Leeds United may have just been handed a major boost in their transfer pursuit of one star this summer, with his club being urged to sell him for almost any decent fee.
Leeds eyeing up summer revamp
No matter how their impressive Championship campaign concludes, Daniel Farke's side are seemingly set for major change this summer.
The futures of plenty of loanees need to be decided, including Max Wober, Brenden Aaronson and Marc Roca. Meanwhile, there will almost certainly be interest in the likes of Archie Gray and Crysensio Summerville, both of whom have enjoyed memorable second-tier seasons.
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Though promotion may encourage them to overhaul their squad, Farke is likely to want to keep the core of his squad together as best as he can, in order to try and hit the ground running in the top flight and hand the Yorkshire side the best chance of survival for another season.
One of those that they are thought to be most keen on keeping is Joe Rodon, who is currently on loan from Tottenham Hotspur but has been a vital part of Leeds' promotion push and has slotted perfectly into Farke's backline, helping Leeds boast the best defence in the division.
Tottenham told to accept 8-figure offer
Now the Elland Road outfit may have been dealt a major boost, with one club insider urging Spurs chairman Daniel Levy to "learn from his past mistakes" and "just accept any deal" over £10m for the Welshman.
Rodon has been impressive during his season in the Championship, showing signs of why Tottenham initially took him to north London across his 34 appearances for Leeds this campaign. But it is clear that his future lies away from the Tottenham Hotspur stadium after two successive loan spells away from the club, and plenty of defensive cover having been bought in in his absence.
Leeds defender Joe Rodon.
Speaking to Tottenham News, Spurs insider Jon Wenham has revealed that he would accept any deal for Rodon over £10m, and has urged Levy to do the same.
“Tottenham’s decision to sell Rodon this summer will be down to whether or not Levy has learned from his past mistakes", he explained.
“Do Spurs want to actually continue with this rebuild or do they want to dig their heels in and try and get more money for Rodon?
Leeds defender Joe Rodon.
“I think they would be doing well to receive a fee of anywhere between £10-13million, and should just accept any deal in this range.
“It is a far higher fee than they would have got last summer after Rodon’s unsuccessful loan spell in France with Stade Rennais F.C.”
Tottenham players on the chopping block
Player
Contract expires
Joe Rodon
2025
Sergio Reguilon
2025
Japhet Tanganga
2025
Tanguy Ndombele
2025
Djed Spence
2027
Giovanni Lo Celso
2025
With Spurs keen to continue to splash the cash this summer and looking to build on an impressive first season under Ange Postecoglou, preparation for a return to the Champions League is likely to take centre stage, which could leave Leeds free to grab a bargain and make Rodon's loan move permanent at a cut-price fee.
O ex-técnico do Vasco, Joel Santana, analisou o momento da equipe de Marcelo Cabo e a eliminação precoce no Campeonato Carioca. Após o empate com o Boavista, no último domingo, Joel afirmou que o cruzmaltino superestimou a vitória sobre o Flamengo e criticou o trabalho feito até então. + Confira a classificação do Campeonato Carioca
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-O Vasco tem muitos problemas, principalmente da defesa. Conseguir vencer o Flamengo e achou tinha ganho a Copa do Mundo. Jogou bem naquele jogo, mas voltou a jogar mal com o Boavista e por pouco não perdeu – afirmou em declaração no seu canal do YouTube no “Podcast do Papai”.
Sobre a estrutura da equipe e o baixo nível de atuações, Joel apontou falhas no trabalho de Marcelo Cabo. Segundo ele, a preparação para Série B do Campeonato Brasileiro não pode ser motivo para uma eliminação no Carioca.
– O Vasco teve tempo, mas ainda não conseguiu armar uma equipe. O Vasco não sabe qual é sua defesa, seu meio de campo, seu ataque. Qual é o Vasco? O do jogo do contra o Flamengo ou contra o Volta Redonda, Portuguesa e por ai vai – completou.
– Jogou mal o campeonato todo, agora vem com a explicação que está se preparando para a Série B. Contra o Flamengo não foi o Vasco que jogou bem, o Flamengo que não jogou nada – concluiu.
Com o empate diante do Boavista, o cruzmaltino não tem mais chances de avançar no estadual. Seu próximo confronto é contra o Resende, no próximo sábado, às 16h.
The job Gary O’Neil is doing at Wolverhampton Wanderers this season is nothing short of remarkable, especially after losing his two best midfielders last summer.
Ruben Neves and Matheus Nunes both departed Molineux, yet O’Neil adapted and has managed to bring out the best of the players he has at his disposal.
The Old Gold have recorded a Premier League double over Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, while also defeating Manchester City during the early stages of the campaign, and their recent form has been solid.
Wolves manager Gary O'Neil
A home tie against Sheffield United awaits the Midlands side tomorrow afternoon and considering the Blades are propping up the rest of the league, it represents an ideal opportunity for O’Neil to claim another three points.
With that in mind, here's a look at the potential Wolves starting XI that will take to the Molineux pitch tomorrow…
1 GK – Jose Sa
There won't be a change to the goalkeeper as Sa will retain his place in the starting XI.
The Portuguese shot-stopper has missed only two league matches this season and was even named as the captain against Spurs in the 2-1 win last weekend.
Across his 23 matches thus far, however, Sa has kept just three clean sheets and if it were not for the wonderful form of their attacking options, the club may be in a slightly more precarious situation.
2 CB – Max Kilman
Max Kilman
The captain has played every minute of every league match so far this season and has been a rock at the back for the club.
The 26-year-old is contracted to the Old Gold until 2028, but if he continues this current rich vein of form, then he may just start attracting attention from potential suitors, that’s for sure.
3 CB – Craig Dawson
The veteran centre-back has played 23 of the 25 league ties Wolves have played this term and against Spurs, he was in fine form.
Not only did he make ten clearances and block three shots, but Dawson won seven of his nine contested duels during the victory and this display was key to Wolves securing all three points.
4 CB – Toti
Like Dawson, Toti was also extremely solid against Spurs last week. He made ten clearances, four interceptions, two tackles and was not dribbled past once, showcasing his physical strength in one-on-one battles.
Toti has already made more league appearances this season than he did during the whole of the 2022/23 campaign, and he is slowly emerging as a key member of O’Neil’s side.
5 RM – Nelson Semedo
The 30-year-old had spent the previous few months playing in an unfamiliar role on the right-hand side of the midfield due to O’Neil utilising either a 3-5-2 or 3-4-2-1 formation.
His attacking talents have not exactly been on show, however, as he has registered just one goal and one assist in all competitions.
6 CM – Joao Gomes
Joao Gomes
The Brazilian enjoyed one of his finest games for the club last week as he scored a brace which proved to be decisive in the victory over Spurs.
He also made six tackles and four clearances as his defensive abilities were also on show, and he will retain his place against the Blades tomorrow afternoon.
7 CM – Tommy Doyle
Tommy Doyle
Mario Lemina enjoyed a decent game last weekend, yet he may have to make way in order for Tommy Doyle to start against Sheffield United.
The on-loan Manchester City starlet was hailed as “exceptional” by talent scout Jacek Kulig back in 2021 as he discussed the wealth of talent that City possessed in their youth sides.
The youngster has started just five Premier League matches this season, yet when he has featured, the 22-year-old has showcased his talents.
He holds an 86% pass success rate, while winning 56% of his total duels and losing possession just 5.6 per game and a tie against the bottom side in the league could be an ideal opportunity for him to come into the starting XI.
8 LM – Rayan Ait-Nouri
Rayan Ait-Nouri up against West Ham's Jarrod Bowen.
The Algerian did not enjoy the best of games against Spurs last week. He won only three of his ten contested ground duels during the encounter, along with succeeding with just one dribble attempt and losing possession a staggering 17 times.
Due to a lack of options on the left side of the midfield, however, Ait-Nouri will retain his spot in the starting XI and O’Neil will be hoping a tie against the Blades will allow him to perform better.
9 AM – Pedro Neto
Wolves winger Pedro Neto.
In front of the four-man midfield, O’Neil will deploy two attacking midfielders and one will be Neto, who has registered an impressive nine assists in the top flight already, despite playing only 16 games.
The 23-year-old grabbed an assist against Spurs and with the Blades’ defence conceding 65 goals in just 25 matches, he will certainly have his eye on scoring a goal or two tomorrow.
10 AM – Pablo Sarabia
Alongside Neto, Sarabia will be deployed, and the duo have the ability to cause plenty of chaos on Sunday afternoon.
The Spaniard has scored twice and chipped in with nine assists in all competitions, but he didn’t play in the reverse clash against the Blades back in November – although he must be unleashed tomorrow.
The 31-year-old made three key passes last week and missed a big chance, suggesting that with a bit better finishing, he may have added to his goal tally for the season.
Ella Toone got some Hollywood treatment as the Lionesses star was honoured by Wigan Council with a star on their walk of fame.
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Toone and Keely Hodgkinson receive special honour
Got a star on Wigan’s Walk of Fame
Man Utd star posed with family
WHAT HAPPENED?
Toone and Keely Hodgkinson, both prominent athletes from the Wigan area, have been honoured with stars on the Walk of Fame. The announcement, which was made during a council meeting last March ahead of International Women’s Day, has finally seen the light of day.
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The concept closely echoes that of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which is a landmark in California, containing 2,777 five-pointed terrazzo-and-brass stars of actors, directors, producers, musicians and others embedded on the pavements of 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street. Toone was seen posing with the star on the hallowed pavement and later took pictures along with friends and family.
WHAT'S WRITTEN ON THE STAR
The massive black star has a special inscription at the centre of it. It reads: "Ella Toone. Lioness and European Championship Winner."
@ellatoone Instagram@ellatoone Instagram
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DID YOU KNOW
In addition to her star on the Walk of Fame, Toone has another legacy in Wigan – a football pitch named in her honour. The Ella Toone Pitch was unveiled as part of a £7.6 million ($9.66m) investment from the Premier League, The FA, and the Government’s Football Foundation. This pitch is one of 23 new facilities named after the Lionesses, celebrating their EURO 2022 victory and encouraging females to participate in football.
This week is guaranteed to be busy both on and off the field for Aston Villa who are attempting to finalise things in the January transfer window after a dismal 3-1 defeat to Newcastle United.
Fortunately, Unai Emery has confirmed that outgoings and incomings are on the agenda.
Indeed, they do look as though they are finally set to conclude one deal with Morgan Rogers on his way to Villa Park, as per Fabrizio Romano. However, Villa's hunt for reinforcements won't stop at the Middlesbrough star in 2024.
A record-breaking move for Aston Villa
According to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, via Sport Witness, Aston Villa are still interested in signing Pedro Goncalves.
The 25-year-old has a £68m release clause in his contract, which runs until 2027. That would make him a club-record buy following the purchase of £51.9m Moussa Diaby last summer.
As a result, unless significant outgoings occur before the deadline, any deal for Goncalves will have to be completed in the summer.
How Pedro Goncalves compares to Bruno Fernandes
Today, Bruno Fernandes is regarded as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League, as highlighted by the fact he created the most big chances in the entire division last campaign.
Since his move to Manchester United for an initial fee of £46.5m in January 2020, the Portugal international has become the United captain and registered 130 goal contributions in 214 games.
Bruno Fernandes
Another midfielder who is a creative master and could follow in the same footsteps as Fernandes by swapping Lisbon for England in January is Goncalves, and Emery will be hoping that the Portuguese dynamo could have a similar impact on his team.
Therefore, let's look at Goncalves' style of play and his statistics from the 2023/24 Liga Portugal season. His percentages below account for where he ranks among positionally similar players in the Portuguese top flight.
Goals
0.40
Top 15%
Assists
0.40
Top 7%
Shots total
3.20
Top 11%
Key passes
2.29
Top 11%
Progressive passes
6.12
Top 11%
Tackles
1.60
Top 19%
On the evidence of the above, it is easy to see why Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig has dubbed Goncalves the "new Bruno Fernandes," with the 25-year-old boasting incredible goal-scoring and assist statistics.
Although he has been excellent this season with 11 goals and ten assists, what's most impressive is the fact that he's performed at this level for years, as highlighted by his astounding 113 goal contributions in 159 games for Sporting.
Furthermore, the former Wolves gem, who's been labelled "phenomenal" by football analyst Antonio Mango, is one of the most versatile players in Europe, as this season he has played on both wings, as an attacking midfielder, a box-to-box centre midfielder, and even a defensive midfielder.
Goncalves' intelligence, work rate, and ability to get stuck in allow him to do this, which would make him a perfect fit for Emery's side, who play with intensity and positional freedom in the midfield.
Sporting CP's Arthur Gomes in action with FCMidtjylland'sEmilianoMartinez
This versatility means he could feature as the second striker just behind Ollie Watkins, in the inverting left-midfield role that John McGinn operates in, or even next to Boubacar Kamara as a direct replacement for Douglas Luiz, who could be on the move this summer.
As you can see, Goncalves' skillset is very similar to the creative marvel that is Fernandes, and he could just become Villa's own version of United's number eight. Although the fee is rather steep, his quality and vast attributes make it seem like fair value.
Pakistan look set to confirm Shadab Khan in their World Cup squad, after the PCB announced in a press release* that the legspinning allrounder had been cleared to join up with the squad after their ODI series with England.Their captain Sarfaraz Ahmed had already allayed doubts about Shadab’s fitness in comments ahead of the third ODI in Bristol. Shadab, who was struck down with a bout of hepatitis ahead of the England tour, has been recuperating back home since the start of the ODI series.But speaking at the toss in Bristol, Sarfaraz told Sky Sports: “We have good news about Shadab. He will be fit for the World Cup and we are excited to have him back.”He is now set to leave Pakistan for England on Thursday, where he will again see a London-based specialist, before joining up with the rest of the World Cup party on Monday. Shadab’s fitness to play a part in Pakistan’s World Cup warm-up games will be determined nearer the time.Shadab was quoted by the PCB release as saying: “I am delighted to know that the blood tests are negative and I can now return to competitive cricket. I was always very confident that I would fully recover from the viral infection and will be available for the World Cup.”The development is a massive boost for Pakistan, who had selected Yasir Shah for this series instead. However, Yasir’s ODI form is a far cry from the quality that has marked him out as an elite Test match bowler, with an ODI average of nearly 50, and he was omitted from the Bristol match after a poor game at the Ageas Bowl on Saturday.It effectively left Pakistan with two options: taking Yasir to the World Cup, or deciding to go in without a legspinner at all. Shadab’s all-round ability also gave the team more flexibility with the batting order and squad selection, and as a legspinner, he is far and away the premier choice for Sarfaraz’s side.Whether he will be fully fit right from the outset is unclear yet. The virus was discovered in his blood following routine medical tests that the PCB conducts on its players. However, its early detection is believed to have helped his recovery, and one day after Mohammad Amir’s diagnosis of chicken pox all but ruled him out of the World Cup, Shadab’s arrival will certainly be a fillip.”It is fabulous news and on behalf of the Pakistan cricket team, I look forward to welcoming Shadab back in the squad,” Pakistan’s coach Mickey Arthur said. “Shadab is one of the finest of his generation and is an influential figure in the team. His presence in the dressing room and on the field of play keeps the side geared up and motivated.”Shadab’s inclusion also balances what is a young but extremely talented squad. I understand it will take Shadab some time to be back at his brilliant best as he has not played cricket for a few weeks, but our first game is on 31 May and he has got two weeks to regain complete form and fitness.”He is a brave lad and the way he has fought back to regain fitness is a testament to his attitude and approach, which gives us the encouragement that he will be hopefully available for selection for our World Cup opener.”*1500 BST – This story was updated with news from the PCB release
Luka Modric has reportedly communicated his decision about his future to Real Madrid amid contract impasse.
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Modric's contract is valid until June 30
A new deal is yet to be penned
Midfielder willing to extend his stay at Real
WHAT HAPPENED?
The former Ballon d'Or winner's future hangs in the balance as Real Madrid are set to embark on a new era fuelled by fresh blood in midfield. The 39-year-old has spent over a decade at the Santiago Bernabeu but his minutes have waned in the current season under Carlo Ancelotti which has raised further concerns about his stay. However, the Croatian continues to be a crucial cog for Los Blancos and has shown that he can still turn the tide after coming on from the bench in important fixtures – as was evident against Manchester City in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal tie.
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According to Modric has already "informed Real Madrid of his desire to stay at the club and sign a new contract." The Croatian is not concerned about his wages and has already turned down two massive offers as he awaits a response from the Real Madrid hierarchy.
DID YOU KNOW?
Although Modric has made 43 appearances this season across competitions for Real, only 25 of them have been starts – an unimpressive figure given his high standards. However, the club faithful want him to stay and were spotted singing chants while Real Madrid gathered at the Cibeles to celebrate their 36th league championship triumph.
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WHAT NEXT FOR MODRIC?
There have been reports suggesting that Real Madrid would hand both Modric and Toni Kroos fresh deals. The club is currently mulling over the possibility of holding on to both midfield veterans as Ancelotti has allegedly put his weight behind the duo.
However, any decision is likely to be reached after the Champions League final as Los Blancos are focused on lifting a record-extending 15th title against Borussia Dortmund on June 1 at Wembley.
Sky Sports made one of the most exciting moves in the transfer window as they brought in Peter Drury to replace Martin Tyler as the voice of their Premier League coverage. The commentator has built a reputation as the top wordsmith in the profession over his 30+ year career, after all.
Of course, the majority of that reputation, at least in recent times, has been built away from England.
After 15 years of making his name at ITV, Drury has primarily provided coverage of the world's biggest games for TV networks in America, working at both CBS Sports and NBC Sports.
Football FanCast has taken a look at Peter Drury's top commentary moments from his fantastic career:
10 Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Man United 11th September 2021, Manchester United 4-1 Newcastle United
Cristiano Ronaldo's reappearance in red at Old Trafford was a massive moment in what now seems like a long, long, long time ago. In reality, it was 2021. Didn't things fall apart quickly?
It really felt like an enormous moment for Manchester United when they re-signed the superstar from Juventus. Here was an all-time great returning to the club where he truly took off in an effort to sign off on one of the most incredible club careers the sport has ever seen.
With the Portugal star's time in Turin fizzling out, an extraordinary return to the place he made his name became reality when he made a second United debut against Newcastle United in September 2021.
And in true Ronaldo style, he grabbed all the headlines, not only through his mere appearance, but through a match-defining double that spurred the Red Devils to victory.
Drury attempted to capture the feelings as Ronaldo made that return, doing so in his usual poetic style:
"18 years since that trembling teenager of touch and tease first tip-toed onto this storied stage. Now in his immaculate maturity, CR7 re-United.
"Guess who's there? Close your eyes and he never went away! Cristiano Ronaldo has stolen back the show!
"The Theatre lives its Dream! Its fantasy hero retreads the boards! A phenomenon! Hello again, Stretford End: here I am!"
You can catch his introduction here.
Ronaldo's second spell at United, in statistics:
Appearances
Goals
Assists
55
27
5
9 Vincent Kompany's bolt from the blue 6th May 2019, Manchester City 1-0 Leicester City
In a titanic tussle for the title back in 2019, Manchester City knew only perfection would stop Liverpool claiming a first league title in nearly 30 years.
The Citizens, reigning champions at the time after amassing triple figures in terms of points, eventually went within touching distance of repeating that feat 12 months later, with their 98-point haul pipping the Reds to the post.
Therefore, every point mattered. And in early May, a stubborn Leicester City side were proving difficult to break down, with City requiring a victory to ensure they went into the final day in control of their destiny.
City skipper Vincent Kompany – not exactly famed for his long-range shooting – took efforts into his own hands by unleashing a rasping 25-yard strike that ultimately led to Pep Guardiola’s side sealing a domestic treble.
And in typical fashion, Drury was on hand to narrate the dramatic moment a nervy Etihad Stadium was sent into raptures by the Belgian’s wondergoal:
“Kompany… had a look, had a hit… ohhh! Captain fantastic! A wild celebration for a goal from his wildest dreams!
“A fantasy goal for City’s fantasy footballer! A goal fit for a champion of all time!
“He merely gives thanks. Around him, tens of thousands in blue give thanks for Manchester City’s man of men!”
Kompany's honours:
Trophy
Year
Belgian Pro League
2004, 2006
FA Cup
2011, 2019
Premier League
2012, 2014, 2018, 2019
Community Shield
2013, 2019
League Cup
2014, 2016, 2018, 2019
8 Thierry Henry stuns the Bernabeu 21st February 2006, Real Madrid 0-1 Arsenal
Thierry Henry
We're going all the way back to 2006 for this one as Arsenal attempted to ascend to the top of European football for the first time. They'd come awfully close, too, falling in the final to Barcelona after a heartbreaking defeat in Paris.
Indeed, Arsenal would go on to dispatch fellow European heavyweights Juventus and a talented Villarreal outfit on their way to a first-ever Champions League final.
However, the highlight of their run was surely the Gunners' victory over a star-studded Real Madrid in the first knockout round.
The Gunners would take the tie 1-0 on aggregate, with the crucial goal coming in Madrid courtesy of Thierry Henry.
A tense goalless draw at Highbury followed in what was Real Madrid’s one and only visit to the famous old ground, with Jens Lehmann’s heroics key to maintaining the north Londoners’ slender advantage.
And looking back to that decisive moment in the first leg, it was a stunning display of brilliance from Henry as he showed strength and poise to tie Real's defence in knots. Drury delivered worthy commentary to sum it all up:
“Here's Henry getting clear, it's Thierry Henry… he's scored! He's scored for Arsenal in the Bernabeu! No more, no less than they merit! Arsenal have been the thrusting force of this tie! Thierry Henry, the Gunner Galactico, it is Real Madrid nil, Arsenal one!”
Perfect.
Thierry Henry's Arsenal career in statistics:
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Trophies
377
228
103
7
7 Sergio Agüero's title-winner 13th May 2012, Manchester City 3-2 Queens Park Rangers
The final day of the 2011/12 season saw the Citizens in need of a victory against relegation-threatened QPR to secure their first-ever Premier League title.
Though, the script was ripped into shreds when Jamie Mackie put the visitors 2-1 up in the second half, sinking Roberto Mancini's side to second, behind bitter rivals Manchester United.
Edin Dzeko levelled in the 92nd minute and provided the hosts with a lifeline but still a mountain to climb as the pulsating encounter edged closer to the full-time whistle.
But, of course, Sergio Agüero stepped up in the fifth minute of stoppage, lashing home the title-winner to send the Etihad Stadium into bedlem.
Read more: 10 most famous Manchester City players in history
Martin Tyler's commentary of the moment perhaps stole much of Drury's limelight, but nonetheless, the football poet produced a memorable sequence.
“Drama of the ultimate type! Tears of distress turn to tears of unbridled joy! It just does not get better than this. It will never get better than this in blue.
“The blue moon has risen. Just like a dream in their hearts. Where does football go from here?”
Agüero's 2011/12 season, in numbers:
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Trophies
48
30
12
1
6 Scott McTominay's derby-day goal 8th March 2020, Manchester United 2-0 Manchester City
Manchester United welcomed their noisy neighbours Manchester City, who were the reigning Premier League champions having amassed a remarkable 99 points the season prior.
Though, at the time the Citizens were some way off the summit of the table, as Liverpool raced away 25 points clear in the lead. Even still, City were 15 points ahead of Ole Gunnar Solskjær's side, so heading into the derby, they were certainly the favoured outfit.
But in the 30th minute, Ederson allowed Anthony Martial's shot to squirm underneath his hands, putting the hosts ahead before Scott McTominay netted a 40-yard wondergoal in stoppage time to make sure of the three points.
Here's how Drury painted the picture:
"A red-Letter day, Scott McTominay, Ederson stay to hide, it's Solskjær's day to look to paradise and say ‘I've done a double over the neighbours.’"
McTominay's United career so far, in numbers:
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Trophies
218
22
5
1
5 Liverpool utopia 5th March 2023, Liverpool 7-0 Manchester United
The Reds did indeed defeat their bitter rivals 7-0, that did happen, it wasn't a dream. Perhaps even more remarkably, they only led 1-0 at half-time.
United's second-half capitulation saw Liverpool relentlessly punish error after error, netting six times, with Cody Gakpo, Darwin Núñez and Mohamed Salah all scoring a brace.
Roberto Firmino added the seventh with two minutes of normal time remaining before Drury perfectly captured the unprecedented scenes:
“A story at Anfield of restored faith. Of restored verve. Restored appetite. That is Liverpool as you remember them and that is Manchester United as they’d rather forget.”
Five of Liverpool's biggest Premier League wins over Manchester United:
Scoreline
Date
Manchester United 0-3 Liverpool
16th March 2014
Manchester United 1-4 Liverpool
14th March 2009
Liverpool 4-0 Manchester United
19th April 2022
Manchester United 0-5 Liverpool
24th October 2021
Liverpool 7-0 Manchester United
5th March 2023
4 Saka's poise 9th October 2022, Arsenal 3-2 Liverpool
Bukayo Saka's 76th-minute penalty settled the pulsating affair, as the Gunners defeated Liverpool 3-2 and regained their spot at the top of the league table.
As Saka stepped up to take the spot kick, much of the focus was centralised around his miss in the EURO 2020 final shootout against Italy and whether he could bury those demons, here.
Drury built up the occasion fabulously, commending his bravery and the Gunners golden boy proceeded to confidently stroke the ball home before wheeling away in elation.
Here's how Dury narrated the pressure penalty:
"Now this is one brave boy. Bukayo Saka. Because this is one pressure penalty. He has experienced pressure from the spot like few others.
"He has suffered for that pressure, but now the Emirates braces itself for perhaps a pivotal kick of the football.
“These are broad shoulders. This is courage. A sporting moment in time. Bukayo Saka. Such poise! Such noise!”
Saka's 2022/23 season, in numbers:
Appearances
Goals
Assists
48
15
11
3 Wayne Rooney's moment of magic 12th February 2011, Manchester United 2-1 Manchester City
Wayne Rooney produced some incredible moments throughout his glittering career, but one does manage to stand out amongst them all.
He may have announced himself with his long-range rocket against Arsenal as an Everton teenager back in 2002, while his thunderbolt volley against Newcastle nearly three years later still lives long in the memory.
His later career had some fine strikes, too – a superb strike from just inside the West Ham United half showed his undying class, while he repeated the trick of sorts against the Hammers by drilling in a superb 59-yarder during his second Everton spell.
However, that bicycle kick during the Manchester derby in February 2011 is an all-time Premier League moment – even if he quite clearly shinned it.
Read more: Ranking the 10 best goals not to win the Puskas Award
It was an extraordinary hit late on in a clash that secured a massive result in the title race – one that United would go on to win.
With Nani’s opener cancelled out by Edin Dzeko’s deflected effort, it was up to Rooney to settle things, and his goal for the ages ensured United maintained their four-point lead at the top with 12 games to play.
And as special as the strike was, Drury's commentary for the strike was nearly as good, too, as he tried to capture the magnitude:
"Rooney! Oh, wonderful! What a goal! And what a time, in what a place! What a player! Wayne Rooney, out of this world! 2-1 United!"
Wayne Rooney's career statistics:
Team
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Trophies
England
120
53
21
0
Manchester United
559
253
145
17
Everton
117
28
8
0
D.C. United
52
25
14
0
Derby County
35
7
3
0
2 History for South Africa 11th June 2010, South Africa 1-1 Mexico
The 2010 World Cup might primarily be remembered for a very dull brand of football played to the sound of bored bees, but the opener delivered a truly historic moment.
South Africa, after all, were the first African nation to ever host the tournament as they kicked it off against Mexico in June 2010.
They have not featured on the global stage since their home World Cup, but there were certainly moments to savour.
Alongside the weight of being the continent’s first World Cup hosts, they also beat an albeit out-of-sorts France as the former world champions completely crumbled, even finishing below their unfancied opponents in the group.
Bafana Bafana were also unfortunate to exit the tournament by virtue of goal difference.
Nevertheless, they will always have one of the tournament’s most iconic strikes to their name, and despite not holding on for victory on opening night, their opener was undoubtedly one of the goals of the finals.
You can't really overstate how enormous that was for the continent, let alone the country. So when Siphiwe Tshabalala put the hosts ahead with the tournament’s first goal, emotion completely took over the game.
Drury did his best to capture that on commentary, with a call that summed up just how special the moment was. He even later proclaimed the match to be his favourite of his career:
"It's Tshabalala… Goal Bafana Bafana! Goal for South Africa! Goal for all Africa! Jambulila, rejoice! Bafana Bafana have popped the first cork of their day of days!"
2010 World Cup Group A table:
#
Team
P
W
D
L
GF
GA
GD
Points
1
Uruguay
3
2
1
0
4
0
4
7
2
Mexico
3
1
1
1
3
2
1
4
3
South Africa
3
1
1
1
3
5
-2
4
4
France
3
0
1
2
1
4
-3
1
1 The Greek God in Rome 10th April 2018, Roma 3-0 Barcelona
No matter what your opinion is of Drury's commentary, there's no question that his call of Kostas Manolas' goal against Barcelona in 2018 was a turning point in the commentator's career.
His description of one of the Champions League's most incredible moments of recent years catapulted him into the minds of football fans across the world.
Of course, the conditions were perfect. Barcelona had beaten Roma 3-1 in Catalonia and looked certain to progress. The Italians had other ideas, however, and produced a sensational comeback to win 3-0 at home.
Edin Dzeko opened the scoring early on at the Stadio Olimpico, before a Daniele De Rossi penalty just before the hour mark had Roma threatening to complete an improbable comeback, as an away-goals victory was suddenly within their grasp.
And Greek centre-back Manolas struck from a corner with around 10 minutes remaining to send his side through to the semi-finals at Lionel Messi and co.’s expense.
Drury practically stole the limelight for himself, however, such was his description of the events:
"Roma have risen from their ruins! Manolas, the Greek God in Rome! The unthinkable unfolds before our eyes!
"This was not meant to happen, this could not happen – this is happening!"
The commentary went viral and Drury has been in demand ever since.
The pacer picked up 3 for 28 to restrict Vikings to 191 for 8 after the opener’s fifty had steered Kings to 198 for 5
The Report by Peter Della Penna26-Jan-2019How the game played outRajshahi Kings’ excellence at the death in both innings proved to be the difference in a seven-run win over Chittagong Vikings. Opener Johnson Charles took 40 balls to reach his half-century after being sent in at the toss, but Kings middle-order made up for the sluggish pace by plundering 78 runs off the last five overs sparked by Ryan ten Doeschate, who hit sixes for each of his first four scoring shots.However, Vikings were well in command of the required rate throughout the chase, thanks to a blistering start provided by Mohammad Shahzad’s 49 off 22 balls. But his loose dismissal, skying a catch to cover in the eighth over, became a recurring theme throughout the chase. Captain Mushfiqur Rahim also didn’t do his team any favours with an attempted scoop that found square leg to leave 57 off 32 required with six wickets left.Sikandar Raza brought the equation down to 27 off the last three overs, but Mustafizur Rahman’s brilliant spell swung the momentum back towards Kings for good. After conceding just six in the 18th, he entered the final over with 12 runs to defend and promptly yorked Sikandar off the first ball for 29 to send back Vikings’ last recognised batsman. With nine required off two balls, Robiul Haque missed a scoop to be bowled, effectively handing victory to Kings.Turning points Christian Jonker was on 3 in the 18th over of Kings’ innings when he skied a full toss from Robiul Haque to Sikandar at long-off, who spilled a straightforward chance. Jonker went on to score 37 off 17 balls. Yasir Ali was in the midst of his third half-century in five innings to pilot Vikings’ chase but Arafat Sunny beat his attempted slog in the 14th for 58 to give Kings the hope in the field. With Sikandar red hot on 29 off 14 balls and the equation reduced to 21 off 12 balls, he spent the entire 19th over off strike as Najibullah Zadran failed badly before holing out on the boundary off the final ball of the penultimate over.Star of the day The Fizz showed why he’s one of the best death bowlers in the modern era with his sensational spell in the final overs. Twenty-seven off three overs with five wickets in hand should be a relative cakewalk for a batting side in the context of T20 chases but the left-arm seamer was nearly untouchable in the 18th and 20th overs, landing his yorkers consistently as well as keeping Vikings off balance with his variations in pace.The big missVikings comically decided to go for a review in the 14th over of the first innings after Charles swung over the top of a delivery from Nayeem Hasan. Replays showed a massive gap between the bat and ball. While many reviews in this year’s BPL have dragged on for an eternity, this one ended with a swift resumption of play.Where the teams standKings secured desperately needed two points to create a four-way tie in second place on ten points, though Kings are behind Dhaka Dynamites, Rangpur Riders and Comilla Victorians on net run rate. Vikings remain in first place on 12 points but missed a golden opportunity to create more breathing room away from the logjam behind them.
The tempo at which his team-mates – particularly Kane Williamson – built their own innings, helped Tom Latham get through some tough spells, and assisted in his getting to a seventh Test hundred.Latham went to stumps on 121 off 256 balls – his strike rate a respectable 47 for the day – but had been much slower at the start of his knock. He had been 16 off 86 balls at one stage, and also went through another period – when he was on 50 – in which he did not score a run for 17 balls.Williamson, meanwhile, made 91 off 93 balls. To the pair’s 162-run second wicket stand, Latham’s contribution was only 67.”At the start of my innings, I wasn’t playing that quickly, but the way Jeet Raval played and the way Kane came and played – that took the game to the opposition and kept the scoreboard ticking over,” Latham said. “It was good for me. I could just keep going. The most important thing we talk about was making those partnerships big ones, and I managed to get a good one with Kane.Williamson had signaled his aggressive intentions early, hitting three fours off the first three deliveries he faced. Two of those strokes were especially memorable back-foot punches either side of point, off the bowling of Lahiru Kumara. He would go on to hit 10 fours in his innings, and had little trouble finding gaps in the outfield in between the boundaries.ALSO READ from Fernando: The frustrations of being Kane Williamson“Kane came out and hit the ball fantastically well – I guess he’s a world-class player and is hitting the ball unbelievably well in all conditions,” Latham said. “You look at some of the shots he plays – from ball one – those early boundaries set the tempo for his innings and he kept doing that. He’s a fantastic player and one to get a few more tips off. When guys are going like that it’s almost easier to give them the strike and let them do their thing.”For Latham, this was his first trip to triple figures since January 2017, and breaks a relatively lean spell that goes back at least six innings. In the three Tests in the UAE, Latham mustered only one 50, and averaged 16.5 across the three Tests. Which is why, he said, it was important to start slowly and build from there.”The slow start was about trying to get them to bowl to me as much as possible. Coming from the UAE where the conditions were a lot different, it was important for me to try and wait to score when the ball was a lot straighter, or when it was shorter or fuller.”I didn’t have the results I wanted in the UAE, but I felt like I was hitting the ball alright. The biggest thing was the trust in my own game, and the trust that I can do it at this level. It’s been a while since I made a big score, but it was nice that I managed to do that straightaway.”