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“The margins are small in this competition and we’re not hitting our strides and that is a concern,” says MI head coach

S Sudarshanan08-Apr-20254:26

Bangar: MI’s top four didn’t really turn up

Mumbai Indians (MI) head coach Mahela Jayawardene acknowledges that the powerplay – both with bat and ball – is a concern for the team. MI went down by 12 runs to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Monday, their fourth defeat in five outings in IPL 2025, and Jayawardene wants the five-time champions to be “ruthless” and not “lose discipline” before it’s too late.”The powerplay is a concern for us with the ball and the bat. In the last few games as well, we were leaking too many runs with the ball in the powerplay as well,” Jayawardene said after the match. “We got an early wicket today as well – first over – but then they counter-punched, played some good shots, and we just did not react well to that. These are the margins and then they had a big sixth over, which really hurt us in that powerplay.”With an economy of 10.36, MI have been the most expensive bowling unit in the first six overs this season. They have only managed to pick up six wickets in the phase. On Monday, Trent Boult struck in the first over for the 31st time in the IPL. But Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal took RCB to 73 for 1 in the powerplay, thanks mainly to a 20-run over from Deepak Chahar to end the phase. It was the second-highest powerplay score against MI at the Wankhede and the fourth-highest overall against them in the IPL.Related

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Then, in their chase of 222, MI lost two wickets in four overs and ended the powerplay on 54 for 2. In this IPL, they have lost ten wickets in the first six overs, second only to the 12 for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).”With the bat as well, I thought we had a good start but just couldn’t continue,” Jayawardene said. “We lost those two wickets and then we had to consolidate a little bit and lost a bit of momentum there. We had a few big overs in between but we just weren’t in the game in that first ten overs. The margins are small in this competition and we’re not hitting our strides and that is a concern.”MI are placed eighth on the ten-team points table with just a sole win – against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at home. Despite that, Jayawardene said they were “playing some good cricket” and ruled out the need to make changes in their personnel.”I still back the senior pros and all the guys I put out there. They have the skill. It’s just that we need to be a bit more ruthless,” he said. “At times, we’re missing out on those one or two overs where we lose our discipline. So that’s with the bat as well as with the ball. That’s something that we need to rectify.”Losing is not a great thing. You start doubting yourself. And sometimes a fresh face coming into this kind of situation… might be even tougher for that player as well without the experience. The guys who have the experience know to handle tough situations and be mentally stronger going forward. So that’s something that we will bank on and make sure that we really focus on getting the group together and be positive and play the next game.”MI found themselves 99 for 4 in 12 overs in their tall chase with ESPNcricinfo’s win predictor giving them only a 2.26% chance at that stage. But captain Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma added 89 in just 34 balls to give RCB an almighty scare. Hardik instilled momentum in the chase, hitting Josh Hazlewood for two sixes and two fours. He then struck Krunal Pandya for back-to-back sixes and raced to 32 off 7.”Most of the guys are match-winners. It’s just that we are not getting that tempo going consistently,” Jayawardene said. “Once you hit that 10th-12th over mark, we knew we could give ourselves a chance. When Hardik walked into bat, that was the conversation I had with him. I said, ‘try and see if you can get three big overs in’. That’s what he delivered. Then the momentum changed. Tilak started going as well.”We were close, but not good enough. Obviously, the emotions were great for a while. But we had to be realistic that we are not playing the best cricket that we could play.”Hardik Pandya’s men have been the most expensive bowling unit in the first six overs this season•Associated Press

Jayawardene ‘wouldn’t read too much’ into Rohit’s dismissalJayawardene dismissed concerns around former captain Rohit Sharma and backed him after yet another low score. Rohit scored a nine-ball 17 hitting two fours and a six before he was clean bowled by an inswinger from Yash Dayal.”For right-handed batsmen, left-armers [dismissal] is a natural thing,” Jayawardene said. “It’s been there for many years. I can remember Vaasy [Chaminda Vaas] doing the same thing for many teams, Wasim Akram doing the same thing, so it’s just a natural angle. I’m sure Rohit’s been working on it, he’s been practising hard and he’s a very experienced player.”Rohit has now been dismissed 22 times inside the powerplay since the start of IPL 2023, the most for any batter. Among those who have faced at least 180 deliveries in the first six overs since the start of last season, no one has a worse average than Rohit’s 27.90. While he struck at 130.72 in 2023, his strike rate shot up to 151.97 in the powerplay last season, indicating that he has tried to attack more, something Jayawardene acknowledged.”He was trying to give us a good start and he played some really good shots,” he said. “[Dayal] actually bowled a good ball. It was late-swing and fuller, got through Rohit’s defence. When you have played the game for that long, you need to sometimes give credit to the bowlers as well. I wouldn’t read into that too much, but yeah, it’s something that I’m sure Rohit will work hard on.”

Australia’s stand-in captain previously had surgery on the same elbow in 2019

Andrew McGlashan21-Jan-20250:46

Smith: Missing the 10k-run mark ‘hurt a little bit’

Steven Smith was fearful he had done significant damage to his elbow when he felt pain throwing in the BBL last week in what would been a major jolt to Australia’s plans in Sri Lanka.But after advice from a specialist Smith was cleared to join the training camp in Dubai where he arrived on Tuesday and is planning on resuming batting in the next couple of days. He is Australia’s captain for the two Tests in Galle with Pat Cummins on paternity leave.Related

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Smith’s scare came to the same elbow he had ligament surgery on in 2019 – which required lengthy rehab – and it was memories of that which were at the forefront of his mind at the SCG last Friday.Outlining how the problem occurred, Smith explained he had taken a catch off David Warner, flicked it back inside the rope and was then throwing the ball in when he felt the pain.”Straight away I thought ‘oh jeez, that hurt’,” Smith said. “That was a similar sort of feeling to when I ruptured my ligament back in 2019, so I was a little bit worried for a little bit. But scans showed fortunately my ligament is still intact, the one that I got repaired. I’ve got a little bit of muscle damage, and it’s a small millimetre of the ligament on the bone that’s doing something.Smith added he believes the issue may have stemmed from a blow he took on the shoulder from Jhye Richardson earlier in the BBL which left a significant bruise on his right shoulder and led to him adjusting his throwing technique to compensate.Steven Smith will lead Australia in Sri Lanka•Getty ImagesWhile he has been cleared of major problems with the elbow, Smith may be limited in how much he can throw in the field although as he will largely be a close catcher in a series where spin is expected to dominate that shouldn’t be a huge issue.”In terms of batting I’m pretty comfortable I’ll be able to get into it and play with some tape on it,” he said.Smith will start the Sri Lanka series on 9999 Test runs having twice been dismissed within touching distance of the 10,000 landmark during the final Test against India at the SCG.The full Australia squad, minus injured left-arm spinnerMatt Kuhnemann, is now in Dubai with Beau Webster and Mitchell Starc having arrived yesterday alongside Smith. They are preparing at the ICC Academy on bespoke pitches to replicate conditions they expect to face in Sri Lanka.”I was watching a bit there and there was a lot of variation in the spin and some bounce as well,” Smith said. “That’s the reason we are here in Dubai, we are able to do what we want to do with these wickets, try and help guys develop game plans when it does get extreme. Guys are going to learn over this week and hold us in good stead for the tour.”An update on Kuhnemann’s availability is expected in the next couple of days after he underwent surgery on a compound fracture-dislocation in his right thumb suffered in the BBL last week.

The appointment is till the end of the Champions Trophy next year, after which the PCB will finalise the full-time coach

Danyal Rasool18-Nov-2024Aaqib Javed has been named interim head coach of Pakistan’s men’s national white-ball teams till the end of the 2025 Champions Trophy, of which Pakistan are the hosts.Former Pakistan quick and UAE men’s head coach Aaqib will continue to serve as a senior member of the Pakistan men’s selection committee, and “will be assigned additional responsibilities following the conclusion” of the Champions Trophy, the PCB said in a statement on Monday.The PCB added that it “will initiate the recruitment process for a permanent white-ball head coach” with the aim of completing the appointment by the end of the Champions Trophy, which is set to run from February 19 to March 9.Speaking at a press meet at Gaddafi Stadium on Monday, Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB chairman, said, “We have temporarily asked Aaqib Javed to take over as coach until Champions Trophy. We don’t want to act too hastily in bringing in another coach who isn’t right. So this three-month gap, Aaqib will work [in that position]. He definitely wants to work on other things but we requested him to work for three months as head coach and after that we will see about the other stuff he wants to do.

Aaqib continuing to be on the selection committee puts the PCB’s coaching set-up in the unusual position of the interim white-ball coach having a say in selection across formats, while the full-time red-ball coach does not have a say in selection for the Test side

“It is only for [Aaqib to be only] white-ball [coach] and only [in an] interim [capacity]. We will begin the process of looking for a head coach in the next 10-15 days so we can search and find a good head coach.”Jason Gillespie, meanwhile, will continue to helm the Test side, and will join the touring party for the two-Test series in South Africa, which starts on December 26 after a T20I and ODI series. Last week, Gillespie was sounded out to perform white-ball duties until the Champions Trophy, without a change in his current contract – in effect, to take on two additional formats without being paid more for the increased scope of his role. Gillespie turned that offer down.Aaqib continuing to be on the selection committee puts the PCB’s coaching set-up in the unusual position, where the interim white-ball coach does have a say in selection across formats, while the full-time red-ball coach does not have a say in selection for the Test side.The decision to hand Aaqib white-ball coaching duties at such a critical phase of white-ball cricket for Pakistan underscores how swift the speed of Aaqib’s ascent has been. Until a few weeks ago, he was Lahore Qalandars’ long-term coach and director of cricket operations, where he had a mixed record; he led the side to consecutive PSL titles, but also saw several bottom-place finishes, including earlier this season.Jason Gillespie will continue to be Pakistan’s red-ball coach•Getty ImagesWhen appointed a member of the selection committee, he was viewed by the PCB’s top brass as the mastermind behind the implementation of spin-friendly pitches against England to turn that series. He quit his role at Qalandars to focus on the PCB, where he was initially viewed as the favourite to be appointed director at the National Cricket Academy. He served a stint as Sri Lanka’s bowling coach earlier this year, but now begins his highest profile challenge.Pakistan haven’t had a full-time white-ball coach since Gary Kirsten resigned in late October. Gillespie had been given additional responsibilities for the ongoing white-ball tour of Australia.The tour of Australia, where Pakistan won the ODI series but lost the T20Is, ends today, and Pakistan are next slotted to play three ODIs and three T20Is in Zimbabwe (November 24 to December 5) before travelling to South Africa. In South Africa, they will first play three T20Is (December 10 to 14) and then three ODIs (December 17 to 22) before the two Tests. Pakistan then play a two-Test series at home against West Indies (January 16 to 28) before hosting New Zealand and South Africa in a short ODI tri-series just before the Champions Trophy.

Glasgow Rangers are putting plenty of work in behind the scenes to improve their playing squad before the summer transfer window slams shut at the start of September.

Kevin Thelwell, Russell Martin, and the 49ers are working hard to add more quality to the group, having already brought in the likes of Djeidi Gassama, Thelo Aasgaard, and Joe Rothwell, among others.

The Scottish Premiership giants are looking for more, though, particularly in the wide areas. Rangers are reportedly in talks to sign Go Ahead Eagles star Oliver Antman and Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.

They both play on the right wing and could arrive to compete with each other for a starting spot in Martin’s side in the 2025/26 campaign, whilst the Gers are also looking at an addition on the left flank.

Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge claims that Tottenham Hotspur winger Mikey Moore is closing in on a season-long loan move to Ibrox, after turning down offers from teams in the English Championship.

Why Mikey Moore is an exciting signing

The 17-year-old winger could be an exciting addition to the squad as he is a terrific young talent who could use this potential loan move as his platform to explode at first-team level.

Moore has already played 21 senior matches for Spurs, despite not turning 18 until next month, but he has yet to get the opportunity to start games on a regular basis.

The England U19 international did showcase his potential in the Europa League, though, with one goal and one assist in three starts for the club on their way to winning the competition.

As shown in the clips above, Moore is an electric left-sided attacker who is a joy to watch with his ability to weave in and out of defenders to carry the ball into dangerous areas.

His form for Tottenham and England at youth level also suggests that the potential is there for him to emerge as an incredibly productive forward, in terms of goals and assists.

Tottenham

21

1

2

Tottenham U21s

5

2

2

Tottenham Youth League

5

0

0

Tottenham U18s

24

19

13

England U19

11

3

3

England U17

12

10

4

England U16

14

7

2

England U15

4

1

0

As you can see in the table above, the teenage whiz could deliver goals and assists on a regular basis for Rangers if he can finally hit his stride at senior level, which is why he is such an exciting potential signing for the club.

However, the Scottish giants are also reportedly looking at another defender to come in and bolster their squad, and he could be an even better signing than Moore.

Rangers eyeing move for towering defender

According to journalist Mark Hendry, on his Substack page, Rangers are ‘considering’ a swoop to sign Volendam central defender Xavier Mbuyamba this summer.

The reporter claims that the Light Blues have been interested in the Dutchman throughout the summer transfer window, referencing back to Fabrizio Romano’s report on their interest earlier this year.

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Hendry adds, though, that the 23-year-old centre-back is now ‘hoping’ for a move to Ibrox before the window slams shut, which should come as good news for the Gers, as this suggests that personal terms would not be an issue.

The journalist explains that Rangers may have to dip back into the market for another central defender because Robin Propper has returned to FC Twente and both Ben Davies and Clinton Nsiala appear to be heading towards the exit door.

If the Light Blues decide to go through with a swoop for Mbuyamba and add him to their squad in the coming weeks, the 6 foot 5 colossus could be an even better signing than Moore.

Why Mbuyamba would be a better signing than Moore

As aforementioned, Moore is certainly an exciting addition to the squad, if they can get that deal over the line, but that is because of his unknown potential.

The reality is that the teenage forward has scored one senior goal, and provided two assists, in his career so far, which means that Rangers cannot be certain that he will be an effective player for them on a regular basis.

Moore is also set to join on a straight loan that does not include an option to make the deal permanent. The Light Blues have seen the likes of Malik Tillman, Abdallah Sima, and Vaclav Cerny impress on loan before leaving because the Gers are unable to sign them permanently, which is what could happen with the Spurs youngster.

Mbuyamba, however, would come in on a permanent deal and be part of the long-term strategy at Ibrox, which means that he could provide value over the course of a number of years, whilst also having the potential to make the club a profit in the future, which will not be the case with Moore.

The 23-year-old Dutchman’s form for Volendam in his last two full seasons, excluding the 2023/24 season when he missed 26 matches due to heart problems, suggests that he can also make an instant impact on the pitch.

Appearances

28

34

Goals

5

5

Tackles + interceptions per game

3.5

2.8

Clearances per game

5.4

4.4

Ground duel success rate

56%

64%

Aerial duel success rate

50%

60%

As you can see in the table above, Mbuyamba provided a huge threat from set-pieces in both of those campaigns, whilst also dominating opposition attackers in physical duels, whilst no Rangers centre-back managed more than two league goals last season.

Volendam also clearly missed his defensive presence at the back in the 2023/24 campaign, when he missed the majority of his with heart issues, because they were relegated from the Eredivisie that year.

Mbuyamba, who talent scout Jacek Kulig once dubbed “complete” and “dominant”, then returned to help them win the second division last season, playing a pivotal role with his goals, tackles, interceptions, and clearances.

This further illustrates why he would be an even better signing for Rangers than Moore, because the Dutch titan has already proven himself at senior level in the Netherlands and could hit the ground running at Ibrox.

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Mbuyamba seems more likely, given his greater exposure to first-team football and success on the pitch, to make an instant impact at Rangers than Moore, whilst also providing the club with more value in the long run as a permanent signing rather than a straight loan.

Nottingham Forest are now in pole position ahead of rival interest from Everton in the race for an exciting homegrown attacking player.

Forest reach verbal agreement with new forward

The Reds have already added one attacker in the form of Igor Jesus to their ranks this summer from Brazilian side Botafogo, but given the fact the club are competing in Europe as well as the Premier League next season, Nuno Espirito Santo is keen to add more attacking options to his side.

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Furthermore, Anthony Elanga’s exit to Newcastle United means there is a void in the starting XI, and Forest are keen to fill that by signing Dan Ndoye from Bologna. The 24-year-old has been with the Italian side since 2023 and has impressed domestically and internationally in recent seasons, so much so that he is now a genuine target for the Reds.

Forest have submitted a bid to sign Ndoye from Bologna, but on the player’s side, Ndoye has already verbally agreed a deal with the Reds as they look to beat teams such as Napoli and Crystal Palace to his signature.

Should the Switzerland international move to the City Ground, he could be joined by another forward-thinking player as a possible replacement for Morgan Gibbs-White.

Nottingham Forest lead Everton in Ramsey race

According to Football Insider, Nottingham Forest are now leading the race to sign Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa.

Football Insider previously reported that Aston Villa do want to keep hold of the 24-year-old, but an offer between £40-50 million would be enough to convince Villa to sell, and Forest would be able to get to this mark, with the possibility of Gibbs-White’s exit funding the move.

The Reds are not alone in their pursuit, as Everton are also in the race to sign the attacking midfielder, but the fact Forest can offer Ramsey European football places them ahead of the Toffees.

It was even reported back in May that Ramsey is unhappy at Villa Park due to lack of game time last season. Ramsey played 46 games in all competitions last season, but the attacking midfielder only started 25 of those games, as he struggled to get ahead of some of Unai Emery’s regular picks.

Jacob Ramsey’s Premier League record

Apps

136

Goals

14

Assists

14

Ramsey, who has been dubbed “terrific” by former Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard in the past, is under contract at Villa Park until 2027, so should Forest make a considerable offer, the Villans could use him as a PSR sacrifice.

For Forest, Ramsey would likely be seen as a direct replacement for Gibbs-White, as the former England under-21 international can play as a number 10, while he can also feature on the left flank.

Bryan Mbeumo is a player who has dominated the news around Manchester United over the last couple of weeks, with the attacker firmly on the lips of all supporters.

The Brentford star has become one of the Premier League’s leading talismen, after registering 20 goals under Thomas Frank in the capital throughout last season.

As a result of his goalscoring form, the Red Devils have been firmly in the race to land the 25-year-old, even making two separate bids for his signature this window.

The latest offer of around £62.5m, including add-ons, was rejected, with Keith Andrews’ side holding out for £70m to part ways with the Cameroonian during the off-season.

He’s also stated his desire to move to Old Trafford this summer, potentially linking up with a new striker should he make the move to join Ruben Amorim’s side ahead of 2025/26.

The latest on United’s hunt for a new striker this summer

Victor Osimhen has once again reemerged on United’s shortlist this summer, with the Nigerian a player who’s been subject to interest after scoring 37 goals on loan at Galatasaray last season.

He’s not the only striker who’s been in their sights, with Sporting CP talisman Viktor Gyokeres still a player they want to sign, despite the Swede stating his desire to join Arsenal.

However, another name has entered the mix over the last couple of days, with Ivan Toney a player on their radar, according to Football Insider’s latest update.

They claim that the English forward appears to be keen on a return to the Premier League, moving back to his homeland after joining Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli less than 12 months ago.

The report also states that the Red Devils hierarchy have been watching the 29-year-old in recent weeks and that Toney ‘wants’ to join the club after scoring 30 goals in his 44 appearances in the Saudi League.

Why United’s latest target would be the perfect ST for Mbeumo

As previously mentioned, Mbeumo has been a player who has caught the eye of many supporters across the country, with his talents leading to United’s keen interest in his signature.

However, he’s often starred in a right-wing role, a position that he will have to switch from if he moves to Old Trafford, likely operating in a number ten role behind the striker.

It’s a position that he could thrive in under Amorim, especially if the Red Devils can secure a deal for the Cameroonian international along with former teammate Toney.

The 25-year-old previously starred alongside the English striker in London, with the pair operating alongside each other for four seasons, helping the Bees win promotion from the Championship and subsequently securing their top-flight status.

In the 2020/21 campaign, the pair registered 59 combined goals and assists between them, with Toney scoring 31 times and Mbeumo providing 10 assists – with both tallies being the highest at the club.

Bryan Mbeumo & Ivan Toney’s stats together at Brentford (2020-2024)

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

2023/24

42

13

10

2022/23

71

29

12

2021/22

68

16

12

2020/21

95

38

20

Total:

276

96

54

Stats via FotMob

The pair topped both of the respective categories in three of the four years they spent together at Brentford, with the only exception coming in 2023/24 after the striker was banned for betting offences.

Despite not starring together anymore in the present day, Toney, who’s been labelled “sensational” by journalist Simon Stone, has still managed to score 30 times in 2024/25, ten more than Mbeumo’s tally.

However, the pair’s respective goalscoring tallies combined from last season are higher than the Red Devils managed as a whole squad, showcasing the added threat the pair would bring to Old Trafford.

With the former Bees striker seemingly wanting to join Amorim’s side this summer, it is a deal worth exploring, with the Englishman having the experience of finding the back of the net in England’s top flight.

If Mbeumo also makes the move, the pair could replicate the form they produced in the capital, potentially playing a massive role together again and helping United push for a place in Europe next season.

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It’s been a non-stop summer for those at the Stadium of Light as the reality of the Premier League begins to dawn on Sunderland.

By the time Sunderland’s opener comes around versus West Ham United, the complexion of Regis Le Bris’ starting lineup could look very different from the playoff final success against Sheffield United, with both Jobe Bellingham and Tommy Watson already nowhere to be seen.

Moreover, there will no doubt be a lot of new faces vying for game-time after joining the newly promoted club, with Marcin Bulka perhaps taking over first-team goalkeeper duties from Anthony Patterson if he does join from OGC Nice.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reported on Wednesday that the Black Cats have opened talks regarding a potential move for the Polish stopper, as they seek to win the race ahead of a long list of other suitors.

He might not be the only defensive addition coming in this summer to bring extra competition, however, as Sunderland now find themselves locked in a race to sign a promising centre-back.

Sunderland in the race to sign £7m defender

As per a report by OnTheMinute, Sunderland remain in the race to land 21-year-old defender Saba Goglichidze.

Transfer Focus

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The Empoli centre-back is attracting lots of interest despite his current employers’ recent relegation from the Serie A, with the report adding that the Black Cats’ fiercest rivals in Newcastle United are now keen on the Georgian as well, alongside fellow Premier League outfit Nottingham Forest.

It’s even been speculated that the Tricky Trees are now ready to place a £7m bid for the 6-foot-4 colossus, with OnTheMinute stating that a bid around this region could be enough for Empoli to part ways with their main asset.

Sunderland will hope they can gain an advantage in this race somehow, with Goglichidze’s potential arrival – on top of Bulka walking through the door – undoubtedly strengthening Le Bris and Co. at the back ahead of their uphill Premier League climb.

How Goglichidze could shine with Bulka

After all, when assessing Goglichidze’s stay at Empoli up to this point, it’s clear he isn’t fazed by the bright lights of a top division.

Indeed, the up-and-coming 21-year-old has even had suitors from AC Milan and Juventus look at him, with his sparkling form in Italy seeing him pick up a solitary assist from his 33 league encounters last season, on top of also bravely battling away for his basement side with 3.9 duels won on average.

With four clean sheets in league action next to his name, too, it’s clear that Goglichidze is destined for bigger and better things than slumping down to the Italian second division, and with Bulka behind in him the sticks, he could go on to look even more confident and assured knowing he has a top-drawer shot-stopper by his side.

Across his four seasons in between the sticks for Nice, the reliable Pole has managed to collect 30 clean sheets, with a hefty 18 of those coming just last campaign. To add context, Patterson would finish his own individual season with a lesser 14 next to his name, even from 45 games overall.

Games played

38

Goals scored

26

Goals conceded

69

Goal difference

-40

That is still a respectable tally, but there will be a real worry in the air about the intense jump-up in quality, considering Southampton – who were the reigning playoff champions before Sunderland’s big moment at Wembley – are just fresh off leaking a dire 86 strikes stuck at the bottom of the division, which is 17 more than the Black Cats gave up during their last relegation horror-show in the top-flight.

The Saints looking so porous could be sounding the alarm bells for Le Bris and Co. as we speak, with the Black Cats giving up a high 44 strikes last season themselves. Amazingly, both Leeds United and Burnley only gave up 46 goals combined.

The arrival of fresh blood in the form of Saba Goglichidze and his potential new Polish teammate might be just what the newly promoted side needs, therefore, with football talent scout Jacek Kulig even going as far as to declare the 21-year-old a “wonderful” talent.

It will be a turbulent ride ahead for Sunderland, but if Le Bris can work his magic on this fresh defensive pairing, survival might be reached.

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Despite reaching a hefty 90 points in the Championship last season, Sheffield United are now resigned to another campaign in the second t ier

Both Burnley and Leeds United soared into the top two spots in the division at their expense with a mammoth 100 points each, leaving Chris Wilder’s men to fight it out in the cruel lottery of the playoffs.

To make matters worse, the Blades headed into their playoff showdown at Wembley versus Sunderland having never been promoted via this nail-biting route, with that unlucky streak unfortunately continuing against the Black Cats.

It was Tommy Watson who broke United hearts with a last-gasp finish, but the chance would never have fallen to the feet of the new Brighton and Hove Albion youngster kindly if it wasn’t for an inexplicable moment of madness from Welshman Kieffer Moore.

His head-in-hands back-pass could be his last ever cursed moment donning Blades red and white, with Wilder and Co. perhaps tempted to move on the injury-prone striker, having blown hot and cold throughout last season.

Indeed, the experienced EFL attacker would miss 17 games in total due to injury, meaning these three strikers on the potential United shopping list could be viewed as upgrades on the often missing 32-year-old.

1 Emil Riis Jakobsen

Emil Riis Jakobsen would certainly come in and be a similar striker to Moore, considering the Dane boasts a towering 6 foot 3 frame when contrasted wit the ex-Cardiff City man’s imposing 6 foot 5 build.

The soon-to-be free agent has been on Wilder’s radar before according to reports, and with his Preston North End contract confirmed as not being renewed, now could be the perfect time to finally add him to his Blades roster as a back-up attacking body.

After all, Jakobsen did manage to better Moore’s six-goal haul just this season gone with 12 league strikes in total, with the likes of Tyrese Campbell presumably keen to bounce off such an experienced EFL head as promotion is sought after once more.

2 Oli McBurnie

Wilder could also look to the past when recruiting a possible Moore replacement, meaning a deal might soon be on the table for Oli McBurnie to spectacularly return to Bramall Lane.

This wouldn’t be an unusual deal for Wilder to sign off on, considering United were reportedly keen on adding the £2m-rated Scotsman back to their camp in January.

Moreover, with 29 strikes already in his back pocket for the Blades, he wouldn’t need a long time you imagine to get back up to speed with proceedings, having also chipped in with a respectable five strikes for current La Liga employers Las Palmas across the 2024/25 campaign.

It would all rest on whether the Yorkshire-born attacker would fancy swapping Spain for the challenges of the EFL again, but it could be an inspired switch if it clicks into gear.

3 Charlie Kelman

Away from going after seasoned Championship veterans, the Blades could look to Queens Park Rangers hotshot Charlie Kelman as an alternative up top after an explosive loan spell at Leyton Orient.

United have been recently linked with a move for the slick 23-year-old, and after years of not being handed that many meaningful first-team opportunities at Loftus Road, he might well fancy a switch to Wilder’s men to become an exciting reserve option.

Kelman’s league numbers for Orient (24/25)

Stat – per 90 mins*

Kelman

Games played

46

Games started

37

Goals scored

21

Assists

5

Shots*

2.4

Shots on target*

1.1

Goal conversion %

19%

Big chances missed

20

Stats by Sofascore

Kelman would instantly burst into life leading the line for Richie Wellens’ promotion-chasers, as seen in his 21 strikes and five assists helping the O’s reach the League One playoff final, only to then fall at the vital finishing hurdle to Charlton Athletic.

Wilder and Co. tasted similar agony, but will hope landing promising new strikers such as Kelman can get them over the line this campaign to come.

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They’re set to go again in pursuit of promotion.

Posts ByTom Cunningham May 27, 2025

Everton have now held talks with the entourage of a “leader”, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, according to a report.

Moyes looking to bolster defensive options

The Toffees’ recent results haven’t been the best, falling to defeats against Chelsea and Manchester City before drawing 2-2 against Ipswich Town in the penultimate match at Goodison Park, but it remains an exciting time to be a fan of the Blues.

The hope will be that a move to Bramley Moore-Dock positions David Moyes’ side to compete for major honours in the future, and they are looking to mark their stadium move by making one or two statement signings this summer.

That is according to a new report, which states the Merseysiders are now open to the signing of Man City defender John Stones, who could be in line for a sensational return eight years after leaving Goodison Park.

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Posts ByAngus Sinclair May 7, 2025

Stones could be a real upgrade on Moyes’ current centre-back options, given his top-level experience, and there has now been a suggestion that a new left-back could also be pursued in the summer transfer window.

According to a report from The Boot Room, Everton have now made contact with the entourage of Leeds United defender Junior Firpo, who is out of contract at the end of the season and thus available on a free transfer.

Firpo appears to be set to leave Leeds this summer, having arrived at Elland Road for £13m back in 2021, and there is no shortage of interest in his signature, with Crystal Palace and West Ham United also holding talks with his representatives.

A return to Spain could also be on the cards, with Atletico Madrid and Real Betis keen, while FC Barcelona could also consider a move for their former player.

"Leader" Firpo could be Mykolenko upgrade

Vitaliy Mykolenko has established himself as a key player this season, making 32 appearances in the Premier League, and the left-back has impressed defensively, ranking in the 89th percentile for aerials won per 90, and the 95th for clearances over the past year.

However, the Leeds defender is also dominant in the air, while offering far more of an attacking threat, ranking in the top 1% for assists per 90, when compared to other left-backs playing at a similar level.

Statistic

Average per 90

Assists

0.34 (99th percentile)

Non-penalty goals

0.14 (96th percentile)

Shot-creating actions

3.30 (93rd percentile)

Aerials won

2.10 (93rd percentile)

Not only that, but the 28-year-old has personal qualities which could set him up for success at Everton, with Daniel Farke claiming he is “turning into a leader” earlier this season.

With Moyes a little light on options at left-back, Firpo could be a fantastic addition to the squad, but it may be difficult to win the race for his signature if Barcelona or Atletico Madrid step up their interest.

Fulham could have to fork out one club’s record transfer sale to sign a “monster” defender this summer, with their manager personally making his demands clear behind-the-scenes.

Marco Silva previews Fulham clash with Liverpool

The Whites have an all-important, blockbuster clash to prepare for as Marco Silva’s side take on Premier League frontrunners Liverpool in their race for European qualification.

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Marco Silva’s side could lose him.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 3, 2025

Liverpool have won their last four league games and have one hand on this year’s domestic crown. Arne Slot can take an almighty stride to confirming their status as champions of England against Fulham, but Silva will be equally determined to spoil the party with European football on the line.

Liverpool (home)

April 6th

Bournemouth (away)

April 14th

Chelsea (home)

April 20th

Southampton (away)

April 26th

Aston Villa (away)

May 3rd

Amid Tottenham’s interest in Silva to replace Ange Postecoglou, these last few games of the season could also serve as a Spurs audition for the 42-year-old if he’s open to that opportunity across London.

“It’s going to be a game that demands us to be close to perfection,” said Silva on Fulham’s clash with Liverpool.

“From our side, we need to fight really hard for the three points. We are in our own battle too. They want the three points to be closer to the title – we want our three points for our own battle.”

Silva adds that he’s expecting a response from his players after their last game, a 2-1 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

“We share the good moments and the good vibes together,” said Silva.

“When you don’t achieve something important, like a football match we want to win, then you have to share the disappointment. But at the same time, we have to work quicker and prepare quicker for the next one – like we have done since the start of the season.”

Off the field, preparations for next season are already underway at Craven Cottage, with the west Londoners making transfer plans.

Fulham have made contact over signing Deportivo La Coruna sensation Yeremay Hernandez, according to TEAMtalk, and strengthening the wide area is seen as a key aim for the club.

Fulham told price for Elfsborg defender Terry Yegbe

Silva’s side also want to reinforce their defence, and have their keen eyes on Elfsborg defender Terry Yegbe.

The Ghana international was rumoured to command a price tag of £4.5 million, but according to news outlet Fotboll Direkt, the actual price for Yegbe stands at closer to £6 million.

While this wouldn’t exactly break the bank for a Premier League side like Fulham, it would apparently smash the record for most money paid for a centre-back from the Swedish Allsvenskan.

As per FD, Fulham are among the main contenders to sign Yegbe this summer, but the Elfsborg manager is personally demanding that a record sale figure of around £6 million to entertain letting the Ghanaian leave.

Yegbe, interestingly, carries a fearsome reputation in Scandanavia, having been called a “monster” defender.

“He is a monster on the field,” said former Elfsborg teammate Ahmed Qasem to Fotbollskanalen’s deadline day broadcast.

“He is too fast, strong and good with his feet. I think he will surprise many in the Allsvenskan.”