encounter after they knocked the aforementioned Citizens out of the Carabao Cup in midweek, whilst Dean Smith’s men are looking to change their fortunes down in 16th.

The 58-year-old boss is left with plenty to ponder ahead of kickoff, so what sort of Hammers side could we see at Villa Park today?

Here’s what we are predicting…

There could be as many as eight changes from the side that defeated City on penalties.

In goal, there should be a routine swap with Lukasz Fabianski resuming his Premier League duties over Alphonse Areola, who appears to be getting minutes in their cup competitions.

Meanwhile, ahead of the Polish veteran, full-back duo Aaron Cresswell and Ben Johnson keep their place, even despite the potential return of Vladimir Coufal.

Moyes has one mighty decision to make on the right-hand side of defence after the Czech Republic star picked up his first minutes since injury as a substitute on Wednesday night.

However, he may not be risked just yet and it would be tough on the young 21-year-old gem, seeing as he’s kept a clean sheet in all six of his starts this campaign, so he should remain in the starting XI.

They will be joined by Kurt Zouma and Angelo Ogbonna in central defence, replacing Issa Diop and 31-year-old Craig Dawson.

In midfield, Declan Rice returns to partner Tomas Soucek, who remains from midweek, whilst further up the pitch, it’s likely to be all change as Jarrod Bowen, Said Benrahma, Pablo Fornals and leading talisman Michail Antonio all return.

The attacking quartet replace Nikola Vlasic, Manuel Lanzini, Arthur Masuaku and Andriy Yarmolenko.

AND in other news, Newman could deliver West Ham their next Payet by signing £22.5m-rated “phenomenon”…

Newcastle United supporters have a reason to look forward to the future under PIF after the Saudi Arabian consortium splashed the cash in January to help them avoid relegation from the top-flight.

It was a sign of intent from the new owners and the Magpies can now hope that they will be able to compete higher up the food chain in the Premier League in the years to come.

The Toon faithful may be jealous of the likes of West Ham and Leicester this week as both sides secured places in European semi-finals, dreaming that their side will one day make it to one under PIF’s leadership.

English midfielder James Maddison was named Man of the Match, and scored, as the Foxes beat PSV in the Conference League quarter-finals and he is a player who could have been wearing a Newcastle shirt.

In the summer of 2018, Newcastle were one of the teams reportedly interested in signing the playmaker from Norwich.

However, Mike Ashley was unable to get a deal over the line as Leicester swooped in to snap him up, with Transfermarkt valuing him at £9m at the time.

Since joining the Foxes, he has proven himself in the Premier League and in Europe with his ability to score and create from midfield.

In 12 top-flight matches, Maddison has scored 29 goals and provided 22 assists. He also has five goals and four assists for the club in 16 outings in European competitions, which shows that he can deliver domestically and in Europe.

At the time of writing (15/04/22), Transfermarkt value him at a whopping £45m. This is a huge increase in the space of just under four years and illustrates how he has been able to fulfill the potential he showed whilst at Carrow Road in the Championship.

Although he has only been capped once by England, Gareth Southgate previously hailed his “world-class” set-pieces and he still has time to make an impact on the international stage. At the age of 25, he has plenty of time to keep improving and increasing his value – which will cause the size of Ashley’s blunder to grow.

The former Toon owner endured a major howler by failing to beat Leicester to his signature as he has turned out to be a phenomenal signing for the Foxes. He is thriving under Brendan Rodgers with his goals and assists from the number 10 position and the magician could have been strutting his stuff at St. James’ Park…

AND in other news, Same agency as Joelinton: NUFC scouting 6 ft 4 star, he’s a dream Botman alternative…