All posts by h716a5.icu

Will their suspension be lifted? What of their funding and future participation in ICC events? Here’s an explainer

Firdose Moonda11-Oct-2019The status of Zimbabwe’s Full Membership with the ICC might become clear during the board meeting of the game’s governing body in Dubai next week.Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) was suspended in July after the ICC deemed that there was government interference in the running of the board, which had been stood down by the country’s Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), a body tasked to regulate sporting organisations in the country.The suspension has left ZC without ICC funding – they were due to receive US $94 million over eight years – and their national teams are currently excluded from ICC events. However, with their status likely to be reviewed, a proper picture of their immediate future will emerge soon. Here’s a brief explainer:What are the potential outcomes for ZC?
The best case for ZC would be its reinstatement as a Full Member. If the ICC is still concerned about ZC’s governance, it could opt for a reinstatement with conditions. If the governing body deems ZC hasn’t met the requirements, it could remain suspended. The worst-case scenario remains having their membership terminated.ALSO READ: Liam Brickhill: Please don’t let this be the death of Zimbabwe CricketWhat did ZC need to do for their suspension to be lifted?
In a letter on July 24, the ICC asked ZC to “unconditionally reinstate” the board that was stood down by the SRC no later than October 8 and provide “satisfactory evidence” that ZC will “administer its affairs free of external interference and influence”.Has ZC met these requirements?
It claims to have done so.On August 8, three weeks after ZC was suspended, the SRC stated that it had lifted the suspension and that the interim manager they had put in place – former ZC chairman Dave Ellman-Brown – “would cease to be responsible for ZC’s affairs”. The board, chaired by Tavengwa Mukuhlani, has been reinstated since then, which meets the ICC’s first requirement.This is what a ZC spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo: “The SRC has made an undertaking not to interfere in the affairs of ZC, and ZC has furnished this correspondence to ICC.” It’s now up to the governing body to decide if this correspondence is enough evidence to guarantee the ZC’s independence.Does this mean that ZC is now run properly?
What it mean is that an SRC-appointed board – one that included a number of names many consider to be credible – will not be running ZC. Mukuhlani’s board is back in charge, the same one that has overseen several years of financial and administrative crisis, including multiple player strikes.What will lifting the suspension mean for Zimbabwe’s cricketers?
This much is certain: it’s too late for them to participate in the T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Dubai (from October 28), where Nigeria have replaced them. They could, however, feature in the Under-19 World Cup in South Africa in January-February 2020 if ZC is reinstated.Will their home series against West Indies later this month go ahead, irrespective of ICC’s decision?
No. The visit was due to take place around the time of the T20 World Cup Qualifiers, which Zimbabwe would have been a part of. So the series stands postponed and new dates are yet to be worked out.What will lifting the suspension mean for ZC as an organisation?
For starters, it will start receiving ICC funding again. For an organisation steeped in debt, in a country with a struggling economy, money is a lifeblood. It could finance the Zimbabwean domestic season, renewal of player and staff contracts, and maybe even fund an incoming tour. Whether ZC will be able to satisfactorily manage and stretch that money remains to be seen. At the non-monetary level, reinstatement will also give ZC its ICC voting rights back.

From the hurt at not being picked in the IPL to the time when he wasn’t picked for 14 matches after an ODI century – Tiwary doesn’t hold back

Interview by Varun Shetty15-Dec-2019At 34, what are the things you prioritise?Age is obviously just a number. If we listen to the interviews or read interviews of great athletes, they always say that this is just a number and we also feel the same way because it’s all about fitness, your awareness, your understanding of the game.Priorities, as far as professional life is concerned – I want my performances to be better than they were previous season. And also keep performing to the best of my ability and make sure that my consistency rate is there all the time. And I believe deep down that one season of Ranji Trophy can again bring that luck back to me, as far as being picked for India is concerned.And also to get an opportunity in the IPL as well. Last year I could not make a team, so obviously IPL is a very big platform. I’m hoping that somebody gives me an opportunity in their side.After 16 years of being at this level, how do you now prepare for a season as opposed to 10 years ago?Very similar kind of preparation to be honest. It’s just that I need to improve on my skillsets because the more compact you become in Ranji Trophy, the more tight you become, there are more chances of you getting consistent scores. The older you grow the more effort you have to put because earlier, your body was pretty natural, but the load of so many years now takes a toll on the body. I bowl as well, and I give more than 100 percent – obviously everyone gives – but I’m also someone who dives a lot on the field. So that’s why I’ve always kept my physical fitness the first priority and then obviously work on my skillsets and improve on the other part.You must have seen as well, legspin was not working for me in the middle because I had a niggle in my spinning finger. Then I came with the slinging offspin, which was very useful for me in T20s which happened in Ranchi [Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, 2017-18]. I was the leading wicket taker for Bengal. 14 [13 in eight matches] odd wickets at a very good strike rate.Is that something you’ve had to keep doing in the last few years, innovate?Yes. That is because I want to make sure I’m ready with all three departments. Since my spinning finger was injured, I could not bowl legspin. That’s why I started bowling slinging offspin because I wanted to contribute to the team and also show the concerned people in franchises that I can contribute in bowling as well. It’s not about the four-over slot, it’s about the one over which makes an impact in an IPL game, where I can contribute a tight over. And they look at me as an option. That’s why I started that, to get more regularly picked in the IPL and give more options to the captains and teams who are there at the auction table.So preparing for the IPL is now officially part of your routine?No. It depends on the format which I’m playing to be honest. Obviously IPL is a very big platform, but I’ve always prepared according to the format which I’m going to play. Because I play the situation. Somewhere down the line, I feel that that is one thing that has maybe became a downfall of my career. Maybe. That question pops up in my mind most of the time because I’ve always given emphasis on playing the situation rather than playing for something which is coming in the future, like the IPL.

“I could not get the reason why I was not getting picked. It was not communicated. So if that communication is not there, you feel what’s wrong with my game. At that point I had no one who guided me as such to be more calm and not to overthink.”MANOJ TIWARY

I see a lot of players, no matter what the situation demands, they try and go play very attacking shots. When a player plays attacking shots, or takes too many undue risks, there is always an opportunity for the opposition to get his wicket. I don’t try and do that. But still when I sit back and I don’t get picked for the IPL, when I see those players getting an opportunity, then I feel whether my preparation was correct in playing the situation, or should I have played more attackingly to make sure my strike rate goes higher up, irrespective of how much I’ve contributed to the team. So that is a question which pops in my mind when I miss out on an IPL contract.You missed out last year (in the IPL auction) and were outspoken about how upset you were. Why did you choose to come out and talk about it?It was quite simple. In [IPL] 2017 I had a fabulous season (with Rising Pune Supergiant). I got four FBB Stylish Player awards and our team reached the final as well. Unfortunately, we lost against Mumbai [Indians] in the final, where we could have won. Those awards come because you did really well, you made an impact on the game. After that the Pune team left the IPL [when their 2-year contract ended] and then I went to the auction again and Kings XI [Punjab] picked me.Unfortunately, when I sit back and think about why I didn’t get a fair run it was because I realised that Kings XI at that point of time picked so many openers in their side, where they had to make all the openers bat in the middle order to make the combination correct. KL [Rahul] was there, Mayank [Agarwal] was opening, Karun [Nair] was also opening, [Aaron] Finch was an opener, and Gayle obviously. So that, somewhere I feel, has hampered my position in the team.But, nevertheless, I got three opportunities to bat. First two I couldn’t make an impact. But I felt that third innings against Chennai [Super Kings] was an important innings. It was the second-highest score [35 off 30] for the Kings XI side after Karun Nair’s half-century. That was something which I thought was a good innings under pressure. And after that, I did not get an opportunity because the team did not qualify and last year nobody picked me.My name came first in the auction, and I was a little surprised to see no one has picked me. My base price was INR 50 lakhs [approx. US$ 7050], so I did not come as expensive if someone had taken me. That’s why I was a little disappointed, because people pretty quickly forget your contributions. And I’ve always been a very upfront guy, I’ve always believed in saying the truth. And that has been a downfall, when I sit back and think about the statements I’ve made earlier during my career.That’s how the emotions came out. I try to be calm most of the time – and I’ve been now, over a period of time. Earlier I was very aggressive by nature, on the field as well, when I started playing. Sometimes I obviously feel bad. I’m not against any of the young players getting picked for the IPL, it’s just that when I see in difficult situations all the youngsters who have been given a longer rope, in those crucial situations, they’re not able to hit those boundaries. Not able to keep their calm in such a way that they’re giving themselves a better chance to succeed. Whereas when I’m sitting at home watching those games, I feel that I could have scored those runs, I could have made that impact. So these are the things that bother me at times, but when time passes, it’s all well and good.Manoj Tiwary holds the pose after hitting a straight six•BCCILot of people believe you’re unfortunate not to have played more for India. You got injured at crucial points and so forth. Ever felt, “why does this only happen to me?”There are a couple of instances where things have not gone the way I would’ve loved them to. Like getting injured on my first tour in Bangladesh, in 2006-07. Before a game I got injured, my shoulder got dislocated. Then I had to wait one year to make a debut in Australia (2008 CB Series). I was waiting for the other opportunity in that tournament, where Rohit [Sharma] became Rohit if you remember. Then I had to wait three years to make a comeback. I was made to open in the West Indies when I had a fabulous IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders (in 2011). Went to West Indies, got opportunities, but at the opening slot, which is not my position. I’ve always batted at No. 4. In the fifth game of the series, I got opportunity at No. 4. I scored 24 [22] and got out. Got set and got out.Again, I was dropped for a lot of matches. Again I got picked in the West Indies home series where [Virender] Sehwag opted out. I made sure I batted No. 4. In the last game of the series, I got a hundred, and after that I was not part of the playing XI for the next 14 games for India. And that 14 games happened over a period of six months.I could not get the reason why I was not getting picked. It was not communicated. So if that communication is not there, you feel ‘What’s wrong with my game?’ At that point, I had no one who guided me as such to be more calm and not to overthink about these things, so that whenever you get an opportunity you will obviously have to make an impact on those games.But having said that, I look at life in a very positive way. From where I started and where I am right now, it’s all because of god’s grace. I’d never thought that I will reach this place where I’ll be financially secure, people will know my name and give me love and appreciation. I see a lot of people in our community who are differently-abled. I’ve got my body intact. I compare with them whenever I come across difficult situations and I obviously think I’ve been blessed to have this kind of life. So those phases just pass by.In the coming season, you’ll have a slightly different role, with a new captain coming in at Bengal?I’ve always wanted to be a team man, my only aim is to make sure the team wins the trophy. During my captaincy term, I have won a few trophies. Now I want to help [Abhimanyu] Easwaran. He’s our captain now. I want to assist him whenever it’s required, but I also want to give him that space so that he becomes a good captain by himself. Because captaincy I believe is all about your gut feeling. And what you are thinking in that point of time. That is what I’ve done in Vijay Hazare and Syed Mushtaq Ali. So my role as a senior is to just help the youngsters. I want to go up to them and tell them what needs to be done and how you can do it, rather than I keep sitting and watching them, keep replaying their mistakes. What I had gone through – I don’t want them to [go through and] lose out on time. You learn because of your experiences and when I see these players are getting misdirected or not working in a correct way, I want to make sure that these guys don’t lose out on time.

“I started bowling slinging offspin because I wanted to contribute to the team and also show the concerned people in franchises that I can contribute in bowling as well.”MANOJ TIWARY

Now that half the home season is done, what would your ideal season look like from here?I want to score more than 1000 runs this season. That’s my aim. I’m working towards it. Whatever is required to be done, whether it’s physical or planning my innings in a better way. I’ve chalked out a few areas where I need to work as far as my technique is concerned. Getting my technique a bit tighter for the Ranji games. Which is always the challenging part when you play shorter formats before the Ranji season, you want to play Ranji in the same flow. That’s not going to give you dividends. Because in days matches, the ball keeps swinging most of the time. You have to have a very good technique and temperament to score big runs and hundreds. And I’ve done it in the past. It’s just that this year will be more important because I want to give myself the best chance of scoring 1000 runs.Is that the goal now, that you have to go out on a high?I’m not going anywhere. I’m 34 and I plan to play another ten years. I know it’s not going to be easy. If Wasim [Jaffer] can play for so many years, if Zaheer Khan can roll his arm at 42 and still get wickets at T10, why can’t I? Michael Jordan, LeBron James, so many other athletes. Nobody will question LeBron James – he’s 34 I guess. He’s going to continue for another 3-4 years. So that’s how I want to break it down. Three years [at a time], or two. I’m not going to go (out) so easily.

After a career full of incredible teammates – from Paul Gascoigne all the way to Terry Butcher – Ally McCoist has now revealed the two Rangers players that he feels went under the radar during his time at the club.

Ally McCoist's legendary Rangers career

A clinical striker who became a champion in Scotland as many as 10 times with Rangers, McCoist is an undeniable Ibrox legend who saw it all during his time at the club as both a manager and a player.

Of course, it must be said that his time as a player compared to his time in the dugout both came with incredibly different experiences and challenges. As a player, the Scot was part of a winning Rangers side who often took their place at the top of Scottish football – a contrast to Celtic’s current dominance under Brendan Rodgers.

As a manager, however, McCoist was left to pick up the pieces at a crumbling club as they went into administration and down from the Scottish Premiership. Stepping up nonetheless, the former Rangers man played a vital part in helping to drag the Gers back up the divisions in Scotland.

"Madness" – McCoist stunned at Rangers claims to sign £15k-p/w Celtic star

There have been some suggestions of a move.

ByCharlie Smith Apr 10, 2025

Whilst many will be naturally quick to praise the likes of Gascoigne, Butcher or players of Brian Laudrup’s calibre for their success alongside McCoist, the man himself named two teammates who went under the radar during their time at Rangers.

McCoist names most "underrated" teammates

Speaking exclusively to Football FanCast, McCoist revealed two players who didn’t get enough of the spotlight: “I’ll give you two actually who were underrated. I was very lucky, I played with some brilliant players. Big Goughy (Richard Gough), Cooper, Gascoigne, Laudrup, Gordon, Terry Butcher, Ray Wilkins, guys like that. Fantastic players, absolutely fantastic players.

“Probably two underrated ones would be Stuart McCall and Ian Ferguson. Stuart was a brilliant midfielder, as was Ian.

“Stuart was just so underrated as a football player. The first thing that struck you about Stuart was his energy and his willingness to run about and work hard and I think in many ways that masked his ability in some people’s opinions, because he was a far better football player perhaps than the way he played.

“What caught your eye when he played was his work rate and his closing down, getting the ball back, but far cleverer with the ball and a better player than a lot of people imagined.

“And Ian Ferguson was the exact same. Those two guys could’ve played in any team at any level. Fergie came from St. Mirren as a younger man and Graeme (Souness) and Walter (Smith) turned him into a very mature, level-headed midfield player who was aggressive and had one of the hardest shots out of any players I ever played with.”

“The one thing about Fergie that helped was that he was a Rangers boy growing up so he absolutely loved every minute of putting on that blue jersey. Probably two I’d value as high as any are Stuart McCall and Ian Ferguson.”

Leeds United have made an opening enquiry to sign a new Premier League player, according to a fresh transfer report.

Leeds latest as Farke drops Meslier for Darlow

The Whites are still pushing for Championship promotion under Daniel Farke, with Leeds in a current battle with Sheffield United and Burnley.

It looked like it could be a straightforward promotion after wins over the Blades and Sunderland back in February, however, Leeds have taken just six points from a possible 15 since.

Goalkeeper Illan Meslier was once again at fault last time out in a draw with Swansea City, and Farke has now taken the decision to drop Meslier for Karl Darlow. Talking at a recent press conference, Farke said: “I think I’m a big believer to have clarity on GK position. I’ve taken the decision – Karl Darlow will play on Saturday. Karl and Illan are aware.

“I think in general with a goalkeeper, it’s important you don’t change game to game. Especially with a promising GK like Illan. He took part in securing promotion a few seasons ago. He’s still young for a GK. It’s professional football and you have to deliver and handle the pressure. In the last weeks we felt he could have done a bit better.

“I’m in the position where I have to make a decision and protect him a bit. The spotlight is on him and the weight of the world is on him. That was my feeling this week. I have a really reliable option with Karl Darlow. A top class character. I see him every day in training – absolutely professional and loyal. He played two solid performances for Wales. he’s in a good rhythm. I’m convinced it’s the right decision.”

Should Leeds return to the top flight after a two-year absence, Leeds and the 49ers Enterprises could look to splash the cash to remain in the division.

Meslier replacement: Leeds now eyeing move for "world-class" £14m goalkeeper

The Whites are looking at options to replace Meslier, who has made a number of mistakes this season.

ByDominic Lund Apr 4, 2025

It has proven a tough task for the six promoted sides since 2023, however, Leeds are turning to experience to potentially help Farke.

Leeds make enquiry to sign Farke target Soucek from West Ham

According to Claret & Hugh, Leeds have made an opening approach over a deal to sign Tomas Soucek from West Ham United.

It is claimed that ‘Farke has identified West Ham midfielder Soucek as a player who can guarantee the Whites some top-flight goals’ and that any deal would require Leeds being promoted.

The report also adds that Leeds are ‘ready to offer him at least £30,000 per week more than his current wage’, which currently stands at £90,000 per week.

The 6 ft 4 midfielder, who can play in holding, central or attacking roles, could therefore earn £120,000 per week at Elland Road, however, he is currently settled at the London Stadium, where his deal runs until 2027.

Games

238

Goals

39

Assists

13

Yellow cards

33

Red cards

1

It appears as if Farke is personally keen on the Czech Republic international, and any deal would see the midfielder offer a physical presence as well as plenty of Premier League experience.

Chelsea are chasing Champions League qualification, looking to return to the competition after spending the past two seasons away from the top level. However, currently sitting sixth in the Premier League, it looks like the Blues will have to string together some big wins at the back end of the campaign to have any chance of finishing inside the top five.

Enzo Maresca’s side started out as one of the best attacking sides in the league, scoring for fun with big wins such as a 6-2 win against Wolves and a 4-2 win against Brighton.

But it looks like Chelsea may lean on their defensive qualities at the back end of this season, having only conceded three goals in their last five Premier League games, keeping three clean sheets.

The Blues are conceding 10.8 shots per game; only Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal are conceding fewer. That being said, Chelsea have conceded 49.54 xG this campaign, leaving them 12th for this metric, proving there is still plenty of improvement to be made at the defensive end of the pitch.

Chelsea's readying bid for a new defender

According to reports from Spain, Chelsea have made Barcelona defender, Jules Kounde, a key part of their summer plans to shore up their defensive unit this summer and are willing to break the bank with an €80m (£68m) offer.

Transfer Focus

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

The reports suggest the Blues are keen to add a versatile defender who can play not only as a central defender, but also as a hybrid fullback when needed.

Kounde would also offer much-needed experience to the Chelsea defence, something hugely lacking since Thiago Silva’s departure.

Kounde has made 50 appearances for the Spanish giants already this season, scoring three goals, providing eight assists and totalling 4,171 minutes played, proving to be an essential part of Hansi Flick’s success.

Why Chelsea could be targeting the next Azpilicueta

It could be argued that Kounde has the ability to become Chelsea’s next Cesar Azpilicueta, having played in Spain and having the versatility to play multiple positions in the defensive line.

Azpilicueta – who began his career at Osasuna, before joining Marseille – has gone down as a Chelsea legend, making 508 appearances for the club, scoring 17 goals, providing 51 assists and totalling 42,256 minutes played following his arrival in 2012.

Goals + Assists

0.20

0.16

Progressive Carries

1.53

2.03

Progressive Passes

5.00

5.77

Pass Completion %

86.5%

83.1%

Key Passes

1.03

0.62

Shot-Creating Actions

1.81

1.93

Tackles

1.88

2.07

Blocks

1.31

1.57

Interceptions

0.76

1.13

Ball Recoveries

3.72

4.75

Aerial Duels Won

1.08

1.90

When comparing the underlying metrics of Kounde and Azpilicueta in the 2021/22 season, you can see how the hybrid fullbacks are similar, both having the ability to play at right-back or as a centre-back, but also ranking closely in many important metrics.

Ex-Barcelona boss, Xavi, labelled Kounde “one of the best defenders in the world” back in 2024, praising his individual quality in the Champions League against PSG to stop Kylian Mbappe. This 1v1 defending, recovery pace and willingness to battle makes the Frenchman an extremely effective wide defender.

Chelsea currently have good options on the right side of their defence, with Reece James, Malo Gusto and Josh Acheampong coming through the ranks.

But with Trevoh Chalobah likely to leave the club in the summer, it wouldn’t hurt the Blues to acquire a player of Kounde’s quality, who can add much-needed experience to the back line going forward under Maresca.

Shades of Hazard: Chelsea plotting move to sign £39m-rated "entertainer"

Chelsea are looking to add to their depth in attack

ByJoe Nuttall Apr 16, 2025

If this season has proven anything, it’s that Arsenal desperately need attacking reinforcements.

With Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus out injured and Mikel Merino in midfield, Mikel Arteta had just a single senior attacking player on his bench last night: Raheem Sterling.

This lack of options became increasingly apparent as the game went on, as for all his efforts, Leandro Trossard was painfully ineffective down the middle.

It’s not been a great campaign for the Belgian international this season, which makes recent reports linking the club to a potential hardly surprising.

Arsenal transfer news

Plenty of wingers have been touted for moves to Arsenal in recent weeks, so before getting to the player in question, it’s worth looking at some, like Nico Williams.

Transfer Focus

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

The Athletic Bilbao star has been a long-term target for the Gunners and, thanks to a release clause in his current contract, would be available for around £50m this summer.

A far more expensive option, however, could be AC Milan’s incredibly talented Rafael Leão.

The Portuguese international could be available for about £86m at the end of the season, and while that is an incredible sum of money, he might be worth it, as in just 47 appearances this year, he’s scored 11 goals and provided 12 assists.

However, given the club’s need to sign a game-changing striker this summer, they might want to spend a little less on a new left-winger, which is where Kingsley Coman comes in.

According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are all keen to sign the Bayern Munich star this summer.

The good news is that, due to his squad role at the Allianz Arena, the Frenchman should be available for the relatively reasonable price of around €40m, which is about £34m.

It might be complicated to get ahead of the other interested parties, but given Coman’s ability and experience, this is a transfer worth fighting for, especially as he could be an ideal Trossard upgrade.

How Coman compares to Trossard

So, with Coman primarily playing off the left, Trossard would be one of his main competitors for game time, but how does he stack up to the Belgian?

Well, from a pure output perspective, he comes out on top, as in just 1684 minutes of action, across 38 appearances, he’s scored seven goals and provided four assists, which comes out to a goal involvement every 153.09 minutes.

In contrast, the former Brighton & Hove Albion ace has scored ten goals and provided eight assists in 315 minutes across 51 appearances, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 175.05 minutes.

How about when we take a look under the hood, then? Who comes out on top when we compare their underlying numbers?

Once again, the Frenchman, whom former Bayen Sporting Director Matthias Sammer once described as “one of the biggest talents in European football,” emerges victorious.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.55

0.47

Non-Penalty G+As

0.72

0.52

Progressive Passes

3.41

3.61

Progressive Carries

4.44

2.82

Shots

3.11

2.62

Shots on Target

1.27

0.80

Passing Accuracy

85.1%

73.6%

Key Passes

2.38

1.43

Passes into the Final Third

2.06

1.59

Passes into the Penalty Area

2.14

1.63

Crosses into the Penalty Area

0.40

0.36

Shot-Creating Actions

6.04

3.10

Goal-Creating Actions

0.87

0.24

Successful Take-Ons

2.94

1.15

Ball Recoveries

4.29

3.57

For example, he comes out miles ahead in almost every single relevant metric, including, but not limited to, actual and expected non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive carries, crosses and passes into the penalty area, passes into the final third, key passes, shot and goal-creating actions, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.

Finally, with a Champions League, 12 league titles, a Club World Cup and a mountain of domestic cups to his name, the former Juventus star would bring some much-needed title-winning experience to the Gunners’ squad.

Ultimately, while Trossard is a useful player, Coman is a clear upgrade in almost every respect and if Arsenal can sign him this summer, they should.

Hall of shame display: 4/10 Arsenal dud had his worst game all season v PSG

Arsenal suffered a 1-0 defeat in the first-leg of their Champions League semi-final with PSG.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 30, 2025

Leeds United and the 49ers Enterprises have now made a transfer decision over the future of a £90,000-a-week Everton player, according to a new report.

Leeds' plans for the Premier League are underway

The Whites secured the Championship title on Saturday in the final game of the league season, and now the focus will be turning towards next season, as they are once again back in the Premier League.

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.

1 ByKelan Sarson May 6, 2025

Signing a new striker appears to be high on the list of targets for Daniel Farke this summer, as Leeds have already held internal talks over signing Troy Parrott from Dutch side AZ Alkmaar. Parrott has been in fine form this season, and given his experience in the Premier League with Tottenham, Leeds are interested in a potential deal, which could cost them more than £20 million.

As well as looking at Parrott, the Championship title winners are keeping their options open, as they also hold an interest in two other strikers. TEAMtalk have reported that the Whites are pursuing a deal to sign Jamie Vardy, as he is set to become a free agent once he leaves Leicester City.

Meanwhile, Leeds are also seriously interested in signing Omari Hutchinson from Ipswich Town. The forward is said to have a relegation clause in his contract at Portman Road, but the Tractor Boys are hoping to get around £26-£30 million for his services, given they are heading back to the second tier.

Leeds make decision over Jack Harrison's Elland Road future

These potential arrivals may mean the Whites and the 49ers have to balance the books and move some players on, and according to a new update from Football Insider, Leeds have decided that Jack Harrison is unlikely to return to Elland Road should his stay at Everton not be extended.

The winger is currently coming to the end of his two-year loan deal at Everton, and David Moyes has yet to decide whether to keep Harrison on a permanent basis or not.

The 28-year-old, who earns a weekly wage of £90,000, has still got three years left on his contract at Elland Road, but that hasn’t changed the minds of the club chiefs, as if a permanent move to Everton doesn’t work out, he will have to look for a move elsewhere.

One reason for that is because the Whites are already stocked in the wide positions, and they are planning to add to those options with the addition of two new wingers.

Apps

70

Goals

5

Assists

4

Harrison has played 31 times for the Toffees this season in the Premier League, 22 of which have come as a starter. However, he has struggled to make an impact in front of goal, netting just once and grabbing just one assist, which could be another reason why Everton may not be interested in a permanent deal and Leeds don’t want the player to come back to Elland Road.

The Women’s FA Cup has just as much magic as its male equivalent, with the finale’s place at the end of the domestic calendar handing two teams the opportunity to finish the campaign on a high in front of a large capacity crowd.

That has only been heightened by the welcome rise in prominence within the women’s game of late, with the FA Cup final being held at Wembley Stadium since 2015.

While the national stadium has typically only been half full for such occasions in the past, the 2023 final between Chelsea and Manchester United saw over 77,000 witness the Blues secure a third straight triumph through Sam Kerr’s winner.

Large crowds like these are now the norm for showpiece women’s events, particularly at Wembley, with the FA Cup final and England internationals well in the habit of bringing in spectators en masse.

The 2024 final was further evidence of this, with United’s win over Tottenham Hotspur again drawing in over 75,000 supporters.

But who are the most successful clubs in the FA Cup’s history? Here is a look at the history of the competition and a detailed look at the most recent finals.

Women's FA Cup history timeline

1970: Following the lifting of a ban on women’s football, which had stood for nearly 50 years, the first FA Cup tournament is held by the Women’s Football Association (WFA). The National Sports Centre in Crystal Palace hosts the first final in 1971, won by Southampton Women’s FC.

1993: The Football Association takes administrative control of the competition, along with the rest of women’s football in England.

2015: The final is held at Wembley Stadium for the first time, as 30,000 spectators see Chelsea defeat Notts County 1-0.

2023: A world-record crowd attends a domestic cup final, nearly 12 months on from the Euro 2022 final at a sold-out Wembley.

2024/25 Women's FA Cup

The 2024/25 FA Cup takes place on Sunday, 18th May, one day after the men’s event. This year’s women’s final is between Chelsea and Manchester United, in what is a repeat of the 2023 final.

Chelsea are going for a treble after being crowned as unbeaten champions and having won the League Cup back in March, while holders United are defending their FA Cup crown, which was won through their 4-0 triumph over Tottenham Hotspur in May 2024.

It has been an exceptional first year in charge for Sonia Bompastor since replacing Emma Hayes, with the Blues’ only defeats this term coming in the Champions League to Manchester City and Barcelona.

Manchester United are looking to end the season on a high after having to settle for third following their 4-3 defeat to Arsenal on the final day of the WSL season.

Women’s FA Cup past winners

18 different clubs have won the Women’s FA Cup, with Arsenal being the record winners, having won it 14 times.

Southampton Women’s FC is the next-most successful club, winning eight times, most recently in 1981.

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s record is only bettered by Doncaster Belles, who appeared in 11 out of 12 finals between 1983 and 1994, winning six times. However, the Blues can draw level with them in 2025.

Club

Times won

Last won

Arsenal

14

2016

Southampton Women’s FC

8

1981

Doncaster Belles

6

1994

Chelsea

5

2023

Manchester City

3

2020

Charlton Athletic

3

2005

Everton

2

2010

Fulham

2

2003

Millwall Lionesses

2

1997

Manchester United

1

2024

Birmingham City

1

2012

Norwich City

1

1986

AFC Wimbledon Women

1

1985 (as Friends of Fulham)

Howbury Grange

1

1984

Lowestoft Ladies

1

1982

St Helens

1

1980

Queen’s Park Rangers

1

1977

Fodens

1

1974

Previous FA Cup finals 12th May 2024: Manchester United 4-0 Tottenham Hotspur

Manchester United sealed their first FA Cup triumph against first-time finalists Tottenham Hotspur in 2024 in a comprehensive victory at Wembley.

Ella Toone got the ball rolling just before the end of the first period, with her long-range rocket adding to her catalogue of big-game goals.

The second half saw Spurs tire and crumble under the wave of United attacks, with Rachel Williams’ header and Lucia Garcia’s double seeing the Red Devils run out deserved winners.

Beth England came closest for the runners-up when her header smashed the bar, but there could be no complaints about the final result as United claimed their first major trophy.

14th May 2023: Chelsea 1-0 Manchester United

Chelsea secured a league and cup double in 2023 after battling to a 1-0 victory over Manchester United. Marc Skinner’s side had most of the better chances, particularly in the first half when they had a goal ruled out for offside in the opening minute and forced Ann-Katrin Berger into a number of important saves.

Sam Kerr turned home Pernille Harder’s pinpoint cross in the second half, to which the Red Devils had no reply.

15th May 2022: Chelsea 3-2 Manchester City (aet)

The Blues edged a five-goal thriller against United’s closest rivals in 2022. Sam Kerr nodded Chelsea ahead before Lauren Hemp equalised just before half-time.

Erin Cuthbert’s screamer restored the Blues’ lead and had looked set to be the match-winner until Hayley Raso’s fine finish forced extra time.

Both sides had chances in the extra period, but Kerr took the crucial one in the 99th minute, with her deflected strike handing Chelsea another FA Cup.

5th December 2021: Arsenal 0-3 Chelsea

Postponed due to the pandemic, the 2021 finale took place nearly seven months later than usual. The date chosen for the final came a century after the FA’s ban on women’s football in 1921.

It was Chelsea who once again emerged victorious, as opponents Arsenal came up against an inspired Kerr, who scored twice after Fran Kirby’s early opener to seal a comfortable victory.

1st November 2020: Everton 1-3 Manchester City (aet)

Played in front of no fans during the pandemic-affected 2020/21 campaign, Man City won their third FA Cup in four seasons with an extra-time victory over Everton, who were in the first final in six years.

The 50th Women’s FA Cup final saw Sam Mewis’ header put Gareth Taylor’s team in front, before Valerie Gauvin’s equaliser from a corner took the sides to extra time.

Georgia Stanway’s poked finish left City with one hand on the cup, and she laid the ball on a plate for Janine Beckie to finally put the game to bed and secure a second successive cup triumph.

Even though this season has been a painfully disappointing one for Arsenal, there have been at least a few positives to come from it.

One of them has been the continued development of Declan Rice, who now looks entirely at home in his left-eight role and is arguably one of the club’s most important players.

For example, even though the team have not been as free-flowing as they were last year, the Englishman has still been able to rack up a seriously impressive haul of eight goals and ten assists in 50 games, was immense in both legs against Real Madrid and has a genuine shout for being the best signing of the Mikel Arteta era.

However, if recent reports are to be believed, he may soon have some more competition for that title, as the club could soon, at the very least, make their best signing since the former West Ham United captain.

Arsenal transfer news

In the last few weeks, Arsenal have been linked to several top-quality players who could become their best signings since Rice, such as Rafael Leao and Benjamin Sesko.

Transfer Focus

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

The former is reportedly available for around £85m, which would instantly make him one of the Gunners’ most expensive acquisitions ever, but as he’s racked up 12 goals and 13 assists in 48 games this season, he’d likely be worth it.

On the other hand, Sesko would cost a little less, at around £67m, but again, that’s more than a fair price tag, as in just 44 games for RB Leipzig, he’s scored 21 goals and provided six assists.

Yet, to really have a chance of being the club’s best signing since Rice, the prospective player needs to be truly remarkable, game-breaking even, which is where Viktor Gyokeres comes in.

According to a recent report from respected journalist David Ornstein, Arsenal have maintained their strong interest in the Sporting CP star.

Ornstein further explains that the Swedish international is someone that new Sporting Director Andrea Berta “really likes,” but that the club may need to speed up their pursuit of him in light of interest from other teams like Manchester United.

A potential price tag is not mentioned in the report, but stories from earlier this week revealed that the Gunners have already submitted an offer in the region of £63m, which could be seen as too low for a player with a £85m release clause.

It could be a costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but with how well he’s played over the last couple of years, one more than worth fighting for.

Why Gyokeres would be Arsenal's best signing since Rice

There are likely a number of reasons why Gyokeres could end up being Arsenal’s best signing since Rice, from the boost he’d provide the team to how the commercial revenue of signing a sought-after-striker at the peak of his powers.

However, every positive about signing the Swedish international stems from one thing: his output.

Yes, it might be rather simplistic, but ultimately, what the Gunners need more than anything else this summer is someone who can put the ball in the back of the net on a consistent basis, and if the last two seasons are anything to go by, that’s something the Sporting star can do with his eyes closed.

For example, in 50 appearances last season, the 26-year-old “powerhouse,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, scored a staggering 43 goals and provided 15 assists, which came out to an average of 1.16 goal involvements every game.

Then, instead of plateauing, he’s got even better this season and currently has a tally of 52 goals and 13 assists in 50 appearances, which comes out to a frankly absurd average of 1.3 goal involvements per game. It’s safe to say he’s a true “monster” in the worlds of journalist Alex Turk

Appearances

50

50

Minutes

4169′

4038′

Goals

43

52

Assists

15

13

Goal Involvements per Match

1.16

1.3

Minutes per Goal Involvement

71.87

62.12;

Finally, on top of doing the business at club level, the Stockholm goal machine has also been a tour de force for the national side, racking up a haul of 15 goals and six assists in just 26 appearances, which is an average of a goal involvement every 1.23 games.

Ultimately, to become Arsenal’s best signing since Rice, a player has to come in and utterly transform the side while pushing them closer to glory, and if Gyokeres can replicate even 50% of his Sporting output in North London, then he’ll do just that.

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Seeking instant upgrades this summer, Manchester United have now reportedly made their first contact to sign an impressive Premier League defender for Ruben Amorim.

Man Utd end Asia tour with victory

After finishing as low as 15th in the Premier League and losing in the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur, the last thing that the Manchester United squad needed was further humiliation. But defeat at the hands of ASEAN All-Stars and an awkward open-top bus tour through Kuala Lumpur ensured that their moments to forget only continued.

As they arrived in Hong Kong, the Red Devils would have been feeling that same concern that they’ve felt all season, especially when Juninho opened the scoring to put the hosts in front. This time, however, Amorim’s side spared their blushes and came from behind to seure a 3-1 victory, courtesy of goals from Chido Obi-Martin and Ayden Heaven.

With or without that comeback victory, the damage may have been done on Manchester United’s post-season tour, which only extended their misery.

Nonetheless, Amorim was left pleased following the Hong Kong game and singled out his young players for their efforts, telling reporters: “I really like the kids. I think Jimmy [Thwaites], in the last 15 minutes, as a midfielder, he wants to play. It doesn’t matter how many minutes. These kind of young kids are really important. They will have space in our team.

”Of course, it’s a good feeling [for Obi to score twice] but he needs to continue to train really hard because the Premier League is a different world. We have to improve as a team but I’m really pleased with the kids. Ayden proved, in every game for the first team, he is ready to be an option. Of course, he has got to improve.”

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Away from the tour, meanwhile, those at Old Trafford have also been busy working on some key upgrades, which could see Amorim handed another wing-back to slot straight into his system.

Man Utd make contact to sign Estupinan

According to Ben Jacobs, who was speaking to The United Stand, Manchester United have now made a first approach to sign Pervis Estupinan from Brighton & Hove Albion this summer. The left-back once again played an important part at The Amex, as Fabian Hurzeler’s side finished as high as eighth in the Premier League. Now, as a result, he could be on the move.

Whether the Seagulls allow their £15m left-back to leave is the big question. Hurzeler is well aware of the talent that he has at his disposal and was full of praise for Estupinan when he returned from injury in August, telling reporters: “He missed a lot of content and a lot of technical things also in the preseason. It’s important now to get from a mix between video sessions and then the pitch sessions.

“That’s why I think that he will be a great player for us again, but we shouldn’t put pressure on him because after a long injury the players need time to adapt and that will be important.”

That said, what should make any potential deal easier this summer is the fact that the Brighton star is represented by the same agent as Manchester United defender Leny Yoro – making him one to watch.