Glasgow Rangers are concerned about Youssef Chermiti and could let him leave in January for another Europa League side.

Chermiti's time at Rangers so far after £8m transfer

Things haven’t gone to plan for Chermiti at Ibrox so far following his £8m move from Everton in the summer, making him the club’s second most expensive signing in history.

1

Tore Andre Flo

£12m

Chelsea

2000

2

Youssef Chermiti

£8m

Everton

2025

3

Ryan Kent

£7m

Liverpool

2019

4

Michael Ball

£6.5m

Everton

2001

5

Mikel Arteta

£6m

Barcelona

2002

On £30,000-a-week, Chermiti has scored just one goal for the Gers, coming in Danny Rohl’s first Scottish Premiership win in charge against Kilmarnock.

Both supporters and those inside Ibrox were ideally hoping for more from the forward following glowing praise from ex-manager Russell Martin back in September.

“It’s a long-term investment for the football club, I think it will be a brilliant investment for the football club. I think he’ll do extremely well for us. There won’t be any expectation on him in here, I’m sure externally maybe that changes.

“He wants to learn, he wants to grow and he wants to help the team. Youssef has tools that you’d really want in a number nine. Good athleticism. Great kid. Wants to learn. Brilliant record at youth level.

“He hasn’t really had the chance he probably wanted at first-team level yet. Obviously in the toughest league in the world as well.

“We’ll judge him on here and now and what he does for us. We’re really excited to have him in because he’s a seriously talented player and also there was a lot of interest throughout Europe in top leagues for him.”

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Chermiti’s is contracted in Glasgow until 2029 and so far, he has made £300,000 in wages, working out at £60,000-a-week for every start he has made for the club in the 10 weeks he has been at Ibrox.

Rangers concerned and could loan Chermiti to Europa League side

Now according to a report from Ibrox News, Rangers have been left concerned with Chermiti’s performances and could now loan him out in January.

Europa League side Braga are eyeing up a temporary deal for the forward in the New Year, whereas clubs in Turkey could also make a move.

Should Chermiti leave Scotland for the second half of the 2025/26 season, Rohl would be left with Bojan Miovski and Danilo as his centre-forward options.

The 49ers Enterprises may then need to recruit another attacker in the winter window, and right now, the £8m fee on Chermiti isn’t looking like a smart piece of business.

Danny Rohl now orders Rangers to make three January signings, priority revealed

It's crazy how quickly things can change in football. Mary Earps, who has made plenty of headlines over the past fortnight around of the release of her book 'All In', is a prime example of as much. Only six months ago, the goalkeeper stood tall as a true England hero, having delivered world-class performances in the Lionesses' 2022 European Championship triumph and their run to the 2023 Women's World Cup final. Recent events, however, have seen Earps veer more towards villain territory than anything else.

That England's No.1 shirt started to slip out of her hands last year had no negative impact on her iconic status. Change is natural in football and that was especially, and unsurprisingly, the case here, in a situation where Earps had an uber-talented young shot-stopper by the name of Hannah Hampton charging up behind her. It didn't alter the way England fans thought about the player who was so instrumental in such incredible success, not in terms of her legacy and influence.

It is instead how Earps has reacted to relinquishing her position as the Lionesses' first-choice goalkeeper, first with the manner of her international retirement back in May and now her stunning comments towards Hampton and England boss Sarina Wiegman, that has changed the public's perception of her for the worse. Indeed, one of the most common takes over the past few days is that Earps has tarnished her Lionesses legacy with her recent comments – and it's hard to disagree.

Getty Images Sport'Hannah is the class one'

The most headline-grabbing topic from Earps' book, and subsequent interviews, has been Hampton, who usurped her to become England's No.1 ahead of Euro 2025. After Euro 2022, Hampton was dropped from the England squad by Wiegman, with citing 'her behaviour and attitude at the team’s camps' as the reason. It's something Earps has referred to again in her book, claiming that "bad behaviour" was "rewarded" when Wiegman decided to bring Hampton back into camps a few months later, despite the England boss explaining that the goalkeeper had "sorted out" the "personal issues" that had kept her away.

At the time she was left out of the Lionesses' squad, Hampton was 21 years old. It's clear that she went away and addressed whatever the issue was enough to satisfy not only Wiegman – an incredibly successful manager who it's hard to believe would stand for any sort of disruptive behaviour – but also Emma Hayes, who signed her to be Chelsea's No.1 not long after.

"The only thing I want to say about Hannah is that, since I joined Chelsea, she has grown so much," Sonia Bompastor, Hayes' successor, said when asked about Earps' comments. "She’s such a professional athlete and also a good person. We have a really good relationship together and I want to show her my support in this situation. If you look at what Hannah said in the previous comments about Mary Earps then what Mary is saying about her now, one of them is class – and Hannah is the class one."

Wiegman, Hayes and Bompastor are three of the most successful and well-respected coaches of this era. It's hard to believe that any of them – never mind all three of them – would have Hampton as their first-choice goalkeeper if she was disruptive and detrimental to an environment. It's also worth noting that when asked for specific examples of Hampton's 'bad behaviour' in an interview with , Earps said: "I don’t want to go into the specifics because it’s not my place."

AdvertisementGetty Images SportContrasting comments

When talking about positive comments about Earps made by Hampton, Bompastor was referring to an interview with earlier in the week, in which Hampton spoke about being on stage alongside Earps to receive the first-ever Women's Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d'Or ceremony.

"It was a lovely moment," she said. “She’d pushed so much for that award and she pushed for the women’s game and for women’s goalkeepers to be seen and recognised. Everything she’s done for the England game and women’s football in general is something I’ve wanted to continue and build on. I’ve got big shoes and big gloves to fill. I’m trying my hardest. I don’t think I’ll ever get to the standard she was at, but it was a lovely thing that she was able to be there."

Compare that to comments made by Earps in her book and one certainly comes out looking much better than the other. The positivity in those remarks from Hampton have likely only made fans feel more inclined to go in to bat for her on social media, too. The internet has been bursting with support for the current England No.1, just months after she starred in the Lionesses' Euro 2025 triumph.

Getty ImagesSelfish decision

The timing of it all has only added to criticism of Earps. To speak of Hampton like this so soon after being ousted as the Lionesses' No.1 by her has, quite frankly, come across as bitter.

It's not helped by Earps' recollection of the moment she decided to retire from international football, either. That decision was called out by many at the time as a selfish act, one which left England with only one capped goalkeeper going into the Euros. While giving out experience to other shot-stoppers is not Earps' responsibility, Wiegman clearly felt she could count on her to be there to back-up Hampton. However, after being told she would be second in the pecking order, Earps called time on her Lionesses career.

“I’d like to graciously step aside," she told Wiegman, according to an extract in from 'All In'. "I’d rather Khiara [Keating] get the experience." Keating was uncapped and just 21 years old going into the Euros, with little opportunity to play before the tournament given how close to its kick-off Earps' decision came. The 32-year-old, meanwhile, had the experience to bolster that goalkeeping union as Wiegman wanted, but Earps clearly didn't want to assume any role other than that of No.1.

"I think we had different ideas of what being a team-mate should be," she said when pressed further by about issues with Hampton. However, when recalling her decision to retire, she hardly portrays herself as the ideal.

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AFP'Think about it before you speak'

How Earps speaks about Wiegman in this passage of her book is also incredibly sad, given it was the ex-Netherlands boss who brought her out of the international wilderness and gave her the platform to become a Lionesses icon. To the surprise of many, after starting for England in a monumental friendly against Germany at Wembley in November 2019, Earps would never be called up again by then-head coach Phil Neville, and it had been almost two years since she had been involved when Wiegman included her in her first England squad, in September 2021.

From there, the goalkeeper blossomed into an assured and often outstanding No.1, enjoying her biggest moments at Euro 2022 and the 2023 Women's World Cup. Wiegman trusted her wholeheartedly. Yet, in her book, as Earps recalls the moment she was told Hampton would be England's No.1 at the Euros, a decision Wiegman says she and her staff had "only just made" when they told her in April of this year, Earps writes: "That sounded like bullsh*t to me."

It's no wonder Bompastor, when offering words of support for Hampton, also felt compelled to stand up for Wiegman, too: “I just feel like with what I read in terms of comments coming from Mary Earps, it is not acceptable not to show respect to your team-mate or your manager. We are talking about Hannah but I am also raising my voice for Sarina. I just think when you use some words saying something about someone who won the European Championship three times in a row, you should probably think about it before you speak."

Albert Pujols is ready to chase another title.

According to multiple reports on Friday, Pujols is set to return to the World Baseball Classic in 2026 as a member of the Dominican Republic squad—this time as the team’s manager.

Pujols should slot nicely into the role, as he is fresh off of his first championship as a manager, leading Leones del Escogido to a title in the Dominican League earlier this year.

The Dominican Republic won the 2013 World Baseball Classic, but have come away with disappointing results in the past two playings of the tournament, going 2–2 in the group stage in 2023 and failing to reach the knockout round.

Newcastle United are nothing if not persistent. And it is this perseverance that will see Eddie Howe’s side reclaim their finest, most fluent form in the Premier League.

In the Champions League and the Carabao Cup, the Magpies are flying high, well worth their money on each account. But, sitting 13th in the league standings and with three away defeats in a row, it’s clear that improvements are needed.

The forwards need to pull it together because, at the moment, it’s all feeling a bit Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron-esque.

Newcastle sold Almiron with the view toward reshaping the frontline and making it sharper, after all.

How Howe reshaped Newcastle's frontline

When Howe arrived at Newcastle, he found a frontline led by Dwight Gayle and Callum Wilson, flanks operated by St. Maximin and Almiron.

All have been moved on now, and Almiron marks an interesting case of the ruthlessness the manager has shown since taking the hot seat in 2021.

The Paraguayan was a tenacious and dynamic attacking option for Newcastle on the right wing, but he was frustratingly inconsistent, and this was hampering the club in their fight to sustain a place at the top of the English ladder.

Of course, it was Almiron’s remarkable purple patch in 2022/23 that helped the Toon in their bid to qualify for the Champions League. This they achieved, and Almiron played his part.

Reporter Jordan Cronin perhaps summed it up best, saying as the winger prepared to return to Atlanta United in January that “you can question his ability, but never his heart.”

24/25

9

0 (0)

23/24

33

3 (1)

22/23

34

11 (2)

21/22

30

1 (0)

20/21

34

4 (1)

19/20

36

4 (2)

18/19

10

0 (0)

It was clear that he needed to leave when he did, but United needed to get it right when landing a successor. But have they potentially landed themselves a repeat of the South American star?

Newcastle's new version of Almiron

Almiron endeared himself to the Newcastle fanbase from the off and played a crucial role in transitioning from the bleak Mike Ashley era to the brighter fortunes of today.

But Howe knew his team needed more quality on the attacking flanks, and so Anthony Elanga was signed from Nottingham Forest this summer for a £55m fee.

The 23-year-old is a fleet-footed and creative winger, but he’s blanked across 16 matches in all competitions for Newcastle this season, and that price tag is starting to look rather steep.

Analyst Raj Chohan thought as much from the outset, commenting that Elanga was a “massive overpay” on the Tyneside outfit’s part.

However, there’s no question that there is a player in there, dangerous on the counter and effective in his playmaking.

As per data-driven platform FBref, the Sweden international actually ranks among the top 8% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for assists per 90. Clearly, given that none of his assists have come since the summer, there is a player in there.

But, with Anthony Gordon also yet to score or assist in the Premier League this season, it’s not difficult to highlight the cracks in Newcastle’s attacking arsenal.

Solace will be taken from all parties in that patience is needed when signing up-and-coming talents. And Newcastle are nothing if not patient, of course, having enjoyed the highs and battled through the lows of Howe’s successful and progressive reign.

What needs to happen now is for Elanga to make headway and shake off any concerns relating to his efficiency in front of goal, or indeed supplying the scorer.

As per Sofascore, he hasn’t yet created a big chance in the top flight this term, averaging just 0.4 shots and 0.2 dribbles per game. On top of this, Elanga has lost 63% of his duels, and so it’s clear that he’s not yet even matching Almiron’s unalterable attitude and commitment on the flank.

Matches (starts)

36 (25)

38 (31)

Goals

5

6

Assists

9

11

Shots (on target)*

1.5 (0.6)

1.1 (0.6)

Pass completion

75%

78%

Key passes*

0.9

1.3

Big chances created

14

9

Dribbles*

0.8

0.7

Tackles + interceptions*

1.1

0.7

Duels (won)*

2.9 (44%)

3.0 (45%)

As you can see, these are two successful Premier League campaigns from the talent, who has yet to find his feet after joining Newcastle this summer for a big fee and with a £100k-per-week salary.

He’s fast, and at times, ferocious, yet Elanga runs the risk of crumbling away under Howe’s wing, and while he’s a committed and hard-working player, if he cannot find a measure of form in the final third, comparisons concerning Almiron will only rise in volume and intensity.

Scoring goals is not Elanga’s forte, not in bucketloads. But there’s no denying his performances have been below the expected quality so far this season, and his two terms at the City Ground underline a creative quality that, while proven in the English top flight, has not yet surfaced at St. James’ Park.

Newcastle know they have a talented winger in their mix, and with a bit more work, he might just provide the club with the creative support they desire over the coming years.

However, Elanga has yet to show he can maintain clinical levels in black and white, and until that duck is broken, fears that PIF have replaced Almiron with Almiron will persist.

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Long gone are the days when Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, and Mohamed Salah would tear the Premier League to shreds at Liverpool.

Staggeringly, from 197 games together at Anfield, the long-feared trio would combine for a devastating 338 goals, with Virgil Van Dijk once describing them together in action as a “scary” prospect to defend against.

Now, it’s very much a work in progress in attack for Arne Slot’s men, with both Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz remaining goalless in Premier League action since joining.

On top of that, fellow summer recruit Hugo Ekitike has largely blown hot and cold on Merseyside, with no league strikes next to his name from his last five clashes.

Last summer also saw a lot of change in attack in outgoings, with the wasteful Darwin Nunez finally put out of his Anfield misery. But, away from the heavily scapegoated South American, the Reds also waved goodbye to loyal servant Luis Diaz, who is now excelling at Bayern Munich, to Liverpool’s ongoing distaste.

Diaz's electric form at Bayern

Next to the memorable frustrations regularly served up by Nunez, Diaz’s starring role at Liverpool when he was still there could be viewed as slipping under the radar, somewhat.

Yet, Diaz was still labelled as a “very special” talent at Anfield by Jurgen Klopp for good reason, with the one-time Premier League title winner collecting a standout 41 goals and 23 assists from 148 appearances at Anfield.

Before he was moved on to the Bundesliga, he also chipped in with his most fruitful top-flight season in England, tallying up 13 goals.

That same clinical edge has clearly followed him to Bavaria, with Diaz already up to a bumper 11 goals and five assists in his new shade of red from just 17 clashes.

Worryingly, Isak, Wirtz, and Ekitike only have 11 goal contributions between them back in England, with the Colombian winger proving to be a stroke of genius signing for Vincent Kompany’s men at the £65.5m range.

To add insult to injury, all three of those Liverpool underperformers mentioned cost far more to obtain, with the 28-year-old already being hailed as a star who “delivers week in, week out” by his new manager.

Thankfully, Slot and Co could be brewing a homegrown iteration of their former attacker.

Liverpool's homegrown Luis Diaz

One of Diaz’s strong points when still situated at Anfield was his ability to line up all along the forward positions, with the malleable Colombian managing to bag eight strikes from 16 appearances as an out-and-out centre-forward, away from regularly completing his duties as a left winger.

The Reds have plenty of exciting young stars in their academy right now, chiefly fellow winger Rio Ngumoha but he’s not the focus this time around.

Indeed, another teenager by the name of Keyrol Figueroa is now beginning to make a strong impression on the youth staff.

Like Diaz, he has interchanged between wing and striker duties for Liverpool U21s this season effortlessly, with his “instinctive” nature in front of goal – as it was described by Liverpool academy reporter Lewis Bower – also seeing him score goals and pick up assists aplenty.

Figueroa’s numbers at Liverpool
Position	Games	Goals + Assists
CF	20	8 + 3
RW	6	3 + 2
LW	2	1 + 0
RM	1	0
Sourced by Transfermarkt

While he has predominantly found most of his joy on youth pitches comes from leading the line, with a clinical eight goals powered home from 20 games in that role, Figueroa has also not looked out of place whatsoever on either flank, much like Diaz in his Anfield prime. To put those numbers into perspective, it’s more goals than Ngumoha has bagged at the same level, having beaten the goalkeeper on just two occasions in nine U21 fixtures.

He will also want to give a disappointing Isak a run for his money down the line, with a deadly hat-trick bagged against Everton U21s last month no doubt making him an even more popular figure in youth circles in the red half of Merseyside, away from being an adaptable figure.

It would be wild to throw Figueroa into the first team imminently, considering he is just 19 years of age and is only used to the comforts of youth football.

But, if he continues as he is now, it will surely only be a matter of time before he is unleashed, having also been described as a “ruthless” finisher of chances by his U21 boss in Rob Page.

Sky Sports’ Jamie Redknapp also hailed Diaz as having a similarly impressive “eye for goal” during his Liverpool playing days, as Slot and Co now hope Figueroa can be as lively in the first team picture as the Colombian down the line.

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Rangers are now monitoring the chance to sign Lennon Miller from Udinese, according to recent reports, but face competition from Old Firm rivals Celtic.

Things are looking up for those at Ibrox. Danny Rohl made it three wins from three in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday as his Rangers side eased past Dundee to win 3-0. Now up to fourth, the Gers are 12 points behind Hearts at the top of the league, but have a game in hand to at least give them a glimmer of hope.

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Rohl expressed pride in his side after they made it back-to-back clean sheets in the league and continued their recent revival under the former Sheffield Wednesday boss.

The German has already picked up more league wins than Russell Martin and rumours suggest that the 49ers are willing to back their new manager in the January transfer window in search of even more.

Names such as Mujaid Sadick have already been linked to Ibrox in recent weeks and he could yet be joined in Scotland by Miller following the latest transfer news.

Rangers now monitoring Lennon Miller

According to Graeme Bailey, via 67 Hail Hail, Rangers are now monitoring Miller and could attempt to secure the boyhood Celtic fan if he becomes available at Udinese. The former Motherwell man has struggled in Italy, but still has interest from both the Gers and their Old Firm rivals.

The November international break would have been an ideal time to watch Miller’s progress for Scotland before the 19-year-old was forced to withdraw from the squad through injury – summing up his recent fortunes.

It’s still early days in Italy, but if Miller can’t get into Udinese’s strongest side then a move back to Scotland may be best for his career at such a young age. Having been described as a “great talent” by former Motherwell boss Michael Wimmer, the 19-year-old midfielder still has plenty of admirers in his home country.

49ers now tempted to sell Rangers star in January who Danny Rohl loves

A well-known figure within English cricket is being investigated by police over allegations of spiking the drinks of two women and sexually assaulting one of them.The reported on Friday that the man, in his 40s, was questioned under caution by Scotland Yard in June after a complaint at a pub in south-west London, in the SW6 area which covers Fulham and Parsons Green. The ECB declined to comment on the allegations.”We are currently investigating allegations of spiking and sexual assault against two women that took place on Thursday, 22 May at a pub in the SW6 area,” the Metropolitan Police told ESPNcricinfo in a statement.”Two women are believed to have been spiked with one also allegedly sexually assaulted. A man in his 40s was interviewed under caution on Thursday, 5 June. Enquiries remain ongoing and no arrests have been made at this stage.”Chris Haward, the managing director of the Cricket Regulator – the independent body responsible for handling disciplinary cases within English cricket – said last month: “Removing sexual misconduct from the game is a priority.”The Regulator has twice charged individuals following instances of sexual misconduct in the last year.A coach was suspended for up to nine months in August after being dismissed by his county for “sexualised and inappropriate” pictures to junior female members of staff. Last November, another coach was suspended for up to six months for “inappropriate sexual behaviour” on a county pre-season tour.

Tottenham Hotspur have struggled with two major issues in the Premier League this season, with the centre-forward area just one department that has been called into question.

Richarlison and Randal Kolo Muani have often shared the responsibility at the top end of the pitch, but neither of whom have been able to nail down the position as their own.

The Brazilian international may have scored in the previous clash with Manchester United, but he’s often failed to deliver when called upon, as seen by his tally of just four goals to date.

However, the midfield area has also been one of concern for Thomas Frank, with the Dane yet to establish his best partnership in the middle of the park.

Joao Palhinha has arguably made himself one of the first names on the teamsheet, with his tally of 49 tackles won in the Premier League this season the highest of any player in the division.

Despite the performances of the Portuguese international, he’s not been able to find a regular partner at the base of the side – but one player shouldn’t operate in the role alongside him.

How Bentancur compares to other midfielders in the PL in 2025/26

Over the last few years, midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur has been a key member of the first team squad, racking up 130 appearances for Spurs in the last three seasons.

The hierarchy forked out a fee in the region of £21.5m for the Uruguayan’s signature in January 2022, a bargain fee given his extended stint in North London.

However, despite starting eight matches in the Premier League this season, the 28-year-old has fallen way below the standards many expect from him, given his previous performances.

Such displays have led to calls from the supporters for Bentancur to be dropped, with his underlying stats from the ongoing campaign further showcasing his lack of impact in 2025/26.

He’s only completed 86% of the passes he’s attempted, whilst only achieving a total of 1.1 long balls per 90 – with the latter ranking him in the bottom 15% of all players in the division.

The Uruguayan has only created 0.6 chances per 90, ranking him in the bottom 25% of all players in the division – something which is vital alongside a ball-winner like Palhinha.

Given the Portuguese international’s ability to break up the play, it’s handed Bentancur the responsibility to help transition the play, but he’s been unable to do so – as seen by the aforementioned figures.

Out of possession, the former Juventus star has also massively struggled to make a positive impact, which has no doubt led to the supporters’ recent frustrations.

He’s made just 0.5 interceptions per 90 – ranking him in the 25th percentile – whilst also being dribbled past 0.6 times per 90 – the highest of any midfielder in the Spurs squad.

Palhinha has massively dominated Bentancur in the ball-winning department, with the former of the duo winning nearly three more tackles per 90 in 2025/26 at present.

The Spurs star who can end Bentancur’s Spurs career

Bentancur’s decline at Spurs has been a difficult one for the supporters to watch, especially given the heights he’s previously achieved during his time in North London.

However, his recent performances in the current season highlight his drop-off in form, with Frank needing to consider alternative options in the middle of the park.

Youth has emerged in such an area, with the likes of Lucas Bergvall and Pape Sarr both staking their claims for regular starting roles in the years ahead for the Lilywhites.

The latter of the pair started in the draw with United on Saturday afternoon, whilst the Swede has missed the last two outings after suffering a concussion against Chelsea.

Sarr even completed the most passes of any player in the contest last weekend, showcasing that he already has one up on Bentancur with his talents with the ball at his feet.

However, Frank already has another talented teenager on his hands in the form of Archie Gray, with the midfielder deserving of more time in the first team setup.

The Lilywhites faithful likely raised eyebrows when the hierarchy forked out £40m for his signature last summer, after just one previous season as a professional at Leeds United.

No doubt the deal was one for the future, after joining Spurs at 18, but he was catapulted into the limelight under Ange Postecoglou last season due to the injury crisis in North London.

Gray ended up making 46 appearances across all competitions last season, with many of which coming at centre-back and full-back – roles which are somewhat unfamiliar to the teenager.

Games played

46

Minutes played

3243

Pass accuracy

89%

Dribbles completed

58%

Tackles won

50%

Aerials won

50%

Interceptions made

1.8

Recoveries made

3.6

He still managed to thrive in 2024/25, even registering numerous impressive figures such as 89% passes completed and 1.8 interceptions made – both of which were higher than Bentancur.

However, since Frank’s arrival in the off-season, the 19-year-old has struggled for consistent first-team action – only making six appearances across all competitions, with two of which coming in the Premier League.

He’s only been rewarded with a single start to date, with Frank often overlooking his ability to thrive under his guidance – something which has been a mistake to date.

Gray is a player who possesses huge potential, even being labelled a “future £100m CM” by Ben Mattinson, with many analysts believing in him more than his current manager.

As previously mentioned, his figures from the last campaign highlight the talent he possesses, but ultimately, he’s been unable to replicate such levels given his lack of first-team action.

Between now and the end of the season, Frank desperately needs to hand Gray more consistent minutes to allow the youngster to reach his full potential in North London.

Any consistent spell for Spurs could certainly spell the end for Bentancur at the club, with the manager needing to offload the Uruguayan to allow Gray to match the expectations placed upon him after his mammoth transfer.

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“What I have alluded to is the way the modern game is played and the strike rates required, particularly in good conditions”

Shashank Kishore11-Sep-20252:08

Samiuddin: Hesson clear with his plans for Pakistan

Halfway through his press conference ahead of Pakistan’s Asia Cup opener against Oman on Friday, coach Mike Hesson was asked where he got the “courage” to openly comment about Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam’s shortcomings.Slightly taken aback by the question, Hesson asked for it to be repeated. This time, the question was toned down and Hesson’s response was measured.”Being honest about your assessment of players is pretty important,” Hesson said. “Coming from a place where you have no agenda is also very important. Looking at things objectively is important. I haven’t talked about anyone’s frailties.Related

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Ind vs Pak: Suryakumar, Agha okay with aggression 'as long as it stays on the field'

India, Pakistan training overlap spikes Asia Cup interest in Dubai

“What I have alluded to is the way the modern game is played and the strike rates required, particularly in good conditions. All players ask for from coaches is to be honest with them. That is the responsibility you’ve got. Just because you like a player or have a relationship with a player, it doesn’t mean you can’t be honest.”Having tackled that topic, Hesson was asked whether he is confident about Pakistan’s batting. Was Mohammad Haris their best bet in the lower order? Why were Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan inconsistent, and Hasan Nawaz not doing well? Do Pakistan’s batters struggle to pick spinners from the hand? The context was the challenge of Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav, when Pakistan play India in Dubai on Sunday.”I don’t know where that has come from,” Hesson said about the perceived struggle against spin. “We have played against Rashid [Khan] and Noor [Ahmed]. We have played against possibly the best wrist-spin attack in the world [in the tri-series final on Sunday] on a [Sharjah] surface that has spun square and managed to score 75 more runs than the opposition. I’m not sure where that has come from.”Hesson then addressed the question about Pakistan’s young batting line-up.”It is very much a developing batting line-up,” he said. “There are a number of batters who can win you the game on their day, but they don’t have as many good days as you’d like at the moment. That is very fair. The thing for us is the sum of the parts as a batting group.”Every game bar one in Sharjah, we were probably 20 runs above par. Even though there are a number of players who didn’t do well on particular occasions, I’m more interested in what we end up with and how we get there. In the tri-series final, we got 140 when 120 was plenty on the pitch.”Then he was inevitably asked about being part of the great spectacle – India v Pakistan – as a coach for the first time. “Look I’ve certainly watched many games from afar with other teams or while commentating,” Hesson said. “Being part of a highly-charged event is going to be exciting. From my perspective, just like anytime you enter the final of a world event or whatever, it is about keeping everybody focused on the job at hand. That will be no different.”We know India are obviously hugely confident and rightfully so. But we are very much focused on improving as a team day-by-day and not getting ahead of ourselves. We are well aware of the challenge of the task ahead and we are certainly looking forward to it.”Mike Hesson has thrown his weight behind Pakistan’s ‘developing’ batting order•Getty Images

Pakistan have had a solid lead-in to the Asia Cup, having played five games over 12 days during the tri-series against Afghanistan and UAE in Sharjah. While the players had a day off on Thursday, Hesson had a close look at the pitch at the Dubai International Stadium.”This is very different to Sharjah in terms of the abrasiveness of the grass,” Hesson said. “We are playing on the same surface as the India vs UAE game. We have got the balance in the squad to deal with it. We have got plenty of multi-skilled players which gives us a bit of flexibility.”I don’t think this pitch is going to spin as much as Sharjah. And even yesterday [India v UAE match], when Kuldeep bowled, it didn’t spin a huge amount. But when you have wristspinners, the surface doesn’t matter as much.”The beauty of our side is we have got fine spinners. We have got Mohammad Nawaz, who has been ranked No. 1 since coming back into the side six months ago. And obviously we’ve got Abrar [Ahmed] and Sufiyan [Muqeem] do as well as they have. Saim Ayub is in the top 10 allrounders in the world and Salman Agha has hardly bowled.”We have got five seamers as well, which allow us to go for either air speed, change of pace or reverse swing depending on what the surface will provide.”

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Mário Jorge Lobo Zagallo faleceu aos 92 anos, na noite desta sexta-feira (5). Ídolo da Seleção Brasileira e de clubes do futebol carioca, o “Velho Lobo” deixou um grande legado de histórias, vivências e paixão pelo esporte. Confira com o Lance! 13 momentos marcantes da longa trajetória do eterno Zagallo.

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1️⃣ CRAQUE POLIVALENTE
Na época de jogador, ganhou o apelido de Formiguinha por conta de sua dedicação tática em campo e pelo estilo de ser um ponta recuado que ajudava na recomposição do setor de meio de campo, algo raro para o futebol da época. 🐺

2️⃣ ABRIDOR DE CAMINHOS
Fazendo dupla de ataque com Evaristo de Macedo e sob o comando do técnico Fleitas Solich, o Feiticeiro, ergueu pelo Flamengo os títulos do Campeonato Carioca de 1953, 1954 e 1955, o segundo tricampeonato estadual da história do Rubro-Negro. 🐺

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➡️ Zagallo eterno: Botafogo, Flamengo e outros clubes se despedem do Velho Lobo

3️⃣ NO TOPO DO MUNDO
Atuando pela Seleção Brasileira, participou das conquistas das copas do mundo de 1958 e 1962, na Suécia e Chile, respectivamente. Em 1970, às vésperas do Mundial do México e já trabalhando como técnico, assumiu o comando da equipe após a saída de João Saldanha e foi o regente do imparável time que tinha no elenco craques como Pelé, Tostão, Gerson, Jairzinho e Rivelino. Já na Copa de 1994, nos Estados Unidos, foi auxiliar do treinador Carlos Alberto Parreira na conquista do tetra, fechando um ciclo de várias décadas como grande influenciador das conquistas da Seleção. 🐺

4️⃣ O SONHO DE CRIANÇA
Na decisão da Copa de 1958, a Suécia se viu acuada em casa por um Brasil amplamente ofensivo, que contava com Garrincha, Vavá, Pelé e Zagallo no ataque. O quarto gol da vitória brasileira por 5 a 2 foi do então camisa 7, que pegou sobra na área sueca, ganhou dividida da marcação e colocou por baixo do goleiro Svensson. 🐺

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5️⃣ TRIUNFOS PRECOCES
Logo após abandonar os gramados, iniciou um vitoriosa carreira como treinador. O primeiro título na nova função veio de forma instantânea com o Botafogo. Assumindo o cargo no Alvinegro em 1966, foi necessário um espaço de apenas dois anos para empilhar títulos cariocas e conquistar o Brasileirão de 1968. 🐺

➡️Siga o Lance! no WhatsApp e acompanhe em tempo real as principais notícias do esporte

6️⃣ A DOR DO BRONZE
Nas Olimpíadas de 1996, o Brasil chegou como amplo favorito na disputa do futebol, e no cargo de técnico, o alagoano chegou a afirmar que “a equipe não veio para ganhar prata ou bronze”. Porém, nas semifinais, a decepção foi grande: virada sofrida contra a Nigéria e eliminação antes da final. Apesar da conquista do terceiro lugar – em goleada sobre Portugal -, a geração de craques como Ronaldo, Dida e Roberto Carlos deixou o estádio de Atlanta antes da premiação, quebrando o protocolo e não participando do pódio olímpico. 🐺

7️⃣ “VOCÊS VÃO TER QUE ME ENGOLIR!”
Em 1997, três anos após o tetra, Zagallo se encontrou diante de uma grande pressão novamente no cargo de treinador. Antes da disputa da Copa América, o técnico foi fortemente questionado, e nomes como o de Vanderlei Luxemburgo cresceram em sua sombra. Porém, o time fez uma campanha exímia, com 100% de aproveitamento, e terminou como campeão. Após o título, o “Velho Lobo” virou para as câmeras e desabafou com a célebre frase: “Vocês vão ter que me engolir!”. A conquista marcou a primeira vez que o Brasil venceu a competição continental fora de seus domínios. 🐺

“VOCÊS VÃO TER QUE ME ENGOLIR!”

Simplesmente Zagallo. Momento épico.

🎥 Reproduçãopic.twitter.com/FwZZWisvxr

— Mundo da Bola (@mundodabola) January 6, 2024

8️⃣ DECISÃO POLÊMICA
Para brigar com Romário, é preciso muita coragem. E coragem não faltou ao Velho Lobo em 1998. O atacante tratava uma lesão na panturrilha e deu garantias de que estaria 100% recuperado para a disputa da Copa na França. Na convocação, surpreendentemente, o nome do Baixinho não apareceu na lista, sob diversos protestos de torcedores brasileiros. Logo depois, Romário apareceu em lágrimas, direcionando críticas ao treinador e a Zico, que foi auxiliar no Mundial. 🐺

9️⃣ UM LÍDER NATO
Uma das imagens mais bonitas e inspiracionais da jornada de Zagallo aconteceu justamente na Copa de 1998. Antes da disputa por pênaltis na semifinal contra a Holanda, o treinador passou alguns minutos motivando seus comandados e dizendo frases como “Vamos acreditar”, “É como em 1994! Vamos confiar” e “vamos ganhar, pode dar certo”. A leve sacudida no rosto do goleiro Taffarel, de fato, deu certo: o arqueiro brasileiro pegou as cobranças de Cocu e De Boer, garantindo um lugar na final da competição. 🐺

O vídeo de Zagallo motivando os jogadores da Seleção antes dos pênaltis diante da Holanda, na semi da Copa de 98, foi minha primeira noção sobre o que é ser um líder. Até hoje me emociona. Obrigado por tudo, Velho Lobo!pic.twitter.com/YkJiilUZKS

— João Marcos (@_JoaoMarcos97) January 6, 2024

1️⃣0️⃣ NOVA FUNÇÃO, VELHOS TEMPOS
Em 2001, como técnico do Flamengo, o Velho Lobo teve a oportunidade de reviver um momento que desfrutou como jogador. O tri carioca do Rubro-Negro na década de 50 viria a se repetir pela quarta vez entre o fim do segundo e o começo do terceiro milênio (1999, 2000 e 2001). Zagallo foi o técnico do time que venceu a final contra o Vasco, com direito à famosa cobrança de falta do sérvio Petkovic, aos 43 minutos do segundo tempo, para garantir o triunfo flamenguista. 🐺

1️⃣1️⃣ ÚLTIMA DANÇA NO CARGO
Em novembro de 2002, ainda vivendo a ressaca do penta, a Seleção Brasileira se despediu do eterno comandante na área técnica. Manifestando o desejo de assumir a coordenadoria, Zagallo fechou seu ciclo sendo interino em amistoso com a Coreia do Norte, aos 72 anos, e foi celebrado ao fim da partida pelos jogadores convocados. 🐺

➡️ Em jogo morno, Botafogo vira sobre o Rio Claro na Copinha e encaminha vaga nas eliminatórias

1️⃣2️⃣ O PROCURADO
Precedendo um amistoso da Seleção Brasileira no México, Zagallo pegou um voo com escalas em Los Angeles. Porém, por ter passaporte com visto da Arábia Saudita – por ter trabalhado na seleção nacional e no Al-Hilal -, o então coordenador foi interrogado pela polícia dos Estados Unidos, que vivia a tensão relacionada a ataques terroristas. Após ser liberado, o Velho Lobo ironizou: “Eles não acham o Saddam Hussein, nem o Bin Laden. Acharam o Zagallo”. 🐺

1️⃣3️⃣ MUITO SUPERSTICIOSO
Zagallo tinha como grande ponto de sua trajetória uma espécie de encantamento pelo número 13 . Além das coincidências, como os títulos de 58 (5 + 8 = 13) e 94 (9 + 4 = 13), e das motivações, como a devoção a Santo Antônio – o dia do padroeiro é 13 de junho -, as escolhas, como morar no apartamento de um 13º andar, seguiram seus passos. Outra escolha foi a provocação à Argentina, após o título da Copa América de 2004. Na função de coordenador técnico, o alagoano não titubeou em fazer referências à sua superstição: “Brasil campeão e Argentina vice, têm 13 letras”. Além disso, falou que poderia morrer após a emocionante conquista daquele ano, que não haveria problema. 🐺

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