Phil Jones has struggled ever since Sir Alex Ferguson left Manchester United.
Jones has been a regular sight on the sidelines during his time at Old Trafford as he has succumbed to multiple injuries.
According to The Athletic, Man United are hopeful he can turn his career around and become the next Nemanja Matic. However, Laurie Whitwell reported that Jones has attracted attention from Serie A, although there are only a few clubs who can afford his wages.
The Mirror reported earlier this year that the Red Devils are ready to let him go for £12m in the summer. His old boss David Moyes is also interested in signing him when the transfer market opens, depending on whether or not West Ham stay in the Premier League.
Jones is apparently open to a move as he wants to be playing regularly, which is something Ole Gunnar Solskjaer cannot guarantee. He has dropped below the likes of Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly in the pecking order and could be on his way out sooner rather than later. Either way, fans will have to wait and see what happens before the start of next season.
Unsurprisingly, loads of United fans blasted the transfer update on social media, with one supporter calling it an “absolute joke” while another urged the board to “get rid ASAP.” One fan branded Jones as “deadwood” in reference to the fact he has only played two games in the Premier League this season.
Scroll down through some of the scathing reactions so far…
United fans, do you think Ed Woodward should sell Phil Jones? Let us know down below!
Lots of Everton fans have been destroying the latest link to former Chelsea man Branislav Ivanovic as Republika have reported comments made by him on his future.
As per the outlet, he said that he will probably continue his career at the Merseyside club and claimed that he has received a good offer from them.
The Zenit St. Petersburg defender also added that he has not receive an offer from Red Star Belgrade, which may potentially put the Toffees in the front seat.
Perhaps it is not a surprise that Ivanovic has been linked given that Carlo Ancelotti has worked with him before at Stamford Bridge, playing in 89 games in all competitions across two consecutive seasons, scoring a rather impressive seven goals and making a further 13 assists, according to Transfermarkt.
He seems to have emerged as a transfer target for the Blues given that he has previously been linked to EFC before in this summer window, which did not go down well with supporters.
Nevertheless, being 36 years of age now, perhaps one can question whether he has the legs to cope with the sheer pace of the Premier League.
These members of the Goodison Park faithful destroyed the link to the Serbian international on Twitter:
Evertonians, would Ivanovic be a bad signing? Comment below!
Swiss football coach Arno Rossini has come out with aÂsavage statement about Xherdan Shaqiri.
Speaking to Tio (via Goal), the 63-year-old has slammed Liverpool’s wide-man and doesn’t think people will remember him as part of this Premier League winning side.
“Xherdan is not a champion,” Rossini commented. “We certainly cannot say that he left his mark with the teams with which he won. Not with the big guys at least.
“Let’s say that over the years he has often followed the games of his teams as a spectator, sitting in the best places. And millions have been paid for him.”
Liverpool signed Shaqiri from Stoke City back in 2018 after triggering his £13 million release clause (via BBC Sport). Since his arrival, he has contributed seven goals and five assists in 30 appearances (via Transfermarkt). The 28-year-old also grabbed himself an assist against Barcelona at Anfield last season, which ultimately contributed to Liverpool’s sixth European title.
“This, taking everything into account, makes me think that the Swiss is not one who always gives his best. Of course, Xherdan is filling the bulletin board and seeing his bank account grow dramatically; I don’t know how many, in 10 years, will remember him thinking about the great teams in which he has played.”
A lot of Liverpool fans have slammed Rossini after @AnfieldEdition relayed his comments. One supporter has branded them ‘nasty and unnecessary’ as they see Shaqiri as a vital part to the club’s success, particularly last season, whilst another called him a ‘fantastic player.’
Read some replies from fans backing the Swiss man’s corner:
How do you feel about Rossini’s comments towards Shaqiri? Join the conversation in the comments below…
Whilst the sporting market climate continues to be affected by the current global crisis, it looks more and more unlikely that clubs will be able to splurge on the transfer targets they had in mind this summer.
According to a recent report by Transfermarkt, player values have dropped by up to 20%, which could impact the way teams go about their summer business.
If spending big, or even at all, is not an option in the upcoming window then clubs may need to turn to their youth ranks in order to provide depth for the senior players next season.
We’ve put together a list of five youth players West Ham should call upon next campaign if bringing in new personnel is off the cards…
Jeremy Ngakia
West Ham have conceded the third most goals this season with 50, and are currently on 27 points, only out of the drop zone on goal difference. The Irons must tighten their defence next season if they want to avoid repeating a relegation battle.
If recruiting some stronger defensive players in the transfer window isn’t an option, West Ham should look towards 19-year-old Jeremy Ngakia. A right-back by trade, the London local has played in his preferred role in four Premier League matches this season, as well as filling in as a centre-back for the reserve side.
Ngakia’s versatility can be utilised across West Ham’s back four as they are likely to re-consider their defensive options. The 19-year-old has also registered an assist this season, showing his eye for creativity is also a strong point.
Josh Cullen
Although West Ham’s midfield has been much stronger than their attack this season, the club must ensure they have enough personnel to provide depth. With Jack Wilshere currently injured and Carlos Sánchez having played just six league games all season, the Irons should look to extend their arsenal in midfield.
Josh Cullen could be an exciting option to bring into the senior squad next campaign. Despite only tallying one goal and one assist on loan with Charlton this season, his 2018/19 performances were much better. Cullen bagged himself two goals and seven assists last term and can play in either central midfield or in a more defensive role.
Cullen’s versatility could really help bolster West Ham’s ranks and provide a fresh burst of creativity from the bench.
Xande Silva
Soccer Football – FA Cup Third Round – West Ham United v Birmingham City – London Stadium, London, Britain – January 5, 2019 West Ham’s Xande Silva in action with Birmingham City’s Harlee Dean Action Images via Reuters/John Sibley
Even though the right flank is currently well-occupied, three out of the four recognised West Ham right-wingers are ageing. Andriy Yarmolenko and Michail Antonio are both 30-years-old, and Robert Snodgrass is 32. The only youthful wide-man is 23-year-old Jarrod Brown, who recently arrived from Hull City.
Xande Silva is a winger who could really put up a fight for his place in the starting XI. The 23-year-old has made one senior appearance this season and was given just 17 minutes, however his form in the reserve league speaks for itself. Silva has scored seven goals so far this campaign and with the first team’s solid engine room behind him, that amount could be a lot higher.
David Moyes should consider bringing in the Portuguese attacker, especially if he decides not to give new deals to Snodgrass and Antonio who will both enter their final 12 months under contract this summer.
Gonçalo Cardoso
Another defender West Ham could look to bring into the senior team next season is Gonçalo Cardoso. The 19-year-old has played mainly as a centre-back for the U23s this campaign, scoring a goal and assisting two from the backline. He has also filled in as left-back on two occasions.
It seems Moyes already has plans for the Portuguese defender as he has featured on the bench three times this season. A chance-creating defender is a rare attribute to have in your team, and Cardoso’s abilities need to be utilised on the big stage.
Nathan Holland
Perhaps the most exciting prospect in West Ham’s youth ranks at the moment. Fans are desperate to see Nathan Holland be given a chance to shine with the first team.
The 21-year-old is a goal-getting left-winger who could potentially take the place of Felipe Anderson if West Ham are to offload him this season (via Mirror). Holland is due to return from loan from Oxford United where he gained some valuable time in the senior squad. This season, the Englishman has a massive 15 goals and eight assists across all competitions, scoring one in the FA Cup against Newcastle.
Holland can also switch up and play on the right-wing as well, which will add depth to West Ham’s team. He is at the point now in his career where he will be looking to establish himself as a first team regular, and Moyes should be looking to offer him that chance next season.
This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…
According to Italian media outlet Tuttomercatoweb, Southampton are one of a number clubs keeping tabs on Sassuolo left-back Alessandro Tripaldelli, and they may have finally found their long-term Ryan Bertrand replacement in the process.
What’s the word, then?
Well, Tuttomercatoweb report that Saints, along with Crystal Palace, Manchester United, Levante, Valencia, Fiorentina, Bologna and Atalanta are all watching the 20-year-old, who has two-and-a-half years remaining on his contract with the Serie A outfit.
The report says that scouts from the south coast outfit have been spotted looking at the Italy U21 international, who is described as having the pace that would make him suitable for the Premier League.
Despite all of the interest, he has actually found first-team minutes hard to come by so far during the 2019/20 campaign, featuring for just 135 minutes in total and often having to settle for being an unused substitute.
Long-term Bertrand replacement?
Despite his lack of first-team minutes for Sassuolo this term, the fact that clubs of the stature of Manchester United and Valencia – as well as the fact that he has been capped at U21 level by his country – suggest that Tripaldelli has something about him.
The left-back position has become a real problem for Southampton in recent seasons, and while Bertrand has been a top performer for the club in the past, he certainly hasn’t been anywhere near as consistent or effective in more recent seasons as the club has battled relegation.
One of the reasons for that could well be complacency given he has had little competition for the spot, with Matt Targett obviously failing to convince Ralph Hasenhuttl of his ability having been sold to Aston Villa during the summer transfer window.
The Austrian manager has also preferred to use the likes of Cedric Soares, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Moussa Djenepo out of position at left-back and left wing-back rather than place faith in youngster Jake Vokins when Bertrand has been absent, which suggests that he also may not be up to the task of eventually replacing the former Chelsea man.
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That will need to happen sooner rather than later with the England international now 30 years of age and not having the ability to get up and down the pitch like he once did, and Tripaldelli’s pace in particular sounds promising in that respect.
A potentially promising deal for Saints, then.
In other Saints news, fans have been reacting after Gao’s January transfer plans were revealed…
Crystal Palace fans have taken to Twitter to react following a report by The Evening Standard, which states that Dougie Freedman is interested in the vacant managerial position at Hearts.
Freedman – who is currently the Sporting Director at Selhurst Park – turned down the same opportunity back in 2017 upon agreeing to his current position, although the Scotsman is now believed to be interested in succeeding Craig Levein.
The former Palace striker – who scored 55 times for the south Londoners – has been pretty hit and miss in the role of Sporting Director in SE25.
Freedman has overseen some impressive deals, such as Vicente Guaita and Gary Cahill on free transfers, although he also signed the likes of Alexander Sorloth, who cost £9m and has scored just once in 20 games for the club.
While you may think it would be a blow for Palace to lose their Sporting Director just before the January window, it seems as if some supporters on Twitter don’t seem too upset about the possibility of Freedman departing.
This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…
Jan Vertonghen, Christian Eriksen and Toby Alderweireld could all sign new contracts at Tottenham Hotspur following the appointment of Jose Mourinho as manager, per The Daily Mirror.
What’s the word?
The three all have deals that expire at the end of the season and they all have the ability to sign a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club in the January transfer window.
The Mirror, though, reports that the trio are open-minded about their futures and are all intrigued by the prospect of working under Mourinho.
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Football FanCast understands that this would represent a major shift in stance from Eriksen in particular, who has thus far refused to countenance the idea of signing the new contract that was on the table during the summer.
He also publicly declared his desire to take on a “new challenge” during the summer.
A major U-turn
This is horrific behaviour from Eriksen if it’s true.
The Dane has dipped in form this season – scoring just two goals and registering a sole assist in all competitions this season.
He has, along with Alderweireld and Vertonghen, remained in the team under Pochettino, but his head appears to have been dramatically turned by the prospect of a move and has been accused of effectively downing tools by the likes of Ray Parlour.
If he is now willing to put pen to paper and commit his future just because Pochettino has left, it proves that he had stopped playing for the former Southampton boss and was out to further his own agenda more than that of the club.
To that end, even if he does stay, there could well be a backlash against him from the supporters. And one has to believe that such a blowback would be completely justified.
This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
There comes a time when every footballer gets past his very peak and has to call it a day.
Sometimes, they willingly decide to step down and leave their spot to the younger crop while there are other times when they simply overstay their welcome, so to speak.
The latter, unfortunately, seems to be happening to Barcelona’s star duo, Ivan Rakitic and Luis Suarez.
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When they were at their very best, both of these players were irreplaceable for the Blaugrana.
Just recently, the Uruguayan celebrated his fifth anniversary at the club and during that time, he managed to win multiple trophies for his and the club’s cabinet, cementing himself as one of the most important players in their recent history.
A similar thing can be said about Rakitic as well – after all, we’re talking about Ernesto Valverde’s most used player of the 2018/19 campaign and a player who managed to bag a goal in the Champions League final against Juventus back in 2014/15.
Watch Lionel Messi and Gareth Bale answer the internet’s weirdest questions in the video below…
Needless to say, both of these players have been huge servants for the Catalan giants but they might very well be coming to the end of the road.
Or rather, they should be.
At this point in time, their collective influence has already started to diminish and many of the fans have recognised that, bashing both the midfielder and the forward on social media and Twitter.
Quite clearly, they are slowly turning from heroes into villains and for that reason, maybe they should consider either accepting a smaller role in the club or departing altogether.
Barcelona have been on a lookout for a new no.9 for quite a while now, and Rakitic has been linked with a move away from the club as well.
Seeing how they’re unlikely to sway the fans any time soon, this could be a good thing for both of them.
Not to mention that the club would also profit from it in the long run, considering they are both players already in their 30s and not getting any younger.
This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…
Lionel Messi recently received his sixth Golden Boot award after he had scored more goals than any other player in Europe last season. Following the ceremony, the little Argentine did an interview with Marca and discussed his career, his rivals and some of his teammates as well.
What did he say?
At this point, Messi winning all kinds of awards is no longer big news.
After all, the now 32-year-old superstar has practically won everything there is to win in club football, both on an individual level and as a collective with Barcelona.
But one thing that has changed with Messi over the years is his willingness to communicate with the media. Of course, a big part of that is due to the fact that Messi is now Barcelona’s captain following the departure of Andres Iniesta.
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And in his big interview with Marca, the Argentine has singled out one of his teammates and showered him with lots of praise in the process.
Of course, he was talking about the newcomer to the club, Frenkie de Jong.
Here’s what he said in full:
“It has been easy for him to adapt to the team because he came from a similar philosophy at Ajax. He grew up with the same idea and the same way of playing, although there he did not have much to play as an anterior [slightly further ahead in midfield than the holding midfielder]. As a pivot [or holding midfielder] he feels more comfortable, but he has adapted well. He likes to have the ball, play short passes, play passes between the lines, and he has a very fast and strong stride. He is a very complete footballer.”
The future of Barcelona’s midfield
De Jong very much looks like the prototype Blaugrana midfielder, as Messi has already pointed out.
But one other thing that the Argentine mentions that might slip under the radar is actually the 22-year-old’s adaptation process.
Messi has acknowledged that De Jong is actually being utilised differently by Ernesto Valverde and that his role has somewhat changed since his days at Ajax.
Watch Lionel Messi and Gareth Bale answer the internet’s weirdest questions in the video below…
Interestingly enough, Valverde’s idea of what kind of a midfielder the Dutchman is supposed to be and where on the pitch is he going to play has been widely discussed already and seems to be a point of interest in the footballing world.
As a result, many of the fans were in panic mode about the whole situation early on as they were worried Valverde would ruin the midfielder with these changes.
Still, even if De Jong is going through a transitional period, it’s not really showing that much in his performances.
In fact, he’s already shown he can drop masterful displays even when played out of his comfort zone.
So far, he’s been one of the top performers at Barcelona, ranking fourth according to Whoscored’s rating system for the ongoing season.
But Messi’s approval is definitely something that will not only help him adapt to his new environment but should also help him develop even further.
At the end of the day, the players that establish the best relationship with Blaugrana’s king have the best chance of succeeding at the club.
If he continues performing as he has done, De Jong’s future looks incredibly bright.
This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…
Juan Miranda left Barcelona in the last summer transfer window and he will be playing at Schalke on loan for two seasons. And recently, in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the 19-year-old La Masia outcast talked about his possible stay at the Blaugrana in the near future.
What did he say?
Miranda is one of those La Masia talents who, despite their obvious qualities, couldn’t make it into the first-team.
Of course, the young Spaniard has already had a taste of the senior squad as he has played a total of four games for them so far.
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Apart from that, however, he has only been an active member of the Barcelona B squad, tallying 30 appearances for the young crop of Blaugrana players, scoring three times and assisting a further two in the process.
With the arrival of Junior Firpo last summer, Miranda decided to go on loan in order to get some game time under his belt. But that also posed the question whether there even is a place for him back in Catalonia.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, the plan is pretty clear.
“Yeah right. If Barça love me, returning is the best decision. It is the best club in the world and this is our idea.”
One for the future
Even though his place under the Catalan sun was under question, Miranda’s mind seems to be set – if Barcelona want him, he will definitely return.
And looking at their choices in the left-back department, that might actually be a smart move for both sides.
Watch Lionel Messi and Gareth Bale answer the internet’s weirdest questions in the video below…
The 19-year-old can get all the experience he needs to develop in Germany and then, once Jordi Alba comes to the latter stages of his career, the young Spaniard can take over.
With Firpo on the sidelines as well, the Blaugrana seem to be set for the future.
Not to mention that Alba is already 30 years of age and is slowly but surely leaving his best years behind him.