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Chelsea have now entered negotiations over a deal to sign a rapid new centre-back, and an opening offer is set to be made within weeks.

Blues looking to sign new centre-back despite Cahill comments

With Levi Colwill suffering an ACL injury back in August, the Blues’ offer centre-back options have had to step up to the plate this season, and Gary Cahill has been very impressed with their performances, so much so that he believes his former club don’t need to sign a new defender.

Cahill said: “There has been a lot of noise around this for a long time, but I think the lads that are there are doing a very good job of proving that they don’t need to add to this position,”

“I’ve been very impressed with Wesley Fofana since he’s come back. Touch wood that he stays fit.

“Trevoh Chalobah: look at the job he’s been doing – he’s a bit of an unsung hero. Trevoh is probably the most underappreciated player at Chelsea.

However, while a senior centre-back may not be required, BlueCo are always keen to bring in exciting up-and-coming prospects, and they have now entered negotiations over a deal for Gremio defender Luis Eduardo.

That is according to a report from AS (via Sport Witness), which states Chelsea have now entered talks to sign Eduardo, alongside Premier League rivals Manchester United, with opening offers set to be made in the coming weeks.

The Blues are now trying to ‘accelerate’ their pursuit of the centre-back, given that scouts have been left impressed with his performances, with the 17-year-old well-known for his pace, having reached 38 km/h for Gremio earlier this year.

The speedster has a €60m (£53m) release clause included in his contract with the Brazilian club, although it is unclear whether BlueCo would be willing to shell out such a big fee on a very young player.

Chelsea now ready to trigger £44m release clause for "unstoppable" striker

The Blues are looking to sign a new centre-forward, who has been in fantastic form so far this season.

By
Dominic Lund

Nov 30, 2025

Luis Eduardo impressing at youth level

The teenager is yet to establish himself as a regular starter for Gremio, having made just one appearance for the senior team, but he has put in some eye-catching performances for both club and country at youth level.

Despite being a centre-back, the Corrente-born ace managed to score two goals in seven appearances for Gremio U20s in 2025, while he has also netted three goals in 13 appearances for Brazil U17s.

Eduardo could be one for the future, but Cahill is correct in his assessment that Chelsea don’t need to worry about bringing in a new centre-back anytime soon, given Chalobah’s recent form, most recently netting the opening goal in the 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

Enzo Maresca also has Josh Acheampong and Benoit Badiashile at his disposal as back-up options, and with Colwill still to return, the manager is well-stocked at centre-back.

The Toronto Blue Jays have been among the finalists for a number of this year's top free agents, but have ultimately failed to make a marquee signing the franchise has longed for. That changed Monday.

The Blue Jays have agreed to a five-year contract with veteran outfielder Anthony Santander, pending a physical, according to multiple reports. ESPN's Jeff Passan indicates that Santander's deal with Toronto is worth upwards of $90 million.

Last year, Santander set career-highs with 44 home runs and 102 RBIs. His 44 homers trailed only Aaron Judge (58) and Shohei Ohtani (54) for the most in MLB. Santander boasted a .814 OPS and made the first All-Star Game of his career. The former Baltimore Orioles slugger is set to remain in the AL East and make the move north of the border.

Santander, 30, spent the first eight years of his career with the Orioles. He's hit 28 or more home runs in each of the last three seasons. He figures to provide more offensive prowess to a Blue Jays team that lacked power in 2024, having hit the fifth-fewest home runs (156) in MLB. Only the Chicago White Sox, Washington Nationals, Tampa Bay Rays and Miami Marlins had less.

Gerardo “Tata” Martino has returned to Atlanta United as manager on a two-year contract, the club announced Thursday. The 62-year-old reunites with the team where he enjoyed his greatest success, winning the 2018 MLS Cup and being named Coach of the Year. Martino aims to restore Atlanta’s status as a contender after inconsistency since his 2018 departure.

Getty Images SportA familiar face returns

The 62-year-old coach replaces Ronny Deila, whose tenure ended after a 14th-place finish in the Eastern Conference this season with just 28 points – despite having MLS's third-highest payroll at $28.5 million. Martino will also reconnect with one of his former stars in Miguel Almiron, who also rejoined the team last year after a stint with Newcastle United. 

“I want to thank Arthur and Chris for the opportunity to return to the club and a city where we hold wonderful memories and maintain great relationships,” Martino said in a statement. “This is a different project than my first stint with the club, however, with great ownership and the collaboration of the players, coaching staff and everyone at the club, our objective will always be to form a winning team that makes our fans feel proud and well-represented every time that they go to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.”

AdvertisementGetty Images SportA proven winner

Team owner Arthur Blank stressed the move to bring back Martino wasn't about trying to recreate the past and stressed the Argentine manager was hired to build a new foundation with the club. 

“Tata is an exceptional coach who set the standard for excellence within our club,” Blank said. “This is not about recreating the past, but about building a new foundation.” Martino’s career spans over 25 years and includes 11 trophies with clubs and national teams – from Barcelona and Newell’s Old Boys to Argentina, Paraguay, and Mexico.

Getty Images SportRecent success in Miami

Before returning to Atlanta, Martino managed Inter Miami during the early Lionel Messi era, capturing the 2023 Leagues Cup and 2024 Supporters’ Shield. His deep understanding of MLS and tactical identity made him the top choice for Atlanta’s front office.

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Getty Images SportRebuilding the five stripes

During Martino’s first stint, Atlanta compiled a record of 42 wins, 20 losses, and 16 draws, setting club marks for points (124), goals (140), and goal difference (+56). Now, with a Designated Player core of Emmanuel Latte Lath, Alexey Miranchuk, and Miguel Almirón, Martino faces the challenge of reviving the Five Stripes’ competitive edge ahead of 2026.

Mikel Arteta has built a superteam at Arsenal over the last five years.

While the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and William Saliba were signed under Unai Emery, and Bukayo Saka made his debut under the former manager, the Gunners’ former captain has signed a host of world-class players since taking the job.

Arguably, the best player to join the North Londoners over the last few years has been Declan Rice, who is now undoubtedly one of the best midfielders in the Premier League, if not the world.

So it’s encouraging that Arteta already looks to have his ideal heir for the Englishman in the squad today.

Rice's development at Arsenal

This season is Rice’s third at Arsenal, and while he’s been a crucial member of the team since his first, his role has changed year-on-year.

For example, he spent most of the 23/24 campaign playing at the base of midfield, as the club’s go-to six, making 31 appearances there, 19 in central midfield and just one at centre-back.

However, towards the end of that first year and most of last season, Arteta decided to move him slightly further up the pitch, into the left-eight.

In all, the Englishman ended up making 37 appearances in the middle of the park and just 15 in defensive midfield, which helped him end the campaign with an impressive tally of nine goals and ten assists, although plenty of the latter came from set-pieces.

Going into this season, most fans and pundits alike expected Arteta to keep playing his £105m further up the pitch, especially as he proved himself to be a brilliant box-crasher last season.

CM

64

12

16

DM

51

5

8

CB

1

0

0

However, while his statistics do show him starting more games in central midfield – eight to five – he is actually now playing that little bit deeper again, often interchanging with the sensationally gifted Martin Zubimendi.

The former West Ham United captain has even said as much, telling reporters after England’s game against Wales earlier this month that the manager has “adjusted my position at Arsenal a bit this year to give me a bit more freedom to drop deeper but to also get in the box when I can.”

You can see evidence of him playing that little bit deeper at times this season in his underlying numbers.

For example, according to FBref, he is completing 7.47 progressive passes and 2.91 progressive carries this year, compared to 6.11 and 2.87 last season.

In all, Rice remains one of Arsenal’s most important players and an archetypal all-action midfielder, so it’s good news that Arteta and Co already have his perfect heir in the squad.

Arsenal's Rice heir

Now, upon first glance, it might not be immediately apparent who the Rice heir in Arsenal’s squad is.

Chalkboard

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

After all, Christian Nørgaard is 31, and Zubimendi is the same age as the Englishman at 26.

However, instead of being among the club’s current crop of midfielders, the ideal long-term replacement for the former West Ham United captain is down as a defender, and it is, of course, Myles Lewis-Skelly.

The Hale End gem, whose “talent is scary” according to one content creator, might play almost exclusively as a left-back for the first team, but he spent much of his time in the junior game playing in the middle of the park, and the skills he picked up there have shone through for the senior side at times.

For example, against Atlético Madrid, he picked up the ball in the middle of the park, drove past half the side and delivered the ball into Gabriel Martinelli’s feet for the Gunners’ second goal.

That run demonstrated several skills needed to make it as a top-quality central midfielder, such as the physicality to hold off defenders, the close control to get past them, the understanding of space, and, crucially, the weight of the pass at the end.

Moreover, the ability to drive with the ball like he did is one of Rice’s best traits, so while Arteta and the coaching staff will have to work on transitioning the teenager from full-back to midfield over the coming years, they can rest easy knowing he’s already an elite ball player.

There are other reasons why the Islington-born gem could become as sensational an eight in the future, though, such as his mentality.

For example, it’s so easy to forget that he is still so young, as it seemingly does not matter who he is up against, be it Real Madrid or Manchester City, the Hale Ender is, as Rice put it himself, utterly “fearless.”

It’s this willingness to challenge any attacker or try to beat any defender without hesitation that has also led club insider Hand of Arsenal to label the young gem a “future captain,” a title many have also given the former West Ham star.

Ultimately, given Rice’s age, Arsenal do not need to worry about replacing him just yet. Still, when they do eventually have to, they’ve already got the perfect candidate in Lewis-Skelly.

Arteta's £120k-p/w "wild horse" looks like this season's Timber at Arsenal

Just like Timber, the international monster is having an incredible season at Arsenal this year.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Oct 28, 2025

Forceful batting followed by frugal five-wicket haul in 78-run win over Glamorgan

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay08-Jun-2025

Sussex Sharks made it three wins out of four in the Vitality Blast when they outplayed Glamorgan at Hove, winning by 78 runs with 4.4 overs to spare.First James Coles led the way with the bat, with an unbeaten 75, before Nathan McAndrew took over with the ball, with figures of five for 19 from his four overs. At one point Glamorgan, who had also won two out of three before this fixture, were 49 for seven and appeared to be heading for an even heavier defeat.They needed a challenging 196 at 9.8 runs an over and made a bright start but then, in the fourth over, their captain Kiran Carson hit Ollie Robinson tamely to Coles at midwicket.In the next over Ben Kellaway was caught on the deep midwicket boundary by Tom Clark off McAndrew and the Australian put himself on a hat-trick when Colin Ingram gloved his next delivery to the keeper.That made it 40 for three in the fifth over. And worse was to come for the visiting side. In the seventh over Will Smale, attempting to swing a low full toss from Coles to the boundary, lost his off stump instead. Then McAndrew had Chris Cooke caught behind and placed himself on another hat-rick when he dismissed Dan Douthwaite (bowled middle stump) and Timm van der Gugten (caught at backward-point). Again, McAndrew missed out on his hat-trick but he had taken five wickets for seven runs in two overs and Glamorgan, at 49 for seven after eight overs, were in disarray.Asa Tribe gave their innings a measure of respectability with a 21-ball 34, with a four and three sixes, before he was brilliantly caught by the running and diving Daniel Hughes at short third man and Tymal Mills wrapped it up with two in two.Sussex, who chose to bat first, were again indebted to the in-form Coles, who powered his way to his 75 from just 43 deliveries, with seven fours and three sixes. It was his second fifty of the campaign, and his fourth in the Vitality Blast. But Tom Alsop was a close second best, with 50 from 27, with five sixes, as the pair struck 90 runs from nine overs for the fourth wicket, with 52 runs coming from the last three overs.Glamorgan had hoped for something better after dismissing the dangerous Hughes for just a single in the second over. Harrison Ward, after a quiet three matches, made his first meaningful contribution of the season, with a bludgeoning 38, with four fours and two sixes, as he added fifty for the second wicket with the dangerous John Simpson (26) from 28 balls.But it was Coles who provided the vital acceleration, raising the hundred in the 13th over as he lofted Mason Crane over extra-cove for four before lifting his next delivery into the pavilion for six.Glamorgan fielded six bowlers but Douthwaite, whose first two overs went for 32, was surprisingly given a third and that went for 16 as Coles drove him straight for six before Alsop hit him over long-on for another maximum.

Sunderland, back in the Premier League in 2025 after an eight-year absence, splashed the cash in the summer transfer window.

The Black Cats made their mark in the window by spending more than £100m on new additions, with the likes of Granit Xhaka and Habib Diarra moving to the Stadium of Light.

However, previously, Sunderland almost signed some legends of the game. From Virgil van Dijk to Kevin De Bruyne, the Black Cats nearly landed these world-class stars.

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By
Charlie Smith

Sep 5, 2025

10 players who Sunderland almost signed

10

Virgil van Dijk

Between 2013 and 2015, Virgil van Dijk was starring for Celtic, whereas at Sunderland, Gus Poyet was in charge at the Stadium of Light.

Van Dijk previously admitted that he had conversations about signing for the Black Cats during Poyet’s tenure, however, he would instead choose another team in red and white stripes in Southampton.

9

Kevin De Bruyne

In 2011, Kevin De Bruyne was coming through in Belgium with Genk and was wanted by then-Sunderland boss Steve Bruce.

The Black Cats and Aston Villa were battling it out for De Bruyne, but it was Chelsea who won the race. Things didn’t work out for him at Stamford Bridge, however, he did become a Premier League legend with Manchester City.

8

Diego Maradona

Back in 1977, Diego Maradona burst onto the scene as a teenager and would make his Argentina debut.

At club level, the attacker was with Argentinos Juniors but actually wanted to make the move to England and sign for Sunderland. Unfortunately for the Black Cats, Argentina declared Maradona ‘untransferrable’. Daniel Arcucci, who was the Argentinian’s biographer, said:

7

Luis Suarez

Sunderland were on the search for a new striker in 2010 to partner Darren Bent, and that man could have been Luis Suarez.

Suarez was at Ajax at the time and Sunderland sent scouts to watch him, however, they instead signed Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan following the World Cup, with Suarez the villain after his famous handball on the biggest stage.

6

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Sunderland tried to sign Zlatan Ibrahimovic on two occasions under Peter Reid in the early years of the iconic striker’s career.

The Swede was scoring goals for fun with Ajax and would go on to star for Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and Man Utd.

5

Ruud van Nistelrooy

Reid also tried to sign Ruud van Nistelrooy for Sunderland when the Dutchman was with Heerenveen.

The striker was still young and had a £5m asking price, something which the Black Cats decided against. Van Nistelrooy would then sign for PSV Eindhoven before becoming a Manchester United legend.

4

Diego Forlan

Another former Man Utd striker who could have played for Sunderland was Diego Forlan, who was wanted by former Red Devils teammate Roy Keane during his time as Black Cats manager.

Instead of signing for Sunderland, though, Forlan moved to Atletico Madrid in 2007 from Villarreal.

3

Paul Scholes

The 1996/97 Premier League season was the final one at Roker Park and ended in relegation for the Black Cats.

However, it could have been different if Sunderland managed to sign Paul Scholes from Man Utd. The iconic English midfielder was into his third year as an Old Trafford professional, and he’d never become available even though the Black Cats were desperate to do a deal.

2

Robbie Keane

Arguably one of the most underrated strikers in Premier League history, Robbie Keane could quite easily have been a Sunderland player in 2002.

In fact, the Black Cats agreed a fee with Leeds for the Irish forward, but Keane would turn down a move north, joining Tottenham a year later.

1

Joe Hart

A move to the Stadium of Light for goalkeeper Joe Hart, a four-time Premier League golden glove winner, was on the cards in 2016.

David Moyes was in charge and said the club could have landed the England shot-stopper, however, Hart himself said he snubbed Sunderland, instead signing on loan for Italian side Torino.

Everton’s summer transfer business under David Moyes highlighted a clear shift in strategy.

The club, once notorious for muddled recruitment, has embraced a more balanced approach.

They have successfully combined headline signings like Jack Grealish from Manchester City and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Chelsea with some of the brightest young prospects in Europe.

Yet as Everton now put increased emphasis on developing youth talent, it also brings into focus the players they may have let go too soon.

History shows that some departures from Goodison Park have gone on to flourish elsewhere, leaving fans wondering what might have been.

Moise Kean is one of the most prominent examples but he’s not the only one finding form on the continent

Former Everton stars finding form in Italy

When Everton signed Moise Kean from Juventus in 2019, he was hailed as one of the most exciting teenage strikers in Europe.

A product of Italy’s most successful club, Kean arrived at Goodison Park with expectations that he could spearhead the Toffees’ attack for years to come.

But his time on Merseyside never quite clicked.

Across 39 appearances, the Italian managed just four goals and two assists, struggling to adapt to the physicality and pace of the Premier League.

After a series of loan moves – including stints at PSG and back at Juventus – Everton eventually cut their losses, sanctioning a permanent return to Turin in 2023.

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A year later, Kean moved on again, this time joining Fiorentina.

It proved the making of him. During the 2024/25 Serie A season, he scored 19 goals and registered three assists in 32 appearances, finishing as the league’s second-highest scorer behind Mateo Retegui.

The numbers underline just how much Kean has developed since leaving England.

According to FBref, he ranks in the 86th percentile for non-penalty goals per 90 (0.58), the 87th percentile for total shots per 90 (3.39), and the 92nd percentile for successful take-ons per 90 (1.47).

Once criticised for inconsistency, Kean has matured into a forward capable of deciding matches, combining sharp finishing with the ability to carry the ball past defenders.

While Kean may not have thrived at Goodison, his resurgence elsewhere in Italy suggests the raw ability was always there.

Not just Kean: Ex-Toffee is now emulating Europe's elite

Signed from Charlton in 2017, Ademola Lookman made 48 appearances for Everton, contributing two goals and one assist.

Despite flashes of promise, he was often used sparingly, and in 2019, he left permanently for RB Leipzig.

Since then, Lookman has become one of the most exciting forwards in European football.

Now starring at Atalanta, the Nigerian has earned widespread acclaim, even being nominated for the Ballon d’Or.

His crowning moment came when he scored a stunning hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final, dismantling Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen to secure the trophy for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side.

Journalist Oma Akatugba has gone so far as to describe him as “one of the best forwards in Europe.”

The statistics back up the claim and even place him stylistically alongside elite attackers like Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak, according to data-led website, FBRef.

In terms of output, Lookman registered 20 goal involvements last season, compared with Salah’s 47 and Isak’s 29.

Matches Played

34

38

31

Goals

23

29

15

Assists

6

18

5

While he lags behind in sheer numbers, his playing profile shares striking similarities.

He averaged 3.24 shots per 90 (almost identical to Salah at 3.23 and Isak at 3.10) and produced 1.28 shots on target per 90, just shy of Salah’s 1.33 and Isak’s 1.34.

His efficiency in front of goal is also comparable, with a 39.5% shot accuracy rate, while Salah managed 41.3% and Isak 43.2%.

Where Lookman truly stands out is in ball progression.

He recorded 5.68 progressive carries per 90, significantly higher than Salah (4.13) and Isak (2.71), underlining his ability to drive forward with the ball.

His passing numbers are similarly impressive: 27.4 completed passes per 90 with a 72.5% success rate, both superior to Salah’s 23.8 at 70.6%.

He also excels creatively, ranking above both with 5.41 shot-creating actions per 90, compared to Salah’s 4.51 and Isak’s 3.01.

Defensively, Lookman contributes too. He ranked higher than both Isak and Salah for tackles in the attacking third (0.32 per 90), reflecting his pressing intensity and commitment off the ball.

The comparisons do not suggest that Lookman is at the same world-class level as Salah or that he matches Isak’s physical presence, but they do show how his game has evolved elsewhere into a blend of goals, creativity, and defensive work – the very traits Everton fans craved during his time at Goodison.

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ByJoe Nuttall Sep 10, 2025

Win at Turf Moor and Liverpool remain in pole position four matches into the Premier League campaign. While it hasn’t always been smooth sailing, Arne Slot’s side have collected nine points from nine thus far.

Burnley might be newly promoted, but they gave Manchester United a tough game before the international break and won previously against Sunderland on home ground. But Slot’s Redmen are different beasts, and will expect to secure victory once again.

With an opening foray into the Champions League looming on Wednesday evening, when Liverpool will host Atletico Madrid, subtle rotation is to be expected, and Curtis Jones will play no part after picking up an injury in his last outing.

However, Jeremie Frimpong has returned to team training and will hope to challenge Dominik Szoboszlai, the hero two weeks back, for a starting berth at right-back.

There is also, of course, the anticipation of Alexander Isak’s arrival. Isak joined Liverpool from Newcastle United in a record-breaking deal on transfer deadline day, and many across the country will keep an eye on the striker’s potential debut.

However, the 25-year-old is likely to be benched, having played little football for several months. Hugo Ekitike will deputise in his stead, and Florian Wirtz will target the match as one which seems fit to get him up and running after his £116m transfer from Bayer Leverkusen.

Why Liverpool should relocate Wirtz

Wirtz has so far played in a central role for Liverpool, standing proud of the deeper-lying midfielders and looking to weave together the different lines for Slot’s side. It’s been a steady start, but not the barnstorming introduction many anticipated after his British record move from Germany.

However, the 22-year-old is clearly one of the most talented footballers in the world. You can see it in the way he deftly touches the ball, you can see it in his snappy, seamless movements, his vision and artistry in creation.

But the opening games of Wirtz’s Premier League career left plenty to be desired, and Liverpool might find that their expensive recruit has more success in a wider berth, taking on defenders and creating and cutting inside and shooting.

Against Arsenal, improvements were made. Especially in the second half, Wirtz started to loosen up, moving with an ease of gait that gave rise to his fleet-footedness and ability to take on and beat his man.

Such skills are transferable, of course, not just limited to a central attacking midfield role. And for that reason, perhaps Liverpool might want to unleash Wirtz from a left-sided position this term, with £45m man, Cody Gakpo, shifting into the number nine spot that will soon become Isak’s.

Slot should unleash Gakpo in the Isak role

With Isak unlikely to start from the beginning at Burnley, Slot might fancy solving his Wirtz problem by fielding Gakpo in a more advanced attacking position, alongside Ekitike.

Then the German playmaker could shift out to the left, with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch working in the middle (should Szoboszlai reprise his right-back role, he could advance to the middle in possession, thus compacting the midfield).

Gakpo scored 18 goals across all competitions last season and is one of the most accurate shooters in the Premier League, with pundit Peter Crouch even remarking last year that he had “gone up a level” in Slot’s system.

Isak rocks the boat somewhat, and Liverpool’s forwards will be dished out varying degrees of match action across the season. Gakpo won’t start every match, but he should start here, against Burnley.

For much of August, Isak wandered across the cold tundra of footballing No Man’s Land, having rebelled at Newcastle and removed himself from Eddie Howe’s pre-season preparations. Many times did it seem that the Sweden international would be kept from his dream move to Merseyside.

But he’s here now, and Liverpool are much better for it. However, the fact that Slot has such strength in depth bears testament to FSG’s determination, and indeed the longer-spanning reach of their quiet tenacity, with Gakpo also a showcase in that regard.

Liverpool signed Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven in late December 2022 after his exceptional performances with the Netherlands at the Qatar World Cup. Man United thought they were signing him, but Liverpool swooped and landed their man.

And he’s improved by the season, with a goal and two assists from three Premier League appearances this term, further evidence that Slot has created a version of the player who is capable of getting better and better.

Early though the term is, Gakpo has been a menace, with data from Sofascore revealing him to have averaged an absurdly high 9.3 duels across his top-flight fixtures so far, also making six key passes and all the while through a heat map that highlights a deeper starting point than was typical last season.

And what does that mean? Well, Wirtz’s involvement is likely a defining factor. Last year, Szoboszlai played a more industrious role from number ten than the German, working overtime to pack energy and initiative into Slot’s hard-working team.

Wirtz is a more advanced player, flashier and full of flair. Liverpool are recalibrating. Lopsidedness and unfluent motions have been pinpoints of criticism for the Reds across their opening matches, and yet they have nine points from nine. They stand atop the pile and have beaten Arsenal and Newcastle and Bournemouth.

Perhaps moving Wirtz out wide, where he has played and starred before, would help this imperious outfit hit an even stronger stride. Gakpo, after all, is a natural goalscorer and would still be able to work from outside to in in a duel-striking role with Ekitike.

Attacking midfield

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7 (7)

Right winger

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4 (3)

Left winger

9

2 (3)

Central midfield

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0 (3)

Has Slot envisaged such a scenario? It certainly seems likely, else why would Liverpool have broken the bank for forwards such as Isak and Ekitike?

When fitness permits, Isak will play many matches from the number nine berth, leading the line for Liverpool. There he will score goals in their droves, adding not just goalscoring potency but a unique take on the centre-forward’s craft.

However, with Ekitike firing on all cylinders and Isak in need of soft integration for the time being, Liverpool might want to avoid throwing caution to the wind, especially when someone like Gakpo would be ready to stand in and help shape a new system.

The Dutchman is his own player; he is not Isak. Gakpo would not play Isak’s positional role in mimicry, but offer his own take, thus allowing Slot to create a new style from which multiple players can settle into the same seat and keep it all afloat.

To put it all in a nutshell: Liverpool are rather good, and have so many different ways to achieve their title-winning ambitions.

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The hosts are one of just two clubs never to have won the BBL, but have been the best side this season

Andrew McGlashan26-Jan-2025

Big picture: A first for Hurricanes, or Thunder’s great revival?Whoever prevails in the BBL final, the first to be hosted in Tasmania, it will be a terrific story. Hobart Hurricanes have never won the title, while Sydney Thunder, under the captaincy of David Warner, have gone from the wooden spoon last year to their best run in nine seasons.Hurricanes have been the standout team this summer, something that looked unlikely after their first game when they were skittled for 74 by Melbourne Renegades. From there, however, Hurricanes were unbeaten through the next eight matches, losing only to Melbourne Stars when they were assured of hosting the Qualifier final. In that match, they overturned Sydney Sixers to earn hosting rights for the final.Hurricanes have a very well balanced side, even if they have occasionally looked a batter light. Mitch Owen has been the season’s breakout star after being elevated to opening the batting, responding with an eye-watering strike-rate of 191.11. Tim David has been a vital cog in the middle order, especially on home soil, with Hurricanes unbeaten in Hobart through the campaign.Related

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Thunder one step away from BBL title as Billings, spinners shine

Bowlers take Hobart Hurricanes to their first BBL final in seven years

But it has been their pace attack which has often set them apart. Riley Meredith has bowled with impressive pace (as did Billy Stanlake before injury), while in captain Nathan Ellis and overseas signing Chris Jordan, Hurricanes have two outstanding death bowlers, with their impact never clearer than in the Qualifier against Sixers.But it hasn’t quite been such a seamless run for Thunder, who had started strongly with four wins in five games before stumbling a little. By finishing third, they had to reach the final the hard way, but did it impressively with victories over Stars and Sixers. A potentially pivotal point in Thunder’s season came on the night of the horrific collision between Cameron Bancroft and Daniel Sams, which left the pair in hospital and their team-mates shaken. But somehow, Thunder were able to get over the line against Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium, their fortress. It reinforced the close-knit nature of the squad.Injuries, a Test call to Sam Konstas, and the usual coming and going of overseas names have tested Thunder’s depth, but they have found answers at each turn. Warner is now one win away from having a very significant moment in his career after the leadership ban was overturned ahead of the season.”This year challenged us in every way – injuries to key players, the demands of international tournaments, and the introduction of new faces to the team,” Thunder coach Trevor Bayliss said. “But each time, the team rose to the occasion without making excuses. You can’t ask much more of your team than that.”Tim David could be a huge figure in deciding the final•Getty Images

Route to the finalHobart HurricanesLost to Renegades by six wickets | Beat Scorchers by eight wickets | Beat Strikers by 11 runs | Beat Sixers by 50 runs | Beat Strikers by five wickets | Match abandoned vs Thunder | Beat Thunder by five wickets | Beat Renegades by four wickets | Beat Heat by five wickets | Lost to Stars by 40 runs | Beat Sixers by 12 runs
Sydney ThunderBeat Strikers by two wickets | Lost to Sixers by five wickets | Beat Stars by 18 runs | Beat Renegades by eight runs | Beat Scorchers by four wickets | Lost to Heat by five wickets | Match abandoned vs Hurricanes | Lost to Hurricanes by six wickets | Beat Scorchers by 61 runs | No result vs Sixers | Beat Stars by 21 runs | Beat Sixers by four wicketsPlayers to watch: Tim David and Tanveer SanghaTim David has been the power surge king this season. He has scored 95 runs from 33 balls in the two-over period of fielding restrictions without being dismissed. The next best is Max Bryant’s 68 off 30 deliveries with one dismissal. Particularly when chasing at their home ground, David’s power means Hurricanes are never out of the game. The role he plays when batting first can be flexible depending on the base the top order has provided.Tanveer Sangha forms part of a strong Thunder spin attack•Getty Images

Tanveer Sangha has bowled very nicely since returning to the side after injury. In his three recent outings, he has figures of 1 for 18, 2 for 31 and 0 for 26. During the last of them, against Sixers, he dropped Moises Henriques, but deflected the ball on to the stumps to run Josh Philippe out. It will be a challenge for Sangha on a smaller playing area at Ninja Stadium, with some strong hitters likely to target the shorter boundaries. But Sangha has some tricks up his sleeve as well.Team news: Teams may ponder batting depthHurricanes juggled their batting order again for the Qualifier, with Matthew Wade moving to No. 3. Chris Jordan potentially feels a place high at No. 7, leaving the onus on the top six to get the job done if that balance is retained.Hobart Hurricanes (possible): 1 Mitch Owen, 2 Caleb Jewell, 3 Matthew Wade (wk), 4 Ben McDermott, 5 Tim David, 6 Nikhil Chaudhary, 7 Chris Jordan, 8 Nathan Ellis (capt), 9 Cameron Gannon, 10 Peter Hatzoglou, 11 Riley MeredithJason Sangha had a significant impact as he slotted back into the side at the top of the order, although Thunder’s batting still looks a little thin. There may be a debate over whether three spinners is the way to go in Hobart, although overall, Hurricanes have the third-lowest run rate against spin this season, compared to the highest against pace. Warner confirmed that Ollie Davies would be in the squad, having overcome a thigh injury.Sydney Thunder (possible): 1 David Warner, 2 Jason Sangha, 3 Matthew Gilkes, 4 Sam Billings (wk), 5 Hugh Weibgen/Ollie Davies, 6 Chris Green, 7 George Garton, 8 Nathan McAndrew, 9 Tom Andrews, 10 Wes Agar, 11 Tanveer SanghaPitch and conditionsThe pitch for the Qualifier was on the slower side of what has been produced this season. Chasing has been the preferred option, but Hurricanes won against that script against Sixers. The forecast is for a warm day and a chance of a thunderstorm, although they are expected to clear by the evening. There is a reserve day for the final, but the first aim would be to complete a five-over match on Monday.

Konstas will become the fourth-youngest Australian to play Test cricket while Head is battling a minor quad strain but the coach is confident he will play

Alex Malcolm24-Dec-20242:38

Cummins: ‘Seeing new players debut really gives me a thrill’

Sam Konstas will make his Test debut for Australia on Boxing Day while Travis Head will face a fitness test on his injured quad but coach Andrew McDonald is confident his star left-hand batter will be fit to play.Konstas will become the fourth-youngest Australian to make his Test debut at 19 years and 85 days on Boxing Day against India, with only Ian Craig, current captain Pat Cummins, and Tom Garrett making their debuts at a younger age.McDonald confirmed in a press conference post training on Tuesday that Australia’s selector on duty Tony Dodemaide had told Konstas the good news on the same morning, but he said confirmation on the rest of the XI would come on Christmas Day when Cummins does his pre-match press conference.Related

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“We said from the get go, when leading into the summer, that we wouldn’t shy away, and age was no barrier,” McDonald said. “And what he’s shown is an array of shots, the ability to put pressure back on to opponents and he gets his opportunity. We’re really excited for him.”The concerns around Head’s fitness are real as he is clearly not 100%. Head suffered a very minor quad strain while batting in Australia’s second innings in Brisbane and did not field in Australia’s very brief second bowling innings before rain ended the match.Head had a short hit on Tuesday in the nets after doing some running and some fielding on the outfield, having not done anything at Monday’s optional session.”Has he got some things to work through? Yeah, he has,” McDonald said. “So that’s what you would have seen. There’s no concern at the moment. Has he been officially ticked off? I’m not sure. I didn’t see the sort of back-end of his training session there, but I’m pretty confident he’ll play.”I think he looked good with the bat in hand so obviously skills are in good order. It’ll just be basically what risk is associated with that. He had a small strain to the quad. But no concerns from my end. He’s been able to be running, so I think he’ll be fully functional come the game time.”Head did have a lengthy discussion with McDonald and Australia’s physio Nick Jones shortly after his hit in the nets but the coach downplayed its significance.”It was more around his fielding position and what he was capable of there,” McDonald said. “Clearly coming off a strain he’s got that, obviously the demands of bat pad.Travis Head (right) speaks with coach Andrew McDonald (left) and physio Nick Jones (centre) about his quad issue•Getty Images”So that’s all that was about. And my question to Nick Jones was just around what he’s got to do to finish off the session, so I was across it beforehand, or just making sure nothing had changed during the session, and then we just started to speak about India, what they might do. So it was nothing really that specific.”McDonald did confirm that Australia would make at least two changes with Konstas replacing Nathan McSweeney and Scott Boland replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood.”If we didn’t pick Scotty here, and I’m not allowed to declare the team, because that’s Pat’s job tomorrow, but I don’t think I’m coming to the ground Boxing Day if Scotty is not the XI. So you can go with that as well,” McDonald said.McDonald stopped short of confirming if there would be any more changes. It appears unlikely given Mitchell Marsh is fully fit. He had one of his longest bowling spells of the summer in the nets on Tuesday and looked to be moving well having overcome the back issues that plagued him since he suffered spasms in the fourth ODI against England at Lord’s back in September.”Just to clear up, Mitch Marsh is fully fit and available to bowl,” McDonald said. “I know that he only bowled two overs last game, and people were speculating around that, but that was more because of the weather interventions, and we’re able to keep our fast bowlers fresh, albeit we only had two out of the three operating. But he’s ready to go, and I think he’ll play a role in this Test match with the ball more so than the previous ones.”Sam Konstas will get his baggy green at the MCG•AFP via Getty ImagesAlthough it hasn’t been confirmed, it appears unlikely that either Beau Webster or Josh Inglis will make their Test debuts on Boxing Day. Inglis has not trained at all with the squad at the MCG on Monday and Tuesday because he played across town at the Marvel Stadium in a BBL match for Perth Scorchers on Monday night.Scorchers and Western Australia quick Jhye Richardson has trained with the Test squad both days having not been released to play in the same BBL game.McDonald was pleased to have him in the squad alongside the other spare fast bowler Sean Abbott and feels he could be needed in Sydney if the Melbourne Test were to go five days and Australia’s bowlers were stretched. However, McDonald thought that was unlikely given the surface and the lighter loads that both Cummins and Mitchell Starc have had across the series so far.”Jhye’s been impressive,” McDonald said. “Clearly had a setback in the Shield game with the shoulder. Every week that goes on, people are confident that it lessens the risk. And what we saw in the nets today is a highly-skilled player, and he’s getting somewhere near his best, which is exciting for us.”Carrying the two extra quicks in the squad with the short turnaround, I think that’s real. If this game becomes long into a short turnaround, then you’ve got to make some decisions. Our frontline quicks, in terms of Starcy and Paddy, are well placed. Probably, less load than we would have imagined after three Test matches so does that give them opportunity to back up from Test four to Test five? I’d say that’s highly likely.”