Category Uncategorized

England vice-captain Anya Shrubsole has been ruled out of the first two ODIs against West Indies due to a side strain

ESPNcricinfo staff07-Oct-2016

England vice-captain Anya Shrubsole has been ruled out of the first two ODIs against West Indies due to a side strain. But she is working towards being fit for the final three matches of the series, which begin from October 14 in Kingston and count towards the Women’s Championship. England are at third, with nine wins from 15 games.Shrubsole picked up the injury playing a warm-up match against a Jamaican representative XI on Thursday. The 24-year old seamer had been named England’s player of the year for 2015. She is also No. 9 on the ICC bowlers’ rankings in ODIs.”Anya Shrubsole is a world class cricketer and our vice-captain, so of course we want her fit and helping the team to win matches for England,” England women’s coach Mark Robinson said. “But her absence from the first two matches here in Montego Bay creates an opportunity for someone else to put their hand up and show what they can do. The squad is ready and raring to go tomorrow.”The top four teams from the Women’s championship gain direct entry into the 2017 World Cup. Australia have already qualified. West Indies are at second place with 10 wins from 15 games.

Leeds United are set to have Feyenoord manager Arne Slot on their shortlist this summer, according to a fresh update regarding their search for a next boss.

How is Slot faring at Feyenoord?

The 44-year-old currently has a big reputation at Feyenoord, clinching Eredivisie title glory this season to outline the brilliant job he is doing. His performance in the Netherlands certainly isn't going unnoticed elsewhere and it could be that his current club find it difficult to keep hold of him at the end of the campaign.

Leeds could well be on the search for a new boss once this campaign reaches its conclusion, with Sam Allardyce potentially only in charge until the summer. Should the Englishman move on, it is then essential that the Whites get their appointment spot on, having already parted ways with Jesse Marsch and Javi Gracia this season.

Could Slot become Leeds' next manager?

According to The Athletic, Leeds are one of several Premier League clubs who will have Slot on their shortlist, ahead of a potential summer move for him:

"Theirs has been a remarkable turnaround but, perhaps more than just results, it has been the way Feyenoord have won this title that will ensure Slot is in demand in the summer.

"High-energy, attacking, exciting football are the markers of his teams, but they win, too. And win a lot. In England alone, Tottenham, Leeds, Crystal Palace and a few others will be looking for a new head coach. Slot will likely be on most of those lists."

Slot could be such an ambitious appointment by the Leeds if they managed to get him, although they would clearly only have a chance if they manage to avoid relegation to the Championship.

He has been lauded as "probably the most exciting head coach I’ve seen in ten years" by Dutch football expert Marcel van der Kraan, who added that he "plays the most attacking style you can imagine, even more than Guardiola".

That is certainly a ringing endorsement of Slot, showing that calibre of manager they could bring in, although it will clearly be difficult to beat lots of other clubs to his signature, should he even want to leave Feyenoord. He represents the future, still relatively young in terms of his coaching career, and his style of play could light up Elland Road after such a frustrating time of things this season, and even before that.

Liverpool are interested in signing Ajax centre-back Jurrien Timber this summer, ahead of what is set to be a score of sweeping changes at Anfield.

What's the latest on Jurrien Timber to Liverpool?

Ex-Netherlands star Andy van der Meyde expects Reds boss Jurgen Klopp to complete a transfer for the dynamic defender (as relayed by TEAMtalk), who is said to be touted at €50m (£44m) by his Amsterdam outfit.

This follows previous seasonal reports from the likes of 90min, who credited Liverpool with a strong interest in the defender, alongside top European clubs such as Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich.

The 21-year-old still has two years remaining on his current deal with De Godenzonen, but if the likes of Liverpool do put forth a compelling offer, it would appear his departure from his homeland's capital would be a formality.

Should Liverpool sign Jurrien Timber?

While the emphasis will be on bolstering the midfield this summer at Anfield, with the central issues highlighted all season and James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all departing upon the expiry of their respective contracts, the defence has not been as imperious as it once was.

Timber is one of the most robust defenders in world football; as per FBref, the 15-cap Netherlands international ranks among the top 12% of positional peers at a similar level of competition for rate of assists, the top 3% for shot-creating actions and the top 5% for successful take-ons per 90, as well as the top 1% for pass completion, progressive passes and progressive carries.

These metrics illustrate an all-encompassing aura that leaves him in good stead to flourish at one of Europe's first-rate outfits.

Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool's star £75m colossus, is a prime example for Timber to emulate, while Manchester City defender Rúben Dias could also be the perfect confrere, having soared into prominence since his £65m move to the Etihad Stadium in 2019.

The £180k-per-week Portuguese phenom ranks among the top 1% of defenders across Europe's top five leagues for passes attempted per 90 and the top 2% for pass completion, while he has been hailed as a "man mountain" by former Citizen Michael Ball.

Albeit not at the same level, Timber clearly boasts similar qualities, and has been dubbed "tenacious" by talent scout Jacek Kulig, which illustrates the unrelenting intensity that goes in tandem with Klopp's tactical vision.

Timber is a future "leader" – as praised by Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag – and could cement the fluidity of the Reds' backline for years to come, enriching the club's prospects of clinching silverware in abundance over the next decade.

Chelsea are "more than ready" to submit a huge package deal to sign Victor Osimhen this summer.

The Nigerian forward has been one of the deadliest players in Europe this season, scoring 28 goals in all competitions. He also grabbed five assists but it's his goalscoring that is sparking huge interest from the big clubs.

Chelsea are one of the interested clubs but will need to spend an incredible amount of money to bring him to the Premier League, with Manchester United actually pulling out of the race due to the associated costs.

What's the transfer latest on Victor Osimhen?

According to Corriere dello Sport, via Sport Witness, Chelsea are "more than ready" to submit a huge offer to sign Osimhen, who they describe as an "unstoppable centre-forward".

The report states that Todd Boehly is prepared to offer a package worth up to €150m (£131m) including two players. The Blues are prepared to send Christian Pulisic and Kepa Arrizabalaga to Napoli which would include a cash offer that would take the overall value of the offer to £131m.

That is, of course, if Napoli value the two players at the same rate Chelsea do. If not, it could cause major issues in negotiations.

More consequentially, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has, at the risk of repeating himself, told European clubs that none of his title winners are for sale.

How likely is it that Chelsea sign Victor Osimhen?

A major obstacle for Chelsea this summer is their lack of Champions League football next season with Osimhen reportedly making playing in Europe a priority. Money could be a factor but after his performances this season, the 24-year-old will be aware that the best investment he can make is into taking his career to the next level.

That could mean snubbing all offers to stay at Napoli for another season while he waits for Chelsea or for another side to come in for him.

Napoli were eliminated from the Champions League by domestic rivals, AC Milan, but will be targeting a better finish in that competition next season if they can hold onto their best players.

Manchester City have joined the race for Napoli defender Kim Min-Jae, according to a recent report from The Sun.

Which defenders could Man City sign this summer

Man City are known to be looking at a number of defenders ahead of the summer transfer window, with it recently emerging they are plotting a surprise move for Brentford left-back Aaron Hickey, who could cost around £30m.

Pep Guardiola is also keen on a new centre-back, and the Citizens are said to have intensified their contacts to sign RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol in recent times, as the manager is a big fan of the Croatia international.

The entire defence could have a makeover this summer, as City are interested in signing Bayern Munich right-back Benjamin Pavard, who could perhaps come in as a replacement for Kyle Walker, as the Englishman is now in his thirties.

Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are all known to be interested in Kim, and now Man City have entered the race for the Napoli defender, so a Premier League transfer battle is very much on the cards this summer.

Guardiola is a big fan of the South Korean, and he is believed to be interested in a move to England, despite the Serie A club being keen to offer him a new deal in the summer.

The 26-year-old has a release clause of just £40m in his contract, meaning the Citizens may be able to secure his signature for a bargain fee this summer, and he could replace Aymeric Laporte, who will be allowed to leave.

Should Man City sign Kim Min-Jae?

Even though Man City are well-stocked at centre-back, with the likes of Ruben Dias, John Stones, Manuel Akani and Nathan Ake already at the club, they should undoubtedly make a move for the Napoli star.

£40m is an absolute bargain for a player who has been lauded "the best centre-back in the world" by Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti, and he has been vital in the Serie A side's push for the league title.

With an average Sofascore match rating of 7.26, the South Korea international is the third-best performing player in the squad, and there are also indications he would work well in a Guardiola system.

In the past year, Kim ranks in the 97th percentile for passes attempted, and in the 88th for his pass-completion rate per 90, making him the perfect defender for Man City.

Manchester United are believed to be "monitoring" Barcelona youngster Ansu Fati ahead of a potential summer move, according to a new update.

Could Fati leave Barcelona this summer?

The Red Devils may have a more formidable look to them these days, but it is still clear that further reinforcements are needed at the end of the season. Recent defeats away to Liverpool and Newcastle United have shown that United still have some flaws and that squad depth needs to be improved moving forward, in order to become genuine Premier League title challengers again.

One area of the pitch could do with extra elite quality is in attack, with Marcus Rashford clearly in sensational form but the other options arguably not the greatest. Antony has contributed positively in his first season at Old Trafford but has also blown hot and cold, while Jadon Sancho continues to flatter to deceive in a United shirt, with the pair contributing just seven league goals between them.

A player who could potentially be available this summer is Fati, who has been linked with a move away from Barca this summer, having struggled to consistently nail down a place in Xavi's team this season, making only 10 starts in La Liga overall. Now, a fresh claim has emerged regarding the 20-year-old, who has a €1billion (£879m) release clause in his contract.

Are United an option for Fati?

According to Football Insider's Pete O'Rourke, United are "monitoring Fati’s situation" currently, as they weigh up a possible summer bid. Chelsea are in the same boat, however, as the Blues also look to make significant reinforcements in the summer window.

Manchester City have been put on "red alert", too, with the attacking youngster "frustrated with his game time at Barcelona and with his father "publicly speaking out about his anger towards his lack of minutes".

While Fati's reputation has dipped a little in recent times, with Pedri and Gavi the new lauded young pair at Camp Nou, he remains a footballer of incredible promise, having been hailed as "dangerous" by Xavi. He already has 97 appearances to his name for Barca, as well as seven caps for Spain, despite being just 20, so he could develop under Erik ten Hag.

A devastating wide man with pace and unpredictability in abundance, he could come in as a strong rival for both Rashford and Antony, possibly even playing with the pair if the former is moved to a more central role next season, depending on whether or not a new striker comes in.

A Qatari delegation on behalf of Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani held positive talks with Manchester United over a possible takeover on Thursday, BBC reporter Simon Stone reports.

The Lowdown: First bid

Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe both made offers to take control at Old Trafford before the soft deadline set by the Glazers last month.

The current Manchester United owners have placed a £5bn valuation at Old Trafford, with previous reports believing both Jassim and Ratcliffe’s bids are set to be rejected. However, it looks as if Jassim won’t away quietly, with the Qatari determined to complete a deal.

The Latest: Positive talks

BBC reporter Stone took to Twitter to share an update on Jassim’s delegation heading to Old Trafford on Thursday, labelling it as ‘serious stuff’.

‘Sheikh Jassim has sent formidable delegation to Old Trafford. This is serious stuff. Don’t forget, prior to Man Utd it had been underlined Qatar’s interest in football didn’t end at World Cup. They are interested in getting involved in PL.’

Stone then shared a further update in the day on Twitter, revealing that he’s heard meetings at Old Trafford were ‘positive’.

‘Told the ‘Qatari delegation’ were at Man Utd for 10 hours today. Meetings described as positive. Remain committed to buying the club.’

The Verdict: Second bid incoming

It looks as if a second offer from Jassim will be made within 10 days following their meeting in Manchester, according to Sky Sports. Talks were seemingly a lot longer than expected, which could be encouraging for Jassim and those United supporters who want to see him in charge at Old Trafford.

However, Jassim’s takeover rival Ratcliffe is due at Old Trafford and Carrington today, so it looks as if neither party is backing down, something which could play into the Glazers’ hands, should a bidding war take place.

Erik ten Hag may well be monitoring the off-field developments as well, especially as Jassim and the Qatari group wanted ‘things done quickly’ so they can help the United boss with funds ahead of the summer transfer window, while also having stadium redevelopment and fan engagement at the heart of their bid.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke says Arsenal ‘could be an attractive proposition’ for Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan as his contract expires this summer.

The Lowdown: Arsenal interest

Arsenal reportedly held an interest in Gundogan last summer when he only had a year left on his contract at the Etihad Stadium.

He has still not renewed his deal with the club, meaning that he can leave as a free agent this summer once it expires.

The Latest: An ‘attractive’ move?

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke says that the Gunners ‘could be an attractive proposition’ for Gundogan should he not sign a new deal, given that he would be able to work with Mikel Arteta again, but Pep Guardiola may be reluctant for him to move to North London due to the ‘massive’ impacts both Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko have had this season:

“Yeah, I don’t think he’d [Guardiola] ideally like to see one of his best players let go at Manchester City. He was obviously open to selling Zinchenko and Gabriel Jesus to Arsenal.

“They’ve had a massive impact at the Emirates, so he won’t want to go and strengthen one of his rivals and see one of his top players move to Arsenal.

“But obviously, the Mikel Arteta factor is there at Arsenal as well, having worked with Gundogan before, so maybe that’s why there is a consideration on Gundogan’s part maybe if he does want a change of scenery and move to a new club, to work with Arteta again could be an attractive proposition for him.”

The Verdict: Why not…

With Jesus and Zinchenko coming in and instantly making Arsenal better, as they sit top of the Premier League table, signing up another City star in Gundogan on a free transfer would be another smart move.

Hailed as an ‘incredible’ footballer by Guardiola speaking about the German’s winner against Aston Villa on the last day of last season to hand City the title, Gundogan has shown that he can produce big moments in big games, and has that winning mentality that would add to Jesus’ and Zinchenko’s influence on the team.

Arteta can also get the best out of him, having worked with him before and lauding him as ‘tremendous’ in the past, and at 32 years of age, he would add more experience to what is a young squad, offering Arteta another solid option in the middle of the park.

Celtic midfielder Aaron Mooy will hopefully be fit to face Rangers in the Scottish League Cup final this weekend, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Lowdown: Huge game for Celtic

The first silverware of the 2022/23 season is on offer for the Hoops on Sunday afternoon, as they lock horns with their biggest rivals at Hampden Park.

It is a massive occasion for both Celtic and Rangers, with Ange Postecoglou once again looking to get one over on Michael Beale, as well as winning his third trophy as Hoops manager.

Mooy has been out of action since the 5-1 win over St Mirren earlier this month, however, leading to doubts over his involvement in Sunday’s game.

The Latest: Mooy hopefully fit

Speaking to Give Me Sport, O’Rourke talked up the 32-year-old’s chances of being fit for the match:

“Yeah, well, for a final you want all your best players available and Aaron Mooy, I think in recent weeks, has been instrumental in that Celtic midfield as well.

“So yeah, I’m sure Ange Postecoglou will be hoping to have his fellow Australian available for selection for that game because he’ll be hoping to put out his strongest team against Rangers and try to pick up that first piece of silverware of the season right now as well.

“Obviously, Celtic have got a lot of cover as well in that squad to try and fill in but yeah, for a final, any manager will want his best players available and that’s why Mooy will definitely be one that Postecoglou will hope will return to fitness in time.”

The Verdict: Would be a huge boost

Mooy being available would be an almighty boost for Celtic, considering the experience he has as a footballer, racking up a total of 57 caps for Australia.

[freshpress-quiz id=“419088″]

The midfielder’s poise and quality in the middle of the park could be so key – he has enjoyed an 86% pass completion rate in the Scottish Premiership this season – with his ability to dictate play so important.

It could be that Mooy is only deemed fit enough for the substitutes’ bench, considering a potential lack of match fitness, but his game management could be vital during the second half, not to mention the fact that he has four goals and six assists in the league.

The Australian has been lauded as ‘unbelievable’ by teammate Greg Taylor and having him back in the fold for such a huge game would be an immediate psychological boost.

Sky Sports reporter Rob Dorsett says that there has been ‘no contact’ from Newcastle United in the last 24 hours to sign reported target Sander Berge.

The Lowdown: ‘Gettable’

It was reported at lunchtime that Berge is a ‘gettable’ player for Newcastle on deadline day, as they look to sign a new central midfielder with Jonjo Shelvey on his way to Nottingham Forest.

It was even reported on Monday afternoon that the St. James’ Park outfit had actually made a loan with an obligation to buy offer to Sheffield United for the Norway international, while Fulham were thought to be ‘in talks’ over a permanent £20m deal.

The Latest: ‘No contact’

Taking to Twitter, Dorsett now says that there has been ‘no contact’ from the North East club in the last 24 hours to sign Berge, adding that it ‘looks like’ that he will be staying at Bramall Lane:

“No contact in last 24hrs from #Fulham or #nufc for #sufc Sander Berge, I’m told. Looks like he’ll remain at Bramall Lane.”

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/newcastle-news-7/” title=”Newcastle news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

The Verdict: Blow

It is certainly a blow for the Tynesiders to miss out on Berge, especially given that it is unlikely that they will sign another midfield target in Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher before the deadline.

Lauded as a ‘physical beast‘ by football writer Sebastien Pedersen, and a ‘Rolls-Royce‘ by his team-mate Chris Basham, the six-foot-five Berge is very highly-rated despite playing in a lower division in the Championship, and he ranks in the top 22% of midfielders in Europe outside of the top five leagues for a number of key metrics for midfielders, including total touches and dribbles completed.

Berge has also shown himself to be a threat when he gets close to and inside the penalty box, recording an impressive four goals and three assists in the Championship so far this season, and at 24 years of age, has not hit his prime yet.

However, with the clock ticking, it looks as if the Magpies will now have to move on to other potential targets.