All posts by n8rngtd.top

Leeds United supporters are surely still in a celebratory mood after their side brushed off any playoff final agony to lift the Championship title on a colossal 100 points.

There will be some anxiety seeping in as to how the Whites will cope with the Premier League. However, the summer transfer window is also a time for those at Elland Road to become even more excited about who could possibly don the famous Leeds white in the top division.

Daniel Farke could well be about to flex his past Norwich City connections to finally bring Emiliano Buendia into the building, with the addition of Buendia to the Whites ranks somewhat of a coup, considering his previous excellent performances for Aston Villa in the Premier League.

Why Buendia signing would be a coup

Buendia and the German used to be a match made in heaven in Norfolk, before the Argentine ace spread his wings for pastures new at Villa.

Indeed, the exciting ex-Canaries midfielder made the Championship his playground under Farke’s watchful eye, as seen in his terrific tally of 24 goals and 41 assists pulling on Norwich yellow and green.

He would initially kick on when given first-team opportunities in the West Midlands, with this goal even breaking Leeds hearts back in early 2023, but injury troubles have since hindered his chances at progressing further at Villa Park.

But, even with Buendia being missing for a hefty 56 games during the 2023/24 season due to a devastating cruciate ligament tear, he does still boast ten goals and 15 assists up a level, which will be of great use to Leeds as they carefully navigate back up.

Yet, whilst the opportunity to pick up a former £33m-rated star on loan shouldn’t be passed up on, another move would go down as a bigger coup than Buendia’s temporary signature being won if it were successfully pulled off.

Leeds could re-sign Bielsa favourite

Leeds will be aiming to leave the past in the past for the most part, especially when it comes to the sinking feeling of being relegated back down to the Championship.

But, Farke and Co. would surely be tempted by the prospect of adding Kalvin Phillips back to their roster.

Indeed, the Mail on Sunday – as has been relayed by MOT Leeds News – stated in their recent print copy that the newly promoted Whites want to bring Phillips back to his old boyhood home after his shoulder surgery at Manchester City.

It has even been further speculated that Leeds could win back their former fans’ favourite for a cut-price – valued at £10m by Transfermarkt – which would be a deal that’s hard to refuse, particularly when you remember Phillips’ heroics at Elland Road under Marcelo Bielsa saw him join Pep Guardiola’s men for a bumper £45m.

This would surely go down as a stroke of genius on Leeds’ end if Phillips were to return and get back to his previous West Yorkshire best.

Indeed, his last spell at the club resulted in many an England call-up under Gareth Southgate, alongside the 29-year-old looking assured at the daunting level, instead of now being known as a waste of City’s flashy millions.

When playing in the top-flight previously for Leeds, Phillips had shown himself to be a competent battler who was also keen at creating chances for his attacking teammates, with the table above showing off both his grit to win duels galore, but also his ability to fashion openings.

It would even lead to the 29-year-old being labelled as “exceptional” by football talent scout Antonio Mango, with nobody more desperate than Phillips himself to try and recapture these lofty heights.

Of course, this might well go down as a misfire if the beloved ex-number 23 returns and buckles under all the intense pressure.

But, on the contrary, it could well be viewed as an unbelievable coup, especially if he rolls back the years in the heart of Leeds’ midfield for far less than his steep £45m valuation.

Better than Kelleher: Farke targeting Leeds move for “phenomenal” £25m star

Leeds United could now attempt to sign this goalkeeper instead of landing Caoimhin Kelleher’s services.

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By
Kelan Sarson

May 31, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have held talks with the representatives of an “outrageous” forward compared to Argentina icon Lionel Messi, according to reports, coming amid their triumph in the Europa League.

Tottenham end 17-year wait for silverware after Europa League win over Man Utd

Brennan Johnson etched his name into Spurs folklore on Wednesday night, scoring the only goal of a tense encounter, with Ange Postecoglou’s side ending the club’s 17-year wait for major silverware after beating Man Utd 1-0.

Tottenham: Levy ready to trigger £100k-per-week rival star's release clause

Spurs are front of the queue for his signature.

By
Emilio Galantini

May 21, 2025

As Tottenham’s squad hoisted the trophy aloft, Postecoglou was also reminded of the promise he made earlier this campaign – namely that he ‘always’ wins silverware during his second season in charge.

It was a statement which could’ve come back to bite him, but the 59-year-old’s message has now been vindicated by Spurs’ glorious night in Spain. Postecoglou became the first Australian manager to win a major European trophy, doing his country proud in the process, all while changing an ever-present narrative around the Lilywhites that they’re a ‘nearly’ team.

“It wasn’t me boasting, it was a declaration,” said Postecoglou on his ‘second season’ quote after Tottenham’s win over United.

“If we fell short, I was ready to cop it.”

Guglielmo Vicario’s heroics in goal – combined with Cristian Romero’s outstanding defensive display, Micky van de Ven’s acrobatic clearance off the line and the performances of their wing-backs – helped to shut a dominant Man United side out and end Tottenham’s long wait for a parade.

Spurs also sealed a monumental boost by qualifying for next season’s Champions League, and all the riches that come with it in terms of both revenue and player-pull.

This will undoubtedly have a positive effect on their summer recruitment strategy. Whether or not Tottenham’s trophy-winning boss will be at the helm to benefit from it next term remains to be seen, following previous reports Postecoglou could leave regardless of their Europa League campaign.

However, whether it be for Postecoglou or any potential new manager, Lyon star Rayan Cherki is attracting Daniel Levy’s interest.

Tottenham hold talks with Rayan Cherki after Lionel Messi comparison

According to GiveMeSport, Tottenham have declared their interest in Cherki after holding talks with his representatives.

Levy and co are apparently attempting to discover more about the terms he’d want to join them, and there are reports that the exciting French winger has a very tempting £19 million release clause in his contract.

This could make the “outrageous” forward one of the bargains of this summer window, especially after a phenomenal 24/25 haul of 12 goals and 20 assists in all competitions.

GMS also stated that the boldness of Tottenham’s offer to Cherki would be directly linked to their Europa League triumph, so now that they’re confirmed champions, Levy could make a more tempting proposal.

Their status as a Champions League side for next season now also makes Spurs a far more attractive proposition to players like the 21-year-old, so this could be one to watch in the coming weeks, with Cherki also being likened to Messi by former Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas.

Former Sunderland manager Gus Poyet has now given his thoughts on the Black Cats’ Championship promotion push, in an exclusive interview with Football FanCast.

Black Cats seal play-off final spot after Ballard heroics

After picking up a 2-1 victory away at Coventry City in the first leg, Sunderland were in a strong position to reach the play-off final, but as ever, they didn’t do things the easy way, with the game going to extra-time after Ephron Mason-Clark’s late goal for the visitors.

However, Regis Le Bris’ side managed to get the job done in dramatic fashion, with Daniel Ballard scoring a stoppage-time equaliser, booking his side a place at Wembley against Sheffield United on May 24th.

It has been a tumultuous eight years for the Mackems since being relegated from the Premier League in 2017, spending four years trying to get out of League One, but they now have a golden opportunity to bring top flight football back to the Stadium of Light.

That is despite losing five straight matches heading into the play-offs, which was a concern for former manager Poyet. In partnership with BetBrain, the 57 year-old told Football FanCast he was impressed by their ability to bounce back from such a horror run of form.

The Uruguayan said: “Now, I’m a little bit more calm. Before the (first) Coventry game I thought ‘what is going on?’. Tremendous season, and then finishing the season in the worst way. When you talk to a psychologist, they’ll say the worst way to head into a play-off is losing five games in a row, mentally. But, in football, nothing is right or wrong, they went on and beat a very good Coventry team.

Speaking about playing in front of what was a raucous Stadium of Light crowd, he said: “I wouldn’t say there’s pressure, pressure is when you’re fighting relegation, that’s pressure,” before adding: “Wembley is always difficult but it’s always an opportunity, so I’m really looking forward to seeing if they can make it this year.”

Nothing to fear for Sunderland at Wembley

There were some justified concerns heading into the play-offs, given that Le Bris’ side had lost their previous five games on the spin, but Ballard’s late goal should give them confidence ahead of the play-off final against Sheffield United.

Having finished on 90 points, the Blades will undoubtedly be the favourites heading into the match, but there is nothing to fear for the Black Cats, considering they defeated Chris Wilder’s side 1-0 in their most recent encounter.

Sunderland star has now proven he's their best signing since Defoe

Sunderland could now have stumbled upon their best buy since Jermain Defoe.

By
Kelan Sarson

May 13, 2025

Le Bris took the time to praise the part the fans played on Tuesday night, saying: “The atmosphere was crazy. They helped a lot because we went through difficult moments, their energy was contagious. They were our twelfth man, really they were.”

With another trip to Wembley now pencilled in for May 24th, the fans will have an even more important role to play in just over a week’s time.

Sunday’s clash against Liverpool was always going to be a tough one for Arsenal from a mental perspective.

After crashing out of the Champions League at the semi-final stages, the last place they probably wanted to be was Anfield, the home of the Premier League title winners.

A guard of honour was given and Arsenal actually starting vibrantly, Bukayo Saka missing a chance from a matter of yards out. Here we go again, it’s going to be another one of those days.

Indeed, that certainly looked the case when the Gunners found themselves 2-0 down after 21 minutes. This was the perfect encapsulation of this season. Arsenal could have been two up themselves but squandered their chances and as they found in Paris on Wednesday, they were up against it.

This time, Mikel Arteta’s men rallied and put in a brilliant second-half performance to walk away from Merseyside with a point in their battle to finish inside the top four.

Arsenal's finest performers against Liverpool

While Arteta was left to bemoan some uncharacteristically lapse defending from William Saliba in the first half, shutting off for the second goal, in forward areas, there were some more encouraging signs.

Saka was his usual effervescent self, while Gabriel Martinelli was perhaps the standout player on the away side.

The Brazilian initially started the game on the left flank but a few tactical tweaks at half-time saw a renewed display, not just from Martinelli but the whole side.

Leandro Trossard moved out to the left and Martinelli moved into the centre of the pitch. A matter of minutes into the second half the two attackers combined brilliantly to get Arsenal back into the game.

The Belgian winger crossed into the box, where Arsenal’s number 11 was ready and waiting to head the ball home. In truth, that tactical tweak changed the game. Martinelli made a number of threatening runs in behind that also brought out the best from Martin Odegaard.

The Norwegian has had a troubled campaign, only scoring five times, but he looked closer to his best in the second period at Anfield, playing a number of balls towards Martinelli.

Odegaard also had a vital role to play in the equaliser. Plenty of supporters have bemoaned his unwillingness to shoot from range this season but it was his fierce effort from outside the box that the second goal came from.

The captain unleashed a fizzing drive that Alisson tipped onto the post but Mikel Merino followed up well and headed the rebound into an empty net.

It was yet another crucial moment for the Spaniard who has enjoyed a fabulous back end of the season. Well, that was until he was given a red card for a late challenge on Dominik Szoboszlai, a tackle that saw him branded with a second yellow card.

Still, Merino was far from the worst player on the pitch.

Arsenal's poorest performers against Liverpool

Arsenal’s defending since Gabriel got injured certainly hasn’t been the best but one has to commend the displays of Jakub Kiwior who notably stood out in the two-legged win over Real Madrid.

That being said, it hasn’t been plain sailing for Saliba who, without Gabriel, doesn’t look quite as assured at the back.

Chalkboard

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

The French titan is no doubt a fabulous player, but there have been some nervy moments for the centre-back when playing out from the back. He also switched off completely for Liverpool’s opening goal.

Despite grabbing an assist, it was largely an afternoon to forget for Trossard too, whose woes were compounded in the 78th minute when he was substituted with an apparent hamstring injury.

For Arsenal, that is not good news, particularly after Merino’s late red card. Who Arsenal will play up top against Newcastle next week is anyone’s guess.

Either way, Arteta should consider axing him from the team. Even if it’s not fully from the team, he should be axed as the main centre forward.

In the words of Arsenal writer Connor Humm, the £27m signing is a “waste of time” as a striker, not boasting the physicality to hold the ball up and perhaps also lacking the sort of runs we ultimately saw from Martinelli down the centre when they swapped positions.

Trossard only won seven of his 13 contested duels during the clash and failed to have a single shot on target. To make matters worse, he also lost the ball on 16 occasions. That isn’t what you need from a role that requires bringing others into play.

There was a wasteful moment that rather summed up his topsy-turvy season in the first 45 minutes. Arsenal pressed well in Liverpool’s penalty area and won the ball back. However, neither Partey nor Trossard took control of the situation and waited for each other to pick up the possession. Had either done so, it probably would have been a goal. Instead, the chance went begging.

Moments like that are why the Belgium international has frustrated supporters so often this season. There is talk of a new contract and perhaps he might deserve one. There aren’t many better squad players in Arteta’s ranks.

However, if Arsenal are going to sign one or two attackers, Trossard should be given the boot to accommodate them.

He's just like an "early Henry": Arsenal begin work to sign £85m winger

Arsenal are in the market for more firepower this summer,

By
Matt Dawson

May 11, 2025

Leeds United have a huge summer ahead of them if they are to secure Premier League survival next season after claiming promotion from the Championship this time around.

Daniel Farke’s side claimed the league title on goal difference on the final day after Manor Solomon’s late effort against Plymouth Argyle on the final day secured all three points.

The Whites finished top of the pile alongside Burnley, with both clubs ending the year on 100 points, highlighting the strength of the sides at the top of the division.

Such an achievement is just the beginning for the German, desperately needing to halt the current trend of sides suffering an immediate return to the second tier after promotion.

If he is to manage such a feat over the next year at Elland Road, he desperately needs to be backed in the market to hand him the best possible chance of success in Yorkshire.

An update on Leeds’ pursuit of new additions this summer

After securing promotion, it would be a surprise to no one to see Leeds linked with numerous players to help bolster the first team squad ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Ipswich Town winger Omari Hutchinson has been one name touted with a switch to join the Whites after the Tractor Boys suffered relegation from the Premier League in recent weeks.

However, he’s not alone on their shortlist, with Leicester City talisman Jamie Vardy the latest player linked with a switch to link up with Farke’s side, according to Football Insider.

The report claims that the Whites are plotting a move for the 38-year-old after announcing he would be departing the King Power at the end of the current season – subsequently making him a free agent.

It also states that his experience and record in England’s top-flight have made him a key target for the club as they look to once again establish themselves in the top-flight after a two-year absence.

Why Leeds’ summer target could be Farke’s own Beckford

Centre-forward Jermaine Beckford arrived at Elland Road from non-league outfit Wealdstone in 2006 after impressing enough to earn himself a switch to a then-Championship club.

He would have to bide his time in Yorkshire, even being sent on two loan spells, before making a huge impact in the first-team squad, cementing his place as the side’s main talisman.

Beckford went on to score 85 goals and provided 11 assists in 141 appearances in all competitions across three seasons – before getting his own Premier League move to Everton back in 2010.

However, he gave the supporters numerous moments to remember, none more so than the winning goal in the FA Cup clash with rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford.

They could land their next version of the forward with a summer move for Vardy, with the pair possessing a similar playstyle given their desire to run in behind and cause defenders an issue.

The duo are also similar in the fact that they both came through the non-league ladder before making an impact at their respective clubs – with Leeds desperately needing to take a gamble on the experienced frontman.

Vardy, who’s been labelled “sensational” by former boss Brendan Rodgers, has still managed to impress this campaign despite the Foxes suffering relegation, posting numerous impressive figures in key areas.

He’s registered eight goals and three assists in his 33 appearances, ending the season as their top scorer, still having the skillset to impress within the final third should he move to Yorkshire.

The former Fleetwood Town ace has also won 1.7 aerial duels won per 90, having the ability to offer Farke an experienced and all-round option at the top end of Farke’s side.

If they are to buck the current trend, new additions are desperately needed this summer, with funds needing to be spent to help the manager in his quest.

Vardy may not be everyone’s first choice when it comes to signings this summer, but he could prove to be an excellent squad option, offering depth and quality in their pursuit of making themselves an established top-flight outfit.

Leeds can seal stunning Solomon repeat by signing £30m Premier League star

Leeds United could look to replicate the success of their Manor Solomon deal by signing this attacking star.

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By
Kelan Sarson

May 6, 2025

Wolves are perhaps the most in-form team in the Premier League currently, winning all of their last five games, scoring ten goals and only conceding four times.

It’s safe to say that Vitor Pereira has done a brilliant job since arriving back in December, guiding Wolves from 19th place to 15th.

With five games to go, Pereria’s side could even finish 13th ahead of both Manchester United and Everton, who currently sit level on points with Wolves (38).

What makes Wolves’ strong run of form even more impressive is the fact their star man, Matheus Cunha, was missing for three of their last five victories, only returning from the bench against Tottenham before starting against Manchester United.

Wolves target Matheus Cunha replacement

Cunha is being linked with a move away this summer, with Man United reportedly closing in on signing the player.

This would leave Wolves looking for a replacement for their star, and some names are already starting to pop up ahead of the transfer season.

Transfer Focus

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

According to reports from TBR Football, Wolves are interested in Chelsea forward João Félix on loan. He is also attracting interest from West Ham, with the 25-year-old having spent the last few months enduring a temporary stint at AC Milan after only playing a bit-part role under Enzo Maresca for the Blues.

Chelsea only signed Felix in the 2024/25 summer transfer window, with the Portugal international joining the club for around £45m. AC Milan then paid a £5m loan fee for Felix, allowing the Blues to recoup a small sum of their money.

The playmaker has made a total of 35 appearances this season for Chelsea and AC Milan combined, scoring eight goals and providing three assists.

Next season, Felix could be tasked with filling the boots of Cunha at Wolves, so how would that work?

Felix vs Cunha comparison

Cunha has made 31 appearances so far this season, scoring 16 goals, providing four assists and totalling 2,486 minutes played. The Brazilian often plays off the left, but has plenty of license to roam, picking up the ball in deeper areas to dictate play and direct Wolves’ attacks.

Coincidentally, via FBref, Cunha and Felix are considered “similar” players via the comparison tool, which makes their underlying metrics even more interesting.

Felix takes a higher volume of shots, resulting in a higher xG generated per game, whilst also making more progressive passes. That being said, he’s struggled for regular goals and assists since lighting things up at Benfica as a youngster.

Scout Jacek Kulig even described the Portuguese talent as “pure gold” after Atlético Madrid spent a large fee to bring him to the club. So, if he can find that level of form again, he’d be a tremendous asset at Molineux.

Cunha, on the other hand, has taken his game to new levels this term, notably ranking better in carrying metrics, has a higher output and averages more shot-creating actions per game.

Despite the difference in quality at the moment, they evidently boast similar traits and Felix could actually thrive from taking Cunha’s role at Wolves.

He’d be becoming the main man for the team, having the license to roam and possessing the keys in Pereira’s attack, which could then finally see the Portugal forward show his talent on the pitch, resulting in much better output and numbers.

Wolves must rue selling sensational star who is worth £40m more than Cunha

Wolves sold a player in 2022 who is now worth around £100m

By
Ross Kilvington

Apr 21, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have been tipped to appoint a “perfect” replacement for under-fire boss Ange Postecoglou, but it isn’t their rumoured top managerial target Andoni Iraola.

Ange Postecoglou relying on Europa League to save Tottenham job

Following a dismal Premier League campaign, with Postecoglou on course to become Spurs’ worst-ever head coach in the competition’s history, the Australian is seriously under the cosh.

Tottenham plan "surprise" move for Chelsea star as Maresca sanctions exit

The Lilywhites are big fans.

By
Emilio Galantini

Apr 8, 2025

A 3-1 win over relegated Southampton on Sunday provided a rare break from the pressure surrounding Postecoglou’s position, with the 59-year-old now fully focused on getting past Eintracht Frankfurt in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday.

It is widely believed that Postecoglou is relying on a good run in the Europa League to keep his job at Tottenham, and this is echoed by reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano.

“It’s not over yet, but it’s a dangerous situation, the one of Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham,” said Romano on his YouTube channel last week.

“I know Spurs fans are not happy with the current situation. It’s really poor in terms of points. In the Europa League, it’s a different story. Now, there is an important clash with Eintracht [Frankfurt]. So the Europa League is saving the season at the moment for Tottenham and Postecoglou.

“If Tottenham win the Europa League, this could change the whole sense of the project. Next year, they would be in the Champions League finally, so it would be really important. Otherwise, the expectation is that there is a very concrete and strong chance for Tottenham to replace Postecoglou at the end of the season.”

The Lilywhites have already been drawing up potential replacements for Postecoglou, including Iraola, who is believed to be their leading candidate for the job (The Athletic).

However, the 42-year-old isn’t Spurs’ only option, with links also surrounding Fulham boss Marco Silva.

Some reports even suggest that Tottenham have already made an apporach for Silva, following another impressive campaign at Craven Cottage for the Portuguese. European football is very much still alive for the Whites, and they’re fresh off the back of a thrilling 3-2 win over Premier League title frontrunners Liverpool.

Tottenham tipped to appoint Marco Silva instead of Andoni Iraola

Now, TalkSPORT pundit Troy Deeney has explained why Silva would be the “perfect” appointment for Tottenham, with the ex-Watford striker tipping him to transform Spurs in just three months.

“The biggest compliment you could take for Marco Silva is that, if you look at all the people that are around him – his staff – they’ve been poached, because they (other clubs) want Marco Silva but they go and get the people off his branches,” said Deeney on air (via West London Sport).

“He’s ready for a big team. I think he’d be perfect for Spurs if they would allow him to just go and take over and not get involved too much from up above.

“I think he’d change the culture of that place within three months. Marco is definitely ready. Fulham are on a good trajectory, but I think they’ll struggle to keep him long term.”

“I just love the contest and love being able to be the one to put a good contribution out there”

Ashish Pant07-Mar-20250:53

Mooney: ‘Nice to see change in perspective of where the women’s game is at’

Player of the Match in the 2023 T20 World Cup final. Player of the Tournament at the 2020 T20 World Cup. An average of 110 at the 2022 ODI World Cup. Player of the Match in back-to-back WBBL finals, in 2018-19 and in 2019-20. The list can go on.There’s something about big games that brings out the best in Beth Mooney. The Australia teams she has been part of have given her ample opportunity to showcase her big-stage temperament. That they crossed the final hurdle was often down to Mooney stepping up when it mattered.What is it about Mooney and her going big in crunch games?Related

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“I really like winning,” Mooney told ESPNcricinfo. “I think winning is always nice in a team sport, and being able to contribute, but I’m quite competitive and gutsy as well. It doesn’t always look pretty when I’m out there, but when I’m in the contest, I don’t want to let the team down. I make sure I do everything I can to get the team over the line and contribute where I can.”Maybe it’s happened by chance, maybe it hasn’t. It’s hard to really put a finger on it, but it’s probably just worked out that way because the Australian team has played in a lot of finals, and I’ve had a lot of opportunities to bat high up the order in ODI cricket and T20 cricket. I just love the contest and love being able to be the one to put a good contribution out there.”Mooney has flown under the radar in the Australia teams that have been studded with superstars, such as Alyssa Healy, Ellyse Perry and Meg Lanning. But she has been a beacon of consistency, especially in T20Is. Since the start of 2020, only Smriti Mandhana has more runs than Mooney’s 2230 runs in 65 T20I innings, and she’s played 13 fewer innings. She has the highest average (46.45) among batters in the top 50 on this list and also the most fifties (22) in this period.Mooney is also the highest run-scorer in WBBL history with 5051 runs in 141 innings and is only second to Lanning for most T20I runs for Australia. For someone who does not have an intimidating presence like Grace Harris or Healy, Mooney’s understanding of the T20 game and knowing when exactly to increase the pace stands out.With Alyssa Healy injured, Beth Mooney has been keeping wicket for Australia•Getty Images”In T20, you are looking to take the game on as much as possible. And you know your limits within yourself. Who your best match-up is against what team. I just feel like if you can get yourself going against a certain bowler, then that opens the game right up for you against the other bowlers,” Mooney said. “Sometimes you’re going to – well, that’s not true, you’re going to get out every game – the method is that as long as I’m getting out in a way that is the style of play that I want to go about, then I’m okay with it.”If I’m getting out, just sort of throwing my wicket away a bit, then that’s when I get a little bit disappointed with myself and know I can be better. But I certainly think accepting your fate in T20 cricket goes a long way to making sure that you’re playing your natural game and really trying to get your team into winning positions.”Currently in India playing the WPL, Mooney wants to inculcate that winning mentality and run-scoring appetite in the Gujarat Giants set-up, a team she has been with since the first season. It hasn’t worked out great for Giants yet: they finished at the bottom of the five-team table both in 2023 and 2024. They are doing much better this time and are currently placed third. Mooney reckons that winning or losing, especially in T20 cricket, creates a habit, and Giants haven’t been able to do that.

“I’m 31 years old now. I’ve got no desire to captain teams. I like being a leader, I like being a quiet leader. Someone who can change and have an impact on the group pretty quietly and do my job”

“It’s not really a secret that we haven’t won too many games at Gujarat,” Mooney said. “That’s not through any fault of our own in terms of effort or attitude. I think the attitude of the group has been excellent. The coaching staff are doing the best they can to provide us with lots of opportunities to train and learn about the game.”Sometimes I think T20 cricket can be a little bit about luck, and it can be a little bit about timing. Winning and losing become a bit of a habit, and unfortunately for us, we have probably just lost some pretty close games. I think if we had won, we probably would have got on a nice roll and learnt how to win those games. But certainly, I think we have got a group that I do think can really challenge for the finals.”Mooney was gutted to have been ruled out of the inaugural edition of the WPL owing to a calf strain after just one game, but she returned in the second season to captain the side. While Ash Gardner has taken over captaincy this season, Mooney is keen on imparting a little bit of wisdom to the Indian players at Giants and also learning from them. The other thing that gets her excited during the WPL is the crowd, especially in Bengaluru.”It’s certainly a different experience going from playing in front of a hundred people that were family and friends to, you know, 30, 50, 60,000 [people],” she said. “The International Women’s Day is coming up and that will mark five years since the T20 World Cup final in Australia where we played in front of 86,000 at the MCG. Never in my lifetime did I think that would happen.

“Winning and losing become a bit of a habit, and unfortunately for us, we have probably just lost some pretty close games”Beth Mooney on Giants’ performance

“It’s happened a lot sooner and probably hasn’t happened as often as we would have liked, especially in Australia. But I certainly think over here in India, we get a lot of decent crowds. We are at the Chinnaswamy Stadium at the moment and the RCB fans are loud as hell. It’s just been really nice to see the change in the perspective of where the women’s game is at, and people wanting to watch and do anything they can to get a ticket.”A wicketkeeper since her age-group days, Mooney has been doing keeping duties for the various franchises across the world but not as much for Australia. But with Healy down with injury, Mooney has become their go-to option behind the stumps. And it’s something she loves doing.”I’ve always been a wicketkeeper by trade since I was ten years old,” Mooney said. “It’s probably just worked out that in the Australian team, obviously Alyssa’s been the main wicketkeeper there and I had to find a way into the team somewhere else. It’s a skill set I’m pretty comfortable with and have done it for a long period of time, but I think I’m equally confident in the field.Beth Mooney: “It’s not really a secret that we haven’t won too many games at Gujarat”•BCCI”I’ve probably got the right balance throughout my career to be able to do it in franchise cricket and domestic cricket back home in Australia and then be able to offer a different option for the Australian selectors by taking a second wicketkeeper on tour. I’ve really enjoyed being able to offer that flexibility to the Australian selectors, and obviously now with Alyssa going down with injury, not too much has to change within their starting XI. They can add in an extra allrounder or an extra batter or bowler rather than having to add in two more players to cover the batting and keeping.”For a player of Mooney’s calibre, and cricketing smarts, it is a bit surprising that she has never captained Australia in any format despite being with the national team for nine years. Even her captaincy stints in franchise cricket have been sporadic. With Healy unsure about her future in international cricket beyond the 2025 ODI World Cup, does Mooney harbour any desire to become Australia captain?”No, absolutely not. I’m 31 years old now. I’ve got no desire to captain teams,” she said. “I like being a leader, I like being a quiet leader. Someone who can change and have an impact on the group pretty quietly and do my job. I’ve always said yes to people when they have needed someone to do it, and the right people have asked me to do it, if it’s going to have a positive impact on the group. But no, I certainly don’t harbour any desire to be a captain.”

Quite how it has all come to this continues to be debated, but the fact of the matter is that Mohamed Salah could be nearing the end of his glorious spell at Liverpool.

It was just over six months ago that the Egyptian sat atop his throne, Premier League champion for the second time at Anfield and fresh from signing a bumper new deal to end months of speculation.

The main man under Jurgen Klopp, the ex-Chelsea winger appeared to go to an even higher level following Arne Slot’s arrival, ending 2024/25 with a ridiculous tally of 57 goals and assists in all competitions.

Like all good things, however, an end is now in sight, with the 33-year-old’s AFCON involvement, alongside the looming January window, sparking suggestions that he could have already turned out in Red for the final time.

It would not be a fitting way to bow out, yet rarely do even the brightest and best get the send-off nor the finale they deserve. Even the great Steven Gerrard had to fly the nest for MLS to see out his playing days.

Regardless of whether a departure does occur in January or over the summer, Salah appears to have made his long-term future untenable – now to find a suitable replacement…

Latest on Liverpool's search to replace Salah

Rumours are already swirling regarding Salah’s potential next move, with reports last week suggesting that Turkish giants Galatasaray are among the clubs to have made an offer to the ageing sensation.

The Reds are unlikely to receive anywhere close to the reported £200m bid that was lodged from Saudi Arabia two years ago, although there would surely be a hope to cash in for as much as possible, in order to reinvest those funds on a replacement.

There have been continued claims that Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo has been earmarked as one of the more high-profile options to help fill the void, while TEAMtalk are reporting that FSG could also look to the Bundesliga to find their next Anfield star.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, as per the report, the Merseysiders are accelerating their interest in RB Leipzig teenager, Yan Diomande, having begun negotiations with the 19-year-old’s representatives.

While no bid has yet been placed for the £88m-rated wideman, the piece does note that Liverpool are engaged in almost ‘daily contact’ with his agent, ahead of making what would likely be a summer move.

That’s not to say that a January move is completely ruled out for the in-demand starlet – who is fielding interest from across Europe – with it yet to be seen whether the reigning Premier League champions will firm up their interest with a winter offer.

How Diomande compares to Semenyo & Salah

As stated above, a leading target to replace Salah is, of course, the aforementioned Semenyo, with the Ghanaian available for £65m due to the presence of a release clause in his Cherries contract.

Whether he would represent an alternative or a possible teammate for the 25-year-old remains to be seen, although Diomande is an equally as exciting talent who could reinvigorate Slot’s forward line.

Semenyo has been one of the Premier League’s leading figures this season with nine goals and assists to date, although Diomande has dazzled during his breakthrough year in the Bundesliga, chipping in with eight goal involvements himself for Leipzig.

That includes a stunning hat-trick during the weekend win over Eintracht Frankfurt, a performance that only served to reinforce just why the promising Ivorian is being watched so closely.

Fleet of foot and with pace to burn, the comparisons to Semenyo are also there to see, with The Athletic’s Seb Stafford-Bloor noting that Diomande is “physically similar” to the Bournemouth star, “but with all the same skill and touch”.

The respected Bundesliga insider, writing on X back in November, did hint that the teen is “not ready yet” for a Premier League move, although Liverpool would be wise to get ahead in the race for his signature, even if it means waiting to strike next summer.

That said, there’s no reason why he couldn’t come in and hit the ground running in January, if a deal were to be struck, with the youngster currently comparing favourably to his fellow wingers across Europe’s top five leagues.

As per FBref, he ranks in the top 1% for successful take-ons per 90, while also ranking in the top 2% for progressive carries per 90, highlighting just what an elite dribbler and ball-carrier he is.

Semenyo’s own quality in that regard was evident on the opening day, as he ran the length of Anfield unopposed, before coolly converting in that mad-cap 4-2 win for Slot’s side.

The prospect of potentially adding both the ex-Bristol City man and Diomande into the fold in 2026 would be a truly exciting one, with two Semenyo-esque figures perhaps what is needed to provide an upgrade on the flanks.

Revealed: The Salah decision Richard Hughes has made at Liverpool today

Mo Salah has been omitted form the Liverpool squad this week.

3

By
FFC Staff

4 days ago

After finishing 17th in the Premier League last season, it was vital that Tottenham Hotspur bounced back and rose up the table in the ongoing campaign.

Thomas Frank was handed the responsibility of leading the charge, after Ange Postecoglou was handed his marching orders despite winning the Europa League.

The Dane was appointed on a three-year deal in North London, but it was crucial that the supporters gave him time to make the changes he desired to the first-team squad.

He’s now 11 games into the 2025/26 campaign, with the Lilywhites currently occupying fifth place going into the third international break of the current season.

However, there are still improvements to be made across the squad, that’s despite Frank massively changing the fortunes of the squad in one area during his opening months at the helm.

Spurs’ biggest improvement since the 2024/25 campaign

During the 2024/25 Premier League campaign under Postecoglou, Spurs certainly had a year to forget, as they finished just one place above the relegation zone.

The Lilywhites conceded a staggering 65 goals in their 38 league outings, an average of 1.7 per 90, subsequently resulting in a total of 22 league defeats.

Such a tally was the highest of any side who have survived in England’s top-flight, with the club lucky not to have dropped into the Championship under Postecoglou.

However, Frank’s arrival has stemmed the flow of goals at the back, with his men only conceding 10 goals in the first 11 outings – the fourth best record of any side in the division.

They have also kept a total of four clean sheets in the process, with the likes of Micky van de Ven certainly deserving credit for his part in the defensive solidity.

The Dutch international has started every league game to date, registering a total of 1.2 tackles won per 90, along with 1.1 interceptions per 90 – with the latter ranking him in the top 20% of all players in the league.

He’s also thrived in playing out from the back, as seen by his tally of 92% passes completed, arguably being one of the best centre-backs in the division at present.

Van de Ven has been joined at the heart of the backline by Cristian Romero, with the Argentine international striking up an excellent partnership with the Dutchman.

The pair have operated together in eight of the 11 outings – but have only suffered defeat once in that time, with the loss coming against Bournemouth back in August.

The 27-year-old has ranked in the top 4% of all players in England’s top-flight for tackles won, whilst also placing in the top 15% for duels won per 90.

Given their partnership together, they are undoubtedly one of the best duos in Europe’s top-five leagues, with the defensive improvement under Frank certainly down to their performances.

The Spurs player who’s now becoming one of the best in the world

Alongside Van de Ven and Romero, Spurs have had numerous players who have managed to catch the eye and contribute to their impressive start to 2025/26.

Central midfielder Lucas Bergvall has shown qualities way beyond his tender teenage years, even cementing his place at the heart of Frank’s side in recent months.

The Swedish international has featured in nine league outings this season, even registering his first Premier League goal in the 3-0 victory over West Ham United.

He’s ranked in the 97th percentile for successful dribbles to date, whilst also winning 2.8 tackles per 90 – showcasing his ability to operate in a box-to-box role in North London.

However, he’s not the only player to have cemented his place within the starting eleven, with full-back Djed Spence resurrecting his career with the Lilywhites.

He joined the club in a £20m deal from Middlesbrough back in the summer of 2022, but had to massively bide his time in making an impact in the first team.

The 25-year-old endured three unsuccessful loan spells at Leeds United, Rennes and Genoa, with many supporters undoubtedly expecting a cut-price transfer away from North London last summer.

However, the injury crisis within the squad last campaign handed the Englishman a rare opportunity to stake his claim for a regular spot in the first-team ranks.

He racked up a total of 35 appearances across all competitions in 2024/25, even scoring his first Premier League goal against Ipswich Town – ending the year on a total of five goal contributions.

A little over a year on, it’s evident that Spence has taken full advantage of the chance pushed in his direction, with the full-back now one of Frank’s most important players.

He’s featured in all but one league outing in 2025/26, with his underlying stats highlighting how pivotal he’s been to the Lilywhites’ impressive defensive numbers.

Spence has made an average of 1.5 tackles per 90 this season, whilst also coming out on top of 3.8 duels per 90 – often posing as a real solid defensive full-back.

The 25-year-old has also come out on top in 47% of the aerial battles he’s entered, whilst also making 3.4 recoveries per 90 – with his pace allowing him to get back and prevent the opposition from creating clear-cut opportunities.

In possession, the defender has been just as impressive, subsequently ranking in the top 20% of all defenders for dribbles completed – with one analyst labelling him as one of the “best in the world”.

As a result, he’s now a full England international, with Thomas Tuchel trusting him to be a key member of the squad ahead of the World Cup in the USA next summer.

His rise in North London over the last 12 months has been nothing short of remarkable, with the player deserving huge credit for his ability to get himself off the canvas.

Alongside Van de Ven and Romero, he certainly is part of one of the division’s best back fours, with the fans needing to enjoy every moment the trio spend together in North London.

Forget Simons: Spurs have an academy sensation who could be Dele 2.0

Tottenham Hotspur already have a sensation who could replace Xavi Simons in North London.

By
Ethan Lamb

Nov 13, 2025