Category Uncategorized

Tottenham Hotspur correspondent Alasdair Gold has raved over unseen youngster Luca Gunter following some ‘terrific’ exploits for the club’s Under-19s.

The Lowdown: Spurs academy flourishing

The Premier League side’s first team have been backed to succeed this season under trophy-laden boss Antonio Conte but the N17 academy is also, arguably, one of country’s most promising.

Hotspur Way has birthed some major talents in recent years with midfielder Oliver Skipp even tipped to one day become captain of the north Londoners.

Meanwhile, forward Dane Scarlett is setting the south coast alight on loan at Portsmouth – having scored three goals in five League One starts whilst also grabbing an assist (WhoScored).

The Latest: Gold raves over unseen Gunter…

Now, going by the reaction of Spurs journalist Gold, there could be yet another bright youngster to watch out for.

Akin to Hugo Lloris in Tottenham’s senior 2-0 defeat to Sporting last night, Under-19s shot stopper Gunter appeared to enjoy a fine evening against the Portuguese youngsters in the UEFA Youth League but could do little about the result.

Gunter made some ‘terrific’ saves in the pouring rain, but much like Conte’s side, the Spurs starlets fell to a 2-0 loss – Gold stated:

“Luca Gunter having a terrific first half in goal so far for Spurs U19s in their UEFA Youth League match against Sporting. Some acrobatic saves in the constantly changing weather.”

The Verdict: One to watch?

Still yet to make his senior debut, Gunter is building quite the reputation.

Gold isn’t the only Spurs source to draw attention to the 17-year-old with Football Insider pundit John Wenham calling the teenager a ‘standout’ in the academy.

Wenham goes on to say he is ‘really excited’ about the Gunter, and going by his latest exploits, supporters may well want to keep an eye on him.

Sky Sports pundit Micah Richards has lauded Allan Saint-Maximin as ‘unplayable’ during Newcastle United’s clash against Manchester City this afternoon.

The lowdown: Rollercoaster affair

Despite the raucous atmosphere at St James’ Park and the confident run of form heading into the clash, the Magpies made a poor start against the Premier League champions as Ilkay Gundogan opened the scoring inside five minutes.

However, goals from Miguel Almiron and Callum Wilson turned the game on its head prior to half-time, and Kieran Trippier made it 3-1 in the 54th minute.

A rollercoaster match took its next drastic twist in a five-minute period just after the hour mark as quickfire goals from Erling Haaland and Bernardo Silva brought the teams level once more.

The latest: Saint-Maximin ‘unplayable’

Speaking at half-time during Sky Sports’ live commentary from St James’ Park on a dramatic afternoon, Richards was full of praise for the French winger’s impact on the first half turnaround.

The former Manchester City defender stated: “Saint-Maximin has been unplayable at times. Everything good for Newcastle has come down their left side.”

The verdict: Fully deserved praise

Saint-Maximin might not have been on the scoresheet today, but it’s not difficult to see why Richards was so fulsome on his praise of the 25-year-old.

He was Newcastle’s highest-rated player as per Sofascore, helping himself to two first-half assists, making four key passes, winning six duels, completing three dribbles and creating two ‘big chances’ as he proved a nightmare for Kyle Walker to handle on that flank.

The Frenchman has been questioned over his end product at times, but there could be no complaints from the Toon Army with his effect on today’s match, and against the reigning champions, of all teams.

Newcastle United have been gifted a major injury boost before they play Nottingham Forest at home in their opening game of the new Premier League season.

The Lowdown: Excitement building

There is certainly excitement building among supporters as the first weekend of the new top-flight campaign gets underway.

With the signings of Nick Pope, Sven Botman and Matt Targett, the Toon Army may be confident of achieving a top-half finish this year, and with one or two more signings, they could even push for the European places.

However, their first hurdle will be a tricky one, as they take on newly-promoted Forest, who have made many new signings themselves and will have a buzz around the squad after returning to the Premier League after so long away.

The Latest: Injury news

Speaking in his pre-game press conference ahead of the match, Eddie Howe revealed that while he is unsure how long Jonjo Shelvey will be out for, both Jamal Lewis and Federico Fernandez are not far away in terms of their recoveries, while Javier Manquillo is ‘back in training’:

“Jonjo is in London tonight for another assessment so we don’t have a clear, defined timeframe on his injury.

“Jamal Lewis and Federico Fernandez are working their way and shouldn’t be too long. Manquillo is back in training too so we’re not too bad.”

The Verdict: Boost

It is certainly a boost for the St. James’ Park outfit that three squad players could be returning quickly in time for the new season.

Manquillo, Fernandez and Lewis racked up 34 appearances in total between them over all competitions last term, and with Shelvey missing and the new signings needing time to gel, they could be important squad members for the next few weeks.

Nonetheless, the Magpies will want to get off to the perfect start by clinching all three points against Forest, and perhaps Manquillo could play some role off the bench if the returning Kieran Trippier needs a rest after an hour or so.

West Ham United insider and reliable source ExWHUemployee has shared a promising update on the club’s chances of signing Napoli star Piotr Zielinski this summer.

The Lowdown: Moyes set for busy end?

Following the official signings of Nayef Aguerd, Flynn Downes, Alphonse Areola and now Gianluca Scamacca, with the latter man putting an end to David Moyes’ long striker search, it appears the Irons aren’t finished.

Aiming to keep pace with the Premier League’s elite, it is believed that West Ham are attempting to make more new additions with the likes of Filip Kostic (Eintracht Frankfurt) and Amadou Onana (Lille) on their list of targets.

It is believed they have been working on both players in recent weeks with Zielinski, as per reports, coming as another player West Ham have held discussions over signing.

The Latest: Ex shares Zielinski update…

Now, writing on his Patreon, Ex has shared an update on the club’s chances of signing Napoli’s creative midfielder.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/west-ham-latest-updates-2/” title=”West Ham latest updates!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

The West Ham insider says more talks are scheduled and ‘will continue’ for Zielinski, and what’s more, the Rush Green side are ‘getting much closer to an agreement’ and ‘hope’ to get it over the line ‘as well’.

The Verdict: Make the move?

The 28-year-old, having drawn comparisons to the likes of Kevin De Bruyne for his silky style and vision, has been called a ‘beautiful footballer’ by former Poland coach Paulo Sousa.

The Guardian have also described Zielinski as an ‘architect’ in midfield and the international ace could potentially arrive with that degree of composure and creativity – gifting Moyes another useful option and providing more attacking impetus from the middle of the park.

Former Premier League striker Frank McAvennie has claimed that Liam Delap could become a forgotten man at Manchester City following the arrival of Erling Haaland.

The Lowdown: Man City open to Delap exit

The 19-year-old still has four years remaining on his contract at the Etihad Stadium after penning an extension to his deal last summer, but he spent the whole of last season playing for the under-23s without being able to make a genuine breakthrough into the first team.

Journalist and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano revealed last week that the Sky Blues are willing to let the forward go in the coming weeks, with both Burnley and Southampton the two main clubs to have emerged as serious potential suitors.

The Latest: McAvennie’s comments

Speaking to Football Insider, McAvennie was quick to insist that Delap should have been given a chance to shine in Man City’s senior squad last term, but now fears for the youngster’s first-team prospects following the summer arrival of the hugely prolific Erling Haaland.

The former Aston Villa forward said: “I don’t know why, if he’s that good a striker and spoken so highly of, he didn’t get a game. They played so many games last year without a striker.

“You’re not getting in the team now that Haaland’s there. I would be a bit concerned for myself if I was in that team, I’d be wondering why, if I’m supposed to be a good striker, why he wasn’t playing me.

“I’d have left before now. I’d have been knocking on Pep’s [Guardiola] door before now.“

The Verdict: He could go

Oleksandr Zinchenko looks like he’s on his way out as he closes in on a move to Arsenal; and if McAvennie’s comments about his game-time prove prophetic, Delap could be next to head for the Etihad exit door in what would be a real blow for the champions.

The Winchester-born talent, who was once dubbed an ‘exceptional’ striker by City manager Pep Guardiola, missed chunks of last season due to injury but still managed to score eight goals and provide two assists in ten Premier League 2 appearances when involved in the action, as per Transfermarkt.

Delap is arguably one of City’s most exciting young talents coming through the ranks, and whether it happens on loan or on a permanent basis, it would be a shame for the club to lose the services of someone who has so much potential for the future.

However, if he struggles to get a look-in for the first team again next season, the 19-year-old could indeed seek to move on from the Etihad.

Manchester United are accelerating their attempts to sign Antony from Ajax, with the latest reports suggesting that Erik ten Hag’s side have now submitted a bid for the Brazilian.

What’s the word?

United have been regularly linked with the winger for some weeks now, and it has now been claimed by Goal correspondent James Robson that the Red Devils have submitted a £51m bid to the Dutch champions.

However, he also suggests that this is still £20m short of Ajax’s €80m (£68m) asking price, and the Eredivisie side are certainly under no pressure to sell, having already received significant fees for Bundesliga-bound duo Ryan Gravenberch and Sebastien Haller this summer.

The 22-year-old is contracted at the Johan Cruyff Arena until 2025, so it seems as if United will have to meet Ajax’s asking price if they want to bring him to Old Trafford this summer.

Ten Hag’s dream?

Antony was a key player for Ajax last season as they won the title, making 23 appearances in the Dutch top-flight, contributing eight goals and four assists, averaging a superb 7.47 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

The new United boss spoke about the importance of having someone like the Brazilian in a team when he was out with injury, saying:

“I am also happy to have players with [this] temperament. You also need them.”

“We all miss him. Without Antony it is all a bit less fast and dynamic on the right, which also makes it more difficult for the team. Then the spaces become a lot smaller.”

If ten Hag wants to play in a similar style at United he will need players that he can trust to implement the fast, passing style of play that was so effective at Ajax, so it is no surprise that the Red Devils are being so heavily linked with Antony.

When he initially arrived at Ajax, veteran Dutch scout Piet de Visser was full of praise for the young winger, saying:

“Antony, that will be a winner! I have had him high for years. I saw him playing for the first time at age 16, in Brazil Under-17. Wonderful technical football player.”

The 22-year-old certainly proved to be a success at Ajax and if he were to produce similar performances under ten Hag at United, he would surely be worth the asking price given his obvious potential, so the Dutch manager will be hoping and dreaming that he can agree a deal with his old side to bring Antony to Old Trafford this summer.

And, in other news… Ten Hag plotting MUFC bid for £34m gem who’s “one of the best”, imagine him & Eriksen…

Manchester City supporters have been handed a transfer update as the Premier League champions continue their chase for Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips.

The Lowdown: Khaldoon sends Man City message…

Sky Blues chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, sitting down for his annual end-of-season interview in recent days, sent a message all City supporters wanted to hear.

He confirmed that the club are set to make more signings, having already sealed both Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez ahead of what will be a very interesting 2022/2023 campaign.

Pep Guardiola’s side retained their domestic top flight crown for 21/22 in the most dramatic fashion, scoring three goals in five minutes to cement one of the best final day comebacks in English football history.

Their remarkable 3-2 win over Aston Villa, ten years on from Sergio Aguero’s iconic 93:20 title-winning goal, exemplified the spirit and character of Guardiola’s squad but the Spaniard appears keen to upgrade in some areas.

Club legend Fernandinho is set to leave Eastlands after nine years upon the expiry of his contract, prompting City to earmark Leeds star Phillips as a real candidate to succeed the Brazilian.

The Latest: Journalist shares interesting Phillips update…

Writing on Twitter, Man City journalist Tom Young has shared an update, claiming that while a possible transfer is ‘in motion’, there is still a ‘way to go’ in terms of sealing a deal for Phillips.

He explained:

“No assurances on Phillips. I understand it’s in motion but still a way to go. Cucurella looks more likely with every passing minute. The window outlook changes depending on who leaves, but as far as the current squad goes, IF we add the two aforementioned, then it’s a good one.”

The Verdict: Top candidate…

Phillips, still just 27-years-old, could leave Elland Road for around £60 million – nearly half the price of other mooted midfield targets like Declan Rice.

Standing out as a key player when fit and available for Leeds over 21/22, the midfield star averaged a brilliant 2.7 tackles per 90 domestically, the second-most out of Jesse Marsch’s squad and more than any City player (WhoScored).

It’s little surprise pundits like Noel Whelan have raved over the ‘phenomenal’ midfielder and we believe Phillips would provide a different dimension alongside Rodri in front of Guardiola’s back four.

In other news: Surprise claim: Pep now open to selling ‘incredible’ Man City star who’s never been so important! Find out more here.

Tottenham Hotspur will still be without Cristian Romero for today’s Premier League clash with Norwich City…

What’s the latest?

There was an outside chance that the 24-year-old centre-back was going to be involved at Carrow Road this afternoon as football.london’s Alasdair Gold revealed earlier in the week.

“In terms of team news for Norwich, we’re probably expecting roughly the same team [as the Burnley match],” he said.

“Interestingly, there were [Antonio] Conte quotes that I stuck out there a few days back, where he did admit that Romero – in his mind – was trying to get fit for this Norwich match, trying to put himself into a position to be fit for it. Whether that is wishful thinking, we’ll find out in the days ahead.”

[snack-amp-story url= “https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/tottenham-hotspur-latest-news-updates-transfer-rumours-gossip-spurs-thfc-conte-paratici” title= “Read the latest Spurs news, transfer rumours and more!”]

Wishful thinking indeed as the Italian head coach ruled out the Argentina international in his pre-game press conference.

“Romero had a traumatic injury. He is not available. We have the same players as the last game against Burnley. Not less, not more. We have to be ready to try and fight and get the result,” he told reporters (via football.london).

Gutting setback

Whilst an already relegated Canaries side shouldn’t be much of a threat to Spurs’ top-four chances, it is still a gutting blow to Conte and the squad.

Romero has emerged as one of the Premier League’s best defenders this campaign and he has certainly improved the Lilywhites’ previously leaky backline.

“This guy is an animal, I swear. He’s perfect for the Premier League,” teammate at Atalanta and in north London Pierluigi Gollini claimed to the Evening Standard. “He’s played for many years with three at the back and especially when you play with a very aggressive style and play man for man.”

Indeed, the Argentine leads the squad for tackles (2.8) and interceptions (1.5) per game, proving to be an absolute rock at the back. Not only is he reading the opposition and acting upon it but also doing so in an aggressive style.

Not to mention his equally adept skills as a ball-playing option, having also averaged an accuracy rate of 86.7% from nearly 60 passes per outing, via WhoScored.

With Spurs already short on solid central defensive options, his absence will still come as disappointing news to the 52-year-old boss, and perhaps the Lilywhites faithful too.

in other news, Spurs eye next Dele Alli in “unbelievable” 28 G/A prodigy with “remarkable potential”…

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has made a claim regarding the future of experienced Liverpool midfielder James Milner. 

The lowdown: Seven-year service

The 36-year-old joined the Reds as a free agent and has since made 285 appearances for the club – making Liverpool Milner’s most represented club during an illustrious career spanning permanent spells at Leeds United, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Manchester City prior to arriving on Merseyside.

Out of contract at the end of this season (Transfermarkt), the former England regular faces an uncertain future at Anfield as things stand.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-liverpool-transfer-news-32/” title=”Latest Liverpool transfer news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

However, according to one journalist, Jurgen Klopp will be desperate to see the influential midfielder stick around…

The latest: ‘Future manager’

Speaking to Give Me Sport, O’Rourke has claimed that the Reds’ boss is keen to keep Milner beyond the end of the 2021/22 season.

The journalist explained why when asked whether Klopp wanted the 61-cap ex-Three Lions ace to stay: “Yes 100%. He’s such a great servant to the club. Jurgen Klopp is a huge admirer of James Milner as well, not just because of what he does on the pitch but also off the pitch.

“He can probably see James Milner as being a future manager because of the way he is. I think a lot of people have said that because he’s just so absorbed with football and he’s always been available for Liverpool whenever needed.”

The verdict: Continuity is key

As Liverpool prepare for the next cycle under Klopp with the likes of Harvey Elliott, Luis Diaz and the incoming Fabio Carvalho at the forefront, Milner’s growing off-field influence could be crucial in overseeing a successful transition at the AXA Training Centre and beyond.

A stalwart of 586 Premier League appearances – fourth in the all-time list – few can offer the insight, knowledge and experience of the top-level football like the Leeds-born star and keeping someone with the ability to pass on information to emerging youngsters cannot be underestimated.

Albeit a diminished role on the field this season, the man labelled as ‘remarkable’ by Gary Lineker following a 3-0 victory over Leicester City in 2020 has still managed 35 appearances across all competitions for Klopp’s side.

That continued role in the German’s plans and an ever-developing father figure type position that as seen Milner keep a close eye on the academy outfits should be enough for the club to make a renewal offer.

In other news, French newspaper cites Liverpool interest in ‘unstoppable’ speedster. Read more here.

Tributes and condolences poured in from around the cricketing world for Abdul Qadir

ESPNcricinfo staff06-Sep-2019Abdul Qadir, who passed away at 63 on Friday, was an inspiration to a generation of cricketers from Pakistan, and legspinners from around the world.

Qadir's bowling statistics do not do justice to his genius. Had he been playing cricket now with the modern DRS system, where batsmen can be given out on the front foot as well, Qadir would have gotten as many wickets as the great Shane Warne.

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) September 7, 2019

They called him the magician for many reasons but when he looked me in the eyes & told me I was going to play for Pakistan for the next 20 years, I believed him.A Magician, absolutely. A leg spinner & a trailblazer of his time. You will be missed Abdul Qadir but never forgotten

— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) September 6, 2019

Extremely saddened to hear the passing of my guru and mentor Abdul Qadir sir.He was someone who was always there for me to guide me not only in cricket but everything in life.He was a father figure for many and will be missed for his kind behaviour.May Allah grant him jannah

— Imran Tahir (@ImranTahirSA) September 6, 2019

His hand quicker than the eye, Abdul Qadir rolled over many a giants with a magnificent sleight of hand! Thank you for letting me watch it from short leg. The best legspinner of his era, he pioneered the art of leg spin in one day cricket. Bao ji, you will be forever missed.

— Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) September 6, 2019

Hard to believe that Abdul Qadir bhai is no more.A great leg spinner and a wonderful human.Always full of energy and life.Will never forget that smile on his face.Its a very sad day for us and for his family.May Allah grant him highest place in Jannah.

— Misbah Ul Haq (@captainmisbahpk) September 6, 2019

Saddened to hear about the sudden demise of Abdul Qadir, a great exponent of legspin who revived the art. Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) September 7, 2019

Just heard the sad news about Abdul Qadir passing away. May he rest in peace. For us leg-spinners he was an icon, all those variations & tricks. The original master of the googly. Thoughts & prayers with him & his family.

— Shadab Khan (@76Shadabkhan) September 6, 2019

“Gone Too Soon” Cricket has lost a Legend today Abdul Qadir”Inalil a wa ina alha rajaoon” Very upsetting and disturbing news.He was a very kind and a humble man.May ALLAH grant him highest place in Jannat and give his family a sabr in this difficult time. #RIP Qadir Bhaipic.twitter.com/TBdGVOaS1R

— Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) September 6, 2019

The legend of leg spin , Abdul Qadir left us today. Inna lilahi wa inna ilahi rajigoon. May his soul rest in peace.

— Yasir Shah (@Shah64Y) September 6, 2019

Legendary leg spinner Abdul Qadir sb passed away. Just got this sad news. The revival of leg spin in cricket is completely credited to him. He inspired a generation of bowlers to take up leg spin.
Inna lillahi wa inna elaihi rajaoon.#AbdulQadir pic.twitter.com/mhBZy2yVk9

— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) September 6, 2019

Deeply saddened to hear the shocking news of sir Abdul Qadir sahab's passing away, may Allah grant him highest rank in jannat and the family be blessed with sabar. Ameen

— Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) September 6, 2019

My heart goes out to the family of our legend Abdul Qadir bhai,nation will miss him. May Allah give him the highest level of Jannat Ameen

— Mohammad Yousaf (@yousaf1788) September 6, 2019

Absolutely shocking news to hear the sad passing Legend Abdul Qadir saab. May Allah SWT grant him the highest rank in jannah and his family the patience to bare the loss. #Ameen

— Sarfaraz Ahmed (@SarfarazA_54) September 6, 2019

We all belong to Allah SWT and to Him we all shall return. Deeply saddened to hear about Sir Abdul Qadir's death. May Allah meet his soul with a smile & keep him in His shade of love & mercy, Ameen.

— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) September 6, 2019

A legend of the game, Abdul Qadir left us today. Inna lilahi wa inna ilahi raajioon. #RIP

— Wahab Riaz (@WahabViki) September 6, 2019

Shane Warne, another legspinner who inspired a generation, paid his tribute from the Sky Sports commentary box.

Shane Warne "it's very sad news about Abdul Qadir. I had the opportunity to meet him in 1994 during my first tour of Pakistan and a lot of people who bowled leg-spin like I did, we looked up to him. He was a terrific bowler who bamboozled a lot of batsmen" #Cricket

— Saj Sadiq (@Saj_PakPassion) September 6, 2019

Tributes poured in from across the border too, for a legend of the game.

Remember playing against Abdul Qadir, one of the best spinners of his times. My heartfelt condolences to his family. RIP. pic.twitter.com/iu03d45sJ0

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) September 7, 2019

Abdul Qadir is no more..RIP bouncy little Fella with a very big heart..Yur contribution to Spin will be long remembered in Cricket World..more so in Pakistan whom U served with panache & devotion..Allah REHM Kareh..Heartfelt condolences to the Family Of Late Abdul Qadir.

— Bishan Bedi (@BishanBedi) September 6, 2019

Abdul Qadir set the mould for all leg spinners that came out of Pakistan after him. All had a bit of Qadir in them. Such was his impact. #RIPAbdulQadir

— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) September 7, 2019

Extremely saddened by the demise of Abdul Qadir the spin bowling stalwart from Pakistan. My heart goes out to his family and friends. #RIP

— Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) September 6, 2019

Shocked to hear Abdul Qadir passed away.met him two years back he was full of energy as always..A champion bowler,Great human being,you will be missed forever..condolences to the family.. #RIPabdulqadir pic.twitter.com/HmKVoIwCBU

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) September 6, 2019

Sad to hear about the demise of Abdul Qadir. Was always mesmerised by his unique style of bowling and he was one of the best leg-spinners to play the game. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.

— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) September 6, 2019

Abdul Qadir–The man who made leg-spin fashionable. Long curly hair…bounce in every step of a fairly long run-up. Rest In Peace. Condolences to the family and loved ones.

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) September 6, 2019