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Seamer’s inclusion sparked debate about tactics and transformation – but he answered them on day two at Lord’s

Firdose Moonda12-Jun-20251:16

Steyn: All Ngidi needed was a wicket to find his rhythm

Lungi Ngidi insisted that he knew why he was selected in South Africa’s World Test Championship final XI, after he took 3 for 35 on the second day to break Australia’s second innings open.Temba Bavuma had said that Ngidi was picked for his pace and ability to generate extra bounce – “a tactical decision”, which is exactly what Ngidi understood his role to be.”It’s been a very long time since I’ve played Test cricket, ten months, and that’s okay with me,” Ngidi told BBC after play on day two at Lord’s. “Obviously I know why I was selected. It doesn’t make a difference to me: opinions, or whatever it is. I was just struggling with a bit of rhythm from this side, swapped ends, and I felt a lot better.”Related

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Ngidi last played a Test against West Indies in August last year and looked rusty on comeback in this match. On the first day, he bowled eight overs, in spells of four each, from the Pavillion End and conceded 45 runs at 5.62. Notably, he lacked intensity and left the field for a period of time after bowling his second spell. He returned but did not bowl again.Considering Dane Paterson’s history of success in county cricket (though his 180 wickets came for Nottinghamshire and not Middlesex) and the overhead conditions that would have suited a bowler of his style, there were justifiable questions over whether South Africa had made a tactical blunder. There was also talk about whether they were forced to pick Ngidi to meet transformation requirements.But, at the end of day two, Ngidi had provided three stunning answers as to why he had been picked. In a nine-over spell – his second longest in Test cricket – Ngidi removed Steven Smith and Beau Webster, both lbw, and yorked Pat Cummins. Australia went from 48 for 3 to 73 for 7 (Wiaan Mulder took a wicket in that period too) and South Africa were back in the game. It looked as though Shukri Conrad, the head coach who is also the sole selector, had seen his gamble come off.Lungi Ngidi got the big wicket of Steven Smith•AFP/Getty Images

But Ngidi’s choice of words in his post-match interview – “I know why I was selected” – didn’t help dispel any lingering doubts about why he was picked. ESPNcricinfo has since confirmed he was referring to the plethora of opinions preferring Paterson’s skills to his.There was also no transformation imperative to pick Ngidi as South Africa’s targets at national level are calculated on average over the course of a season, which means they do not apply to individual games. The target numbers require that the team fields six players of colour of which two must be black African. In Temba Bavuma and Kagiso Rabada, the latter is met. They only have two other players of colour in this XI, Ngidi and Keshav Maharaj, and that would have remained the case even if Paterson was picked instead of Ngidi. While they have not fulfilled their target in this match, their overall average will only be confirmed at the end of the season.Before the final, Bavuma spoke to ESPNcricinfo about the dangers of being labelled a transformation selection, how he did not understand why it was put on him nine years ago when he made his first century, and the pressure and expectation it created. In the same way, Ngidi’s poor performance on day one immediately raised the transformation question: a hangover from the way South African cricket is perceived because of selection decisions in the past.The 2015 World Cup semi-final, where CSA influenced the inclusion of Vernon Philander ahead of Kyle Abbott, is a standout example, not least because it happened in a crucial game. But Ngidi, an international cricketer for the last eight years and comfortable within himself, was able to put that aside and concentrate on getting things right on day two.Radaba suggested a “steak, a milkshake and a movie” to Ngidi on the first evening but it turned out to be a change of ends that did the trick. Ngidi bowled from the Nursery End on day two, running up the slope, and was far more effective. His lines were tighter and his lengths more concentrated, mostly just back of good, with the occasional fuller ball for variety. He seemed in the zone, ran in with good energy and looked like he wanted more.”Once you get a moment like that, you don’t want to really let it go because it could change the game,” he said. “So I just kept going until my legs pretty much told me that’s enough now. I was planning on going a little bit more, but once you start making a few errors that could let the team or the opposition in, then it’s probably time to call it.”2:43

Can South Africa chase down 200-plus?

There was one overpitched ball in Ngidi’s seventh over and two edges that dropped short in his eighth and ninth, so he was still effective but clearly tiring. When he ran to field a ball in the over after he had finished his spell, he puffed his way to the ball and the decision to stop was probably the correct one. Nevertheless, his team-mates appreciated the effort especially after a tough first day.”Lungi’s a chilled guy, so I don’t think it would have affected him that much,” David Bedingham said at the post-match press conference. “As soon as he changed ends, he looked a lot more comfortable and for him to bowl nine overs on the bounce takes a massive amount of effort.”Of the rewards he had, Ngidi enjoyed Smith’s wicket the most “because he did get the better of me in the first innings but Beau Webster as well because they were definitely putting me under pressure”. “But once I got a bit of rhythm and the ball was moving around a bit, I felt very confident.”There may still be some work to do for Ngidi on the third morning, with South Africa still two wickets from knowing their target. Ngidi hopes they can keep the target to 225 and even if it grows beyond that thinks, “people are going to get their money’s worth”.”It’s in the balance right now,” he said. “But I think we’re in a decent position.”

Liverpool versus Everton is always a tasty affair at Anfield in the Premier League.

Today’s lunchtime Merseyside Derby was no different as Arne Slot’s Reds raced into a two-goal lead, before the Toffees fought back courtesy of an Idrissa Gueye screamer beating Alisson.

In the end, Everton just didn’t have enough to equalise in the 2-1 defeat, with Beto struggling severely in the first half, before David Moyes put him out of his misery at the half-time mark.

Beto's struggles at Anfield in numbers

Everton were always going to struggle to impose themselves on the contest, coming up against a hostile Anfield atmosphere.

Indeed, looking at the overall match numbers, Slot’s Reds would dominate the possession with 58% of the ball, as Beto ended up being very much of a bystander in a first half that saw Liverpool accelerate into a two-goal advantage.

While Hugo Ekitike was confidently adding to his early Premier League goal tally with this instinctive finish, Beto was attempting to scrap his way into the fierce contest, but the 27-year-old was ultimately far too passive.

Beto would only complete two accurate passes all match, as per Sofascore, while only successfully winning two aerial duels as an isolated figure in Moyes’ attack.

In matches to come, Moyes could potentially have a rethink as to who he starts as the leading man in the Toffees attack, with Thierno Barry also fading in and out of the hotly-contested affair when coming on for the Portuguese striker.

It wasn’t just the attack that would receive pelters at the final whistle, though, with an experienced Everton defender now looking to be on borrowed time under the Scotman after suffering a 2-1 loss to their arch rivals.

The 6/10 star on borrowed time under Moyes

Everton were dealt a two-goal sucker punch in the first half as Liverpool’s fast-paced play on the ball constantly caught out a slow Toffees defence.

Michael Keane definitely struggled in this regard throughout, with the former Burnley man failing to keep tight to Ekitike before he sealed the win for the Reds deep into the first half.

Minutes played

90

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Touches

40

Accurate passes

27/32 (84%)

Clearances

4

Interceptions

2

Tackles

1

Total duels won

3/6

As noted above, Keane would only win 50% of his six duels during the hotly contested clash, with the experienced centre-back also only winning two tackles to try and keep a free-flowing Liverpool attack at bay.

It does only feel like a matter of time before the 6-foot-3 stalwart is out of Moyes’ starting XIs for good, with Jarrad Branthwaite nearly back up to full fitness, further troubling the 32-year-old’s long-term minutes in the main lineup.

After all, Moyes will see that he’s upgraded and progressed his side in the forward department, with faces such as Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall undoubtedly offering up plenty of quality, even if Beto disappeared at Anfield.

Moreover, it appears that the Toffees already have an experienced head in the heart of defence that still has the legs to perform at the highest level in James Tarkowski, with the Everton captain winning eight duels when giving his all, despite the devastating final outcome.

While Keane would be gifted a 6/10 post-match rating by Liverpool World’s Will Rooney, it is now nine seasons and down for the 32-year-old in an Everton shirt, with a permanent change in defence perhaps now needed.

After failing to close down some seriously threatening Liverpool attackers and be authorative in the Merseyside Derby, his long-term minutes in the Toffees main XI week in week out must soon be up, especially when Branthwaite returns.

Moyes' own Richarlison: Everton are brewing a "menacing" new forward

Everton are redefining their attacking quality with David Moyes back at the helm.

ByAngus Sinclair Sep 19, 2025

وجه النادي الأهلي برئاسة الكابتن محمود الخطيب، رسالة تهنئة إلى الجامعة المغربية لكرة القدم بعد الإنجاز التاريخي الذي حققه منتخب المغرب للشباب بتتويجه بكأس العالم تحت 20 عامًا.

ونجح المنتخب المغربي في صناعة التاريخ بعد فوزه المستحق على منتخب الأرجنتين بهدفين دون مقابل، اليوم الاثنين، في نهائي البطولة، ليحصد أسود الأطلس اللقب العالمي في إنجاز غير مسبوق لكرة القدم المغربية والعربية.

وبهذا التتويج أصبح منتخب المغرب أول منتخب عربي يحقق بطولة كأس العالم للشباب تحت 20 عامًا، وثاني منتخب إفريقي يظفر باللقب بعد غانا عام 2009.

طالع أيضًا | لاعب برشلونة السابق يستفز جماهير الأرجنتين بعد تتويج المغرب بكأس العالم للشباب بيان النادي الأهلي

يتقدم النادي الأهلي ومجلس إدارته وأعضاؤه وجماهيره، بخالص التهاني القلبية للأشقاء في المغرب، والجامعة الملكية المغربية لكرة القدم، والمحبين، بمناسبة الإنجاز التاريخي للمنتخب المغربي للشباب الذي شرف الكرة العربية، وفاز ببطولة كأس العالم تحت 20 سنة..

كل الأمنيات للأشقاء في المغرب بدوام التقدم والازدهار.

Newcastle United’s forward line is entering a period of transition.

With Alexander Isak’s future still unresolved – and the striker making it abundantly clear that he will not reintegrate into the squad should a transfer not be completed before the deadline – Eddie Howe faces a pressing challenge.

He must find a centre-forward capable of stepping straight into the side and producing from the very first game.

The departure of Callum Wilson to West Ham has only heightened the urgency.

The 33-year-old leaves St James’ Park with 47 goals in 113 appearances – his intelligent movement and clinical edge cementing him as a fan favourite.

Many of his goals came in crucial moments, helping drag Newcastle away from the relegation zone in the early days of the takeover.

But with a Champions League campaign on the horizon and Premier League rivals reinforcing aggressively, Newcastle cannot afford to go into the new season light in the most important position on the pitch.

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Newcastle's latest striker target

The Magpies have been proactive in other areas – they have added Anthony Elanga, Malick Thiaw and Aaron Ramsdale to provide depth. Yet despite these moves, the focus remains firmly on replacing goals at the top of the pitch.

Yet despite these moves, the focus remains firmly on replacing goals at the top of the pitch.

One forward in particular could reshape Newcastle’s attack and keep their ambitions alive in a World Cup year.

Indeed, according to the Daily Mail, Ollie Watkins’ situation at Aston Villa is attracting significant interest from the Geordies.

Villa have been active in the market themselves, reviving talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a possible return for Marco Asensio after a successful loan spell last season.

Asensio has already rejected moves to Turkey and Saudi Arabia, but Villa are keen to bolster their attacking options amid uncertainty over Watkins and fellow forward Leon Bailey.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Manchester United had previously been linked with Watkins before turning their attention to Benjamin Šeško, leaving Newcastle among the clubs still firmly monitoring developments.

Villa have added striker Evann Guessand to their ranks, yet with the club still facing pressure from PSR – a significant sale remains possible.

Watkins, with a market value of £50m, would represent both a lucrative cash injection for Villa and a major coup for any buying club.

Watkins vs. Wilson: The numbers game

At 29, Watkins is in his prime.

Since joining Villa from Brentford in 2020 for £28m, he has scored 75 goals in 184 appearances, cementing his status as one of the league’s most consistent scorers.

His 18 caps for England underline his pedigree at international level, while his relentless work rate, intelligent movement, and adaptability make him a constant threat.

Described as “one of best 9s in the world” by Statman Dave, Watkins is as comfortable leading the line as he is drifting wide or dropping deep to link play.

The parallels with Wilson’s arrival at Newcastle in 2020 are clear: both were established Premier League strikers, both brought a proven eye for goal, and both had the hunger to push for England recognition.

However, Watkins offers something subtly different – a more rounded style that blends scoring with creativity and builds up involvement.

In a season where every England striker will be scrutinised ahead of the World Cup, Watkins has added motivation to start strongly.

While Wilson’s Newcastle legacy is built on ruthless penalty-box efficiency, the numbers reveal that Watkins brings a broader attacking contribution.

Comparing Wilson’s 2022/23 campaign to Watkins’ 2024/25 season provides a detailed picture of their respective styles.

According to FBref, the two are almost inseparable in terms of output. Wilson contributed 23 goal involvements, Watkins 24. Wilson took more shots per 90 minutes (3.36 to 2.84), converting at a near-identical rate in terms of accuracy (44.3% to Watkins’ 43.9%).

For penalty-box poaching, Wilson remains among the league’s most effective. However, Watkins’ strengths lie in his involvement outside the box. He averages 10.6 completed passes per 90 to Wilson’s 7.66 and does so with a higher completion rate (72.4% vs. 66.1%).

His progressive passing distance is markedly higher, and his progressive carries (1.90 to 1.29) show a greater willingness to run at defences and advance play from deeper positions.

Watkins also edges progressive passes per 90 (1.07 to 0.91), suggesting he can help initiate attacks as well as finish them.

Wilson, by contrast, holds the advantage in dribbling success – 0.57 take-ons per 90 at a 33.3% success rate versus Watkins’ 0.35 at 24.4%.

This reflects Wilson’s more direct, decisive style when taking on defenders in the final third.

The data ultimately points to two different types of centre-forward.

Wilson is the penalty-box predator, lethal with limited touches.

Watkins is the link-man as well as the finisher, able to knit together moves, drag defenders into wide areas, and exploit space with his pace and timing.

For Howe, that broader range of skills could be invaluable in a Newcastle side that increasingly dominates possession and faces low defensive blocks.

With Wilson now in claret and blue at West Ham and Isak’s future unresolved, Newcastle’s pursuit of Watkins represents more than a simple like-for-like replacement.

It is an opportunity to evolve their attacking profile, to bring in a forward who can both replicate Wilson’s goals and add fresh dimensions to their build-up play.

In a World Cup year, with competition for England places, Watkins’ hunger to impress could be exactly the edge Newcastle need, and exactly why Howe might be tempted to make him the next No 9 to lead the line at St James’ Park.

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Their new Gordon: Big-money star "wants to join" Newcastle before Saturday

Newcastle United push ahead with £40m transfer that could weaken direct rivals.

By
Will Miller

Aug 13, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur are now progressing towards a spectacular deal to sign an “extraordinary forward”, and a swift breakthrough on personal terms is likely.

Tottenham vying to sign new winger

In many ways, it has been a difficult summer for Tottenham, having missed out on Eberechi Eze and Morgan Gibbs-White, leaving Daniel Levy with a lot of work to do before the transfer deadline, which is in less than one week’s time.

As we enter the final stages of the transfer window, Spurs appear to have three main targets on their transfer shortlist, all of whom enjoyed impressive 2024/25 campaigns.

Target

Current club

League G/A in 24/25

Rodrygo

Real Madrid

12

Maghnes Akliouche

AS Monaco

15

Savinho

Manchester City

11

However, it has proven to be difficult to get any deal over the line, with Real Madrid demanding around £86m for the Brazilian winger, while some Spurs chiefs are pessimistic about their chances of tempting Manchester City into a sale.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, however, a deal for Savinho is very much still on the cards, with talks now progressing, and Tottenham thundering towards what would be a spectacular signing.

The Lilywhites are in active talks over a deal for the 21-year-old, and Man City are now lining up a replacement, which suggests Pep Guardiola’s side will be willing to cash-in on the young winger before the September 1st deadline.

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Crucially, the starlet is keen on a move to north London, in order to become a key part of Thomas Frank’s project, which means a swift breakthrough on personal terms is now likely, although not yet agreed.

With discussions over a £70m+ deal progressing, it is now looking more likely the Brazil international will move to N17 before the deadline, which could be a major boost for Frank…

Savinho could be "extraordinary" signing for Spurs

Guardiola has previously made it clear he doesn’t want to see the winger leave, saying: “I am only concerned right now that Savinho will be with us for the rest of the season and hopefully many years, because of the potential he has at 21. He has to improve in final positions but he is an extraordinary player.”

It is true that the former Girona man is still raw, and his end product could be a lot better, having scored just one Premier League goal up to this point, but an assist tally of ten in his debut campaign at the Etihad Stadium is very impressive.

Tottenham desperately need to bolster their attacking options, and Savinho is the most exciting option on the shortlist, given that he is still only 21-years-old, and he has already proven himself in the Premier League, so it is exciting news that a deal is now looking more likely.

West Ham United are entering the new season with a clear need to reinvigorate their squad after a turbulent campaign that saw them finish 14th in the Premier League with 43 points.

The club replaced Julen Lopetegui in January with former Chelsea boss Graham Potter, who signed a two-and-a-half-year contract and is now tasked with building a squad capable of competing at a higher level.

The Hammers have already undergone significant changes this summer.

Star midfielder Mohamed Kudus was sold to Spurs for £55m, leaving a gap in creativity and attacking threat, while Lucas Paquetá, now cleared of all betting allegations, will be keen to repay the club’s support alongside talisman Jarrod Bowen.

West Ham bid for their new Bowen

West Ham are reportedly pursuing a dynamic winger whose flair and vision make him a potential answer to the team’s attacking needs.

Known for his precise dribbling and natural eye for goal, they have been praised for their ability to create chances both for himself and teammates.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

The player in question is Takefusa Kubo, the Japan international currently at Real Sociedad.

Kubo joined Real Sociedad permanently in July 2022 following a series of loans, having already impressed during his initial spell at the club.

Now, according to reports in Spain, Kubo has formally requested a transfer, citing dissatisfaction with Sociedad’s current sporting direction under president Jokin Aperribay.

Kubo has publicly criticised the club’s lack of investment and reinforcements, asserting that the team is not sufficiently competitive to challenge for Champions League qualification. Despite his discontent, Sociedad’s manager Sergio Francisco still regards Kubo as a key part of the team, underlining the challenge West Ham could face in finalising a deal.

Reports suggest that West Ham are not alone in their pursuit. Other Premier League clubs, including Spurs, Everton, and Bournemouth, are believed to have made offers of £34m.

Named the club’s Player of the Season in 2022/23, Kubo’s contract runs until June 2029, and unless a club triggers his release clause – believed to be just over £50m, – Sociedad may feel little pressure to sell.

How Kubo compares to Bowen

In terms of statistics, Kubo has proven himself a highly productive winger.

In the 2024/25 La Liga season, he played 36 matches, scored five goals, and contributed 45 created chances.

He completed 75 take-ons, registered 14 shots on target, and recorded 129 touches in the opposition box, ranking in the 86th percentile for crosses with 3.32 per 90 minutes.

His ability to progress the ball and involve himself in the attacking build-up has consistently drawn plaudits from analysts and pundits alike.

West Ham’s potential acquisition of Kubo invites natural comparisons to Bowen, the club’s talismanic left-footed winger.

Bowen is renowned for his pace, movement, technical proficiency, and finishing ability.

Predominantly deployed on the right flank, he regularly cuts inside onto his stronger left foot to shoot or link up with teammates.

According to FBref, during his standout 2022/23 season, Kubo averaged 4.32 progressive carries per 90 minutes, compared to Bowen’s 2.69.

His progressive passes per 90 reached 2.99 versus Bowen’s 1.55, and he averaged 86.3 metres of progressive passing distance per 90, substantially higher than Bowen’s 54.5.

Pass completion rates were similarly competitive, with Kubo at 71% and Bowen at 68.9%.

Kubo also excels in offensive creation. His shot-creating actions per 90 minutes stood at 3.55, compared to Bowen’s 2.42, while his successful take-ons per 90 were 1.81 against Bowen’s 1.01.

Carries per 90 (31.0 vs. 19.9) and touches in the attacking third (27.2 vs. 17.0) further underscore Kubo’s ability to dominate and influence play in the final third.

These metrics illustrate a player capable of a “dangerous 1v1 threat” in the words of data analyst, Ben Mattinson, but also consistently generating opportunities and driving attacks forward – qualities that mirror Bowen’s influence but with a slightly different stylistic nuance.

The two share more than just statistical comparisons; both are left-footed wingers who thrive in spaces between the opposition full-back and centre-back, using pace and intelligent movement to destabilise defences.

Kubo brings a level of unpredictability and technical finesse, while Bowen combines raw speed and goal-scoring instinct.

Integrating Kubo into the West Ham squad could offer Potter a more multidimensional attacking unit, providing options for both direct goal threats and intricate build-up play.

Financially, a deal for Kubo would represent a significant investment, but it could also pay dividends if the winger reaches or surpasses Bowen’s level of consistency.

With Premier League defences increasingly prioritising compactness, a player of Kubo’s ability could prove invaluable, particularly in unlocking tightly packed back lines.

West Ham’s reported interest in Kubo signals their ambition to sustain and potentially elevate their attacking output.

With Bowen already setting the benchmark on the flanks, Kubo’s arrival could introduce a complementary skill set that reinforces the club’s creative identity while adding depth, versatility, and dynamism to the squad.

Should negotiations succeed, the Premier League could witness a fascinating new chapter in West Ham’s offensive evolution.

Most exciting player since Payet: West Ham now want to sign £20m "menace"

West Ham are looking to sign an attacker this summer

ByJoe Nuttall Aug 14, 2025

Leeds United will return to Premier League action for the first time in over two years when they welcome Everton to Elland Road later this month.

The Whites won the Championship title with a staggering haul of 100 points in the 2024/25 campaign, as Daniel Farke won the division for the third time in four attempts.

Their promotion to the Premier League, though, means that some of the regular starters from the second tier season will not have what it takes to make the step up.

Brenden Aaronson started 43 of the club’s 46 Championship matches, scoring nine goals and providing two assists, for the German head coach last term.

The USA international only managed one goal in 36 appearances in the Premier League in the 2022/23 season for Leeds, though, which does not suggest that he is likely to make a significant impact this time around.

Farke needs to find the club’s next version of Georginio Rutter, who produced terrific quality in the Champ and has now stepped up to the top-flight with Brighton.

Why Leeds need the next Georginio Rutter

As aforementioned, Aaronson has not done enough at the top end of the pitch to suggest that he is going to win many points for Leeds with his play in the Premier League.

Rutter, on the other hand, scored five goals and provided three assists in 28 matches in the division for Brighton last season, to go along with three goals and one assist in four outings in the FA Cup.

The left-footed star joined the Seagulls for a club-record £40m fee last summer after he caught the eye with his performances for Leeds in the Championship in the 2023/24 campaign.

Expected Assisted Goals

0.29

Top 2%

Assists

0.39

Top 2%

Shot-creating actions

4.41

Top 2%

Progressive passes

4.46

Top 3%

Successful take-ons

3.06

Top 1%

Progressive carries

2.89

Top 5%

As you can see in the table above, Rutter was one of the most creative players in the second tier that season, as he consistently progressed play with passes and carries, and created plenty of high-quality opportunities for his teammates.

The French magician ended the campaign with a return of eight goals and 16 assists in all competitions for the West Yorkshire outfit, which shows that he was an incredibly creative force in the number ten role for Leeds.

Rutter was then able to make the step up to the Premier League with Brighton, scoring five times as many goals last term as Aaronson managed in his only season at that level.

This is why Farke needs to find his new version of the French number ten in the coming weeks, and a fresh report suggests that the club are looking to sign a player of that ilk.

Leeds submit bid to sign Championship star

According to journalist Sebastien Vidal, Leeds United have submitted a bid for Leicester City’s attacking midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, as they look to bolster their options at the top end of the pitch.

The reporter claims that a ‘serious’ offer has been made by the Whites, who have made their first move in an attempt to bring the Morocco international to Elland Road.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Vidal adds that the Championship champions are also ‘pushing’ to sign Lecce centre-forward Nikola Krstovic, but there is no mention of a bid for the Montenegro international.

El Khannouss reportedly has a £22.5m release clause in his contract with Leicester, which was activated when they were relegated, but it remains to be seen whether or not this latest bid from Leeds matches that fee.

Instead of matching the release clause, the Whites may feel that they can negotiate a more favourable package, whether that is a lower overall fee or the £22.5m in more favourable terms.

Why El Khannouss could be the new Rutter for Leeds

Leeds could find their new Rutter in El Khannouss if they are able to convince the Foxes to part ways with the 21-year-old talent with this offer for his services.

The Moroccan played in a dismal Leicester team that got relegated from the Premier League last season, yet still managed to catch the eye with some impressive performances.

El Khannouss scored two goals and created eight ‘big chances’ in 27 starts in the top-flight, which shows that he can provide a Rutter-esque creative spark in the number ten position.

The Foxes youngster is also an incredibly progressive passer in midfield, much like the former Leeds man. He ranked within the top 14% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League last season for progressive passes per 90 (5.28) and the top 10% for passes into the final third per 90 (3.67).

This shows that the Morocco international is a forward-thinking player who is constantly looking to create dangerous attacks for his side by playing passes through the lines to put his teammates into good positions.

Appearances

28

32

xG

4.64

1.31

Goals

5

2

Big chances created

6

8

Assists

3

3

Progressive passes per 90

3.64

5.28

Passes into the final third per 90

1.63

3.67

As you can see in the table above, El Khannouss and Rutter performed at a similar level against their respective xG tally and both created a similar amount for their teams.

The Moroccan youngster, though, was far more progressive in his actions as a passer, with around two more progressive passes and passes into the final third per 90 on average, which suggests that he could move attacks on at a greater speed.

These statistics suggest that the Leicester star, who was described as a “fascinating” talent by journalist Graeme Bailey, could arrive at Elland Road as Farke’s new Rutter for the upcoming Premier League season.

Both players are creative number tens who have shown that they have what it takes to be effective players in the top-flight, which is why the Whites should be pushing to get a deal over the line for the Foxes ace in the coming days.

يري طارق يحيي، لاعب ومدرب الزمالك السابق، أن مبادي وقيم النادي الأهلي تتهدم في الفترة الحالية، بسبب ما فعله لاعب الفريق إمام عاشور.

وقال يحيي خلال تصريحات عبر برنامج “اللعيب” المذاع على قناة “إم بي سي مصر”: “ما فعله إمام عاشور بالتعاقد مع الوكيل آدم وطني، هو إعلان لرحيله عن الفريق ويريد أن يقول لا أرغب في الاستمرار”.

وأضاف: “هل يعقل أن النادي يعلن عدم التعامل مع وكيل معين وهذا الوكيل يهاجم النادي الأهلي، وبعدها لاعب من الفريق يذهب بعدها للتعاقد معه، أين قيم ومبادئ النادي الأهلي”.

طالع | إكرامي: ما فعله إمام عاشور استفزاز وتحدي للنادي الأهلي

وأكمل: “أرى أن هذه القيم والمبادئ تهدم كل يوم، وأخشى على الأهلي أن يجبر على التعامل مع الوكيل بسبب إمام عاشور (يتلوي دراع الأهلي)”.

وأصبح آدم وطني وكيلا لإمام عاشور، مما أثار أزمة، بسبب أن النادي الأهلي، كان قد أصدر قرارا بعدم التعامل مع ذلك الوكيل بعد موقفه في صفقة رحيل الفلسطيني وسام أبو علي. 

وأردف: “(أوضة اللبس) في الأهلي غير منضبطة، بعد رحيل أحمد سيد زيزو من الزمالك إلى صفوف القلعة الحمراء”.

وأتم: “الزمالك بطلًا لبطولة الدوري المصري هذا الموسم”.

West Indies command the centre stage on hard-rocking day at Trent Bridge

Valkerie Baynes19-Jul-2024

Kavem Hodge salutes the crowd after his maiden Test century•Gareth Copley/Getty Images

In AC/DC’s iconic hit , chants of “Thunder” burst through the opening thrum, building the excitement before that unmistakeable high-pitched lead vocal kicks in.On the most picture-perfect day for cricket at Trent Bridge, Mark Wood interrupted the gentle murmur of the first nine overs, in which West Indies openers Kraigg Brathwaite and Mikyle Louis had eased their side to 32 for nought, with a barrage of fire that had the batters rocking and the packed stands audibly in awe.Four overs in which his speed never dipped below 92mph went unrewarded – as did Wood all day – but what a curtain-raiser it was to the main performance of the day, Kavem Hodge’s maiden international century. Had Hodge screamed “I was caught… In the middle of a railroad track” as he punched a Ben Stokes inswinger for four through long-off to bring up his ton, it wouldn’t have sounded out of place, such was the tone as he screeched in sheer joy.By the end of the day he had fallen for 120, lbw to Chris Woakes in a decision upheld on umpire’s call during the evening session.By the end of the day, England and their supporters were willing Wood to take a wicket, just one, feeling he deserved it for all his gut-busting effort through his first 14 overs. Instead, he left the field one ball into his 15th, seemingly as a precaution after feeling his hamstring, some 35 minutes before the close.Hodge formed half of a hugely exciting partnership alongside Alick Athanaze, worth 175 for the fourth wicket, with Athanaze falling for 82, also in the evening session, but not before playing his part in driving West Indies to within 65 runs of England’s first-innings 416. Between them, they have only played 10 Tests, but they played defiantly to put their side in a much better place after an innings defeat in the first Test at Lord’s.Hodge should have been gone for 16 – to Wood, no less – but Joe Root put down the catch at slip. He and Athanaze both went to tea with half-centuries to their name, having added 123 runs while England went wicketless in the middle session.Athanaze’s ears would have been ringing when, on 48, he was struck flush on the helmet, right next to the badge, by a Wood short ball at 91mph. Hodge’s reaction at the other end was a mirror image of his batting partner’s as he reeled back in shock. Wood was first to ask, “are you ok?” and England’s fielders also approached to check on him before the medics arrived to conduct official tests. But he was passed fit to continue and reached his maiden Test fifty just two balls later, with a nudge off the hip for two in Gus Atkinson’s next over.Athanaze went on to unfurl some lovely cover drives, and his slog-sweep for six over midwicket off Shoaib Bashir in the penultimate over before tea was glorious. Ben Stokes, however, prised him out with a century looming in the evening session, as he chased a wider delivery on 82 and sliced to Harry Brook at gully.Mark Wood blew up the speed-gun in his 14.1 overs but went unrewarded•Gareth Copley/Getty Images

Although the rest of his evening’s stay would prove to be a bit of an ordeal, Jason Holder got his runs flowing immediately, guiding his first ball for four through the slips cordon and, two balls later, clearing cover where the diminutive figure of Ben Duckett leapt somewhat belatedly and in vain as the ball sailed over his reaching hands and to the boundary.Wood returned to the attack and beat Hodge’s outside edge with a fantastic outswinging yorker on 92, before giving in to a wry grin when the last ball of the same over swung away again for another near-miss. Hodge forged on, past his century – reached with that punchy drive off Stokes – and put on 46 runs with Holder before he departed.Stokes took the second new ball with just one over left in the day. He handed it to Atkinson, who conceded five, Joshua Da Silva pulling four through midwicket to finish the day not out 32 with Holder on 23.Brathwaite and Louis weathered Wood’s earlier onslaught and after the first hour, West Indies were 48 without loss.But wickets to Bashir and Atkinson had them 89 for 3 at lunch with the innings of Athanaze and Hodge in their infancy.Wood came on in the 10th over and managed to produce some swing, which had been non-existent to that point on Friday. But it was his unbridled pace that had everyone transfixed as he twice nudged the 96mph mark and hit 95 twice more in the over.Wood’s second over was equally rapid, clocked at 94mph five times and 95 once, with testing lines as he twice beat Brathwaite’s outside edge.The Trent Bridge crowd gasped in unison as the scoreboard flashed up the speed of Wood’s fifth delivery in his third over – a staggering 97.1mph. That was understandably a maiden and after three overs, his figures read 3-1-5-0.Brathwaite managed to find the boundary, guiding the ball fine off his ribs, in Wood’s fourth over, which still contained some lightning speed.It was Bashir who made the breakthrough in the 15th over, shortly after the drinks break, as Brook took a nerveless catch running a long way to his right from mid-on to remove Louis for 21. It was Bashir’s first Test wicket from two matches at home after not bowling in the first game of this series.Related

Ben Duckett bends another Test to his will to add to his family lore

Battle with Mark Wood 'brutal' – Kavem Hodge

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Bashir could have had his second in his next over when he rapped Kirk McKenzie – on nought at the time – on the pad and appealed but the umpire was unmoved, as were England who didn’t seem interested in deferring to the DRS, although replays later showed the ball would have hit the top of leg stump.Atkinson returned for his second spell to replace Wood and he soon removed Brathwaite for 48 trying to turn a short, straight delivery down the leg side but looping it off the shoulder of the bat straight to Ollie Pope at short leg.Bashir did take his second wicket shortly before lunch, McKenzie serving up a simple catch to Stokes at mid-on.But, hours later, you couldn’t help feeling that it was England who trudged off just a little bit Thunderstruck.

The return of David Moyes may have brought a smile back to Everton Football Club, although it’s fair to say that the shining light on Merseyside remains a certain Iliman Ndiaye, with the Senegal star enjoying a dazzling debut campaign at the club.

In a largely workman-like outfit, the 25-year-old is undoubtedly the difference maker, regularly popping up with a moment of magic – including his breathtaking brace amid an emotional Goodison Park send-off last month.

The manner in which the ex-Marseille man is able to jink his way through a sea of defenders truly is a sight to behold, with The Athletic’s Jordan Campbell rightly noting earlier in the season that he is the type of player who can “change an entire mood” at a club.

With a brighter future in store at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the £15m signing should surely be the centre-piece of the new Moyes era. On the same note, signings of a similar ilk should surely be on the agenda this summer.

Latest on Everton's search for new signings

Change is afoot on the Blue side of Merseyside – not least with the move away from Goodison – with the end of the Premier League season sparking a mass exodus from the club, with the likes of Ashley Young, João Virginia and Abdoulaye Doucouré all set to depart upon the expiry of their contracts.

That sea of departures has also seen the likes of Jack Harrison, Jesper Lindstrom, Orel Mangala and Armando Broja return to their parent clubs amid the end of their respective loan moves, albeit with the temporary capture of Charly Alcaraz set to be made permanent for a fee of around €15m (£13m).

The deal to sign the South American starlet could be followed by another exciting capture over the coming weeks, with the Daily Mail suggesting that the Toffees have taken the first steps toward signing Manchester City’s James McAtee, having ‘made checks’ on him.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

As per the report, both Nottingham Forest and West Ham United are also keeping tabs on the promising Englishman, while a raft of Bundesliga sides are also interested, namely Bayer Leverkusen.

The 22-year-old – who reportedly has a £25m price tag – looks destined to depart the Etihad amid his lack of game time. Merseyside, as it has been for Ndiaye, could be the perfect home this summer.

Why Everton need to sign James McAtee

While Everton were hardly taking too much of a risk on Ndiaye, considering the forward’s reasonable £15m price tag, that deal did present something of a gamble considering his difficult stint in Marseille prior to that, in which he scored just four times in 46 games for the Ligue 1 outfit.

In truth, the Toffees were largely banking on the then-24-year-old rediscovering the form he had showcased prior to his 2023 switch, having lit up the Championship with Sheffield United, after registering 36 goals and assists in 88 games for the Blades.

Much to the delight of everyone at Goodison, those heroics have now been replicated in an Everton shirt, with Ndiaye ending 2024/25 with 11 goals in all competitions, placing him ahead of Beto in the club’s scoring charts.

That gamble has more than paid off, hence why plumping for McAtee could reap similar rewards, with the England U21 international also previously shining during his two loan spells in Sheffield.

Indeed, between 2022 and 2024, the silky playmaker registered 22 goals and assists in 75 games at Bramall Lane, with that including a return of nine goals and three assists in the Championship in 2022/23. Ndiaye, lining up in the same side, provided 14 goals and 11 assists in the league that season.

Non-penalty goals

0.78

Top 1%

Shots

3.53

Top 6%

Assists

0.00

Bottom 1%

Shot-creating actions

1.96

Bottom 1%

Pass completion

80.7%

Top 22%

Progressive passes

3.33

Bottom 40%

Progressive carries

2.55

Bottom 29%

Touches in opposition box

5.88

Top 18%

Progressive passes received

9.22

Top 28%

Tackles

1.96

Top 11%

Interceptions

0.39

Bottom 41%

Blocks

1.96

Top 1%

*vs attacking mid/wingers in Europe’s top 5 leagues

Described as “a special player” by Pep Guardiola back in Manchester, McAtee has since had to bid his time with the Citizens, albeit while still registering seven goals from only nine starts in all competitions this season.

An intricate, left-footed playmaker who can operate centrally or off the right flank, McAtee’s quality has also seen him likened to Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard in the past, with pundit Carl Asaba stating:

That likeness certainly bodes well for the impact he can make if given a consistent run of game time at Premier League level, with the Toffees hoping he can follow in Ndiaye’s footsteps by shining in the top-flight.

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