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GOAL writers break down MLS transfer window, examine who can rise under Pochettino, make Premier League picks

The MLS summer transfer window wrapped with some intriguing signings and trades across the league. Olivier Giroud and Marco Reus moving to the two Los Angeles clubs grabbed the headlines, but there were plenty of impactful moves throughout the league that could have big implications come playoff time.

With Leagues Cup wrapping up on Sunday, the final stretch of the MLS season will be upon us and fans should be in for an exciting path to the playoffs.

Meanwhile, more details are emerging of the soon-to-be-confirmed hiring of Mauricio Pochettino as the USMNT boss. The Argentine may have to wait a few weeks to take charge, but excitement is already palpable at the idea of a truly elite coach taking charge of this intriguing group of players.

Elsewhere, the Premier League concluded its first week of play. Some got the job done, others not so much, and Tottenham, drawing with newly-promoted Leicester, somehow got it exactly right.

It's yet another hectic week in the game, and our GOAL US writers break it all down in the latest edition of… The Rondo.

AFPWhich USMNT player are you most excited to see play for Poch?

Tom Hindle: Christian Pulisic. Do not even remotely overthink this. Pochettino is a proven developer of talent, with an excellent track record of making the very good absolutely elite. Son Heung-Min, Harry Kane and Dele Alli all became world beaters under his tutelage. Even Moussa Sissoko looked like half a footballer with Poch at the helm at Spurs. Pulisic, right now, is very, very, very good. Give him an elite coach who knows what to do with funky and fun attacking players, and he could be world-class.

Jacob Schneider: Johnny Cardoso. It might be a hot take, but Poch could turn him into a world-class midfielder. He developed the likes of a young Adam Lallana and Alli, had Conor Gallagher flourishing at Chelsea and made the most of his midfielders with little resources while at Spurs. Moussa Sissoko's best-ever seasons were under Poch, while Christian Eriksen and Harry Winks were standout performers, too. We're already seeing glimpses of a sensational midfielder in there, and with time, Cardoso could flourish. That said, the likes of Yunus Musah, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie and Gio Reyna could all benefit from the tactician that he is. There's just something about Cardoso that could be really special over time.

Ryan Tolmich: There are plenty, but we'll go with Folarin Balogun. Throughout Gregg Berhalter's tenure, it felt as if the U.S. didn't know how to get the best out of the Monaco man, although that feeling changed a bit during the Copa America. He was a bit miscast in Berhalter's system, which was based around wing play and maintaining possession.

Pochettino, meanwhile, is a coach that will be willing and able to unleash Balogun, who is a much better player when running at defenses. Under Poch's watch, for example, Heung-min Son became one of the best in the world at doing exactly that. How will Pochettino use Balogun? What can he do to put him in positions to succeed? It's one of many storylines to watch.

AdvertisementUSA Today ImagesWho won the MLS transfer window?

TH: Let's go really, really, really boring, and say that the team who signed the best player won it. And yes, that best player is Reus, not Giroud. It's fair to say that the Galaxy just about edged it this summer. Giroud will hopefully give LAFC the boost at striker they've needed and gives them an aerial threat on attack they haven't had in years. But Reus is the razor-sharp edge for an already fun team. Throw the German legend in a side that Riqui Puig is already cooking for, and this could be an immensely fun team.

JS: A few good answers here. Giroud could be the MLS Cup-winning piece for LAFC, while Miami brought in David Martinez at CB – a position at which they desperately needed help. The Herons also managed to keep a hold of Diego Gomez until January, which immediately boosts their MLS Cup odds. The real winner, though, is the Columbus Crew. They didn't splash, they didn't spend a ton, but they brought in arguably the best transfer of the summer in DeJuan Jones. He is one of the best wingbacks in the league, a U.S. international, and an absolutely perfect fit in Wilfried Nancy's system. The Cup holders got better, without wasting a DP spot, an international roster spot, or a ton of cash. So, so smart.

RT: The rich get richer, huh? The Crew's window didn't have the star power of Los Angeles, but the league's best team somehow got a little bit better. Yes, they lost Aidan Morris, which stinks, but they're equipped to handle it. Bringing in Jones, Aziel Jackson, Andres Herrera, and Dylan Chambost, meanwhile, gives this team crazy, crazy depth.

Despite losing a Homegrown star, the Crew are still better than they were a few weeks ago, which is bad news for everyone else in MLS.

MLS MediaIs it healthy for Leagues Cup to have four MLS semifinalists?

TH: Not even slightly – not that MLS's best teams are to blame here at all. The competition is a fun idea that hasn't quite been executed correctly in its two years of existence. There are too many MLS teams involved, and there really should be some games played on the other side of the border – logistical concerns notwithstanding. Yes, it's fun to see sides such as the Colorado Rapids getting a shot at Silverware. But in an ideal world this is a 2-2 split in the final four, not just an MLS midseason tournament with some guests.

JS: Absolutely not. Tournament attendance is already down, and it felt like 90 percent of the supporters in cross-league matches were from Liga MX clubs. There's a conversation to be had on that, but right now, the tournament hands Liga MX teams disadvantage after disadvantage. From asking them to play on artificial turf, to traveling thousands of miles, to enter the competition after just three or four matches into their league season, it's not set up for them succeed. Now, on the other hand, job well done to some of the MLS sides have found success against top Mexican opposition, like the Rapids.

RT: For the casual fan, definitely not. The fun of this tournament is to see teams from MLS and Liga MX play each other. Unfortunately, this summer, that battle has been one-sided. That's for a variety of reasons, home-field advantage being the biggest, but it does take a little bit of the luster off, doesn't it? In the end, winning Leagues Cup is great, but MLS Cup is still the ultimate prize – so the MLS-on-MLS clashes in the final games just don't have the juice as a result.

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Getty ImagesWho wins the Premier League?

TH: Manchester City … probably. Too good, too much money, too inevitable. It seems like Arsenal get a bit closer every year, but it's not quite clear if they bought that one spark plug that can really ignite their attack when things get a bit stale. The arrival of Riccardo Calafiori is helpful, and the Mikel Arteta machine will continue to be fine tuned. But they need a world-class striker to take them over the edge. Until then, City probably win it by two points or something – no matter how much the fogging standards are raised in North London.

JS: Unfortunately, it's probably City. But for the sake of optimism, excitement and every other positive word out there in the world, let's say Liverpool. Why not have Arne Slot come in, during his debut season, and give Mo Salah the potential send off he deserves? They need another signing or two, but if they can bolster the squad, they're contenders.

Now, if there's one thing that won't happen, it will be Arsenal contending. Arteta's squad will step back this year and struggle a bit in the final-third with the players they have in attack. A proper dark horse is a team such as Aston Villa, who look fantastic so far, while the likes of Manchester United, West Ham and Chelsea will trail behind – along with Tottenham.

RT: Barring any off-field punishments, which may very well come, it's City. They're too talented not to, right? Even with a lack of motivation and potential complacency, this team is still too good to fail. They have the best striker in the league, the best midfielder in the league and the best manager in the world. Erling Haaland is going to score a billion goals. Kevin De Bruyne is going to provide as many assists as he wins. Pep Guardiola will tinker with this team just to keep them honest and to send the tactics sickos into a frenzy. Anyway, it feels like it's theirs to lose, whether that's on the field or, as it may turn out, in the courtroom.

With Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe now calling the shots, Manchester United are set to undergo a complete overhaul this summer.

Movement has already occurred behind the scenes, with Omar Berrada becoming the club’s new chief executive and plenty of backroom staff departing.

That is said to be the case for plenty of the current squad members at Old Trafford, with outgoings expected to potentially hit double figures.

However, those leaving will obviously make room for arrivals, with a centre back one of the key positions that’s been identified as a priority signing.

Man Utd’s search for a centre-back

According to reports from Colombia via TuttoMercato, Man United are set to be in a tussle for the signature of Jhon Lucumi.

The 25-year-old defender currently plays his football at Bologna in Italy, impressing enough to gain interest from the Red Devils and Spanish giant Atletico Madrid.

It is estimated that a fee of around €20m (£17m) would be enough to secure the Colombian’s services, but the Serie A side will look to gain as much funds as possible.

That said, the potential problem for United is that Lucumi’s performances in the Copa America could see his worth increase, but not to the level of United’s other centre-back targets.

Man Utd have begun talks to sign a £50m Harry Maguire replacement

Erik ten Hag is keen to reinforce his backline next summer.

By
Tom Lever

Mar 26, 2024

Man Utd's dream Jarrad Branthwaite alternative

Another player on the list of potential recruits is Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, who is set to be on the move at the end of the season.

A report from Mike McGrath via The Telegraph this week stated that United are interested in the defender, but his signature would cost a fee of at least 50m.

Obviously, that figure is a minimum, and it could rise if the Red Devils do decide to sign the 21-year-old, whereas the perhaps wildcard, lesser-known Lucumi could prove to be much better value for money based on his performance this season.

The defender only joined Bologna last season from Genk, starting 33 league games in his first campaign, but he’s really found his feet during his second campaign.

Football analyst Ben Mattinson is particularly a fan of the former Deportivo Cali ace, calling him “ridiculously impressive,” further stating that he’s “one of the most composed I’ve seen in 23/24. Insanely secure on the ball, receives bad passes and deals with them so calmly.”

Lucumi vs Empoli
Stats	Lucumi
Clearances	4
Dribbled past	0
Touches	103
Passes completed	90/93 (97%)
Possession lost	3
Via Sofascore

As you can see by his most recent performance against Empoli, Lucumi is the definition of a complete centre-half, and despite being left-footed, he has played as a right-centre back this campaign.

The Colombian would be an excellent partner for Lisandro Martinez, with his technical ability providing Ten Hag’s side with much more control, as shown by his 103 touches, 90 passes, and 97% pass accuracy.

The 6 foot 1 defender is also extremely dynamic, and he could definitely deal with the physicality of the Premier League, as shown by his 75% ground duels win rate.

Overall, Lucumi would be a perfect centre-back for Man United, and at a cheaper price, he could be the perfect alternative to Branthwaite.

Man Utd could form Rio & Vidic 2.0 by signing "monster" Martinez partner

The Man United target could see the recreation of a formidable duo.

By
Tom Lever

Mar 28, 2024

After such a positive start to the season, Wolverhampton Wanderers’ lack of depth is finally catching up to them.

In truth, Gary O’Neil has been dealt an almost impossible card, where he’s not only had to change personnel due to injuries but also systems.

This was on display this week against Burnley, where the former Bournemouth manager ditched his usual 3-4-2-1 for a 4-4-1-1, even playing full-backs as wingers.

However, the boss seems to finally be getting a break as multiple players are set to return from injuries, with one individual allowing him to return to his trusty three-back and ditch Matt Doherty.

Why Matt Doherty should be dropped

Since returning to Wolves on a free transfer, the club icon has failed to produce similar feats to what he offered prior to his move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2020.

Four years on, and the 32-year-old has struggled to work his way into the side under O’Neil, starting just four times in 23 appearances and often coming off the bench for the last half an hour of games.

In truth, even when on the field, the Irish defender has failed to impress, and that was the case once again against Burnley, where he played as a right-midfielder.

Over the 90 minutes, the number two was rather sloppy on the ball, having a pass accuracy of 78% and losing possession on 13 separate occasions.

It was by far a disastrous display, but the boss will be thankful that one individual is set to return extremely soon, even potentially in time for Saturday’s home clash against West Ham United.

Wolves should regret summer signing who earns 5x more than Ait Nouri

The player is one of Wolves’ highest earners.

ByTom Lever Mar 14, 2024 Why Craig Dawson must be unleashed

The signing of Craig Dawson from the Hammers for just £3.3m has been an absolute bargain, with the defender becoming a key player under every manager.

The former West Bromwich Albion star has been a rock at the heart of the Wolves backline in particular this season, proving to be such a complete centre-half with an old-fashioned approach to defending.

Unfortunately, the 33-year-old has had to endure a spell on the sidelines recently after suffering a groin issue, but he’s set to return this weekend.

Dawson has started 25 Premier League matches this season as the central centre-back in a back three, and his recovery will certainly hand Wolves a huge boost, as not only will the defensive relationships be reinstalled, but the boss will also be able to return to his usual formation.

Clearances

4.8

Balls recovered

4

Pass accuracy

87%

Touches

62.4

Duels won

4.4

As you can see in the table above showcasing his statistics from the Premier League this season, the £45k-per-week Englishman is an “outstanding” defender, as dubbed by journalist Matt Law.

The best way to describe the number 15’s approach to defending is that he’s willing to put his head where it hurts for his team, as shown by his 4.8 clearances per game, which is a club high.

However, in recent years, he’s really developed into a fantastic ball-playing defender, controlling the tempo of the game and rarely giving the ball away cheaply, as shown by his touches and pass accuracy statistics.

On top of that, despite not wearing the captain’s armband, he is a true leader at the heart of the side, bringing organisation and experience when it matters most, which is a priceless attribute.

With Matheus Cunha also returning at the other end of the field, Wolves will be a much more balanced team, and if Dawson is fit, he will be guaranteed to start this weekend.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast's Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

West Bromwich Albion found Watford to be a sterner test than maybe they anticipated at the Hawthorns, with Darnell Furlong's last-gasp equaliser in the West Midlands securing a share of the points in a 2-2 draw for the Baggies.

Having held Leeds United to a draw by the exact same scoreline on Good Friday, the Hornets spoiled another promotion-chasing side's day by ridding the Baggies of a third win from their last five Championship clashes.

Okay Yokuslu surprisingly had an off-day for Carlos Corberan's men in the 2-2 draw, having become an integral player under the Spaniard this campaign from holding midfield.

Now, his secure spot in Corberan's starting eleven could be on shaky foundations after a disappointing display against Tom Cleverley's tough Hornets.

Okay Yokuslu's performance vs Watford in numbers

The forceful Turkish midfielder was timid by his usual standards on Easter Monday, with Corberan putting the 30-year-old out of his misery just shy of the 70-minute mark by substituting him.

The Baggies number 35 would win just 25% of the duels that came his way, a lacklustre return compared to the seven duels he was successful with when West Brom tore Huddersfield Town to shreds 4-1 last month.

Yokuslu's numbers vs Watford

Minutes played

67

Touches

40

Accurate passes

27/32 (84%)

Duels won

1/4

Tackles

0

Dribbled past

2x

Stats by Sofascore

Moreover, when glancing over the table above, Yokuslu's lack of tackles allowed Watford to grow in confidence with the Hornets dribbling past the 6 foot 3 enforcer with ease twice when he is usually alert to darts forward breaching the Baggies at the back.

Having amassed 39 Championship appearances this season, with his last absence coming last December against Sunderland, Corberan could decide to freshen things up away from Yokuslu when West Brom travel to Stoke City this coming weekend.

That could mean it is finally time for Yann M'Vila to get some first-team minutes under his belt at the Hawthorns, with the ex-Sunderland man joining on a free transfer in mid-February.

Yann M'Vila as Yokuslu's replacement

Linked with a move back to the Stadium of Light before the Baggies swooped in on a short-term deal, M'Vila will relish the chance to be in the West Brom starting lineup against the Potters if chosen.

The French defensive midfielder shone in spurts against the Hornets replacing Yokuslu, eclipsing the number 35's successful duels count with five won from just 23 minutes of action.

The former Black Cats warrior also launched himself into two tackles, giving Corberan's men more steel and grit, which helped in the late comeback that then ensued.

Adam Reach and Grady Diangana were also inspired substitutions that changed the complexion of the contest drastically alongside M'Vila, with Diangana's delightful assist for Brandon Thomas-Asante to fire home setting the promotion hopefuls on their way to collecting a point.

Therefore, there will be a whole host of selection dilemmas for Corberan to get right when West Brom do travel to Stoke this upcoming Saturday.

The Spanish boss might well be loyal to sticking by Yokuslu based on his everpresent nature in the Baggies first-team ranks of late, but after such an underwhelming display against Watford, he could be left with little alternative but to unleash M'Vila from the start against Steven Schumacher's men in his place.

When the umpires walked out at 1pm local for an inspection, they were welcomed with a shower, and that forced them to abandon the game

ESPNcricinfo staff09-Nov-2019
Match abandoned without a ball bowledThe second game of MSL 2019, between hosts Durban Heat and visitors Tshwane Spartans, was called off even without a toss due to rain and then a wet outfield.The contest, that was set to have AB de Villiers facing off against Alex Hales, was called off at 1.10pm local, forty minutes after the scheduled time for toss. When the umpires walked out at 1pm local for an inspection, they were welcomed with a shower, and that forced them to abandon the game altogether.There were always doubts over the game after overnight rain hit Durban over the past 24 hours. But the hope of a match arose after the rain stopped in the afternoon. Unfortunately for the teams, the combination of a wet outfield together with a second spell of rain ended all hopes of a contest.According to weather reports, Durban is expected to receive more rain in the days to follow, although the next game – Heat v Paarl Rocks – at Kingsmead is on November 15. For Spartans, their next game is on November 13, when they host Nelson Mandela Bay Giants at Centurion.

Newcastle United and Aston Villa, among others, have had to make quick sales due to the Premier League's PSR rules and Alan Shearer is not happy.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Shearer slams Premier League and PSR
• Believes rules are costing clubs like Newcastle
• Clubs made major sales ahead of June 30 deadline

• Getty
  

  WHAT HAPPENED?

  June 30 saw a lot of movement between Premier League clubs as they looked to finalise sales and purchases of players to make sure they complied with the league's Profit and Sustainability rules for the 2023-24 financial season, and Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer is not pleased with PSR harming upcoming challengers to the Premier League's modern big-six.

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• Getty/GOAL
  

  WHAT SHEARER SAID

  Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said: "Obviously, Newcastle had to sell players because of PSR. I’m pleased they’ve done the business they’ve done, I’m pleased they didn’t sell Isak and Bruno.

  "I know Anderson loved playing for Newcastle, but hopefully he’ll get more game time at Forest and he can show everyone how good he is. He’s a really good player.

  "I think because of what Newcastle had to do and the timing of it, it’s been good business for them.

  "Those PSR rules don’t sit easy with me. If Newcastle hadn't sold Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson, they would have had to sell one of their bigger players to one of the big clubs. What chance have you got? What message is that sending out? The rules just don’t sit comfortably with me at all.

  "If you look at Newcastle and Aston Villa, they’re trying their very best to get near the big boys and challenge. Yet when they do, they have to sell players. Villa have had to sell Douglas Luiz to Juventus because of PSR. That can’t be right when a club is trying to challenge the big boys, and what they’ve got behind them as football clubs doesn’t sit easy with me."

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  As per The Athletic, in the ten days leading up to the June 30 PSR deadline, six Premier League clubs – Chelsea, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Everton and Leicester City – made deals to raise a reported £323 million ($410m) through the sale of 15 players, more than was raised during the entire January transfer window.

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• WHAT NEXT FOR THE PREMIER LEAGUE?

  With the PSR deadline now gone past, Premier League clubs will be free to make their deals as they want without having to worry about the immediate repercussions.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has provided a big-money Celtic transfer update on a potential summer deal.

Celtic form under Brendan Rodgers

The Hoops have struggled at points in recent weeks, dropping some crucial Scottish Premiership points with draws against Aberdeen and Kilmarnock.

As a result, there has been speculation over Brendan Rodgers’ future as manager, however, Celtic aren’t planning to sack the Northern Irishman anytime soon.

A late win over Motherwell on the weekend was followed up with a much-needed 7-1 win over Dundee, with Rodgers giving a defiant response for the rest of the season.

However, attention behind the scenes at Parkhead will soon be on the summer transfer market, and there has been a new update regarding one recent Celtic addition.

Adam Idah to Celtic transfer update

There have been reports this week that striker Adam Idah, on loan from Norwich City until the end of the season, is thought to be open to a permanent Celtic transfer.

Now, as per Football Insider reporter O’Rourke, Celtic ‘will have to fork out a big-money fee’ to sign Idah in the summer. The 23-year-old has impressed Parkhead officials, but the Canaries will hold out for a hefty fee.

The Republic of Ireland international has certainly made an impact in his five league appearances for the Hoops, scoring five goals and registering one assist.

Adam Idah's Celtic performances

WhoScored rating

Aberdeen 1-1 Celtic

6.91/10

Hibernian 1-2 Celtic

7.36/10

Celtic 1-1 Kilmarnock

6.45/10

Motherwell 1-3 Celtic

8.11/10

Celtic 7-1 Dundee

8.44/10

His most important contribution came against Motherwell, with his two efforts proving to be the difference. Rodgers praised the striker as a result, saying: “Kyogo's strengths are running in behind and running into space, but this is a game when we need that, and Adam can do that, we also need a reference in the team. And as soon as the big guy comes into the game, he sets it up so well for us.

“He scores two brilliant goals. His first one is an amazing header – it's a great cross by Greg (Taylor) but his header is absolutely brilliant. And then obviously he makes his first-post run and gets the second one.”

Celtic are reportedly willing to break their transfer record on a huge signing this summer, so if the funds are right, perhaps Idah could be that man, making this one to watch.

From the match Australia weren’t expected to win to one they’re not expected to lose, how quickly things can change during the Ashes

The Preview by Valkerie Baynes13-Aug-2019Big PictureFrom the match they weren’t expected to win to one they’re not expected to lose my, how quickly things can change during the Ashes.Australia were given little hope of breaching Fortress Edgbaston and that was before they slumped to 122 for 8 on the first day of the series opener. What might have happened had Steve Smith not produced the innings of his life with a match-saving century, not to mention backing it up with another ton in the second innings? What might have happened had England not lost pace spearhead James Anderson to a calf injury after he had bowled just four overs? But look deeper. The first Test was much more than a few sliding-door moments and what ifs. Sides don’t win matches by 251 runs on the back of fortune alone.The vastly experienced Peter Siddle was sound in his support of Smith where others had failed, his innings of 44 crucial to Australia’s early recovery effort. Matthew Wade’s 110 came amid a more rounded batting performance by the Australians in the second innings, when Travis Head, Usman Khawaja and No. 8 James Pattinson all joined Smith in getting among the runs. Then there were Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins whose 10 wickets between them in England’s second innings shut out Siddle and Pattinson, who had contributed to a well-balanced bowling performance in the hosts’ first innings.England were not without their performers, Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes putting Australia under intense pressure early on while Rory Burns’ timely maiden Test century came as Joe Root – batting a place higher than his preferred No. 4 – and Ben Stokes posted fifties. But Anderson’s injury and Moeen Ali’s poor returns left England’s bowling too thin. That is the area England have sought to address by calling on Jofra Archer and Jack Leach for the second Test at Lord’s. In the aftermath of defeat at Edgbaston, England coach Trevor Bayliss had rued England’s dearth of pace in the absence of Anderson and Mark Wood, who is dealing with side and knee complaints, and that was before Olly Stone was ruled out for at least two weeks with a recurrence of a back stress fracture.It is in the management of pace stocks that this series may be won and lost, and where Australia appear to have the edge on England at this stage. With the “luxury” of six fit fast bowlers, as Australia coach Justin Langer put it, the tourists have opted to rest Pattinson for the second Test in favour of either Josh Hazlewood or Mitchell Starc. England, meanwhile, will be hoping Archer remains free of the side strain he suffered in the World Cup final and which kept him out of the first Test – and there is every indication he is fully fit – while looking to Leach for a reprise of his happy memories at Lord’s, this time with the ball after his 92 as nightwatchman earned him Player of the Match honours at the same ground against Ireland last month.Form guideEngland LWWLL (last five completed matches, most recent first)
Australia WWWDLIn the spotlightMan of the moment – again – Jofra Archer finds himself in what is fast becoming a familiar position of England X-factor, and he hasn’t even made his Test debut yet. That latter point will be moot come Wednesday morning as Australia set about trying to implement Langer’s instructions to “keep wearing him down”. But, injury notwithstanding, Archer doesn’t cut the figure of a man who gets worn down. From his whirlwind rise as soon as he qualified for England to stepping up in the tense Super Over of an eventual World Cup triumph, Archer has done all that has been asked of him in his short international career. Yes, it is a huge ask to expect a 24 year old whose only red-ball cricket in 11 months was last week’s second XI appearance for Sussex against Gloucestershire which convinced selectors of his fitness following injury, to be the sole reason England can avoid going 2-0 down in the Ashes. He is one man and, even as Smith discovered amid his first-Test stardom, it takes more than that – ask Lyon, Cummins, Siddle and Wade. But there is no doubting that, with or without the injured Anderson, Archer is a massive plus for England.David Warner had a quiet start to the Ashes with scores of two and eight, never mind that he should have been out when he wasn’t and he was out when he shouldn’t have been. He does win points for the way he handled the heckling from the Edgbaston crowd with good humour and a thick skin and while that doesn’t count for anything on a scorecard it can be seen as an important step in a return to Test cricket that is as much mental as it is physical. Now Warner needs to make like Smith and let his bat do the talking. He did just that during the World Cup in front of English crowds, so it is not a big stretch at all to expect him to transfer that to the Test arena and if he does, England could face double the trouble.Team newsJack Leach had a lengthy bowl in the nets on Test eve, while Archer put in a brief but fiery burst, suggesting there won’t be much in the way of surprises in the England team. Sam Curran looks most likely to miss out from the 12-man squad, although the weather is set to play a key role in that decision.England: (possible) 1 Rory Burns, 2 Jason Roy, 3 Joe Root, 4 Joe Denly, 5 Jos Buttler, 6 Ben Stokes, 7 Jonny Bairstow, 8 Chris Woakes, 9 Jofra Archer, 10 Stuart Broad, 11 Jack Leach.Hazlewood looks set for a return to the ground where he took 3 for 68 and 2 for 20 in his best performance of the 2015 Ashes, replacing the resting Pattinson. Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc – both left out of the Ashes opener at Edgbaston – were included as Australia named a 12-man squad on match eve with the prospect of a fresh and firing Pattinson at Headingley looming with just a three-day turnaround between fixtures. Whether both Hazlewood and Starc play is another matter, however, after Siddle’s performance with the bat in the first Test.Australia: (possible) 1 David Warner, 2 Cameron Bancroft, 3 Usman Khawaja, 4 Steve Smith, 5 Travis Head, 6 Matthew Wade, 7 Tim Paine (capt/wk), 8 Pat Cummins, 9 Peter Siddle, 10 Nathan Lyon, 11 Josh Hazlewood.Pitch and conditionsNot nearly as verdant as the lush greentop that welcomed players on the eve of England’s Test against Ireland, this Lord’s pitch is reminiscent of the one which hosted the gripping encounter between England and Pakistan in 2016. Pakistan won that match by 75 runs on the penultimate day after legspinner Yasir Shah added four second-innings wickets to his six from the first innings as the tourists claimed the 10 scalps they needed on what turned out to be the last day’s play. The weather does look like playing ball, with cool temperatures and rain expected, particularly on Wednesday.Stats and trivia Australia have the chance to go 2-0 up, a position from which only one Test series in history has been lost (Australia defeated England 3-2 in the 1936-37 Ashes after trailing 0-2). England have lost six of their last seven Tests against Australia with one draw. Lord’s is a happy place for Australia, who have won six of their last 10 Tests against England at the ground. Before defeats in 2013 and 2009, Australia’s previous loss there was in 1934.Quotes”We’re in English conditions, we really back ourselves to perform and to come back strong after last week. We’ve proven that we do that time and time again when we when we’ve been defeated, especially at home. I’m expecting a big response from the boys. Last week will have hurt everyone, and everyone will be absolutely desperate to go and win this week. And I expect nothing less.”

“I would have thought it would be in different circumstances. Nonetheless I’m really proud to be part of this Test side. I’m rapt to be playing international cricket again and to have a second opportunity, to have the captaincy is a great honour as well. It’s certainly one I didn’t want or expect but doing the job now, I’m thoroughly enjoying it.”

Paul Warne will just want a little more from his Derby County players as the promotion race heats up in League One, the Rams gaining wins but often stumbling over the line to the three points rather than confidently dispatching of opponents.

Conor Hourihane bailed Warne's side out on Monday night, scoring a last-minute winner for the automatic promotion candidates to overcome lowly Burton Albion 3-2.

Yet, with the experience and quality at the ex-Rotherham United's manager disposal at Pride Park evident, promotion could well be achieved with the personnel already there without really blowing people away.

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By
Charlie Smith

Feb 1, 2024

But, Warne will want his Derby side to be more exciting and forceful in their approach which could see the third-tier giants make a number of additions this month to make them more of a feared team who show no mercy.

With that in mind, here is what Derby's dream XI could look like after the January transfer window is up with two new signings in the starting lineup…

1

Joe Wildsmith

Although the usual Rams number one goalkeeper was dropped for the home win against the Brewers on Monday, Warne should stick by ex-Sheffield Wednesday figure Joe Wildsmith for the rest of this League One season.

Keeping ten clean sheets this term when played by Warne, the 28-year-old shot-stopper could be crucial as games get tenser as the season winds down.

2

Ryan Nyambe

Although the right-back is currently out at the African Cup of Nations with Namibia, Ryan Nyambe will slot straight back into the team on his return to Derbyshire.

The 26-year-old has helped the Rams pick up four clean sheets when present, the former Blackburn Rovers man a valuable asset to the League One club.

3

Curtis Nelson

Curtis Nelson will also be retained in the Derby starting XI, the experienced ex-Plymouth Argyle centre-back chipping in with two goals from the back this campaign alongside giving the promotion hopefuls grit when required.

His pivotal goal away at Wigan Athletic on Boxing Day helped the Rams secure all three points on their travels to Lancashire, with seven duels won by Nelson on the day also helping preserve an away day clean sheet.

4

Eiran Cashin

Derby will do everything in their power to keep Eiran Cashin around at Pride Park past this January, despite the potential of a number of higher-up suitors coming in for the breakout Derby star.

Even with the League One titans shipping two goals last game against the Brewers, the 22-year-old shone with ten aerial duels successfully won to ensure Derby had the platform to then pull off a last-gasp win.

5

Callum Elder

With Craig Forsyth reaching the twilight of his career now at 34 years of age, the time could be right for the ageing full-back to hand over first-team duties permanently to Callum Elder.

The Australia international has performed competently in recent weeks, winning his fair share of duels alongside Cashin with nine won in total against Burton.

Moreover, Elder has two promotions to the Championship already present on his career CV with both Wigan and Hull City. Could he make it a hat-trick of achievements this campaign?

6

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing

Despite Nathaniel Mendez-Laing also showing signs of his age at 31, Warne will stick by his reliable right-winger for the rest of the campaign.

The former Cardiff City attacker has seven goals and 11 assists next to his name this season in all competitions, including an assist to tee up Tom Barkhuizen for the opening strike against the Brewers last game.

7

Max Bird

Much like Cashin, Derby will have everything crossed this month that Max Bird remains a Rams player despite a number of clubs wanting to poach their star man.

The electric number eight stole the show in a 3-1 win away at Fleetwood Town in early January, notching up two assists alongside coming away from the contest with a 100% successful dribble rate.

8

Conor Hourihane

Derby being able to call upon a player with the stature of Conor Hourihane in League One is mightily impressive, the ex-Aston Villa midfielder showing signs this season of his obvious pedigree when his team need him to come up trumps.

Scoring a vital last-minute winner last game, Hourihane's expertise at carving open opposition defences with ease shone in an equally dramatic contest at Oxford United in late December – assisting Cashin at the death to beat promotion rivals Oxford on their own patch 3-2.

9

Corey Blackett-Taylor

The first new signing Derby could implement into their side this January is Corey Blackett-Taylor, utilising the slick Charlton Athletic winger down the left-hand side where he's caused defenders all sorts of bother playing for the Addicks.

With football journalist Darren Witcoop confirming Derby's interest initially – which has now seen a bid flat-out rejected from Michael Appleton's side – there's no wonder clubs higher up League One are interested in securing the services of the former Tranmere Rovers man.

Helping himself to nine goals and seven assists this season for a lacklustre Addicks, Blackett-Taylor's game could come on leaps and bounds playing alongside the likes of James Collins in attack.

This addition to the Rams ranks could see Tom Barkhuizen dropped however, Warne adding healthy competition to places at Pride Park to keep his players on their toes and to make them strive towards playing at their A-Game.

10

James Collins

James Collins is a feared striker at League One level for good reason, the EFL veteran bagging 17 goals in all competitions under Warne so far but will aim to be an even deadlier finisher in the months to come.

His most prolific season at the level to date saw the 33-year-old Irish striker net 25 goals during the 2018-19 campaign for Luton Town, as the Hatters romped home to the third-tier title courtesy of Collins' heroics.

Aston Villa are more likely to move players on during the current January transfer window as opposed to bringing many in.

The likes of Bertrand Traore and Calum Chambers could well move on this month having made a grand total of nine appearances combined during the 2023/24 campaign, and it could free up some of the wage bill for Unai Emery.

One player who is attracting interest and may be allowed to leave in January is striker Jhon Duran, yet this could all depend on whether Villa are able to bring in another attacking option in the coming weeks.

Jhon Duran is wanted by Chelsea

The young Colombian only joined the Midlands outfit last January, but so far this season, he has scored only four goals from 23 appearances – of which only seven have been starts – and he is a target for Chelsea.

That is according to journalist Nathan Gissing, who claims that Duran could be a short-term option for the Blues this month as they look to bolster their attacking options.

He also states that if Duran was to move this month, Villa would need a replacement lined up, especially as their attacking options remain thin.

Emery has shown interest in a few different players over the previous few weeks, but could he perhaps end Duran’s Villa career for good by making a move for AS Roma gem Paulo Dybala during the winter window?

Aston Villa’s search for new signings

According to reports in Italy (via Sport Witness), Villa have shown interest in Dybala regarding a potential move this month.

He could be a major coup for the club should they convince him that the Premier League should be the next step in his career and Emery may be able to take him to new heights.

Journalist Dean Jones discussed the potential move for the 30-year-old when speaking with GIVEMESPORT recently, saying:

"A deal for Dybala really would be sensational and obviously there will always be part of any Villa fan that would like that to happen but Emery and the recruitment team have to be very careful that if they are to pursue something like that it is for the right reasons and he fits with the philosophy and character of the side.

“He’s an unbelievable player but you would need something like that to be happening for the right reasons and his injury record definitely has to be considered. He misses so many games."

While it would perhaps be a risky move, Dybala could certainly offer something different to the Villa attack, and it could turn into a wise move by the Spaniard should he sign him.

Paulo Dybala has shone this season

While Dybala wouldn’t be a like-for-like replacement for Duran, his ability to thrive in the number ten role could suggest that Emery may opt to play a 4-4-1-1 on a more regular basis with the Roma star operating behind Ollie Watkins.

Villa have played this formation a few times this term, and it was fairly successful as they defeated Manchester City and Arsenal in back-to-back Premier League matches. Therefore, it is something Emery should ponder moving forward.

12

5

6

6

2.1

2.1

12

4

2.6

2.5

This season for the Italian side, Dybala has scored six goals and registered six assists in just 18 matches across all competitions as he looks to build on last season’s impressive tally of 26 goal contributions for the Serie A side.

The forward not only ranks first among the squad for goals and assists in the top flight this season (11), but he also ranks first for big chances created (four), key passes per game (2.1) and successful dribbles per game (1.2), proving to be one of Roma’s most dangerous threats in the final third.

What Paulo Dybala can offer Aston Villa

The former Juventus dynamo would shine operating in a number ten role at Villa, which would allow him to create plenty of chances for Watkins while also chipping in with some goals himself like he has done this season.

Over the course of his career, the 30-year-old has scored 169 goals in 451 senior matches and this works out at around a goal every 2.6 games, which is an impressive goal ratio.

It proves that he can still contribute effectively from an advanced midfield position and, according to WhoScored, Dybala’s strengths are holding onto the ball, key passes and finishing, which ensures that he not only excels at scoring, but can also link the play well with other players in the team

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig previously described the attacking midfielder as having a “left foot made of gold” and his creative talents could give Villa some much-needed attacking dynamism during the final few months of the season.

Of course, Watkins has shone this term – scoring 14 times – and remains their biggest threat in front of goal, yet if he were to suffer a serious injury, Emery would find it difficult to replace him.

In Dybala, they would have a player who could play just off of Watkins, or even stand in for him should the games come thick and fast.

The only real concern would be his past injury issues, which have seen him miss 31 matches for Roma since joining them in the summer of 2022.

Injury problems have plagued the Argentinian throughout his career, especially during his spell with Juventus, where he missed 75 matches during his time with the Italian giants and this meant he could not secure a consistent place in the starting XI.

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If Emery can manage to keep him fit and healthy should he make the move to Villa, they would have a class act in their squad who could change games on his own and this could be crucial as they chase their first major trophy for 28 years.

The next couple of weeks are going to be very interesting indeed, and it could make or break their season potentially, esepcially if they are unable to bring in the required players needed to add some much-needed depth to their squad ahead of an important few months.