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Wahab defends 13 off the final over as St Lucia Kings register their first win of the season

Shashank Kishore29-Aug-2021Two nights after conceding 255 in a massive season-opening defeat, St Lucia Kings bounced back to put it past defending champions Trinbago Knight Riders on a tricky two-paced surface.The game was alive until the final over of the second innings. First, it was the Kieron Pollard threat they had to see off, which they did when he holed out to Alzarri Joseph at wide long-on after the pair had been involved in banter that occasionally got heated.Then, they had to overcome Tim Seifert’s late onslaught that turned around the requirement of 56 in 21 balls to 14 off the final over. The New Zealand wicketkeeper got stuck in to Keemo Paul, hitting him for two fours and two sixes in a penultimate over that went for 19 to entertain hopes of a coup.Wahab Riaz, who conceded 61 off three wicketless overs two nights ago, then held his nerve after being hit for a boundary off the very first ball; the Kings winning by five runs after Seifert failed to hit a six he needed off the final delivery. The loss will particularly hurt because the Knight Riders only lost three wickets.It was only their third win in 17 meetings against the Knight Riders, one they’ll have to thank Tim David and Roston Chase for.David, the Singaporean batter who impressed with a CPL debut half-century two nights ago, once again came into his own. He turned around a floundering innings with a quick fire 32-ball 43. His 68-run stand with Chase, who held the innings together to make 30 not out at No. 4, provided the Kings some middle-overs cushion that set up their finish.It was a key moment because the Kings looked like they would get much below the 157 they finished with, after Ravi Rampaul and left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein used the slowness of the surface to weave a web around the batters.Rampaul thrived with his cutters, split-finger slower ones and cross-seam deliveries that brought him figures of 3 for 29. This applied the brakes on the Kings innings after Rahkeem Cornwall and Andre Fletcher put together a half-century stand at the top.The Knight Riders started slowly on the face of a slow surface, looking to set themselves up for a big second half as Colin Munro and Lendl Simmons struggled. Chase followed Akeal Hosein’s template from earlier in the day by slowing it down and extracting sharp turn and bounce off a length to keep things right, conceding only 17 off his four overs to escalate the asking rate.Yet, the Knight Riders may have given themselves a chance going into the last five off which they needed 62. But Pollard’s wicket and Munro’s struggle – he finished unbeaten on 40 off 47 balls – turned the tide as the Kings held their nerve to pull off a stunning win.

Arsenal are in talks with a prestigious player and his agents ahead of January, with transfer chief Edu Gaspar apparently considering the prospect of a major signing at the Emirates Stadium this winter.

Arsenal's rumoured transfer plans for 2025

Edu and his recruitment team are constantly at work when it comes to transfers, and it is believed they have one eye set on 2025, as the club maintain their efforts to upgrade Arteta’s squad where needed.

Arsenal eyeing ambitious move for £152m Bayern Munich star alongside Sane

The north Londoners are looking to Germany again.

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The Premier League title hopefuls have been unlucky when it comes to their latest summer recruits, with midfielder Mikel Merino out injured for weeks after fracturing his shoulder in training. Meanwhile, centre-back Riccardo Calafiori, who signed for £42 million from Bologna, was also forced to sit out of their North London Derby win over Tottenham on Sunday.

Arsenal spent around £100 million on their summer signings of Merino, Calafiori, David Raya, Neto and Raheem Sterling – reinforcing multiple areas of Arteta’s squad – but the ever-increasing demands of top-flight football mean elite sides require strength in depth to compete at the highest level.

However, that isn’t to say every player isn’t hand-picked with the utmost care, as Edu explained earlier this year in an interview with Brazilian news outlet Estadao.

“You can’t sign for the sake of signing. It has to be a process that takes weeks and weeks,” said Edu on Arsenal’s transfer policy.

“On my desk, I have reports of over 180 pages on one player. It’s really detailed stuff. Physical, technical, mental profile, whether he has Premier League experience, whether he’ll be able to adapt. Everything. We analyse our deficiencies, where we can improve, where we can invest and then we go in search of that new name. We’ve been discussing what I’m going to do now since January. It’s not my decision or Mikel’s. It’s a group decision.”

Ahead of January, the club have already been linked with a few interesting names. It is believed that Arsenal are targeting Lille striker Jonathan David, who could be available for a cut-price winter fee, considering his contract expires next summer.

Edu is also monitoring Leroy Sane, with his Bayern Munich deal also running out in 2025, and he isn’t the only star from Bavaria being watched over by Emirates Stadium transfer chiefs.

Competition

Games

Goals

Assists

Bundesliga

27

8

11

Champions League

12

2

2

DFB-Pokal

2

0

0

DFL-Supercup

1

0

0

A new forward could well be on the agenda for next year going by recent reports, and a familiar name who remains in their thinking is Sporting Lisbon sensation Viktor Gyokeres.

Arsenal in talks with Viktor Gyokeres and his reps ahead of January

Gyokeres was a rumoured Arsenal summer target, with reports heavily linking the Swede to north London. Now, TEAMtalk have an update on their interest, and the outlet claims that Arsenal talks are “underway” with Gyokeres and his representatives, as Edu ponders a “blockbuster” January transfer.

The 26-year-old, who has started 2024/2025 in fine form with nine goals and three assists in seven appearances, won’t come cheap – as Sporting maintain their stance that interested clubs will need to pay his £84 million release clause.

Gyokeres is arguably Europe’s most in-form striker right now, alongside City superstar Erling Haaland and Bayern’s Harry Kane, so it is little wonder the Primeira Liga side won’t let him leave on the cheap. Pundit John Wenham has called the towering forward a potential “exciting signing” for suitors, and he’d certainly give Kai Havertz some serious competition for a place up front in Arteta’s starting line up.

The 2023/24 season may long be over, but following a busy summer, the PFA Awards will crown the best players from the previous 12 months. There are three Manchester City players up for the main Players' Player of the Year award as they stormed to a fourth successive title, while the Young Player Award sees six more nominees go head-to-head, including Chelsea's Cole Palmer.

With that, here is some important information ahead of the 2024 PFA Young Player of the Year ceremony…

Who won the PFA Young Player of the Year award in 2023?

Arsenal's Bukayo Saka picked up the award in 2023 after fending off competition from the likes of Erling Haaland, Jacob Ramsey, Evan Ferguson and Moises Caicedo. Saka is defending his crown after being nominated once again this year, though there are plenty of strong candidates challenging him.

How old do you have to be to qualify for the PFA Young Player of the Year award?

Players must have been 21 or younger before the 2023/24 season began to be considered. The rules have changed in recent years, with players aged 23 at the start of the season previously eligible.

Here is the list of nominees to be named the PFA Young Player of the Year award in 2024…

Rank	Player	Club	Position
1	Cole Palmer	Chelsea	Attacking midfielder
2	Bukayo Saka	Arsenal	Winger
3	Alejandro Garnacho	Manchester United	Winger
4	Kobbie Mainoo	Manchester United	Central midfielder
5	Michael Olise	Crystal Palace	Winger
6	Joao Pedro	Brighton & Hove Albion	Striker

6

Joao Pedro

Brighton & Hove Albion

Joao Pedro was a bright light for the Seagulls as Brighton struggled to build on their initial success under Roberto De Zerbi on the south coast. It could be argued that his inclusion among the main nominees was a surprise – a long-term injury derailed the Brazilian's season, and Brighton's form suffered in his absence.

He also shone most brightly in the Europa League, scoring six in six appearances during the group stage before missing Brighton's last-16 tie against Roma.

And while he turned up in big games – scoring against the likes of Manchester United and Spurs last season – it would be surprising if he manages to haul his way to award given the competition in front of him.

Joao Pedro Premier League Stats (2023/24)
Appearances	31
Goals	9
Assists	3

5

Michael Olise

Crystal Palace

Now at Bayern Munich, it is clear that Michael Olise's talents are set to take him far in the world of football. His final season at Crystal Palace saw him showcase his skills once again, despite suffering from injuries throughout the campaign.

But when fit, he almost always had an impact, as demonstrated through recording his best Premier League goalscoring year with ten (his previous best was two), as well as starring for France on their way to silver at the Olympic Games.

Michael Olise Premier League Stats (2023/24)
Appearances	19
Goals	10
Assists	6

4

Kobbie Mainoo

Manchester United

Kobbie Mainoo was the name on everyone's lips ahead of the summer after an unbelievable breakthrough season at Manchester United that saw him barge his way into the England team and start the last four games, including the final.

Last season, he saved the Red Devils with emphatic late goals, which kept Erik ten Hag's side in the hunt for a European spot until late on. Most memorably, he capped a fine debut campaign with a goal in the FA Cup final as United grabbed a shock victory over rivals and champions Man City.

Given his performances didn't go unnoticed by the likes of Gareth Southgate, it wouldn't be surprising if plenty of his peers thought the same. Whatever happens, the future is certainly bright for the 19-year-old.

Kobbie Mainoo Premier League Stats (2023/24)
Appearances	24
Goals	3
Assists	1

3

Alejandro Garnacho

Manchester United

Manchester United have a number of exciting talents at the moment, and Alejandro Garnacho may just be the pick of the bunch when he's on top form.

The Argentinian has made the right-wing position his own last season, consistently scoring and providing for his teammates over the past few months. His tally read ten goals and five assists and he ended his year with a match-winning contribution in the FA Cup final alongside Mainoo.

Away from the domestic game, he also enjoyed international success with Argentina at Copa America.

Despite this, it would seem a tall order for him to win the award this year, but if his career continues on its current trajectory, he could be on the shortlist for the main award before too long.

Alejandro Garnacho Premier League Stats (2023/24)
Appearances	36
Goals	7
Assists	4

2

Bukayo Saka

Arsenal

After picking up the PFA Young Player of the Year award last year, Bukayo Saka is in with a chance of a repeat.

The England star spearheaded Arsenal's push for the title under Mikel Arteta, with a very respectable 16 goals and 9 assists, as well as four goals and four assists in nine Champions League games. He also established himself as a starter on the international stage for England, scoring a crucial goal in their quarter-final win over Switzerland before netting in the penalty shootout.

There's no doubt Saka is a top-tier talent, but securing the Young Player award for a second successive year is by no means a given…

Bukayo Saka Premier League Stats (2023/24)
Appearances	35
Goals	16
Assists	9

1

Cole Palmer

Chelsea

While winning another Premier League will have more than softened the blow, Manchester City would surely have had huge regrets after letting Cole Palmer join Chelsea in last year's summer transfer window.

The English youngster will be a big favourite to lift the award after an inspired Premier League campaign for the Blues, despite the Stamford Bridge side underachieving under Mauricio Pochettino – in the owners' eyes, at least.

Palmer grabbed 27 goals and 15 assists in all competitions, which included a spell of ten goals and two assists within five top-flight games. He was even briefly in Golden Boot contention having scored as many as Erling Haaland by late April.

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He ended his season by playing an integral part for England on their journey to the European Championship final, during which his equaliser was not enough to cap a remarkable campaign with much-deserved silverware.

His impact for Chelsea will surely have made plenty sit up and take notice, and he will give Saka more than a run for his money as the Young Player of the Year is revealed on the evening of Tuesday 20th August.

Cole Palmer Premier League Stats (2023/24)
Appearances	34
Goals	22
Assists	11

Paul Mullin has admitted to “embarrassment” regarding the hype that Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney generate at Wrexham, saying it “seemed dumb”.

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• Striker joined Red Dragons in 2021
• Working with famous faces in North Wales
• Enjoying the ride after early pessimism

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• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Prolific frontman Mullin became one of the first marquee signings for famous co-owners in North Wales shortly after their stunning takeover was completed in 2021. Reynolds and McElhenney brought Hollywood glamour with them to the Racecourse, along with documentary cameras.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ is now an award-winning production that has helped to raise Wrexham’s global profile and their worldwide fan base, with players and coaches growing accustomed to starring on the small screen. Mullin is fully on board, but admits that celebrity status as an EFL player has taken some getting used to.

• WHAT MULLIN SAID

  Mullin has told of becoming a star turn in a squad that has delivered back-to-back promotions for ambitious co-chairmen: “It’s been a whirlwind – at first it seemed quite dumb for people to focus on things like that and I used to feel embarrassed by it.

  “I came here to play football and for people who don’t support Wrexham to recognise you from the documentary felt a bit strange. But luckily I did well enough on the pitch for the embarrassment to turn into pride and the whole story has been phenomenal. I don’t think you could have written it any better if you were writing a film screenplay.”

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  DID YOU KNOW?

  Mullin has gone on to figure in a feature film, with the 30-year-old enjoying a cameo role as ‘Welshpool’ in the ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ blockbuster that starred Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. He also has his own book, telling his Wrexham story, and has passed 100 goals for a team taking aim at the Premier League.

MatériaMais Notícias

O Vasco sofreu uma dura derrota na noite desta quinta-feira, pela Série B. Em um confronto direto na luta pelo acesso, o time carioca foi superado pelo Guarani, por 1 a 0, no Brinco de Ouro, pela 33ª rodada. No fim da partida, o goleiro Rafael Martins defendeu o pênalti cobrado por Germán Cano. Não bastasse essa frustração, no lance seguinte, Pablo marcou e decretou a vitória do Bugre.

Com o revés, o Cruz-Maltino fica com 47 pontos, distante do G4, já os paulistas chegam a 52, a dois do Goiás. O próximo compromisso do Vasco será no domingo, às 16h, no clássico diante do Botafogo. O Bugre, por sua vez, também atua no domingo, porém às 18h15, contra o Vila Nova (GO), no Estádio OBA. Ambas as partidas serão válidas pela 34ª rodada da Série B.

Confira a classificação da Série B

BUGRE PERIGOSO
No início da partida, Rodrigo Andrade deu um carrinho imprudente no zagueiro Leandro Castan e recebeu amarelo do árbitro Leandro Pedro Vuaden. Em seguida, os donos da casa assustaram o gol de Lucão em uma jogada rápida pela esquerda. Júlio César cruzou paraJúnior Todinho, que dominou e emendou uma bicicleta. O arqueiro vascaíno fez uma ótima defesa logo aos 4.

Em outra jogada pela esquerda, Bidu chutou de fora da área, mas Lucão defendeu em dois tempos e por pouco não se complicou. Do lado dos visitantes, Nene tentou uma arrancada e tocou para Marquinhos Gabriel. O meia deixou a bola passar, mas Riquelme chutou fraco para uma defesa tranquila deRafael Martins.

PRESSÃO CRUZ-MALTINA
No fim do primeiro tempo, o Vasco teve duas boas chances de abrir o placar. Bruno Gomes iniciou a jogada, e Marquinhos Gabriel encontrou Riquelme na área. O lateral finalizou e acertou a trave. No lance seguinte, Andrey arriscou de fora de área e a bola tirou tinta da trave bugrina. Na defesa, o Cruz-Maltino quase se complicou na saída de bola, mas Régis não conseguiu finalizar.

NO TRAVESSÃO
Na volta do intervalo, o Bugre chegou em uma rápida jogada de contra-ataque, e Bruno Sávio ficou na cara do gol, mas foi bloqueado por Riquelme, que salvou o Vasco. O alviverde pressionou na área, a defesa cruz-maltina não conseguiu afastar, e Bruno Silva chutou para Lucão espalmar. Em mais uma chegada perigosa, Rodrigo Andrade chutou da entrada da área e carimbou o travessão vascaíno.

LUCÃO SALVA
No único lance em que Cano teve a oportunidade de finalizar, o centroavante recebeu na área e chutou em cima do goleiro Rafael Martins. Na etapa final, o Guarani levou perigo e o goleiro vascaíno apareceu bem na partida. Depois do cruzamento, Pablo finalizou e o arqueiro salvou. Em outro chute, dessa vez deAllan Victor, mais uma ótima defesa do cruz-maltino.

CANO PERDE PÊNALTI
Em um lance na área, Bidu tocou a mão na bola e o árbitroLeandro Pedro Vuaden teve que consultar o VAR. O juiz analisou o vídeo e assinalou o pênalti no momento decisivo da partida. No entanto, o goleiro Rafael Martins brilhou e defendeu o pênalti cobrado por Germán Cano.

GOL DECISIVO
Logo em seguida, em rápida jogada de contra-ataque, Riquelme não afastou a bola, que sobrou para Pablo. O atacante foi em direção ao gol e bateu sem chances para Lucão. Abatido, o Vasco não conseguiu mais reagir, e a equipe bugrina conquistou um resultado importante para sequência da Série B.

FICHA TÉCNICA
GUARANI 1 X 0 VASCO

Data/Hora: 04/11/2021, às 19h (de Brasília)
Local: Brinco de Ouro da Princesa, Campinas (SP)
Árbitro: Leandro Pedro Vuaden (RS)
Assistentes: Jorge Eduardo Bernardi (RS) e José Eduardo Calza (RS)
VAR: Jean Pierre Goncalves Lima (RS)
Público:4.666 torcedores/Renda:R$ 141.630,00
Cartões Amarelos: Rodrigo Andrade, Pablo e Índio (GUA) / Riquelme e
Jhon Sánchez (VAS)
Cartões Vermelhos: –

Gol: Pablo (43’/2T) (1-0)

GUARANI (Técnico: Daniel Cerqueira – Daniel Paulista estava suspenso)
Rafael Martins, Diogo Mateus (Mateus Ludke (7’/2T), Ronaldo Alves, Thales e Bidu; Bruno Silva, Rodrigo Andrade (Índio 32’/2T) e Régis (Andrigo 32’/2T); Júlio César (Pablo 32’/2T),Júnior Todinho (Allan Victor 35’/1T) e Bruno Sávio.

VASCO (Técnico: Fernando Diniz)
Lucão; Zeca (Léo Matos 26’/2T), Ricardo Graça (Daniel Amorim 45’/2T), Leandro Castan e Riquelme (MT 45’/2T); Andrey (Jhon Sánchez 12’/2T), Bruno Gomes, Marquinhos Gabriel; Morato (Gabriel Pec 26’/2T), Nene e Cano.

Manchester City had a strong English representation at Euro 2024. They initially had four players named in the provisional squad, but that was trimmed down to three when it was announced that Jack Grealish did not make the final cut for the Three Lions. It is also worth pointing out that Cole Palmer, who made the squad, is a City academy graduate.

The three Cityzens who made the full squad were John Stones, Kyle Walker and Phil Foden. The trio all played a vital part as England reached the final of the tournament, where they were defeated by Spain, as club colleague Rodri lifted the trophy.

As per FBref, City’s trio of players in Germany were three of seven Englishmen who played in all seven of the Three Lions’ games, with Stones being the only ever-present of the three. None of them registered a goal involvement, which, from Foden’s perspective, was rather surprising given his exemplary form in 2023/24, where he scored 19 goals and registered eight assists in 35 Premier League games.

Crystal Palace were actually the side with the highest number of players in England’s Euro 2024 squad after Gareth Southgate selected six in total. However, the Cityzens have been linked with one of those players and could make a move to sign him before the transfer deadline.

Man City target Premier League attacker

The player in question here is Palace’s England international attacker Eberechi Eze. The 26-year-old versatile attacker has been linked with a move away from Selhurst Park all summer, after impressing at Euro 2024 and during the 2023/24 season.

According to a report from Football Transfers, City view the former QPR man as ‘a concrete target’ this summer, with the article stating Pep Guardiola and his side are ‘enthusiastic about the prospect’ of potentially doing a deal this summer.

However, they are not alone in their interest of the talented attacker. According to a recent report from The Times, North London side Tottenham Hotspur ‘like Eze’, and could look to beat the Cityzens to his signature and do a deal for the Palace number 10 this summer.

Eze’s price, however, complicates matters for both City and Spurs. The Eagles’ star man has a £60m release clause in his deal, with the South London side seemingly unwilling to negotiate any cheaper than that. Football Transfers confirmed that there are ‘some concerns’ about the price tag, but City will still look to sign Eze.

Why Eze would be a good signing

The 26-year-old was superb under Oliver Glasner last season. Eze played 27 games in the Premier League, scoring 11 goals and grabbing four assists, as well as getting two assists in the Carabao Cup.

Under Palace’s Austrian manager, the England international featured in 11 games and got himself on the score sheet six times, as well as registering four assists. That included two goals and one assist in the 5-0 thrashing of Aston Villa on the final day of the season.

Should City sign Eze this summer, he could prove to be an excellent alternative to Jamal Musiala – the man whom FBref marks as his most comparable player in Europe's top five leagues.

Guardiola’s side were linked with the Bayern Munich star towards the end of last season, but they do not seem likely to pursue a deal for the former Chelsea academy player.

However, Eze could certainly prove to be a perfect alternative to the German attacker. Like Musiala, who glides with the ball at his feet, the Eagles' number ten is a silky dribbler, who rides challenges so well and has lightning-quick feet. England teammate Declan Rice called him a “wizard”, and it is easy to see why when watching him in full flow.

Indeed, their similarities when dribbling are also reflected when comparing the pair’s FBref numbers. The Eagles attacker completes an average of 3.03 take-ons per 90 minutes, with Musiala slightly more at 4.46. Eze, however, completes more carries into the opposition’s penalty box per game, with 1.89 compared to the German’s 1.69.

Stat (per 90)

Eze

Musiala

Take-ons completed

3.03

4.46

Take-on completion %

49.3

56.5

Progressive carries

2.98

5.28

Carries into final third

2.68

3.08

Carries into penalty box

1.89

1.69

City would also not lose out on creativity if they sign Eze as an alternative to Musiala. The Palace attacker averages more key passes than the Bayern Munich man per game, with 2.37 compared to 2.15 for Musiala.

Whilst £60m is a lot of money, the Cityzens have it at their disposal after selling Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid earlier this week. If they are looking for a carry-first profile who can add creativity and dynamism to shake up their attack, Eze could be the dream signing for City now they seem unable to get Musiala.

Man City could land dream signing for Haaland in swoop for £60m star

The Cityzens have been linked with an interest in the forward this summer.

ByDan Emery Aug 6, 2024

The legendary Uruguayan certainly has one more year left, but he would have to make sacrifices to stay in South Beach

The defining image of Inter Miami's 2024 Playoffs won't be Lionel Messi lifting the MLS Cup. It won't be a smile from Tata Martino, or hugs between jubilant players, celebrating in South Beach.

Instead, it is the shot of an angry Luis Suarez, pushing Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan into the back of the net after Messi's goal in the Herons' game 3 loss, the biggest upset in MLS history. It was, at the time, a somewhat funny scene – albeit one that came with some predictable social media vitriol.

But it was emblematic of the way Suarez's influence for this side waned over the course of the 2024 season.

The Uruguayan was prolific during the regular season, scoring 20 goals and linking up with Messi in so many predictably wonderful ways. Those instinctive connections that had carved La Liga and the Champions League apart were still alive. Sure, the legs were older. Yet the brain worked just as fast, the synapses still snapping away. At times, it was spellbinding.

However, when it all got real, when the games started to matter, Suarez's flaws were exposed. He may still be an excellent goalscorer, instinctive in the box and clever in his movement. But MLS playoffs, in two short weeks, laid bare the issues that were always feared: Suarez is aging, and in this athletic league, his weaknesses can be exploited.

• X/ USMNTVSHATERS
  

  What went wrong for Suarez and Miami

  Look at the numbers, and everything suggests that Suarez had an agreeable round one showing against Atlanta. The forward scored a crucial goal in game one, and was a nuisance in attack throughout. He had more touches inside the Atlanta box than any other Miami player. Only Messi took more shots. In abstract, all of the key pieces were there.

  But watch closely, zoom in, and things weren't so smooth. Suarez drifted in and out of the final two games of the series, at times marked out of the contest by Atlanta. He missed two big chances in the decisive game 3, and was well denied by Guzan on a handful of occasions.

  Off the ball, things were worse. Miami are a confusing side out of possession. They aren't athletic enough to press high, and they're too old to drop deep and hit on the break – those aging legs can't handle it. The result is open, cavernous spaces in the midfield. And Suarez is partially to blame. In the second and third games, in particular, he didn't cut passing lanes like he should. Atlanta threaded the ball right through Miami. The game passed him by.

  And when he went on solo runs to close the ball down, the rest of the Miami team didn't follow him. There were numerous times in which this aging striker – who has admitted that he cannot exist without pain in his knees – sprinted after the ball, and tried to hound an opposing defence, only to find that he was alone in his efforts.

  There is something to be said here for modification, or adaptation. And Suarez is a smart footballer with many years of experience. At his best, in his athletic prime, he was an immensely effective presser and defender. He, alone, is not at fault here. Still, the point remains: asking Suarez to move, consistently, for 90 minutes, is an unrealistic remit for a player of his age.

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  His contract situation

  This is all made an issue by the fact that Suarez is technically out of contract. He signed a one-year minimum deal to play in Miami, forgoing the millions that he might have undoubtedly made playing pretty much anywhere else. His reported $1.5 million per year salary is just more than half of what he made every week at Barcelona. He has expressed, on multiple occasions, that he would be interested in returning to Miami for at least one more year (you'd assume that this is something Messi might also welcome.)

  But on what kind of deal? This is where it all gets a bit complicated. Suarez is too good, too experienced, and too revered to be making what is effectively a minimum intake. However, he probably isn't enough of a game-changing presence to be on designated player money. In other words, Suarez might want to stay, but how much he can be paid, under MLS's strict salary rules, could impact whether he remains in South Beach.

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  The Leo Campana problem

  Perhaps ironically, the decisive actor here isn't Suarez. It isn't Messi, either. Rather, it's backup striker Leo Campana. The Ecuadorian was always going to be bumped to a bench role when Suarez came in. And he did so with grace and aplomb. He provided eight goals in a reserve role, and willingly filled gaps, plugged holes, and sacrificed himself for the team. Miami has him under contract until 2027 – which is something of a contentious issue.

  Campana fills the kind of salary slot that Suarez could slide into, or that Miami could invest elsewhere. He would, presumably, fetch a handy return if Miami were to trade him for another player, or additional financial flexibility. Most MLS teams would probably see him as a solid starter, if not a reliable goalscorer.

  But, up front, Miami need a game-changer. This whole thing needs maximizing, every dollar shrewdly spent. Campana isn't good enough to boot Suarez out of the lineup, but he isn't so bad that he becomes a liability.

  The fact that he is an asset off the bench makes him even more of an issue from a financial perspective. Miami don't rely on him, but they need players like him. Still, he may be a luxury they cannot afford if they want to invest in another striker.

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  Other options

  The Miami inquest has already started.

  Earlier this week, it was reported that Miami are interested in River Plate striker Miguel Borja. He would seem to be an interesting option for the Herons. At 31, he isn't exactly a young prospect. But his 23 goals in the Argentine top flight suggest that there could be a real player here. Borja wouldn't be cheap, and would likely come on designated player money. That would seem to block Suarez from that spot, and force the Uruguayan into another year on a lower salary.

  There is also the Neymar issue. The Brazilian hasn't played consistent football in more than a year, and a hamstring issue has him out until the start of 2025. But he has been constantly linked with a move to MLS when his Saudi Pro League contract ends. The fact that he just bought a house in Miami has only fueled speculation. Could he be added as a designated player, reuniting the famous MSN trio in full, 10 years on?

  But scour the rest of Miami's roster, and there are perhaps more pressing needs than a striker. Right back is a problem, so too is center midfield and even center back. If Miami want to be this well-balanced squad that can win the MLS Cup, then another attacking player to fill valuable cap space wouldn't seem to be the best investment.

  And if logic prevails, will Suarez be willing to sacrifice money for a hard-working sort of utility player? Someone objectively worse at football but more valuable to this team? It's a tricky balance to strike.

Everton manager Sean Dyche has already begun the summer transfer window by selling two players and releasing two.

Lewis Dobbin has joined Aston Villa, while defender Ben Godfrey has reached an agreement to join Atalanta for a fee in the region of £10m.

Combine these sales with the fact that Dele Alli and Andre Gomes have both been released, Dyche has slashed the wage bill considerably.

Could this mean he is about to delve into the market to sign some players ahead of next season?

Everton transfer news

According to a report from journalist Graeme Bailey earlier this week, Everton are interested in signing Peterborough United defender Ronnie Edwards during the current transfer window.

Newcastle United and Southampton are also keen on luring the youngster to the Premier League.

Sky Sports state that a transfer fee of around £10m could be more than enough to prise Edwards away from the Posh, who would be making a substantial profit on the centre-back.

With Godfrey leaving to move to Italy, there is a space for another defender in the Everton squad and a move for Edwards could see Dyche forget all about Godfrey, no doubt about that.

Ronnie Edward’s season in numbers

Football analyst H has lauded Edwards previously, claiming that he “will play for England one day” and his stats from last season suggest he is going right to the very top.

The 21-year-old made 55 appearances for his club last season, missing just one league match all campaign, showing a remarkable level of consistency as he came so close to leading his side back to the Championship via the playoffs.

Accurate passes per game

83.4

Total duels won per game

4.2

Possession lost per game

8.6

Clean sheets

13

Tackles per game

1.3

Interceptions per game

1

The Englishman shone among his teammates in the third tier, ranking third with regards to overall Sofascore rating (7.21), first for accurate passes per game (83.4), first for accurate long balls per game (6.9), and first for clearances per game (4.1), showing how important he was for the club.

Director of football at Peterborough, Barry Fry, has heaped plenty of praise on Edwards previously, saying: "Ronnie is a Rolls Royce. We knew that when we signed him.

"It’s no secret how highly Ronnie is rated by other clubs and by the England set up. We had 18 Premier League scouts watching him play for the under 23s at our stadium".

It will surely only be a matter of when and not if the youngster makes a move to the Premier League, and he has all the necessary tools to shine in the top flight.

Dyche should use the funds gained from the sale of Godfrey to bring Edwards to Merseyside, as the Toffees could be the ideal place for him to get regular first-team football in one of the best leagues on the continent.

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Glasgow Rangers lack of success last season was due to a variety of reasons. As the Premiership campaign reached its climax, the Ibrox side faltered, as several of the senior leadership team failed to inspire the team when the going got tough.

Injuries also didn’t help the cause, as Philippe Clement had to endure many games without several of his key players, most notably Abdallah Sima and Ridvan Yilmaz.

It was the matches against Celtic which proved to the Light Blues' undoing, failing to defeat their Old Firm rivals at all throughout the 2023/24 season, which included a 1-0 loss in the Scottish Cup final.

Since August 2021, Rangers have won just one Old Firm clash in 90 minutes, and that was when Celtic had already wrapped up the League title during the 2022/23 campaign.

The reason? A lack of control in the midfield, allowing Celtic to dominate proceedings and this has given them the upper hand.

It is clear the Gers miss someone like Steven Davis, who was able to dictate play in these types of matches.

Steven Davis’ Rangers statistics

The Northern Irishman enjoyed two wonderful spells at the Light Blues, making a total of 362 appearances while lifting a host of honours during both his spells north of the border.

Despite his advancing years, Davis was crucial in everything positive about Rangers under Steven Gerrard, none more so than during the 2020/21 campaign which saw the club finally end their decade-long wait for a league title.

Steven Davis' Rangers stats

Season

Games

Goals

2022/23

16

2

2021/22

33

1

2020/21

49

2

2019/20

41

1

2018/19

18

0

2011/12

39

5

2010/11

53

5

2009/10

50

4

2008/09

39

6

2007/08

24

1

Via Transfermarkt

The midfielder finished that season with an 89% pass success rate, while averaging 81.7 touches per game, winning 57% of his ground duels and being dribbled past on just 0.7 occasions per match, showcasing his ability on the ball, which allowed him to control the entire game from the heart of the midfield area.

He was Gerrard’s conductor in that Rangers side, and it is no coincidence that ever since he suffered a career-ending injury in 2022, the club have lacked this control and added bite in the centre of the pitch.

Even his record against Celtic is impressive, especially during his second spell in Glasgow. Since rejoining the Gers in January 2018, Davis played 13 Old Firm matches, losing just three.

Since his last outing in the derby in September 2022, the Light Blues have lost seven times and drawn twice, further evidence of how much they miss Davis.

Could Clement finally replace the Northern Irishman with a move for a Scot who impressed at club level last season?

Rangers eyeing swoop for Championship midfielder

According to reports, Rangers have made contact with Norwich City regarding a move for midfielder Kenny McLean as Clement looks to add some much-needed depth to his playing squad.

He currently has two years remaining on his contract with the Canaries, which suggests Clement may have to come in with a decent transfer offer in order to secure his services ahead of next season.

Having signed plenty of youngsters this summer, the club will require some experience too in their squad and McLean could provide that in abundance.

One potential problem lies with his salary. At Norwich, McLean is earning £25k-per-week, which could prove to be a potential stumbling block, as Clement seems keen on bringing the wage bill down.

Should a deal be cut with the Championship side, however, it could prove to be a solid piece of transfer business by the Belgian, especially with McLean’s plethora of experience in both the English and Scottish top flights during his career thus far.

Kenny McLean’s season in numbers for Norwich City

Across the entire 2023/24 campaign, McLean made 52 appearances for the Canaries as they came close to sealing promotion to the Premier League.

A return of two goals and five assists may not sound impressive, yet McLean offers much greater qualities which could see him shine at Rangers.

Among his teammates, the Scottish international ranked third for overall Sofascore rating in the Championship (7.08), along with ranking first for accurate passes per game (54.7), second for accurate long balls per game (4.2), fourth for tackles per game (2) and third for interceptions per game (1.2), showcasing his sublime passing skills while also offering some defensive solidity in the midfield area.

His former manager, David Wagner, praised McLean, saying: “He is one of, if not the, most reliable players we have. He is a good person as well."

Reliable is exactly the sort of player Clement needs as he seeks to topple Celtic and return Rangers to the top of the pile in Scotland next term.

Kenny McLean could finally replace Steven Davis at Rangers

McLean could give the Gers that control in the midfield they have been sorely lacking in recent seasons.

When compared to his positional peers in the men’s next 14 competitions, McLean currently ranks in the top 6% for attempted passes per 90 (67.21), while ranking in the top 21% for progressive passes (6.41) and top 19% for progressive carries (1.92) per 90, which is yet more evidence of the fact he loves to control the game plus moves the ball forward as often as possible during games.

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These qualities are certainly similar to the ones Davis offered during his spell at Rangers, particularly his second stint, where he was deployed slighter deeper due to his advancing years.

If Clement can negotiate a decent transfer fee for the 32-year-old, then there is no doubt he would be a worthwhile signing ahead of next term.

Since moving to Norwich, the Scot has played 68 times in the Premier League, proving that he can mix it with the very best in the country.

A move for him is a no-brainer, but like every other significant signing the club looks to make, it will all come down to the financial aspect.

Davis was a vital cog in the machine during two separate spells at Rangers. Should McLean join the Light Blues, Clement may just replace the former Northern Irishman.

MatériaMais Notícias

O Santos foi derrotado pelo Athletico-PR nesta terça-feira, por 1 a 0, na Vila Belmiro pelo duelo de volta das quartas de final da Copa do Brasil. O Peixe perdeu o confronto de ida por 1 a 0, em Curitiba, e precisava vencer pela mesma diferença para levar a decisão aos pênaltis ou de uma vitória por dois ou mais gols de diferença para avançar direto para a semifinal da competição.

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Com a esperada classificação não veio, o clube santista deixa de receber R$ 7,3 milhões em premiação. Se alcançasse ainda o título, garantiria mais R$ 56 milhões, somente pela conquista.

O Peixe entrou na Copa do Brasil direto na terceira fase, quando eliminou o Cianorte, do Paraná, pelo placar agregado de 3 a 0. Nas oitavas de final, o Santos enfrentou a Juazeirense, da Bahia, e avançou pelo placar agregado de 4 a 2. O clube já faturou R$ 6,15 milhões pelas fases avançadas.

Veja as premiações por fase:

Terceira fase:R$ 1,7 milhão
Oitavas de final:R$ 2,7 milhões
Quartas de final:R$ 3,45 milhões
Semifinais:R$ 7,3 milhões
Vice-campeão:R$ 23 milhões
Campeão:R$ 56 milhões