Schalke midfielder Max Meyer could fill the hole left by Christian Eriksen if the Denmark international decides to leave Tottenham Hotspur.
What’s the word?
There is no indication that Eriksen intends to leave the North London outfit this summer, but his performances from last season have attracted interest from many clubs.
Sport reported on Monday that Barcelona could offer Rafinha to Spurs as part of a swap deal to land Eriksen.
With that in mind, perhaps the player that Tottenham should really be going for as a replacement for the midfielder is Meyer.
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The 5 ft 8 German has been linked to the Premier League outfit before, and he certainly has the potential to thrive in Mauricio Pochettino’s team.
Soccer Football – FA Cup Quarter Final – Swansea City vs Tottenham Hotspur – Liberty Stadium, Swansea, Britain – March 17, 2018 Tottenham’s Christian Eriksen celebrates scoring their third goal Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge
Is he good enough?
Eriksen was one of Tottenham’s standout players last season as he scored 14 goals and created 11 assists in all competitions.
Meyer is only 22 years old and is not the finished product yet, but he certainly has the quality in his locker, as well as versatility.
The German predominantly plays in the centre of the park, but he can also drop back to do defensive duties as well as occupy an attacking midfield role.
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Pochettino has had success with young players, so if Meyer was to join, he would be developing his game in the best hands.
On top of that, the midfielder is expected to be available on a free transfer this summer, which makes the move a no-brainer from Spurs’ point of view.
The Mirror has reported that Championship new boys West Bromwich Albion are keen to sign Newcastle winger Rolando Aarons after missing out on Bobby Reid to Cardiff.
What’s the story?
The Baggies have identified 22-year-old winger Aarons as a replacement for the Irish wide-man James McClean who they expect to lose to Stoke.
Aarons is a former England U20 international but he has struggled with injuries and off the field issues since first breaking into Newcastle’s first team in 2014.
The Jamaican-born youngster struggled last season, starting just one Premier League game and one EFL Cup tie before being sent on loan to Hellas Verona in Serie A.
His struggles continued in Italy, where Aarons failed to register a goal or an assist in 11 appearances as Verona were relegated. Then, when back in the UK, the Newcastle man was handed a 10-month suspended prison sentence and ordered to do 100 hours community service for his involvement in a nightclub fight in October 2016.
The perfect replacement
With Matt Richie, Christian Atsu and Jacob Murphy all currently ahead of Aarons in the pecking order at Newcastle, the Magpies would surely be best selling to West Brom while they have the chance.
Last season, Rafa Benitez brought 22-year-old winger Kenedy to St James’s on loan in January and his introduction to the side immediately made Newcastle a more dangerous attacking outfit.
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Kenedy, rated at €10m by Transfermarkt, has proven that he is a far more effective Premier League player than Aarons and Mike Ashley is more likely to sanction a move for the current Chelsea player if the Englishman is off the wage bill at Newcastle.
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Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has yet to be too active in the summer transfer window, and the Spaniard will certainly be hoping that their business ramps up in the coming days and weeks in order to ensure the improve upon their impressive 10th-place finish last term.
The 58-year-old, who should forget Nicolai Jorgensen and sign another 25-year-old World Cup ace instead, has often been at odds with owner Mike Ashley over transfer budgets, and he will surely be demanding he gets the money he needs to strengthen his squad as he wants to before the window slams shut on August 9.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss has already signed goalkeeper Martin Dubravka on a permanent deal from Sparta Prague following a successful loan spell, and he will have more targets in mind – the majority of those are likely to be attacking reinforcements given they only scored 39 goals in their 38 Premier League fixtures last term.
While he will have some names on his list, perhaps he should also be considering bringing some familiar faces back to St James’ Park too, as there are ex-players that can still make a difference for them on the pitch now, as well as continuing the feel-good factor that currently surrounds the club following their positiove 2017/18 campaign.
Here are three former Newcastle players Benitez must look to re-sign this summer…
The winger only played 13 times for Newcastle in the 2015/16 as his four goals weren’t enough to save them from the drop down to the Championship, but rather than stay with the club that signed him on a permanent basis just a few months earlier, he stayed in the Premier League and joined Crystal Palace instead.
While he may not be popular for some of the St James’ Park faithful for making that decision, he played a big role in the Eagles’ brilliant turnaround during the 2017/18 campaign, playing as a striker as well as a winger.
Those are two positions the Magpies need strengthening in, and Benitez could be pulling off a coup by bringing the 26-year-old back to Tyneside.
If you have watched Thauvin in action for Marseille over the course of the past two seasons, you would not believe that it is the same player that struggled so much for the Magpies in the 2015/16 campaign.
The Frenchman only managed one goal in 16 appearances in all competitions for Newcastle as they suffered relegation from the Premier League, but he has been a huge hit since returning to his home country.
The 25-year-old scored 26 goals and provided a further 18 assists in 54 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 outfit last term, and while he could come at a big price, he would be the sort of addition that would send a real statement out to the rest of the Premier League and to Benitez that they mean business.
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With Aleksandar Mitrovic set to leave, Joselu struggling to make an impact and Dwight Gayle not a consistent enough goalscorer at Premier League level, there is no doubt that one of Benitez;s main priorities this summer is to sign a new centre-forward.
The Spaniard is yet to get a deal over the line for anyone however, and you have to wonder whether it could be a great move for all parties if he brings Carroll back to St James’ Park seeing as he appears unlikely to be a starter under Manuel Pellegrini next term.
The 29-year-old scored 33 goals in 91 games for the Toon between 2006 and 2011, and while the striker has had his fair share of injury problems, he would bring a real presence and goal threat up top for the Magpies.
According to a report from The Daily Mirror earlier this week, Southampton were one side interested in a January move for Che Adams. The 22-year-old currently plays his football at Championship outfit Birmingham City and has done so since leaving Sheffield United back in 2016, with his impressive efforts in front of goal for Garry Monk’s men seemingly attracting interest from new Saints manager Ralph Hasenhuttl.
And that’s because a report from The Daily Mirror on Monday outlined Southampton’s interest in the striker, only for the club to fail to get a deal done for the Englishman prior to the deadline at 11pm on Thursday.
And while that transfer failure may well come as great disappointment to Saints fans, what it does do is pave the way for Charlie Austin, valued at £9 million by Transfermarkt, to seek to save his Southampton career.
The Breakdown
Ultimately, 22-year-old Adams has proven to be one of the hottest properties outside of the Premier League this season with a sensational 15 goals in just 29 Championship games for Birmingham, a tally that sees him sit fifth in the second tier’s goal-scoring charts.
And with nine goals the season before in the Blues’ run to 19th place in the division, and seven in his first campaign at the club in 2016/17, it’s clear that the striker has been getting better and better as the years have gone by, culminating in a staggering return in front of goal this time round – he certainly seems set for big things in the game.
And in a Southampton side that have struggled for goals for the best part of 18 months now, he could well have been the ideal addition in January, only for the club to ultimately fail to lure the 22-year-old to St Mary’s.
As such, Hasenhuttl will have to make-do with the striking options already at his disposal, with Englishman Austin one man who may look at the failure to sign Adams as the opportunity he needs to save his Saints career.
The 29-year-old was linked (as per talkSPORT) with a move away from St Mary’s during January such has been his struggles for game time following Hasenhuttl’s appointment in December, what with the striker starting just twice in the nine Premier League games the Austrian has taken charge of.
And in failing to even make their last two league matchday squads, it’s pretty clear just how low down the pecking order Austin is under Hasenhuttl – but failing to land a striker this month may well give him the chance to keep his Southampton career alive.
Clearly, there is a hugely adept striker in the 29-year-old given he scored seven times for the club last season and nine the campaign before, which added to fruitful spells at Burnley and Queens Park Rangers suggest a forward that, when the chance arrives in the penalty box, invariably finds the back of the net.
Yes, he may not be the ideal man to lead the line in a Hasenhuttl team, but with goals something of a premium for the Saints this season, they may well need his striking pedigree in the second half of the campaign.
So while the failure to land Adams may frustrate some Southampton fans, what it does appear to do is at least give Austin the opportunity, given he didn’t leave the club in January, to save his career on the South Coast.
Football has always been a game for those with physical prowess, but it’s even more the case today than it was in the past. Nowadays, you have to be in prime shape as well as avoiding all sorts of vices like smoking, drinking and eating badly – the kind of things that make life worth living for most people!
After years of playing at the top level, the discipline needed to stay at the top is immense, and to fend off the younger, fresher players who have more time on their side is very hard. Clubs want to invest in younger players because they’d never get their money back if they bought an older one, and who knows when the legs will simply give up.
This is a list of the 50 best players over 30, all of whom are more than simply players who can do a job for your team, they’re the players you want to build your team around. From those who are right at the end of their careers to those who are just the wrong side of 30, these players bring a wealth of experience, but also skill and talent. Just as much skill and talent as anyone else in football…
Arjen Robben
At 31, he’s no longer a spring chicken, but he’s still one of the quickest and most dangerous players in the world. He has a rocket of a left foot too, and would be in any list of the top 50 best players in the world, let alone the top 50 over 30.
Franck Ribery
Football – Manchester City v Bayern Munich – UEFA Champions League Group Stage Matchday Two Group D – Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England – 13/14 – 2/10/13Franck Ribrry – Bayern MunichMandatory Credit: Action Images / Carl RecineEDITORIAL USE ONLY.
A forgotten 3rd place in the Ballon d’Or in 2013 seems a long time ago now, but Ribery is clearly still a fabulous player and one who is not just a good player to have in your team, he’s the guy you build your team around. Although you need to be fit to play in Pep Guardiola’s high-pressure, passing style, Ribery manages it week in week out whilst still standing out as a great player.
Philipp Lahm
Football – Bayern Munich v Borussia Dortmund – 2013 UEFA Champions League Final – Wembley Stadium, London, England – 25/5/13Bayern Munich’s Philipp Lahm celebrates after winning the UEFA Champions League FinalMandatory Credit: Action Images / John SibleyLivepic
He lifted the World Cup trophy aloft last summer, and lifted the Bundesliga title just a few short months ago – his seventh title overall. So Philipp Lahm is still totally at the top of the game.
Robin van Persie
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Although his performances last season suffered quite a bit, Van Persie still has bags of talent, and former boss Arsene Wenger was shocked to see him leave the Premier League. He still has a lot to offer the game, and at Fenerbahce, and in an improving Turkish league, Van Persie can show he still has what it takes.
Yaya Toure
There’s been some talk of whether Yaya is still up to the stresses and strains of the Premier League given his poor season last year and the reports of his desire to leave City, but the start of the season so far shows he’s still able to compete at the highest level and he hasn’t lost the sharpness or physical prowess he’s been known for throughout his career. International retirement might allow him to play on for many years more at the very top.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Another player who would be in the list of the very best in the world for any age, Zlatan is one of the best players never to have won a Champions League. He’s everyone’s favourite megalomaniac, but his ability on the pitch has never been in doubt. Even at 33 he still exudes class.
Andres Iniesta
Maybe Iniesta will be lonely in the Barcelona midfield without Xavi this season, but Iniesta is still one of the World’s best players. In the thrilling Super Cup game against Sevilla this year, Iniesta came off the pitch with his team 3-1 up. Without him there to control the game, Sevilla took Barcelona to extra time and almost pulled off a shock. If Barcelona can’t live without him, he must still have talent!
Bastian Schweinsteiger
If he can stay fit he’ll be a steal for Manchester United, who paid a reported £15m for his services. It’s a lot of money for a player over 30 years of age, but if he can recreate his best form, United will have one of the best in the world running their midfield.
Pablo Zabaleta
As full backs go, this guy is one of the best in the business. Positionally aware, defensively excellent, a threat in attack and tenacious to the core, Zabaleta is a fans’ favourite because he gives his considerable all. There may be better full backs out there, but Zabaleta will at least be classed in the bracket as they are.
Cristiano Ronaldo
He’s probably the best player in the world, so clearly he’s the best over 30. He can stay at the top for a good few years more and would command an astronomical fee should Real Madrid decide they no longer want him. Could any team afford it?
Xabi Alonso
A Champions League winner with Real Madrid the season before last, when he left for Munich, Real’s hopes of another trophy faded and their manager paid with his job. Alonso’s replacement just didn’t have the defensive nous or the passing range of the wily Spaniard. He’s still one of the best passers in world football and you’d definitely take him in your team, even if he doesn’t have long left before the legs give out. If he’s good enough for Pep, he’s good enough for this list!
Carlos Tevez
Another player who has left the European big time, and another player who still has the skills, the talent and the legs to keep going. At Boca Juniors, Tevez will never be homesick again, but at 31, you have to wonder whether Tevez is leaving the big time too soon.
Andrea Pirlo
Although he’s off to the MLS, you get the feeling he could have stayed at the top of the European game for at least another season if he wanted to. He is the personification of class and his effortless style almost makes him look disinterested, but when Juventus played Real Madrid at the Bernabeu last May, Pirlo covered more distance than anyone except Arturo Vidal. He’d still have plenty to offer to Juventus had he decided to give it another year.
Javier Mascherano
He came to the East End’s West Ham at the same time as Tevez, and he’s the same age. Yet Tevez has gone back and Mascherano is still going strong as one of the best defensive players in Europe. He’s converted himself into a very capable centre back alongside Gerard Pique, but he’s equally comfortable patrolling in front of the defence. Playing in the roles where he doesn’t face too much physical exertion mean he can stay at the top of the game for years to come.
John Terry
Although the start of this season may have cast doubts on whether Terry is still at the top of his game, there were no such doubts last season as he marshalled his Chelsea troops to the title with stellar defensive performances. Surely his recent blip is simply bad form. Terry is still a wonderful defender.
Branislav Ivanovic
Another Chelsea star who is the wrong side of 30, and another Chelsea star who’s performances at the start of the season have cast doubts over whether he’s a good defender. These doubts are symptomatic of a slow start, and maybe even a slow season from the Champions – Manchester City were in the same boat last season – but not symptomatic of a bad player.
Thiago Motta
A classy passer and a good tackler, Motta is one of the world’s best defensive midfielders. Although the French Ligue 1 might not test his skills as much as La Liga might have done, PSG will be competitive in Europe again this season and he’ll have a big role to play.
Dimitar Berbatov
Football – Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur FA Cup Fourth Round – Old Trafford – 24/1/09Manchester United’s Dimitar Berbatov celebrates scoring his sides second goalMandatory Credit: Action Images / Keith WilliamsLivepic
On his day he’s one of the best in the world, nonchalant and cool, almost disinterested, age doesn’t matter him. He was never one for running around anyway, so it doesn’t matter if his legs get tired. We’d never notice!
Petr Cech
Cech was unlucky to be displaced by a younger model at Chelsea last season, but when you pass the 30 mark, people start to think you’re past it. Cech most certainly isn’t past it, however, and although he had a rocky start to his Arsenal career, his performances should improve and he can show the world he’s still one of the very best in the world.
Wesley Sneijder
Wesley Sneijder has been constantly linked with Manchester United, but even at the age of 31 he could still grace the Premier League. We’ll see him in the Champions League again this year at Galatasaray and yet again we’ll see a wonderful player.
Francesco Totti
The quintessential one-club man, Totti has always had a nasty streak, but even at 38 he’s still one of the best players in the World. He probably doesn’t have too many more years in him, so we should savour it when we see him, and wrap ourselves in the warm glow of Totti’s twilight.
Daniele De Rossi
Another one club man, which perhaps makes people forget about how good he is. But you shouldn’t forget about him. Like Totti, his love for Roma comes before his own career, but he’s always been a tenacious midfielder, and a quality one at that
Santi Cazorla
One of Arsenal’s best players, Cazorla is 30 now and still one of the PL’s best players and Arsenal will find a place for him to make an impact this season. They’ll have to if they’re to win the League.
Iker Casillas
Football – Spain v Italy – FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013 Semi Final – Estadio Castelao, Fortaleza, Brazil – 27/6/13Spain’s Iker Casillas Mandatory Credit: Action Images / Lee Smith
His departure from Real Madrid was more down to politics than footballing merit. Iker, despite his mistakes in the 2014 WC, is still a quality goalkeeper and Porto will benefit not just from his experience, but also his incredible ability.
Victor Valdes
Manchester United may not have wanted him, but that’s down to his attitude more than his ability. He’s still on of the best keepers in the world and Besiktas are lucky to have him – he should be strutting his stuff somewhere more prestigious.
Giorgio Chiellini
A classy ball-playing centre half, the heartbeat of the Juventus defence, even at the age of 31. Age has never prevented class from appearing at the heart of an Italian defence.
Patrice Evra
Manchester United were fools to let him go when they also lost Vidic and Ferdinand. Evra is a decorated player and played in five Champions League finals. Unfortunately, he lost ANOTHER final this summer bringing his record to one win and four defeats. He is the first man to lose four Champions League finals.
Michael Carrick
LANDOV Via Press AssociationFile Photo: Manchester United and England midfielder Michael Carrick will be out of action for four to six weeks with an Achilles tendon injury. Michael Carrick of Manchester United during the Barclays Premier League match between Manchester United and Stoke City at Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester, England on October 26, 2013. CSM /Landov
The heartbeat of Manchester United last season, and United win more games when he plays than when he doesn’t. Carrick is a cracking player who is as unsung as he is classy.
David Villa
Another player who’s off to the MLS but could really do a job for most European sides these days.
Dani Alves
Last season’s treble means Alves has yet another Champions League under his belt. He is one of the full backs of his generation and still a player who would grace any pitch.
Lukas Podolski
Maybe Arsenal fans will disagree with his inclusion, but he’s in the squad on basis of his 125 Germany caps. The German international might be a little past it at the tender age of 30, but still has a lot to offer the game. Can he get 25 more caps to take him level with Lothar Matthaus on 150 Germany caps
Jeremy Toulalan
He’s only 31, but it seems like he’s been around for years. He can pass a ball as well as anyone else and is also a capable defender.
Steve Mandanda
The Marseille goalkeeper is simply top class he’s France’s second choice and behind only Hugo Lloris but if he played for an English club, we’d regard him as highly as French fans do.
Loic Perrin
Another one club man, Perrin has been at St Etienne his entire career even though he is perpetually linked with Arsenal. He is the best defender in one of best defences in Ligue 1 and deserves his place in the list.
Steven Gerrard
Another player who could still be plying his trade in one of the big leagues, but you feel it’s only loyalty that stops him from appearing in the colours of a Liverpool rival.
Frank Lampard
Last season showed that Lampard was still one of the best midfielders in the Premier League. The lure of playing in the USA seems to be getting greater and greater, so you don’t blame him for wanted a piece of it.
Gael Clichy
An underrated defender, Clichy is crucial to Manchester City’s success. He isn’t as capable as some other full backs going forward, but he is a great defender with a wonderful ability for nicking the ball and making interceptions.
Gokhan Inler
during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Pescara Calcio at Stadio San Paolo on December 2, 2012 in Naples, Italy.
One of the big names in Serie A over the last few seasons and now a Leicester City player. Let’s see if he can crack England.
Jermain Defoe
Last season showed just how good Jermain Defoe really is. His goals for Sunderland helped the Black Cats stay in the division, and his ability to score goals in the Premier League remains undiminished.
Gareth Barry
If Everton have a good season, you can bet that Gareth Barry will be a big part of it. Manchester City were sad to see him leave, such is his class, but at Everton he gets a regular starting berth and he continues to show how good he is.
Tim Howard
Tim Howard is another fabulous keeper to add to the list, and even if he’s played nearly 400 Premier League games, Howard’s crowning achievement may just be getting the American public hooked on football with his string of saves for the USA against Belgium at the World Cup in 2014.
Xavi
An emotional farewell to the Camp Nou in May came before victory in the Champions League final. A treble was a fitting way to end his many years of service to Barcelona, but calling time on his career in Europe can’t have been easy – not just because of the emotion of leaving his boyhood club, but because he still has so much to offer football. He’s still one of the best in the World, and there’ll never be anyone quite like him again.
Gianluigi Buffon
Still Italy’s best goalkeeper and stakes his claim for being the best keeper ever – one of the best player never to win a European Cup. He won’t get many more chances, but you’d still put him in your team, given the chance.
Rafael Van der Vaart
Still going strong, this time at Betis, Van der Vaart helped Hamburg avoid relegation from the Bundesliga last season, and will look to recreate his best days in Spain this season.
Luca Toni
Although he’s absolutely ancient, his place is totally merited given he was the top scorer in Serie A last season. He has found a club in Hellas Verona who simply play to get him goals – given that all strikers just need to be loved, it’s unsurprising he’s flourishing in his Indian Summer.
Martin Skrtel
It’s a little hard to believe that Skrtel is 30. He’s a solid defender, if not one of the very best. He’s crucial to his team, though. If Liverpool are to do well this season, then Skrtel needs to do well.
Thiago Silva
One of the very finest defenders in world football – despite what Joey Barton thinks of him – Silva is strutting his stuff with PSG and has a very real chance of getting his hands on European silverware with the Parisians. He was absent for his country’s 7-1 humiliation at the hands of Germany in the 2014 World Cup, and the fact he didn’t play was one of the major factors for their defeat.
Ezequiel Lavezzi
Even now that he’s over 30, Lavezzi still has pace to burn. He frightens defences, and that’s a talent you want in your team.
Pepe
Perhaps the most aggressive player in football, Pepe is a hothead, but probably a beast you’d rather have on your side than on the oppositions. He’s pushing on for 300 appearances in all competitions for Real Madrid, if you offered it to most players, they’d probably take three.
Three months into the season, and Bournemouth find themselves in the relegation zone after a serious recent slump of form.
Only two wins all season, five losses in their last six, and 16 goals conceded during those six games – it’s turning into a rather dispiriting autumn for Eddie Howe’s men, who entered the new campaign with plenty of optimism after their outstanding season in the Championship last year.
Many pundits and commentators suspected all along that playing the same sort of free-flowing, attacking football that had been successful in the Championship would lead to problems in a league of higher quality, and that’s exactly how it’s turned out.
In particular, the two defensive performances against Man City and Tottenham a few weeks ago will not have escaped Howe’s attention; he will know that they must improve in this area.
With that in mind, here’s a list of five reinforcements Howe might consider calling for in January…
Curtis Davies
An experienced centre back who has played in the Premier League for many years, first with West Brom, before moving onto Aston Villa, then Birmingham, and lastly Hull City.
In the early part of his career it looked for a time as if he might manage to break into the England set up, and he is still a valuable and skilled defender who could offer some Premier League know-how to Bournemouth.
Having been a regular with Hull right up until their relegation, he’s still essentially a Premier League quality player.
Lewis Dunk
Football – Brentford v Brighton & Hove Albion – FA Cup Third Round – Griffin Park – 3/1/15Brighton’s Gordon Greer celebrates their first goal, scored by Lewis Dunk (not pictured)Mandatory Credit: Action Images / John SibleyLivepicEDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or “live” services. Online in-match use limited to 45 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. Please co
The young Brighton central defender has been attracting a lot of Premier League interest since the summer, and it’s easy to see why.
As part of an outstanding Brighton defence this year and as one of their only bright sparks last term, Dunk is definitely coveted. Good in the air, comfortable on the ball and with a decided turn of pace for one so tall, Dunk has most of the attributes to defend at Premier League level.
What’s more, he can score goals as well, making him invaluable to teams wondering who will chip in.
George Friend
The Middlesbrough defender, who can either play as a left back or centre back, has been consistently impressive for the last few years.
In 2013 and 2014 he was the Boro Player of the Year, while in May he was named in the Championship Team of the Year. Extremely solid, but also capable of getting forward and setting up chances, Friend has been a consistent member of the Boro defence that has been in general so impressive over the last few seasons.
Inexperienced at Premier League level, but as one of the Championship’s top defenders over the last few seasons would definitely be worth a bid.
Nick Blackman
One of the Championship’s surprise packages this season, with 11 goals in all competitions already.
Blackman, who’s been with Reading since January 2013, is very much a confidence player and at the moment the confidence is oozing from him. Pacy, skillful and an adept finisher, he could potentially fill the whole that was left when Callum Wilson was disastrously ruled out for the whole season.
He would be a slight gamble as he lacks top flight experience, but has all the tools and raw talent to worry even the best of defenders.
Gareth Barry
Barry would be an extremely left-field and ambitious signing, but would definitely be worth a punt.
Bournemouth have looked all season like they need some protection in front of the back four, and who better to give it to them than the experienced Barry, who has performed very well in the sitting role for Everton over the last few years.
His accomplished range of passing might also help if Howe does decide to continue their aggressive, free-flowing style. Although Everton would prefer to keep him, they may think that maybe now is the time to cash in on a player who, at 34, cannot have too many years at the highest level ahead of him.
It’s safe to say that the last few weeks have been fairly miserable ones for all involved with Manchester United; their players, their supporters, and especially their under-fire manager.
Louis Van Gaal has been batting away criticism from all sides recently for both his team’s style of play and (more recently), their poor results. Their 2-1 loss at Bournemouth on Saturday means they now lie fourth in the league, trailing the leaders Leicester City by six points, and with only three wins in 12 in all competitions. During that period they have also crashed out of both the League Cup and the Champions League, both in fairly shambolic and disastrous manner. So it would possibly be fair to say that there aren’t many positives on the horizon for the Old Trafford side, or their beleaguered manager, right?. However, I would suggest that it’s possible for United to turn the fact that they now have to compete in the Europa League into a positive, and to use the experience to their advantage.
For one thing, it may well represent United’s best chance of winning silverware this season. It’s hard to imagine them on this sort of domestic form putting a concerted title bid together, and of course having been knocked out of the League Cup already that only gives them the FA Cup for a chance of domestic glory. With the Old Trafford faithful constantly restless for silverware after gorging themselves on success under Sir Alex Ferguson, this may well represent a chance for Van Gaal to win back some credit with the supporters after taking a pounding on social media (and in the mainstream media) over the last few weeks.
What’s more, United are easily be one of the favourites for the competition. Them and Borussia Dortmund would appear to be the straightfoward frontrunners, with Liverpool, Valencia and Porto as other possible winners. However, when judged against the quality of the sides left in the Champions League there is comparison. United now have a much easier chance of winning a European trophy this season in this competition.
For much of this young and relatively inexperienced side this would be their first taste of winning trophies at a famous club, and would no doubt stand them in good stead for a renewed and better-prepared assault on the Premier League next season. Players like Marcos Rojo, Daley Blind, Ander Herrera and others have only played under Van Gaal and never experienced the trophy-glut of the last few seasons under Sir Alex. They would surely be markedly better players with the confidence of a major honour.
This then is a winnable trophy for United, who have a big enough squad to either play a different side in the Premier League and the Europa League or simply rotate their key players between competitions depending on which they take more seriously. Their new players would benefit hugely from the experience of winning silverware, and their fans would feel a whole lot better about the Van Gaal era if a couple of trophies were in the bag at the end of the season. With a squad big enough to cope with the rigours of two competitions and playing on Sundays, what are the down sides?
It seems that Newcastle United are just two games away from a revival, or two losses away from another crisis at St. James’ Park. On the whole, it’s been a rather miserable season for the Magpies despite their £50m recruitment drive over the summer.
Still, this Premier League season is hard to call and they are by no means certain to face the drop. In fact, they have shown signs of quality this term and perhaps just need a bit of transfer market tinkering.
The January window becomes vitally important for everyone connected to the Toon Army as they look to retain their status in the top tier. Reports suggest they will in fact be active in the New Year sales, and as you might expect, a raft of names have already been linked with a move.
The £13.5m arrival of Aleksandar Mitrovic hasn’t worked out as planned just yet. The club clearly need another marksman to fire them to safety, while moves for wingers and defenders have also been touted as real possibilities.
So, what would Newcastle United ideally look like after the January window, using a 4-2-3-1 formation?
ROB ELLIOT
In the most ideal of ideal worlds, Tim Krul would be between the sticks, though the Dutchman is a long term casualty. In his place, Irish ‘keeper Rob Elliot has shone and surely emerged as a serious rival to his fallen teammate.
With excellent displays against Bournemouth and Spurs keeping his side in the game, Elliot has allayed fears that he is not of the required to mind the net at St. James’ Park. Though the Toon have shipped goals this season, it’s largely down to a calamitous defence.
DARYL JANMAAT
Daryl Janmaat has been one of the few shining lights of the Newcastle season. The Dutch international is a constant attacking threat as he supports Moussa Sissoko on the right flank.
Though he’s not quite as good defensively as he is going the other way, the 26-year old is a wonderful outlet on the counter and one of the few leaders in the side.
In a team that often struggles to score, he’s a surprising threat in front of goal. Having notched twice this term, the former Feyenoord man is actually the joint fourth highest scorer the club can boast.
CHANCEL MBEMBA
DR Congo international defender Chancel Mbemba has played in an utterly inept backline for large parts of the season, though the summer arrival from Anderlecht has shown glimpses of real quality.
The 21-year old has the raw attributes to be a top quality centre-half. A few shaky moments are to be expected, especially when paired with Fabricio Coloccini for most of the season. Still, he’s extremely athletic and able to bring the ball out of defence.
His recovery pace is a wonderful asset to have in a relegation battle, and he can only go from strength to strength.
JOEL MATIP
Linked with a move over the summer, Joel Matip has once again been touted with a move to St. James’ Park in recent weeks. The Cameroonian defender would be a huge improvement on skipper Fabricio Coloccini in the heart of defence, though his recent performances have improved.
The 24-year old is quick and aggressive, everything the man he could potentially replace has not been for swathes of this season. A front footed defender, he is also able to bring the ball out of defence and possesses a formidable technique.
Crucially, he makes around 3.4 interceptions per every 90 mins of Bundesliga action, which could strengthen Steve McClaren’s rearguard.
PAUL DUMMETT
Though there’s certainly room for improvement on current Toon left-back Paul Dummett, perhaps that is something to address in the summer. There are more pressing needs to tend to within the ranks, and the Welsh international isn’t as bad as he’s often viewed.
In the wins over Liverpool and Spurs, the academy graduate was excellent. In stark comparison to Daryl Janmaat on the opposing flank, he’s a more of an assured presence when facing his own goal.
With Massadio Haidara nearing a return, and Kevin Mbabu impressing against Chelsea earlier this season, funds should be directed elsewhere in the side.
JONJO SHELVEY
The England international has been linked with a move to the North East for a while now, and would represent a great signing this January.
He’s had his ups and downs since leaving Liverpool, though the 23-year old has been impressive on the whole with Swansea. Comfortable on the ball, his distribution is to be marvelled at times, whether it be a long ball or a more intricate eye of needle attempt.
Not only this, the former Charlton youngster brings a physicality to a side that often crumbles. He’s an imposing figure in the middle of the park, battling for possession before starting attacks from deep. While he’s not the typical ‘destroyer’, he would surely add more to the side than Vurnon Anita.
JACK COLBACK
Jack Colback is at times the beating heart of this Newcastle side. Despite his past with Sunderland, the 26-year old has emerged as a fan favourite at St. James’ Park since his switch from their bitter rivals.
Though he’s prone to pick up needless yellow cards, the red haired Geordie is excellent on the ball to dictate the tempo of a game.
As a deep-lying playmaker, the England hopeful offers a fine mix of passing, as well as preventing teams hitting the Toon on a counter with his ability to read the game.
MOUSSA SISSOKO
Moussa Sissoko is simply one of Newcastle’s best players when he performs to the best of his ability. His marauding runs up the right-flank are comparable to those of Yaya Toure’s in his heyday. However, that day doesn’t roll around too often right now.
Still, the Frenchman is one of McClaren’s key players as he battles to beat the drop. A powerful, imposing presence, if he can find his best form on a more regular basis, they have perhaps the best attacker in the relegation battle plying his trade for the North East giants.
At his best this term, the French international has tracked back to reclaim possession, before dragging his team forward with his dynamic running. Former England coach McClaren should focus on coaxing the best out of the former Toulouse man rather than attempting to replace him.
ALAN DZAGOEV
Russian playmaker Alan Dzagoev has recently been linked with a move to the Magpies, and if he’s available, should certainly be acquired. The 25-year old schemer has a fine pedigree with his national side, finishing joint top scorer at Euro 2012.
Given a free role behind the striker, the CSKA Moscow star is able to create chances out of nothing while floating across the frontline. Having already notched four goals this season, while largely playing further back in the engine room, he clearly has an eye for goal.
Adding a player of his immense quality may be a risk for team battling the drop, but it could be a gamble worth taking. Ayoze Perez is a wonderful talent, but has lost his starting place in the side and continues to be linked with a move away. The Siem De Jong experiment hasn’t really worked, creating a problem position for McClaren.
Signing a Russian international of such quality could be a gamble worth taking.
GIORGINO WIJNALDUM
£14m signing Giorgino Wijnaldum has been a fantastic signing this season amid a summer of transfer flops. The Dutch international is a truly excellent player, scoring seven times already this year and adding another two assists.
The 25-year old is a supreme technician, mixing his ability with a tenacious quality to win the ball back and score goals. Though he’s largely been operating on the left in recent weeks, giving him a free role is mitigated by his high work rate.
By pitting him alongside a creator like Dzagoev, McClaren could potentially field a frontline many teams above the Toon would be more than envious about.
LOIC REMY
Charlie Austin is the name most paired with Newcastle as they search for a new forward, but Chelsea striker Loic Remy would surely be a better option. Austin is a poacher, but a team like the Magpies in their current state require a lot more.
Remy offers pace to run in behind defences, crucial when on the counter. He might not be the most popular of figures on Tyneside after his loan spell ended in acrimonious circumstances, but the fact is, the 27-year old would be a fine addition.
Mobile and deadly in front of goal, he will be determined to land a place in the French squad ahead of Euro 2016.
Belgium football’s golden era has a new chapter as another one of their young talented players has drawn interest from Europe’s elite clubs.
22-year-old Marseille striker Michy Batshuayi has become one of football’s more desirable targets in recent transfer windows. Stoke City have reportedly made an offer around £20million for the Belgian finisher.
While that offer may have been rejected, there is no doubt that Stoke, or other clubs, will take further action to lure in Batshuayi before the transfer window closes.
Who is Michy Batshuayi?
Batshuayi is the next in a series of elite Belgian footballers. The Marseille striker has impressed many this season scoring 15 goals in 30 matches while adding seven assists. This run includes three goals in five Europa League fixtures. He managed to net seven goals while playing for the Belgian U21 team and in 2015 scored in both of his appearances for the Belgian first team.
What’s He Like?
Batshuayi is a traditional number nine in the Marseille Starting XI. The Belgian international has shown he can score in the French Ligue 1, the Europa League and in international appearances.
Early on in his career he was not seen as a consistent threat, but at just 22-years-old he’s matured on the pitch to become a vital attacking force week after week. His excellent handling skills help create space for himself and others on the attack.
Not only can he put he ball in the back of the net, he’s shown that he can make key passes in the box as well with great vision. However, like many young, confident, goal scorers in football, he’s a head case at times and can let his emotions take over.
Would He Fit At Stoke?
Batshuayi could be just what Stoke need to make a run for a top four spot. At the moment, all Stoke really needs is someone who can finish on the chances created by their excellent midfield.
The creative play of Bojan, Xheridan Shaqiri and Marko Arnautovic is only lacking someone who can consistently put the ball in the back of the net. An addition of a striker like Batshuayi would make Stoke a threat year after year.
Worth A Punt?
At the moment, Marseille appear to either want a lot for the striker or don’t want to sell him at all. While Stoke’s initial £20million offer was rejected, clubs should break out the wallet for a talent of this quality.
At 22-years-old Batshuayi is poised to be one of Europe’s top finishers for years to come and he could be worth an expensive fee.
Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane may never have played in the Premier League, but his footballing opinion is still valuable, no matter what league he is talking about.
Now at the helm at the Bernabeu, the Frenchman has endured a rocky start to his managerial career and seems very unlikely to win the La Liga this term.
However, Zidane’s on-field ability was unquestionable and he has recently selected his best ever Premier League XI.
Our resident punters have been very interested to see who makes the cut in the 43-year old’s line-up.
Click on Zidane below to reveal his best ever Premier League XI!
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GK: Peter Schmeichel
Widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers of all time, Peter Schmeichel helped Manchester United to five Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph.
The Dane spent nearly a decade of his career as a commanding presence between the sticks with the Old Trafford outfit and still stands as the most capped player for the Denmark national team.
And there can’t even be any critics for his goalscoring record, as he even managed an unusual 11 goals during his career.
RB: Gary Neville
Right back turned pundit turned manager, Gary Neville is another Manchester United legend who makes it into Zidane’s all time Premier League XI.
The former England international played for the Red Devils for the entirety of his illustrious career, which spanned almost two decades and saw Neville feature in over 600 matches.
During that time, Neville accumulated 85 caps for England, whilst winning 8 Premier League titles and 2 Champions Leagues.
CB: Rio Ferdinand
Another former Manchester United and England defender turned pundit who Zidane has chosen is Rio Ferdinand.
The 37-year old won over 15 trophies throughout his career, which ended disappointingly when he joined Queens Park Rangers on a free transfer and was subsequently relegated, before he announced his retirement.
However, Ferdinand will always be remembered as a Premier League great for his strong leadership and defensive qualities that he demonstrated in the earlier years of his career.
Jaap Stam
Yet another Manchester United player who features in Zidane’s selection is Jaap Stam, who was renowned for his speed, strength and ability on the ball.
The Dutch defender spent 3 years at Old Trafford, where he won 3 Premier Leagues and the Champions League.
However, he was then sold to Lazio after allegations made in his autobiography and after an Achilles injury, which United boss Sir Alex Ferguson lived to regret.
LB: Ashley Cole
The player to complete the back four is Ashley Cole.
The left back enjoyed the most successful years of his career at Chelsea, although he also won trophies at rivals Arsenal and was a member of the Gunners’ ‘Invincibles’ squad before his time at Stamford Bridge.
Known for his pace and strong defensive ability, the former England international is cited as being one of the best full backs of all time.
CDM: Claude Makelele
Another ex-Chelsea player who Zidane believes is one of the greatest players to have ever played in the Premier League is Claude Makelele.
The central midfielder had previously played for Zidane’s current side Real Madrid and his contributions to the Chelsea side became more significant with the arrival of Jose Mourinho, who utilised him as deep-lying playmaker.
This was possible because of the Frenchman’s strong defensive and passing ability.
RM: Paul Scholes
Another former Manchester United star who takes a place in this XI is Paul Scholes. The midfielder was cited by another midfield veteran Xavi as being the ‘best midfielder’ that he has seen in 20 years.
His combative role in midfield is highlighted by the fact that he accumulated the fourth-most yellow cards in Premier League history with 97, and his passing ability and vision was phenomenal.
His long shots were impressive and the Englishman even came out of retirement to help United when they needed him, as well as now co-owning Salford City FC.
CM: Patrick Vieira
Another midfield legend who makes the grade in Zidane’s XI is his compatriot Patrick Vieira. Now coaching at New York City FC, the Frenchman was a resolute presence in the centre of the park and contributed both defensively and offensively.
He too was a part of the Arsenal ‘Invincibles’ team under Arsene Wenger, and his goals and assists were invaluable to his French manager.
CM: Steven Gerrard
Having recently left his boyhood club Liverpool, Steven Gerrard is widely regarded as being one of England’s greatest ever players. His leadership as captain for both Liverpool and the England national team was impressive, whilst he was capable of producing a pin-point pass or 30 yard shot on command.
The 35-year old left Anfield last season and is highly anticipated to retire from football at the end of this season.
LM: Cristiano Ronaldo
Former Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo is currently plying his trade at La Liga giants Real Madrid and has enjoyed a very successful career.
He currently has 3 Ballon d’Or awards to his name, as well as captaining the Portuguese national team.
His physical strength and trickery is a deadly combination that very few other players can boast.
His goalscoring record is incredible due to the fact that he can score with either foot or his head.
Thierry Henry
Last but certainly not least is the Premier League’s 5th highest ever scorer, Thierry Henry. Another of Zidane’s fellow Frenchman, Henry managed a staggering 175 league goals for Arsenal alone, with a total of 228 goals in all competitions for the Gunners.
His one-on-one finishing was up there with the very best, whilst his overall play and ability to linkup with his teammates made him even more deadly.
This is clearly epitomised by the fact that he is the all-time record goalscorer for both Arsenal and the France national side.