All posts by z3u9t.icu

Former Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Paul Robinson has urged Antonio Conte to make a big call over Villarreal loanee and Lilywhites outcast Giovani Lo Celso.

The lowdown: Wanted man

The 26-year-old midfielder joined La Liga side, Villarreal, in January on loan until the end of the season and has since played a part in helping Unai Emery’s men reach the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.

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Lo Celso featured in all 180 minutes of the quarter-final triumph over Bayern Munich and has reportedly already done enough to earn a permanent switch to El Madrigal.

However, despite the murmurings of a potential swap deal involving Pau Torres, one ex-Spurs favourite still believes that the Argentinian has a career as a Lilywhite…

The latest: ‘More to give’

Robinson, who regularly features as a pundit for Sky Sports, has urged Conte to bring Lo Celso back to N17.

Speaking to Football Insider, he stated: “It is difficult when a manager doesn’t fancy you and then lets you go two or three weeks into his time there.

“Lo Celso is a player that I like. He has shown that he has defensive as well as attacking qualities. He isn’t afraid to stick a foot in and can play as a holding midfielder.

“I’m a big fan of his. You have to give Conte full control over his squad. He has been brought in to do a job. If he wants to move on Lo Celso you cannot question him.

“But I think he is a top player who has a lot more to give. For that reason, I’d like to see him get given another chance at Spurs.”

The verdict: Time up?

Signed for £27.2million from Real Betis (BBC), Lo Celso has flattered to deceive since joining Tottenham, scoring eight times and registering six assists in 84 appearances for the club whilst never truly nailing down a starting spot under Nuno Espirito Santo or Conte.

As the Italian manager and recruitment chief, Fabio Paratici, begin preparations for the summer window – it seems unlikely that the 38-cap Argentina ace is part of the long term plans moving forwards at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium having been cast aside in January.

Lo Celso’s mid-season departure made room for the arrival and subsequent impact of Rodrigo Bentancur from Juventus as the Uruguayan has already eclipsed the nine Premier League outings managed by his fellow South American predecessor this term.

In other news: Tottenham legend lauds current Spurs regular, find out more here.

A number of West Ham fans are excited about the unveiling of a statue paying respect to legendary Hammers trio Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters.

David Moyes’ side have made an excellent start to the season, taking last year’s form with them and looking like one of the best teams outside of the traditional ‘big six’.

Not only are the Hammers impressing in the Premier League, but they are also doing well in the Europa League, winning 2-0 away to Dinamo Zagreb on Thursday night.

The hope is that this current crop become legendary figures over time, but they may struggle to ever reach the heights of Moore, Hurst and Peters.

The trio were colossal for West Ham and it has been confirmed on the club’s official Twitter account that their statue will be unveiled at the London Stadium ahead of their clash with Rapid Vienna on September 30th, with the 1965 European Cup Winners’ Cup triumph also remembered.

West Ham fans react positively to statue update

These Hammers fans reacted to the news on Twitter.

“Way overdue but happy with this”

Credit: @_LeoBall

“YESSSSSSS”

Credit: @HammerzOliver

“Love this”

Credit: @oliverrrwhu

“Lovely stuff”

Credit: @riobeare

“Glad I have tickets, great to see the club paying tribute to its great history”

Credit: @vincefowles

“Nice touch”

Credit: @WhuBaz

In other news, some West Ham fans are fuming after an update regarding one player emerged. Read more here.

Rangers take on Alashkert in the Europa League playoff at Ibrox on Thursday night, with Steven Gerrard’s side hoping to secure a place in the group stages with a win against the Armenian minnows.

The Gers don’t come into the game in the best of form, after suffering three consecutive losses against Malmo (twice) and Dundee United in recent weeks, but looked back to their normal selves with a resounding 5-0 win in the League Cup against Dunfermline last time out.

Although Gerrard may be tempted to restore some of his more experienced players to the starting lineup for Thursday night’s clash, the performances of his younger players will surely give him a lot to think about ahead of his team selection.

Here’s how Football FanCast expects the 41-year-old manager to line his side up at Ibrox, with five changes from the team that thrashed Dunfermline…

First-choice goalkeeper Allan McGregor returns in goal, replacing Jon McLaughlin in between the sticks.

After superb performances last Friday, Calvin Bassey and Nathan Patterson deserve to keep their place in the side at full-back, whilst Filip Helander returns to the starting eleven at centre-back alongside Conor Goldson.

Glen Kamara serves the final game of his European ban, with Steven Davis replacing him in midfield, partnering Joe Aribo and John Lundstram.

Kemar Roofe is also suspended for this one, so Alfredo Morelos starts up front in his absence, with the Colombian no doubt hoping to improve on his superb record in Europe for the Gers.

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Ianis Hagi keeps his place on the right-wing, whilst Ryan Kent, who Gerrard described as a “constant threat” in 2020, returns in place of Scott Wright in the final change on the left-hand side.

And, in other news… Transfer report provides worrying update on “outstanding” Rangers start

Liverpool are reportedly in the running to sign RB Salzburg striker Karim Adeyemi as manager Jurgen Klopp looks to bolster his forward line.

What’s the story?

According to German outlet BILD (as relayed by The Mirror), the Reds are one of three European heavyweights keen to secure the highly-rated 19-year-old’s services.

The report states that Bayern Munich and Barcelona are also eyeing a move for Adeyemi, while Salzburg are believed to have placed a £17 million price tag on their prized asset.

Jurgen Klopp would love him

With Xherdan Shaqiri departing Anfield over the summer and Divock Origi continuing to be linked with a move away from Merseyside, Klopp is believed to be in the market for a new attacker.

The German tactician was unable to lure one to Liverpool in the recently concluded window, meaning he may make a move either in January or 12 months’ time.

And Adeyemi could be the ideal signing for the 19-time English champions. Klopp has a history of purchasing players from the Red Bull system due to their preferred style of play matching his.

The likes of Naby Keita, Ibrahima Konate and Takumi Minamino have all departed a Red Bull affiliated club to join Klopp at Anfield as their pressing system is similar is the 54-year-old’s unique gegenpressing setup.

Therefore, the Liverpool boss would surely love to snap up Adeyemi, signing a ready-made replacement for Origi and competition for the likes of Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota.

Last season the teenage talent bagged nine goals and provided a further 11 assists in 39 appearances as he helped his side secure a domestic double, and he’s started the current campaign in blistering fashion.

The 5 ft 10 dynamo has already notched up an incredible seven goals and one assist in his first nine outings in 2021/22 before he scored on his international debut for Germany against Armenia.

It remains to be seen whether Liverpool’s director of football makes a formal offer for Adeyemi in the coming months, but Klopp will surely be hoping a deal can be done for his compatriot.

And, in other news…Liverpool suffer injury blow pre-Leeds United, Jurgen Klopp will be gutted 

Frank McAvennie has been left fuming at what he has now heard from Newcastle United’s recent takeover case.

The Lowdown: Newcastle threatened

As cited by The Daily Telegraph, the St. James’ Park faithful were threatened with expulsion from the Premier League during the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) hearing on Wednesday.

This is one of two legal battles Mike Ashley is fighting the top flight over, as the separate arbitration case between the two parties over the stalled takeover deal with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) consortium is now set to take place on January 3rd.

The Latest: McAvennie on threat

Speaking to Football Insider, former Celtic and West Ham United striker McAvennie, 61, has now expressed his fume at the division after hearing about their threat to the North East club:

“It’s ridiculous they would say that.

“Why would they clamp down that hard on that? They can’t just kick clubs out of the league. They can’t do that.

“I’m sure they can threaten it but there is so much legality in kicking someone out. I don’t know if they can.

“I’m glad it sounds like this will all be done soon because the Newcastle fans need answers.

“We need to know what happened and why this has taken so long. It’s a disgrace from the Premier League.”

The Verdict: Pressure mounting

For the Premier League to threaten the Tyneside outfit with expulsion suggests that the pressure is now mounting on them as the takeover saga develops.

It is a threat that was and is certainly not needed going into the arbitration process next year, as the two parties need to come to an agreement over the direction of where the bid is likely to be heading.

Nonetheless, if the top flight were to go through with their threat, then there would no doubt be yet another legal battle brewing between them and the Magpies, as tensions are seemingly never going to stop rising.

In other news, find out what ‘positive news’ on arbitration emerged here!

Leicester City have been linked with a shock move for Bologna defender Takehiro Tomiyasu as manager Brendan Rodgers looks to bolster his defensive options.

What’s the story?

The Japan international has been the subject of heavy interest from fellow Premier League outfit Tottenham Hotspur throughout the summer, but the Foxes may now attempt to hijack the deal following Wesley Fofana’s injury, according to The Telegraph.

Previous reports have claimed Bologna are set to demand  €25 million (£21.5m) for Tomiyasu, who is capable of playing at either centre-back or right-back.

Jon Rudkin must swoop

Tomiyasu has established himself as one of Serie A’s most promising young defenders since arriving from Belgium outfit Sint-Truidense back in 2019, making 63 appearances for Sinisa Mihajlovic’s side in all competitions.

His impressive performances have caught the eye of several admirers, including current teammate Mitchell Dijks. The Dutch full-back dubbed his colleague a “warrior” in a previous press conference, and it’s easy to understand why.

As per WhoScored, Tomiyasu recorded an average of 1.5 tackles per league game last term, 1.7 interceptions and 0.6 blocks, placing him in the top three players at his club who made over three outings.

The youngster recently shone for his nation at the Tokyo Olympics in his homeland too and could be set to take the next step in his career over the coming weeks.

Leicester were believed to be in the market for a new central defender already following Wes Morgan’s retirement, but Fofana’s fractured fibula has now accelerated their search.

Tomiyasu’s versatility could be a huge bonus for the Foxes, making him an extremely attractive option for Rodgers. The Northern Irish tactician is currently without both James Justin and Timothy Castagne through fitness issues of their own, meaning the Asian defender could plug multiple gaps across the backline.

It remains to be seen whether director of football Jon Rudkin follows up his reported interest with a formal offer, but if the transfer budget allows, it’s certainly a move he should consider given the player’s flexibility, quality and potential.

And, in other news…Imagine him and Daka: Rudkin must sanction LCFC swoop for “intelligent” £30m magician

A number of Liverpool supporters have been reacting with glee to a positive injury update regarding Harvey Elliott.

The Reds picked up a crucial 1-0 win at home to Aston Villa on Saturday, as they stayed one point behind Premier League leaders Manchester City. Jurgen Klopp’s men find themselves in a superb run of form at the moment but one player they are doing it without is Elliott.

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The 18-year-old has been absent since the middle of September after suffering a broken ankle in the 3-0 victory away to Leeds United.

According to The Irish Mirror [via Anfield Watch on Twitter], however, Elliott is nearing a shock quickfire return to action, having excelled in his recovery.

The hope is that the teenager will feature early in 2022 – a January comeback is mooted in the report – as he continues to work hard on the training pitch.

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Liverpool fans hail Elliott injury update

These Liverpool fans showed their happiness at the news on Twitter, with the teenager having excelled in the early weeks of the season prior to his unfortunate injury setback.

“I can’t believe he has healed this fast, this is amazing”

Credit: @_MrChase

“Starboy”

Credit: @Maxlb77

“Genuinely happy for this lad”

Credit: @Nimz44

“SIUUUUUUUUUUUU”

Credit: @AnfieldPyro

“I can’t wait”

Credit: @Msquared7_

“I’M SO EXCITED”

Credit: @robertorebelo_

In other news, some Liverpool fans have been reacting to an exciting transfer rumour. Read more here.

Newcastle United’s January transfer window proved to be an enormous lift for Eddie Howe’s side, and it was no surprise to see the club finally pick up the kind of form needed to escape from the Premier League’s relegation clutches.

The likes of Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood added some much-needed battle-hardened top-flight experience, while Bruno Guimaraes came in from Lyon having garnered a real reputation as a bona-fide star in French football.

But while a number of the Magpies’ January signings have played their part in leading the Tyneside club out of trouble, they may look back a little ruefully at one name they didn’t manage to sign: Luis Diaz.

According to A Bola (via Sport Witness), the Magpies were one of the clubs interested in signing the Colombia international in the January window before it was later claimed that the Howe’s side had actually sent scouts to watch Porto’s 1-0 win over SC Braga to see the 24-year-old in action – the winger would end up scoring the winner.

Despite seeing him shine in person and having had interest in him for a number of months, perhaps even longer, Newcastle opted not to act on it, and instead watched Spurs, then Liverpool make big-money bids for him towards the closing stages of January.

In the end, it was Jurgen Klopp’s side who came out victorious in the race to sign him, snapping him up for a reported fee of £37.5m – just slightly more than the initial amount they paid to sign Guimaraes.

And when you look at how Diaz has performed this season, both for Porto and now for Liverpool, not getting him in January seems like a real missed opportunity.

The 31-cap Colombia international was in scintillating form for his former side Porto this season, registering a very impressive 16 goals and six assists in only 29 appearances for the Liga NOS giants.

Following the switch to Anfield, Diaz has netted a further three goals and provided one assist, including nodding across for Sadio Mane in the recent Champions League victory over Benfica in the quarter-finals.

Now valued at £60m by CIES, the 5 foot 10 star has been dubbed a “livewire” and as being “phenomenal” by Portuguese football expert Alex Goncalves

Missing out on Diaz is made all the more difficult given how reports have recently emerged saying Newcastle would be willing to let one of their star men and fellow wide-man Allan Saint-Maximin leave in the summer transfer window.

If that is to be the case, then bringing in Diaz would have off-set that potential departure considerably.

The man with 64 career goals to his name would have been an outstanding signing for the Magpies had they pushed for him before Liverpool came in.

AND in other news, Wood upgrade: PIF will be having NUFC nightmares after missing out on £20m “cult hero”…

Many Everton fans have been left buzzing over some news that has emerged involving their Bramley-Moore Dock stadium project.

As per the official website of the Goodison Park faithful, Dan Meis, who is the concept architect for the new stadium, will now continue his association with the project as he takes up a new guardianship role.

Meis’ initial role in the project came to a natural end in the summer of 2020 as the scheme moved from the concept to technical phases.

Working under the Merseyside club’s Stadium Development Director Colin Chong and alongside the project leads from Laing O’Rourke and BDP Pattern, his new role will involve reviewing the technical construction specifications and engaging the compliance team ahead of each stage of development, so that the original design concept remains in place when the stadium is being built.

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Of course, there are exciting times ahead for the Toffees supporters, and Meis’ commitment to the project has certainly left them very pleased.

Everton fans on Meis return

These Blues buzzed as Meis’ return was revealed on Twitter, with one EFC fan saying that they are ‘delighted’ and another even going as far as to claim that it is ‘excellent news’:

“Fantastic news”

Credit: @DirtyDigne

“Delighted to hear this. Great to have you back on board”

Credit: @EvertonChicago

“Massive respect for taking this decision. Well in Dan”

Credit: @wazzaevo

“Cannot like this enough”

Credit: @dalermorgan

“Fantastic, welcome back Dan”

Credit: @stevietoffee

“Excellent news”

Credit: @StacyMu78345188

In other news, find out what club news has Evertonians fuming here!

Manchester United are currently in the middle of trying to appoint their new manager to take over at Old Trafford this summer, however, it hasn’t stopped the transfer interest from continuing with another player potentially set to join the club this summer.

What’s the word?

Journalist and transfer insider, Dean Jones, claims that Pau Torres is on the list of players Manchester United would like to sign this summer.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “Pau Torres has always remained on the list, he just hasn’t been as talked about as some others in recent times, but they’ve always wanted him to be considered.”

Maguire upgrade

It has been no secret that Harry Maguire has come under a lot of criticism since he joined Man United, and with a new manager coming into the club this summer, it might be the perfect opportunity to move on the defender and bring in a younger centre-back.

According to Squawka, when you compare Torres to the Red Devils’ captain, the Villareal player has made more ball recoveries, completed more passes, won more ground duels and kept a higher number clean sheets this season. That’s all on top of the Spaniard scoring three more goals.

The £45m-rated monster who was hailed “brutal” by Santi Cazorla, is also the second most successful dribbler and is seventh for pass completion in La Liga this season, which is incredibly impressive when you consider he is amongst the likes of Toni Kroos and Vinicius Junior in La Liga.

When you consider his statistics compared to Maguire, signing the player would clearly be an upgrade for the Man United backline and could have a great impact on the improvement needed in the squad to get the club back to competing for and winning trophies.

Torres is currently excelling in Europe too this season, with Villareal progressing to the Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich, beating the German giants 1-0 in the first leg with a huge chance of reaching their first semi-final in the competition since 2006.

United are not currently looking likely to qualify for the Champions League following their defeat to Everton at Goodison Park on Sunday, with Tottenham Hotspur moving six points clear of the Red Devils, which could have an impact on the players they can attract this summer, including Torres.

In other news: Man United suffer big setback in ten Hag chase, supporters will be fuming