When most players arrive in India for their maiden IPL season, they pull on their new franchise’s kit for the first time. But for Ryan Rickelton, the royal blue and gold trim of Mumbai Indians (MI) was reassuringly familiar.Rickelton has spent three seasons playing for their affiliate MI Cape Town in the SA20, where all six teams are run by IPL owners. Surprisingly, he is the only South African to have played matches for the same franchise in both leagues this year, a route that will surely become increasingly familiar as the global game evolves.Aged 28, Rickelton is a relatively late newcomer to the IPL but has made significant strides under the guidance of MI Cape Town’s batting coach, Hashim Amla, and is the leading run-scorer in the SA20’s brief history. While the two teams’ squads are very different, the crossover in support staff has been beneficial for Rickelton since he arrived in India.Related

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“It’s been a nice introduction into the group, the family – and obviously meeting Akash [Ambani, the MI owner] and everyone as well,” Rickelton said. “It’s not just coming in blind, so it has been an easier transition. But the IPL is a different beast on its own, so to mentally work my head around that is a bit of a different one for me… Luckily, I’ve got a few familiar faces around.”After starting IPL 2025 with scores of 13 and 6, Rickelton hit 62 off 41 balls on Monday night in his first innings at the Wankhede. A target of 117 was never likely to prove challenging, but his attacking intent secured an eight-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) with 43 balls to spare – enough to put MI’s net run-rate firmly in the black, despite starting the season with two defeats.”Opening the batting for Mumbai Indians with Rohit Sharma, there’s always going to be pressure internally and obviously externally as well,” Rickelton said. “Hardik [Pandya, the captain] was emphasising today, ‘Raise intensity, this is our home ground.’ We needed to be better and obviously we couldn’t be zero [wins] from three [games].”ESPNcricinfo Ltd

Rickelton believes that the IPL brings with it “a lot more pressure” than the other franchise leagues he has experienced. “The standard is incredibly high, and the conditions are all changing,” he said. “A year ago, [you] turn on the television and teams are getting 260 and you think it’s a free-for-all, but you come out and it’s actually not that easy.”Different grounds have unique characteristics. The pressure factor internally is big, but externally is huge. You’re playing with some of the world’s best players, not just in this team but around the country, so that extra pressure is there and it’s hard. I’m not going to lie: it’s hard. [I’m] just trying to find my way through that, and trying to adjust my game in order to give the team the best chance of being successful.”Rickelton was bowled off his inside edge in his first two IPL innings, and joked: “I was just trying to not chop it on, in all honesty.” But after two streaky boundaries early in his innings, he grew in confidence and hit three leg-side sixes off Sunil Narine – with the second bringing him a 33-ball half-century.Ryan Rickelton hit five sixes – and four fours – in his innings•Associated Press

“I was a bit nervous,” he said. “I just really wanted to get a score and just ease the nerves down. It was a relatively low total [target], so I knew I could afford a bit of time and just give myself those extra couple of balls… I felt like if I could face 18-20 balls, I’d have some kind of impact on the game and luckily I managed just to get through. It wasn’t as fluent as I’d have liked it to be, but I’ll take it.”It was a massive relief, in all honesty. Our first two games were tricky, on some tough wickets. To get out here in Mumbai and have Spencer [Johnson] turn me inside out was quite a tough battle to get through, but once I managed to get through that it was really pleasing to get a score – but relief, more than anything, and to get two points on the board is great for the team.”The extra bounce at the Wankhede compared to most IPL pitches should provide Rickelton with some home comforts this season, but his main challenge will be to have an impact on the road. Next up for him is a trip to the league’s lowest-scoring venue over the last three years, as MI face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) away on Friday night.

Tottenham Hotspur’s need for a number ten this summer has become more apparent week after week, with Thomas Frank having to deal with numerous setbacks since taking the reins.

The Dane has seen issues arise in the number ten position over recent weeks, with injuries massively disrupting the plans he would’ve had in place for the ongoing Premier League campaign.

James Maddison would undoubtedly have been the starting player in such a position, but the new manager will be without the Englishman for the vast majority of 2025/26.

He suffered an ACL injury in the pre-season clash with Newcastle United in South Korea, subsequently undergoing surgery, which will rule him out of action for at least six months.

Dejan Kulusevski is another option to fill the void, but like Maddison, he’s also set for a spell on the sidelines – further highlighting the failures of the hierarchy in the transfer market this window.

Spurs’ failure to land a number ten this summer

Morgan Gibbs-White was the first target identified by the Spurs board, even submitting a £60m bid to land the Nottingham Forest star earlier in the window.

A deal rapidly advanced over a short space of time, even seeing the player agree to travel for a medical – but Reds owner Evangelos Marinakis pulled the plug and intercepted a move, leading to the player signing a new deal at the City Ground.

After missing out on the 25-year-old’s signature, the hierarchy turned their attention to Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, entering constant deliberations for his signature.

At one stage, it appeared as though a move would go through, with the player agreeing to join the Lilywhites – but North London rivals Arsenal have swooped in and seemingly got the deal done for the 27-year-old’s signature.

Missing out on both players has undoubtedly fuelled the fanbase’s displeasure towards Daniel Levy, with the owner needing to make a new number ten a priority before the summer deadline.

Spurs’ hunt to land an Eze alternative this summer

After losing out on Eze, Spurs have turned their attention to West Ham United star Lucas Paqueta over recent days, potentially landing a bargain deal for the 27-year-old this window.

It’s been reported that he could be available for as little as £40m this summer, a 50% cut on his asking price from last summer, with the Hammers previously wanting £80m for his signature.

However, he’s not the only attacking midfielder currently on their radar, with Como star Nico Paz another talent they are considering, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that Frank’s side are preparing an opening offer to sign the 20-year-old, after he enjoyed a breakthrough year in Serie A throughout 2024/25 – notching 14 combined goals and assists in his 35 outings.

It’s also been reported that his current employers don’t want to sell the Argentine this summer, just one year after he joined from Real Madrid – but may entertain offers around the £60m mark.

Why Spurs’ £60m target is a bigger talent than Eze

Eze is a player who has demonstrated his quality in England’s top-flight on a consistent basis over the last few years, often being a huge threat to countless backlines in the division.

His tally of 16 goal contributions in just 34 outings last campaign highlights the threat he carries, but ultimately, it will be a record the Spurs backline will try and nullify in 2025/26.

Missing out on his signature was a bitter blow in isolation, but the fact that he’s joining the club’s closest rivals has only added to the pain currently being endured by the Lilywhites faithful.

There’s no doubt any deal for the 27-year-old would’ve been a hefty investment, but arguably a risk-free one given the numbers he’s previously produced in the Premier League.

However, Levy and Frank must now work closely on other targets, potentially taking a gamble on Paz to provide the depth and quality the side have been hunting for in the number ten role.

On the face of it, his tally of goals and assists in Italy last season were hugely impressive, but it needs to be remembered that it was his first full season as a regular starter in Europe’s top-five leagues.

The flipside would see the Lilywhites land an extremely talented youngster, who has bags of time to build on his excellent start to his career, given his tender age.

He’s already managed to outperform Eze in numerous key areas throughout 2024/25, with multiple of his underlying figures better than those of the soon-to-be Arsenal man.

Paz, who possesses “immense potential” according to Jacek Kulig, posted a better shot on target rate, arguably being more of a threat than the Englishman when bearing down on goal.

Games played

35

34

Goals & assists

14

16

Shot on target accuracy

34%

27%

Progressive passes

5.3

3.3

Pass accuracy

81%

74%

Passes into final third

3.9

1.7

Progressive carries

2.6

2.4

Take-on success

51%

48%

Carries into final third

2.1

1.6

However, his main responsibility as a number ten is undoubtedly creating chances for those around him – something which the Argentine has done in abundance in recent months.

He completed more of the passes he attempted, whilst more of his efforts were into the final third, handing the likes of Richarlison and Brennan Johnson to build on their goal tallies this campaign.

The youngster’s dominance over Eze is further highlighted in his higher take-on success rate – able to drive into dangerous areas before providing the final touches – as seen by his aforementioned figures.

£60m may appear to be a mammoth sum for a player who is largely inexperienced and may prove to be a gamble, but a new signing in that area is a must during the closing stages of the window.

If he can build on his impressive start to his career in North London, the move could potentially be a bargain – massively softening the blow of missing out on Eze’s signature.

Better signing than Eze: Spurs advancing talks for "incredible" £60m star

Tottenham Hotspur appear to be making a move to land a top-level star instead of Eberechi Eze.

ByEthan Lamb Aug 22, 2025

In almost 25 years as Tottenham Hotspur chairman, to say that Daniel Levy wasn’t known for his deep pockets would be an understatement. Unlike those around them, Spurs were often criticised for putting profit at the centre of their ambitions rather than silverware throughout his tenure.

Meanwhile, when Spurs did spend big, it didn’t always go to plan. They unlocked financial freedom after selling Gareth Bale in 2012, as Real Madrid secured the Welshman for a staggering £85m fee. But what came next was transfer flop after transfer flop. It could even be argued that they only managed to replace Bale eight years later when they signed the man himself on loan from Real Madrid.

The fact is, from Roberto Soldado to Vincent Janssen as well as many in between, Levy rarely spent well in North London. So much so, that we’ve now ranked the worst signings that he made during his time at Tottenham.

10 Clinton N'Jie (£12m)

Whilst Clinton N’Jie is far from the most expensive player on his list, he is one of the most disappointing. The 22-year-old arrived as a player full of potential in 2015, with Mauricio Pochettino at the peak of his powers. He was billed as a player destined for big things and seemed as though Spurs landed the ultimate transfer coup as a result.

In what turned into quite the trend, however, Levy guessed wrong. N’Jie went on to make just 14 appearances for the Lillywhites before leaving for Marseille just two years on from arriving. Failing to score and assisting just one goal in those 14 appearances, it’s fair to say that the winger never lived up to the hype.

9 Yves Bissouma (£30m)

A more recent inclusion, Yves Bissouma, is the topic of much frustration in North London. The talent is quite clearly there. At his best, he is exactly the midfielder that Tottenham hoped to sign for just £30m in 2022. But ability isn’t the issue.

There were many questions about Bissouma’s discipline when Ange Postecoglou suspended the midfielder from club duties last season, forcing the former Brighton man to earn back his redemption and those concerns have only increased under Thomas Frank.

A fresh start provided Bissouma with a clean slate that he has already mudded with disciplinary issues. Frank told reporters after leaving him out of his Super Cup squad to face Paris Saint-Germain: “Bissouma isn’t here because of disciplinary reasons. He has been late several times, the latest one too many.”

8 Bryan Gil (£22m)

There was a brief moment when Bryan Gil was Tottenham’s longest-serving player in the summer and that just about sums up Levy’s transfer struggles in North London. The Spaniard spent four years at the club despite spending much of that time out on loan and never making his mark under several managers.

Like N’Jie years prior, Gil was signed as a player for the future and has since become a transfer flop. That said, at 24 years old, it could be argued that the Spaniard never truly received a fair chance in North London and he could yet thrive at Girona. From a transfer flop at Spurs, it would only compile the Lillywhites’ misery if Gil went on to become the world-beater that they thought they signed four years ago.

7 David Bentley (£15m)

Some went as far as to suggest that David Bentley could be the next David Beckham and that’s all the convincing that Levy needed. He and Spurs swooped in to welcome the Blackburn Rovers star in a deal worth £15m in 2008. At the time, that was no small price, either. Big things, as a result, were expected.

David Bentley

Tottenham Record

Appearances

62

Goals

5

Assists

11

After five years at the club and just 62 appearances, Bentley retired at Tottenham. From Beckham comparisons, the midfielder became one of the most disappointing transfer flops of the Levy era.

6 Davinson Sanchez (£37m)

When thinking about Davinson Sanchez, it’s hard not to remember the time when İlkay Gündoğan left him flailing to score for Manchester City. That in itself summed up his struggles at Tottenham. It wasn’t all bad, of course, but for a £37m player, many expected more.

The central defender thrived at Ajax and showed initial potential in North London, before ultimately failing to replicate the success of Jan Vertonghen or Toby Alderweireld.

Failing to replace star players has been an ongoing trend at Spurs too. They failed to replace Bale many moons ago, failed to replace Vertonghen and Alderweireld, and are yet to really replace the quality of Harry Kane. In a new era without Levy, that must change.

5 Paulinho (£17m)

Paulinho is one of the most memorable Tottenham flops. Mostly because he somehow found his way to Barcelona years later. In North London, things simply didn’t click for the Brazilian, who arrived for as much as £17m in 2013. One of the incomings that Tottenham welcomed with the Bale money, the midfielder was part of arguably the worst transfer window in Levy’s tenure.

In a two-year spell at White Hart Lane, Paulinho made 67 appearances, scored 10 goals and assisted another seven. As impressive as 16 goal involvements may look from midfield, however, those numbers simply papered over the cracks for a player who simply wasn’t good enough in the Premier League.

4 Giovani Lo Celso (£55m)

What was Levy thinking here? Giovanni Lo Celso, to his credit, remains a talented player. Alas, what he is not is a player worth £55m. Once again, those in North London were attempting to finally replace a key player – this time Christian Eriksen – and once again, they failed to do so. In 108 appearances, Lo Celso was involved in just 18 goals.

As Xavi Simons could be about to prove, a player worth around £55m simply must do better. But what makes Levy’s deal to sign Lo Celso so much worse is that he then sold the Argentine back to Real Betis in 2024 for less than £10m.

In the space of five years, the Tottenham chief handed the Spanish club £55m for their best player, watched him struggle, and then handed him back for a bargain price.

3 Vincent Janssen (£15m)

When AZ Alkmaar sold Vincent Janssen to Tottenham in 2016, it was the advice of ‘Moneyball’ baseball expert Bill Beane which saw the Dutchman’s price tag rise to as much as £15m. Unlike Beane’s baseball stars, though, Janssen was not the genius signing that many expected. He was the total opposite.

In 46 appearances, the striker managed just six goals and four assists. He remains one of the worst strikers in Spurs’ Premier League history and his presence only enhances the reputation of Harry Kane, who bailed Levy out after his transfer mistake.

2 Roberto Soldado (£26m)

If Tottenham fans thought Janssen was bad, then it may be best to avoid their verdict on Roberto Soldado. Signed for around £26m, using a large chunk of the Bale money as a result, the forward never quite got going in a Spurs shirt. More than anyone, he summed up Levy’s failure to spend well when handed the chance.

By the time that their big-money striker had departed, he had just 16 goals and 11 assists to his name. From the brilliance of Bale, Spurs endured attacking flop after attacking flop until one of their own stepped in to end the most frustrating trend.

1 Tanguy Ndombele (£54m)

If covering distance wasn’t a much-needed asset for any central midfielder, then Tanguy Ndombele may well have gone down as one of the best players to have signed during Levy’s reign. On a technical level, he was outstanding. He was almost a throwback to Moussa Dembele with just how press resistant he was. Physically, meanwhile, he could hold almost anyone off when he was in the mood.

Alas, that mood rarely appeared and José Mourinho’s criticism was never going to help. Some Spurs fans may persist that under a different manager, Ndombele could have thrived. Mourinho was the man in charge, however, and for all his clear talent, the midfielder remains the biggest flop of the Levy era.

Aston Villa need to sharpen their attack after an uninspiring start to the campaign, and Monchi has now identified a target that the club feel can complete their forward line, per reports.

Aston Villa look ahead to Brentford cup clash

After a fourth Premier League match on the trot without hitting the back of the net, Unai Emery and company will be keen to move on to the subject of the Villans’ EFL Cup clash against Brentford following a goalless stalemate against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

On the bright side, Aston Villa haven’t looked awful defensively, which is something the Spanish boss was keen to point out after the full-time whistle, citing Emiliano Martinez’s performance as a positive after the Argentina international didn’t move on during the summer window.

He stated on his performance: “We competed very well. Again, the goalkeeper coming back, playing a fantastic match.

“He saved us a lot of times. He made us confident we could play with our identity. Of course, we need defence and a lot of corners and a throw-in defence compact like we did. We need to get more confidence to play with the ball.”

Undoubtedly, the summer window wasn’t a pleasant one for Aston Villa, who saw attempts to bring in extra firepower thwarted for much of proceedings due to PSR concerns.

Emery can unleash his own Grealish in “outrageous" £35m Aston Villa star

Unai Emery could now unleash his very own Jack Grealish at Aston Villa when travelling to Everton.

ByKelan Sarson Sep 13, 2025

Looking ahead to January, the Villans are targeting a move for Switzerland international Ruben Vargas in a swoop that could see Monchi raid his old club to bring some much-needed creativity into the building.

However, the Aston Villa president of football operations may not be done there as he now has an attacker in his sights from one of Europe’s top five leagues.

Aston Villa make contact to sign Lee Kang-in

According to reports in Spain, Aston Villa’s Monchi has identified Paris Saint-Germain winger Lee Kang-in as a target that could complete Emery’s attack and his entourage are now weighing up the prospect of the South Korea international moving to the West Midlands.

Signifying that contact has been made ahead of January, the 24-year-old winger has featured four times under Luis Enrique this term, scoring in his club’s UEFA Super Cup triumph over Tottenham Hotspur in August.

Labelled “incredible” by Son Heung-min, the Incheon-born man has impressed in his limited game-time in Ligue 1, delivering four successful crosses and creating three chances, per Fotmob.

Viewed as an attractive prospect due to his versatility on either side and ability to drive past defenders, Monchi is confident he can rise to a new level in the West Midlands under Emery’s stewardship.

Aston Villa are in need of offensive reinforcements, and despite their troubles during the summer, they may now finally be about to land a solution to their woes.

Celtic are set for a busy deadline day, and Brendan Rodgers could now be set to bring a winger into the equation after identifying a new target.

Celtic's dire Glasgow Derby display emphasises need for reinforcements

Despite plenty of anticipation ahead of the first clash between Glasgow’s big two this season, Celtic claimed a point away to Rangers at Ibrox in a 0-0 draw that won’t live long in the memory.

Rarely has a derby match-up between the pair passed without any real incident, though the Bhoys were flat in attack and registered only five shots, two of which were on target, as they remain top of the Scottish Premiership on goal difference.

Post-match, Rodgers hinted that his side could be in for a busy deadline day in order to land the offensive reinforcements he needs at the top end of the field.

He told reporters: “It’s been so clear what the team has needed and what’s required. I really hope that in this period we can do that.

“Celtic’s DNA is around about our attacking intent, mentality and that bit of quality. You arrive into the final third and you’re creating chances.”

Becoming the Bhoys’ main target at a late stage in the window, Anderlecht striker Kasper Dolberg is wanted to lead the Celtic line and could be set to replace Adam Idah, who is on his way to Swansea City as things stand.

Reports suggest the Bhoys have also made an approach for Bristol City forward Fally Mayulu, albeit he won’t be the last forward to be linked with a move to Parkhead before the deadline passes.

Admittedly, Celtic have left their business late, though they could now be about to step up their efforts to land a winger after showcasing a lack of creative ideas at Ibrox.

Celtic submit loan bid for Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi

Taking to social media platform X, Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph has confirmed that Celtic have submitted a loan bid for Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi ahead of tonight’s deadline.

Intriguingly, Rangers, Lyon and Leicester City have also put forward proposals for the 22-year-old, who will now have a decision to make based on the amount of minutes he will earn away from Selhurst Park.

Dubbed “wonderful” by former Charlton Athletic boss Ben Garner, Rak-Sakyi spent last season out on loan at Sheffield United and enjoyed a successful spell at Bramall Lane, registering seven goals and two assists in 36 appearances.

With two years left on his contract, it remains to be seen if any option to buy would be included in a deal for the England Under-21 international. However, supporters of Celtic, Rangers, Lyon and Leicester City won’t need to wait too long to find out the £10 million-rated star’s chosen destination.

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.

Where Are They Now

Your star player or biggest flop has left the club but what are they doing in the present day? This article is part of Football FanCast’s Where Are They Now series.

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.

Not Barry or Beto: Moyes has a "game-changer" who's Everton's new Lukaku

Everton are looking to continue their fast start to the 2025/26 season

ByJoe Nuttall Sep 10, 2025

Thomas Frank has sensationally claimed that Tottenham star Archie Gray "has same potential" as Rodri and Declan Rice. Fifteen months after swapping Leeds United for Tottenham Hotspur in a £40 million deal, teenage prodigy Archie Gray is heading back to where it all began. The 19-year-old, once Leeds’ golden boy, has become one of Spurs’ most versatile weapons, racking up 51 appearances across defence and midfield.

AFPGray returns home to Elland Road

Frank, who took charge at Spurs after Ange Postecoglou’s exit, revealed that he had tried to sign Gray during his time at Brentford, only to lose out at the final hurdle. Now, fate has given him another chance to coach the highly-rated youngster. And ahead of his emotional reunion at Elland Road this Saturday, Frank has dropped a bombshell comparison, claiming Gray possesses the same ceiling as world-class midfielders Rodri and Rice.

AdvertisementFrank’s big claim: “He’s got everything”

Frank could hardly contain his admiration for the teenager’s talent and said, "I see him as a midfielder who can play six or eight. That is his position, and I think these days midfielders need to be more complete. You need to be a little bit of a six, little bit of eight and 10 and two of the best in the world right now are probably Rodri and Declan Rice. I think they can do a little bit of everything. I see Archie and they are big names to compare him too, but I see he has got the same potential.”

Getty Images SportEarning his place the hard way

Gray’s Spurs career has been one of patience and persistence. Despite his hefty price tag, the youngster has started only two games under Frank: on the opening day against Burnley and later in the Carabao Cup win over Doncaster. His minutes have mostly come from the bench, though he made a crucial contribution in Tuesday’s 1-1 draw at Bodo/Glimt, where his individual brilliance led to the equaliser on his Champions League debut.

“When is it that we judge the players?" Frank asked. “I think we forget it is not FIFA, but it is human beings we’re dealing with, and there are 25 players in a squad and a crazy coach who has different thoughts. There are so many things and then personal life. So, when do we judge a player? I think it is probably fair two years down the line where we can really make a big assessment.

“I know I am also being judged from game to game, so I know how it works, but I think to judge it as a success or failure, I don’t think you can really do that before two years. That’s not to say you cannot be judged for your performances, and if you haven’t done well, that’s fair.”

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A family born for football

Gray’s rise is hardly a coincidence; it’s in his blood. His father, Andy Gray, made over 50 Premier League appearances for Leeds, Nottingham Forest, and Sunderland. His grandfather, Frank Gray, lifted both the First Division title with Leeds and the European Cup with Nottingham Forest. As if that weren’t enough, Archie is the great-nephew of Leeds legend Eddie Gray, and his 16-year-old brother has already broken into the Leeds first team. Few families boast that kind of footballing DNA.

"I definitely don’t treat them any different, I just see them as an individual that I try to help in the best possible way," Frank said. "You can say that sometimes there is something they maybe have got a little bit more in with the blood, which I think Archie has got, he seems to understand that he needs to work hard. The foundation, if you want to achieve anything, you need to do that. I think his understanding of the game is good as well. So those two bits and the discipline, I think are key areas if you want to achieve anything. So maybe that is from the blood of the family."

The tournament will be played in Lahore from April 9 to 19, with the top two sides progressing to the main event later this year

ESPNcricinfo staff26-Mar-2025Shawaal Zulfiqar, the 19-year-old Pakistan batter who has not played competitive cricket since suffering a shoulder injury in December 2023 during Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand, returns to the squad for the ODI World Cup Qualifiers. Pakistan Women have not played since their group-stage exit at the T20 World Cup in the UAE in October, and their previous ODI was on the tour of England in May 2024.Zulfiqar has played one ODI and seven T20Is, but she made her mark on the tour of New Zealand with a knock of 41 at the top of the order to help Pakistan chase 128 to register their first T20I win against New Zealand in women’s cricket.The 15-player squad will continue to be led by Fatima Sana. The squad is currently undergoing a training camp, with players engaged in warm-up games to get back into match rhythm given their long break from playing. A PCB statement said: “The squad was selected after the selection committee evaluated players’ fitness and form in the ongoing second phase of preparation camp, where the players took part in warm-up matches and practice sessions.”Pakistan’s fixtures at the Qualifier

April 9: vs Ireland

April 11: vs Scotland

April 14: vs West Indies

April 17: vs Thailand

April 19: vs Bangladesh

The ODI World Cup Qualifiers will be played in Lahore from April 9 to 19, a six-team event that also includes Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, Thailand and West Indies, with the top two teams progressing to the ODI World Cup to be hosted by India later this year. If Pakistan qualify, they will play their matches either in the UAE or Sri Lanka, given the agreement with the ICC on India and Pakistan playing their ICC tournaments games on neutral venues till 2027 when one of the countries is the host.Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka and hosts India have already qualified for the tournament.Pakistan squad for the Women’s ODI World Cup QualifiersFatima Sana (capt), Muneeba Ali (vice-capt), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Gull Feroza, Najiha Alvi (wk), Nashra Sandhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz (wk), Syeda Aroob Shah
Reserve players: Ghulam Fatima, Waheeda Akhtar, Umm-e-Hani

MatériaMais Notícias

Se antes a prioridade do São Paulo no mercado era um atacante de velocidade, agora surgiu outra também. Por conta do alto número de lesões no setor, contratações para a zaga do São Paulo estão sendo vistas como algo ’emergencial’.

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O Tricolor vive um grande problema no setor. Com a lesão de Alan Franco, na última quarta-feira (5) contra o Palmeiras, as opções ficaram mais limitadas ainda. Conforme a reportagem do Lance! apurou, uma reunião de emergência foi feita entre membros da diretoria e Dorival Júnior. Mesmo sem poder gastar muito, o clube do Morumbi entendeu ser necessário buscar a contratação de mais uma peça para a defesa, com uma certa urgência. O scout está trabalhando em cima disso.

Sem Ferraresi até o final do ano, que encaminha para ter seu vínculo estendido com o São Paulo, Beraldo assumiu a titularidade. Porém, em uma das melhores fases de sua carreira, a Cria de Cotia sofreu uma lesão ligamentar no tornozelo e deve desfalcar a equipe por, aproximadamente, dois meses. Sem Beraldo, Alan Franco assumiu a posição nos últimos jogos.

+ ATUAÇÕES: São Paulo se organiza, e Rafinha garante vantagem contra o Palmeiras na Copa do Brasil

+ Todos os jogos do Brasileirão você encontra no Prime Video. Assine já e acompanhe o seu time do coração!

Porém, contra o Palmeiras pelo jogo de ida nas quartas da Copa do Brasil, Alan Franco preocupou ao deixar o gramado sentindo fortes dores no tornozelo. Chorando, recebeu atendimento médico ainda no banco de reservas e Diego Costa entrou em seu lugar. Sem o argentino, o Tricolor tem somente dois zagueiros à disposição: Arboleda e o próprio Diego Costa.

Alan Franco sentiu, saiu chorando e Diego Costa entrou no lugar. #lanceMORUMBI pic.twitter.com/bulEd84ZIi

— Izabella Giannola (@bellaxgiannola) July 6, 2023

Embora possa contar com Matheus Belém, Cria de Cotia, o jovem defensor ainda não tem experiência, de fato, no profissional (embora realize alguns treinamentos em conjunto aos mais velhos e também seja relacionado em alguns jogos). Diego Costa também é tratado com cautela, muito por conta da recorrência de lesões que tem enfrentado nos últimos meses.

Assim, a única alternativa é buscar, pelo menos, mais uma opção para reforçar a zaga do São Paulo. Muito para não precisar ‘contar com a sorte’, tendo em vista o calendário tricolor e o número de decisões que a equipe enfrentará nos próximos tempos. Vale registrar que Arboleda e Diego Costa tiveram históricos recentes de lesões graves que acabaram em cirurgia.

Arsenal star Bukayo Saka is desperate to impress Thomas Tuchel as he earned his England call-up ahead of the upcoming international matches. Tuchel announced his 24-member Three Lions roster on Friday as he left out several top players, including Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham, Manchester City's Phil Foden and City loanee Jack Grealish, who has regained his form after joining Everton on loan.

• Saka desperate to impress Tuchel

  Saka has represented England in just one game since Tuchel took charge of the national team in January this year. The Arsenal star missed the March and September matches due to a hamstring injury, but has now returned to action for the Gunners and has also earned a Three Lions call-up. The winger is determined to catch the head coach's eye with consistent performances in their upcoming international friendly against Wales, followed by a World Cup qualifier against Latvia, five days later.    

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  "I’ve missed a lot of fixtures under Thomas Tuchel"

  Speaking to reporters ahead of his link-up with Tuchel, Saka said: "I’m really happy to be back playing for England. I’ve missed a lot of fixtures under Thomas Tuchel, which I’m not happy with, a lot of them due to injuries. I’m really happy that I get a chance to come back to St George’s Park and train with the team, play with the team. I’m looking forward to it."  

• Saka regaining form

  After being hit by yet another injury setback at the start of the 2025-26 campaign, Saka is slowly picking up form as he scored in the Gunners' latest victory over West Ham at the Emirates Stadium this weekend. He has now three goals in seven appearances across all competitions.  

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  Saka scored on his 200th Premier League appearance

  The match against the Hammers was Saka's 200th Premier League appearance for the Gunners, as he became only the second player in history, after Arsenal icon Thierry Henry, to score in the landmark game.