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Manchester United are reportedly taking an interest in Brentford midfielder Christian Eriksen this summer, with the Denmark international available on a free transfer.

What’s the word?

According to journalist Jacque Talbot, United and Newcastle are “interested” in signing the 30-year-old, while Brentford are keen to keep him in London after an impressive spell there last season.

The midfielder is yet to agree to a new deal with the Bees, having joined them on a six-month contract last season after his deal at Inter was terminated, with Serie A regulations meaning that he was unable to play with the cardiac device that was fitted in his chest after his cardiac arrest during Euro 2020.

However, Eriksen showed little sign of that slowing him down, as he registered one goal and four assists in 11 Premier League appearances for Thomas Frank’s side, averaging a superb 7.37 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

It is no surprise to see United taking an interest in the former Tottenham Hotspur man, therefore, as he could represent a superb option for Erik ten Hag next season, especially if he were to join on a free transfer.

Imagine him and Ronaldo

Despite missing the vast majority of last season, Paul Pogba finished the season as United’s top creator in the Premier League with nine assists, which demonstrates that ten Hag needs more creativity in his side next season if the Red Devils are to improve on a disastrous 2021/22 campaign.

Eriksen would certainly provide plenty of creativity, having registered 71 Premier League assists alongside his 52 goals in his career thus far, and his quality deliveries could certainly prove a problem for Premier League defences next season when you consider who United will have in the box.

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored the most headed goals in this century and, even at 37, still possesses the movement and physicality to outwit most Premier League defenders, so he could benefit from Eriksen’s technical ability at United.

The Dane, who has previously been described as “unreal” and “outstanding”, represents an incredible, low-risk option for United given that he is available on a free.

Therefore, the Glazers should definitely do all they can to bring him to Old Trafford, as he could form a superb partnership with Ronaldo next season.

And, in other news… Man United now plotting offer for “incredible” £106m monster, he’s Ten Hag’s dream

At least three Premier League clubs are interested in signing Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore this summer, according to a report from 90min. 

The lowdown: Out of favour star

Once a fan favourite, Traore has fallen dramatically down the pecking order under Bruno Lage and was sent out on loan to Barcelona in January.

Included in the temporary switch was an option for the Catalan club to make the deal permanent, although it’s believed officials at the Camp Nou aren’t willing to sanction the move after just two assists in 11 La Liga outings.

Now, as a return to Molineux looms large, Traore’s ongoing future in the Midlands remains in serious doubt…

The latest: Wanted man

As per 90min, Newcastle United, Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur are all keen on the 26-year-old Spaniard.

It’s claimed that Wolves will ‘focus on trying to offload Traore for good’ this summer and it seems inevitable that the powerful wide-man ‘will still leave’ the club in the near future.

The report states that Newcastle and Leeds have ‘previously enquired’ about the man recently hailed as ‘unstoppable’ by journalist Ronald Morgan following a standout Europa League display against Napoli containing two assists.

The verdict: Cash in

With only 29 direct goal involvements in 154 outings, having often flattered to deceive in an Old Gold shirt, the Spanish speedster has been usurped by the likes of Pedro Neto, Daniel Podence and more recently Chiquinho in the Molineux pecking order.

Following just one goal and four assists in 40 appearances across all competitions in 2021/22, that’s a situation that seems unlikely to change in the near future as Lage asks ownership group Fosun for the funds to strengthen the ranks accordingly.

Under contract until 2023 and valued at £25.2million (Transfermarkt), the Wolves hierarchy must still demand a large fee for Traore that would bolster the coffers available to Lage this summer, particularly as the powerful eight-cap ace seemingly remains awash with major interest.

In other news, Wolves have received a transfer boost regarding one player. Find out who it is here.

Northern football correspondent for The Times, Paul Joyce has confirmed interest from Liverpool in AS Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. 

The lowdown: Contact made

The Reds were initially linked with the 22-year-old in a detailed report from Foot Mercato, who claimed that ‘contacts’ had already been initiated between the parties.

Signed from Bordeaux in 2020 for €20million (£16.8million), Monaco were previously expected to demand a fee in the region of €50million (£42million) to part ways with their highly-rated star, with Real Madrid also thought to be in the running.

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Now, a fresh update from the reliable Joyce has suggested that the Anfield club could be seriously considering a move this summer…

The latest: Joyce confirms interest

As per the report from The Times journalist, Liverpool are said to ‘like’ the senior France international as the club begins to seek out targets amidst the hysteria of Jurgen Klopp’s new deal.

It’s claimed that the Reds management are admirers of Tchouameni and incoming sporting director, Julian Ward, could be tasked with the mission of making the deal a reality.

The combative midfielder has been described as an ‘enormous’ talent by French national team coach Didier Deschamps.

The verdict: Make it happen

Few players in European football are better suited to come in and immediately enhance this Liverpool squad than the eight-cap ace.

Albeit Klopp currently has a wealth of options in the department with Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita, Thiago and Fabinho vying for three spots, there is currently no natural senior understudy for the all-important number six role, with Tyler Morton charged with the task on occasion.

So far this season, the powerful Frenchman has earned an outstanding 7.27 rating whilst making 2.8 interceptions, 2.5 tackles and 51.5 accurate passes on average per game across 32 Ligue 1 outings (Sofascore).

Capable of operating as a defensive midfielder and in a more advanced position, Tchouameni possesses very strong aerial and tackling ability (WhoScored) and appears tailor-made to come in and strengthen the Anfield squad, particularly should Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain leave this summer.

In other news, a key Liverpool update has emerged regarding a superstar player. Read more here.

Maiden Test century follows hot on heels of 95 against West Indies, with more still to come

Vithushan Ehantharajah23-Aug-2024England’s wicketkeeping culture war has raged on for decades. But on Friday, if only for one day, there was peace in the world.A calming equilibrium was established in a void usually filled with conversations pitting technique against tenacity, catching percentages against batting average. A fresh, welcome relief.As Jonny Bairstow and Ben Foakes bagged County Championship half-centuries in Scarborough and south London respectively, Manchester belonged to Jamie Smith and his first Test century. Two impressive careers carry on off-Broadway as Smith takes centre stage for a run that already looks like outlasting either of theirs.Of course, Smith will eventually get sucked into that debate. Already, people are wondering if he needs the gloves at all – his batting is good enough to command a top-six spot outright, even if he only finds himself there because of Ben Stokes’ torn hamstring. But there is no need to get bogged down in any of that just yet. He will be around for a good while.His innings of 111 contained gear shifts, soothing drives and the odd outlandish whip to the leg side, and came one match after he had fallen short of his century by five runs in the third Test against West Indies. At the time of that innings, Smith had been happy with his lot, but he did anticipate feeling “a little bit gutted in a couple of days”. That sorrow never came, and the wait has been no wait at all.Smith showed patience throughout, particularly on Friday morning, taking 39 deliveries for the 28 runs required for his 11th first-class century. His marshalling of Gus Atkinson was particularly mature, helped by the fact that Atkinson can hold his own. The Surrey pair embraced after Smith tucked the ball off his toes for two runs to move to 100, before a subdued raising of his bat and helmet towards the dressing-room and the stands.That reaction was in step with what Surrey’s and England’s age-group coaches have said about Smith; he’s comfortable in his skin, mature beyond his years, and has steadfast belief in the skill at his disposal. He only turned 24 last month, but it feels as if he has been around the block. The nonplussed celebration of a moment every cricketer dreams about, but few ever experience, was a case of point.But beneath the calm exterior was a profound sense of pride. His parents were at the ground, along with his girlfriend, with whom he is expecting his first child. Messages from those watching on from afar were picked up once he walked off the field at stumps, each of them reinforcing the scale of his achievement to have even made it this far.”I probably didn’t show it, but inwardly I was obviously very happy with that milestone and I guess it’s proud,” he said. “I think, it’s when you look back and I guess it’s your phone; it sort of blows up with people that have either watched it or have played a part in your journey, messaging their congratulations.Smith cuts through the off side during his morning stand with Atkinson•AFP/Getty Images”My family are here, my girlfriend was here, so for them to experience it as well, people that played a significant part of being on the journey the whole way, I guess the overriding feeling is definitely pride.”As it happens, one of his earliest champions was sat on the Sri Lanka balcony. Ian Bell, currently acting as batting coach for the tourists, worked with Smith while coaching the England Lions. They also spent the last month together with Birmingham Phoenix in the men’s Hundred, where Bell would bait Smith that he couldn’t wait to arm Sri Lanka with the necessary information to best Smith.Speaking before Smith’s press conference, Bell could not withhold his pride. It was in 2023, on an A tour to Sri Lanka, that Smith struck the fastest century by a Lions batter which led Bell to rave about the keeper-batter to anyone and everyone. “Yeah, annoying,” was Bell’s first response when asked what he made of Smith’s progression to this moment. But the praise was not far behind.”I think he’s going to be a world-class player for England over a long period of time. He is class. And the players have acknowledged that it’s up to us now to find ways of getting him out in this series.”Fair play to him. Today, the game was on the line this morning, and the players have talked about it. We probably weren’t our best for that first hour, and he showed his class as well.Related

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“And you know, the small part that I suppose played in his development; I’ve watched a guy who’s worked extremely hard. He’s confident, and he’s taken to international cricket with ease. Even his celebration just shows the kind of person he is. And I’m sure he’s going to be a massive part of this England team in all formats to come over a long time.”Given Bell’s 118 Tests, he is as sage a judge as any when it comes to assessing what it takes to excel at this level. And Smith is already excellent. Granted, we are only five innings in, but the 318 runs at an average of 63.60, and the three fifty-plus scores speak of a cricketer tailormade for the big time. And it speaks volumes that, of all the talented keepers England have had behind the stumps, at 24 years and 40 days, he is the youngest of them to score a Test century.His glovework has been solid, with 18 catches so far, though he did miss a chance to register his first stumping on Wednesday, failing to gather a full dart from Shoaib Bashir when Sri Lanka skipper Dhananjaya de Silva had 65 to his name. And on Friday, his enthusiasm saw him trigger a rare no-ball law, with his gloves not “wholly behind the stumps”, which was flagged when England reviewed an LBW shout against the unbeaten Kamindu Mendis. Smith admitted he was not totally up to speed with the nature of his indiscretion. “I’ll know the law moving forward,” he said with a smirk.Neither were costly; Bashir eventually snared Dhananjaya for 74, and DRS would have stuck with the on-field not-out decision on umpire’s call for the impact into the stumps. But it was at least a reminder to Smith of the challenges within Test cricket. Not that he was under any illusions that all this was a piece of cake, despite how he has made it seem.”It’s not easy at all, no,” Smith said. “I think everyone knows, especially the way you play cricket, that there’s going to be ups and downs. I think that’s what it is and you’re riding the wave a little bit at the moment.”There’s going to be times when you’re going to be out of form, out of nick, and there’s going to be that judgement coming. When you do feel really good about yourself and the way you’re playing, it’s almost trying to take advantage of that as you can.”

Middle-order logjam caused by Harry Brook’s emergence raises questions about Foakes’ long-term future

Vithushan Ehantharajah14-Dec-2022Ollie Pope says there is no animosity between him and Ben Foakes after he usurped his Surrey team-mate as England’s Test wicketkeeper in Pakistan.Foakes came into the tour as the first choice behind the stumps, having played in six of the first seven Tests under captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum. Regarded as one of the finest operators with the gloves in world cricket, he affected 34 dismissals this summer alone, while posting an average of exactly 40 with the bat along with a second career century against South Africa at Emirates Old Trafford.Related

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Pope embraces senior status after taste of England leadership

However, on the morning of the first Test in Rawalpindi, Foakes fell victim to the virus that had taken out more than half the squad the day before which led to doubts over whether the match would start on time. England were eventually able to rouse an XI, but Foakes was ruled out and replaced by Will Jacks. It meant Pope, who had previously kept wicket for England against New Zealand in November 2019 and has also deputised as a stand-in on occasion, took the gloves, scoring a century in the first innings and then taking six catches and a stumping in the match.Even though Foakes was fully fit for the second Test, Pope’s performance meant England felt comfortable picking him as their keeper, meaning they could afford to bring in another bowler – Mark Wood – in Multan. Stokes insisted the decision was “definitely no sign of Ben Foakes’ future going forward” but Pope affected five dismissals, including two decisive catches on the fourth and final day off Wood, as England took the match and the series.Pope is expected to keep his place behind the stumps for the third and final match in Karachi which begins on Saturday. And though Foakes is likely to be dismayed by his misfortune, Pope insists he has received nothing but encouragement from his good friend. In fact, the pair have been working together between games, something for which the man in possession has been grateful.”Not at all,” Pope replied, when asked if there was any awkwardness their relationship at present. “You just do what you’re told. I didn’t expect it but I was happy to do the job. He’s a Surrey team-mate and the No. 1 keeper. It was just a way to get an extra bowler in these conditions.”I definitely didn’t expect to be keeping out here to be honest. It wasn’t on my radar. But with the guys getting ill last week, it gave us another bowling option so I was happy to take it on. I’ve enjoyed the experience. He’s the best in the world and one of my best mates – great to learn from.”Ben Foakes and Ollie Pope are Surrey team-mates•Getty Images for Surrey CCCReflecting on how he has fared, Pope ceded that there is room for improvement in his glove work. There have been a handful of missed opportunities and while nothing has cost England thus far, he enjoyed the rub of the green in Multan when third umpire Joel Wilson gave a marginal decision in his favour when he caught Saud Shakeel down the leg side, tilting the second Test England’s way.Shakeel, on 94, was given out on the field by umpire Marais Erasmus. Replays gave some indication that Pope might have grounded the ball while taking the catch, but Wilson, ultimately, decided that there was insufficient evidence to overrule the on-field decision.”I took my chances,” Pope reflected. “I can still do better. I’m not even going to compare myself to Foakesy as a keeper, but I took my chances in this game. Out there there isn’t the wobble you get in England but there is that low, skiddy bounce. You’re dealing with that, and you have to stand nice and close.”Ultimately, though, Pope’s priority remains his batting. When Stokes took over, Pope called up his new captain and implored him to give him a shot at No. 3 despite no experience at that position for Surrey. Since then, he has averaged 40.18 with two hundreds in 17 innings, compared to 28.66 and one hundred in 40 innings before the start of the 2022 summer.In Multan, after keeping wicket for 62.5 overs in Pakistan’s first innings, he dropped down to No. 6 with Jacks stepping up to assume the role at first drop. It speaks to the fact batting at the top of the order as a wicketkeeper is not viable.As far as Pope is concerned, 32 caps into his international career, his batting has never been in better place. Neither has his status in this team, underlined by the fact he was given the opportunity to captain England in a warm-up against the Lions in Abu Dhabi last month. Ensuring he remains on that upward trajectory is paramount for both himself and the rhythm of this team.Pope has thrived with the bat under Stokes and McCullum•Matthew Lewis/Getty Images”I’d still love to tie down No. 3, make that my own,” he said. “That will be my primary focus. Obviously in different conditions, somewhere like New Zealand, we might go with a more regular team. That’s not for me to decide: my main priority is to keep churning runs at No. 3.”I feel a new player at the minute, personally, to what I felt in the past playing for England. I feel I’ve been a bit more consistent, I’ve stopped fearing getting out. The two guys at the top have helped me grow – not confidence, but the freedom to express myself and how I want to play. It’s been great for me, hopefully I keep that consistency.”Quite what this all means for Foakes remains to be seen. But it is hard not to wonder if his days as first-choice keeper are numbered, despite Stokes’ insistence before the Multan Test that he sees him as “the No. 1 gloveman in England” and even “the best keeper in the world”.The emergence of Harry Brook, the top run-scorer in the series with 357 runs at an average of 89.25, presents a conundrum down the line when Jonny Bairstow returns to fitness. It seems highly unlikely – and counterproductive – that Brook might return to the sidelines; likewise, for Bairstow not to assume the role he filled spectacularly in the English summer.Perhaps the most tempting option would see Bairstow reassume keeping duties for the first time since September 2021, allowing Pope to focus on his batting at No. 3 and Brook to maintain his spot at No. 5. Not to mention it would take an already aggressive batting line-up to the next level.As cruel as that would be for Foakes, who has done everything asked of him, such a positive option is entirely in keeping with how Stokes and McCullum have operated so far.

And what’s the lowest fourth-innings total by a team that won a Test with nine wickets down?

Steven Lynch25-Aug-2020There were six Tests in England this summer but not a single Test debutant – how often has this happened? asked Dominic Wood from Turkey

That’s a good spot, because actually this is the first English summer ever that has had Test cricket but no new caps at all. There have been two previous Test summers with no debutants for England – 1953 and 2011 – but both of those featured new players from the visiting teams. In 1953, Australia blooded Alan Davidson and legspinner Jack Hill in the first Test, at Trent Bridge, and batsman Jim de Courcy in the third, at Old Trafford. In 2011, Sri Lanka introduced
Thisara Perera in the first Test of the season, in Cardiff, and Lahiru Thirimanne in the third, in Southampton.What’s the lowest fourth-innings total by a team that won a Test with nine wickets down? asked Narasimhan Vuruputoor from India

There have now been 14 Tests that ended in one-wicket victories for the side batting last. The lowest total involved, by quite a distance, is 104 for 9 – by New Zealand against West Indies in Dunedin in 1979-80. Next is England’s 173 for 9 against South Africa in Cape Town in 1922-23.The highest such score came in a match fresh in the memory – England’s Ben Stokes-inspired 362 for 9 to beat Australia at Headingley last August.I noticed that Everton Weekes reached double figures in his first 14 Test innings, and when I checked Frank Worrell he did too (sadly, Clyde Walcott didn’t). But is 14 the Test record? asked Samuel Harris from Barbados

You’re right about the Three Ws: Everton Weekes reached double figures in his first 14 Test innings (going on to hundreds in five of them) before falling for 1 in his 15th, against England at Old Trafford in 1950, while Frank Worrell also had 14 before he fell for 6 in Adelaide in 1951-52. Clyde Walcott, however, was out for 8 in his first Test innings, against England in Bridgetown in 1947-48.Tamim Iqbal holds the one-day record of most runs scored at a single venue: 2619 at the Shere Bangla, Mirpur•AFPTwo players, both openers, started their Test careers by reaching double figures in 15 successive innings – Sid Barnes of Australia, and England’s Geoff Pullar. But the leader on this particular list, with 16 double-figure scores from debut, is another Australia opener, Colin McDonald: he won his first cap in 1951-52, and did not have a single-figure score until he finished with 7 not out as Australia beat West Indies in Kingston in 1954-55. McDonald was not actually dismissed in single figures until his 24th innings, when Tony Lock removed him for 1 in the opening match of the 1956 Ashes series, at Trent Bridge.The England opener Brian Bolus, who died earlier this year, holds the record for a whole career with no single-figure scores: he had 12 innings in his seven Tests, with a lowest of 14.Does Sanath Jayasuriya still hold the record for most runs in ODIs at a single ground? asked Neville de Alwis from Sri Lanka

Sanath Jayasuriya scored 2514 runs in one-day internationals at the Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, which remained a record for a single ground from 2009 until January 2018, when Tamim Iqbal passed it: he now has 2619 runs at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.Seven other batsmen have made 2000 runs on a single ground in ODIs. Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim so far have 2472 and 2351 respectively at Mirpur, while Inzamam-ul-Haq and Saeed Anwar scored 2464 and 2179 in Sharjah. Kumar Sangakkara amassed 2156 runs at the Premadasa, Ricky Ponting 2108 at Melbourne, and Brendan Taylor so far has 2067 at the Harare Sports Club. Here’s the list of most runs at a venue by a player.Don Bradman figured in 11 Test series – did he score centuries in every one of them? asked Joel Pojas from the Philippines

I’ve included this one as it’s the birth anniversary of Don Bradman in a couple of days’ time. Test cricket’s greatest batsman did feature in 11 Test series in all – eight against England – and made a century in every one of them, as this list shows. In nine of his series, the Don scored two or more hundreds – the only ones in which he managed just one apiece were the Ashes of 1928-29 (his first series, aged 21), and the Bodyline tour of 1932-33, when he missed one of the matches.Use our
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Lionel Messi’s GOAT Tour stop in Kolkata descended into chaos as overcrowding, security breaches, and pitch invasions left the Argentina icon "visibly uncomfortable" before he exited the Salt Lake Stadium after less than 20 minutes. Fans who had paid hefty prices were left furious as mismanagement plunged the event into disorder.

Messi's GOAT Tour turns sour in Kolkata

Chaos engulfed Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium on December 13 as Messi’s much-anticipated appearance lasted barely 20 to 25 minutes before he was escorted away amid local politicians swarming the pitch for photos with the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. Over 85,000 fans had arrived for a glimpse of the football legend, but more than 100 individuals, politicians, officials, celebrities, and security staff swarmed the pitch as soon as Messi entered, obstructing visibility and disrupting the schedule. As frustration grew and fans realised they could hardly see the Argentine superstar, the atmosphere shifted rapidly from euphoria to anger.

Stadium unrest escalated when groups of supporters began ripping out seats and hurling objects onto the pitch after Messi left the field. Videos showed fans climbing over barriers and jeering officials as the event collapsed under mismanagement. Reports confirmed that Messi, along with Inter Miami team-mates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, were rushed out of the venue due to immediate safety concerns as organisers lost control of the situation.

Former India midfielder Lalkamal Bhowmick, who participated in the exhibition match planned as part of the programme, later revealed to Sports Now that Messi had become "visibly uncomfortable" once the crowd began encroaching on him. The celebrity presence on the pitch, combined with an overwhelmed security apparatus, left the event in disarray. By the end of the night, Messi’s first Indian appearance of the tour had turned into a public-relations disaster, overshadowing the footballing spectacle.

AdvertisementAFPKolkata event organizer Dutta arrested after celebs and politicians storm the field

The fallout from the Kolkata chaos has spiralled into a significant controversy, prompting the arrest of lead organiser Shatadru Dutta and the launch of two police cases under multiple stringent legal sections. Authorities allege severe lapses in crowd management, public-order violations, and endangerment, leading to Dutta reportedly being denied bail and placed in 14-day police custody.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock and issued a public apology, acknowledging the failure to manage an event hosting a global icon. An inquiry committee comprising senior officials has already begun an investigation into the causes, with initial inspections suggesting that access control, security perimeter planning, and VIP coordination had collapsed simultaneously. The committee will assess accountability and recommend structural reforms to prevent such lapses at future large-scale events.

Fan anger has continued to grow, with many supporters demanding refunds after paying high ticket prices only to be unable to see Messi during his rushed, heavily obstructed lap. Some accused organisers of prioritising dignitaries over genuine supporters, while others criticised the chaotic execution that turned a once-in-a-lifetime moment into disappointment. 

Getty Images SportFormer Indian midfielder reveals Messi was 'visibly uncomfortable'

Bhowmick’s account shed further light on Messi’s discomfort, describing how his demeanour changed as uncontrolled crowds converged on him for selfies and photos. He revealed that Messi initially appeared relaxed, signing autographs and greeting players, but quickly grew irritated when dozens of unplanned politicians and dignitaries flooded the pitch. According to Bhowmick, both Messi’s own security team and teammates Suarez and De Paul were visibly unhappy with how rapidly the environment deteriorated.

Bhowmick told Sports Now: "Everything was going fine at the start as Messi walked into the stadium. He seemed relaxed, smiling, and shaking hands with all of us. He even gave autographs without hesitation. The moment too many people rushed onto the field and started clicking pictures, he became visibly uncomfortable. It got overcrowded very quickly, and we could see his reaction change as everyone around him started clicking pictures. He began showing signs of irritation, lost his cool, and everything went out of control."

The mismanagement not only affected the fans but also deeply impacted the athletes involved in the exhibition match, which was meant to celebrate Messi’s presence in India. With officials and politicians crowding the field, players were unable to proceed with the programme as planned, creating confusion about whether the exhibition match would begin at all. The decision to cut the event short, Bhowmick confirmed, was driven by security concerns rather than Messi’s unwillingness to engage with supporters.

The reaction in Kolkata contrasted sharply with Messi’s warm reception later in the day in Hyderabad, where he finally played with local youth players and addressed an appreciative crowd. The difference in experiences only intensified scrutiny of Kolkata's failed organisational effort.

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AFPMessi's tour continues in Mumbai and Delhi after Hyderabad success

Messi’s tour will continue as planned, with stops scheduled in Mumbai and New Delhi after the successful Hyderabad leg restored a sense of normalcy to the India visit.  Even so, Kolkata’s events will remain under investigation as authorities attempt to determine the scale of lapses and whether refunds or additional sanctions will follow.

For organisers, the priority now is damage control as the inquiry committee prepares its findings and outlines responsibility for the widespread mismanagement. The repercussions could influence future international sporting events in the region, as stakeholders re-evaluate safety protocols and VIP handling procedures. Balancing crowd enthusiasm with proper infrastructure planning will be essential to rebuilding credibility.

Meanwhile, Messi, Suarez, and De Paul are expected to proceed with engagements in a more controlled environment, with security teams implementing stricter procedures after Kolkata’s breakdown. With thousands of fans still eager to see the World Cup winner, ensuring smooth execution in the remaining cities will be crucial to salvaging the GOAT Tour’s legacy in India. The hope now is that Messi’s remaining appearances unfold in celebration, not controversy.

Strasbourg captain Emanuel Emegha, who is set to join Chelsea in the summer, has been handed a one-match ban by his current club and will miss their next game against Toulouse in Ligue 1. Strasbourg have issued a statement explaining their decision is due to the player's recent failure to "respect the club's values, expectations and rules".

Emegha in the spotlight at Strasbourg

Emegha has come under the spotlight in Strasbourg for his recent behaviour. The captain first raised eyebrows with comments made after the team's recent 2-0 victory over Lille, a match in which he scored both goals. After the game, it was pointed out to Emegha that the win was Lille's first against top opposition and he replied by joking that it was because he had missed his team's fixtures with Monaco, PSG, Lyon, and Rennes, according to .

The report claims that the 22-year-old also riled the club during an interview with when he said he thought Strasbourg was in Germany before he joined the French club two years ago.

Emegha has since spoken to the club's management, including coach Liam Rosenior and sporting director David Weir, and the decision has been made to sanction the captain for his behaviour and remind him of the team's values.

AdvertisementAFPStrasbourg issue statement on Emegha

A statement from the club read: "Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace has decided to suspend Emmanuel Emegha for its next Ligue 1 match, this Saturday December 6 in Toulouse. This decision was taken following the player's recent failure to respect the club's values, expectations and rules. Racing reaffirms its commitment to the essential principles of exemplary conduct and respect for the collective framework. Emmanuel remains an important member of our team, who has always given his all for the club on the pitch. He will be reintegrated into the squad after this match. No further comments will be made."

Emegha heading to Chelsea in 2026

This does look to be Emegha's last season at Strasbourg as a deal has been agreed for the striker to move to their sister club Chelsea in 2026. Emegha will sign a seven-year deal at Stamford Bridge in a move that has already generated controversy.

Strasbourg fans turned on their striker earlier this season when the deal was announced, booing him during a fixture against Le Havre and holding up banners that read: "megha, pawn of BlueCo. After changing shirt, give back your captain's armband." 

Manager Rosenior admitted afterwards that Emegha had been left "devastated" by the fans' strong reaction to the news.

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'Everybody knows my personality'

Emegha has previously spoken about his decision to swap Strasbourg for Chelsea. He told reporters: "Strasbourg gave me the opportunity to develop and to get to the level that I am today, and I’m not finished developing or growing. I’m really grateful to the club and the supporters for everything they have done for me. I just want to focus 100% on Strasbourg until the end of the season, and then I will leave. I don’t want there to be rumours or distractions for my team or for me, so I think this is the best decision to bring it out now.

"Everybody knows my personality. It’s not because people know I’m leaving that I will change my behaviour or my work ethic. I’m someone who gives 100% every day for the team and for the club, and I’ll keep doing this until the end.

"I had opportunities to go to other European top clubs that play in the Champions League. I spoke with Chelsea, with Strasbourg and with BlueCo about what would be best for my career. We had open discussions and agreed that the best decision was for me to stay in Strasbourg for one more year, to lead the team in Europe, to write another piece of history here, and then go to Chelsea."

After more than two years of waiting, Lionel Messi finally has a chance to lift MLS Cup. The Argentine superstar guided Inter Miami to their first-ever trip to the championship game, sealing a 5-1 win over NYCFC in the Eastern Conference final. And he’ll have another countryman to thank: Tadeo Allende, whose first-half brace set the tone for Javier Mascherano’s side.

It wasn’t Messi’s most prolific performance – but it didn’t have to be. His teammates did the heavy lifting, especially Allende, who tied the MLS postseason record for goals with a hat trick.

NYCFC opened the contest at Chase Stadium just as they have throughout the postseason: compact, taking away space, and looking to counter. It worked for the first 10 minutes, before the Herons’ attack finally sparked. Messi created a clear-cut chance from a set piece, finding Jordi Alba at the back post, only for USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese to block the header. Four minutes later, the breakthrough came.

Allende received a perfectly weighted pass in the box and made no mistake with a diagonal finish to put Miami up 1-0. Eight minutes after that, he was back again. Alba spotted Allende charging toward goal from 25 yards out and lofted a gorgeous long ball over the top, which the striker headed home. Inter Miami looked to be cruising, but NYCFC hit back in the 37th minute as lax defending allowed Justin Haak to nod in a set-piece header.

Miami turned ruthless after the break. Mateo Silvetti finally came alive following a quiet first half, coolly slotting home off a Messi assist – the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s lone goal contribution of the night. Alba followed with an outrageous backheel to set up Telasco Segovia, and Allende added his third to restore Miami’s four-goal cushion and put the game out of reach.

The win ensures Inter Miami will host MLS Cup against the Western Conference finalists, the Vancouver Whitecaps. 

GOAL rates Inter Miami's players from Chase Stadium….

ImagnGoalkeeper & Defense

Rocco Rios Novo (5/10):

A shaky performance from the 23-year-old, who couldn't do much with the first goal he conceded, but almost gave away Miami's advantage in the second half. He is very lucky NYCFC couldn't take advantage of a giveaway from Inter Miami's goalkeeper. He also made some ill-timed runs off his line. Did make an incredible save on Julian Fernandez, which prevented a game-tying opportunity in the 67th minute. 

Jordi Alba (9/10):

Typical Alba performance, excellent in his assist to Allende in the first half, but left spaces open at times for NYCFC to exploit. Delivered one of the best assists of the season with his behind-the-back delivery to Segovia. 

Noah Allen (6/10):

Allen always puts a shit on the back end, but doesn't offer much going forward. Had a then-game high five defensive contributions before being pulled off due to his yellow card for Yannick Bright.

Sergio Busquets (6/10):

The legendary midfielder was put in the backline for his ability to distribute from the center back position, which he did. Yet, his lack of mobility, especially laterally, gave NYCFC a weakness to exploit. 

Maxi Falcon (6/10):

Solid but not spectacular. Typical showing from the center back. 

Marcelo Weigandt (6/10):

Wasn't the worst game from the fullback, and he actually offered some positive glimpses in the first half. Yet, once Hannes Wolf came on, the 25-year-old couldn't handle NYCFC's Austrian winger and was quickly replaced by Ian Fray in the second half. 

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Baltasar Rodríguez (6/10):

NYCFC kept the match compact, and as a result, the young midfielder didn't have much space to operate in. Quiet night overall. 

Rodrigo De Paul (7/10):

Miami's big summer signing contributed on both sides of the ball, helping the Herons push forward and also helping his club win back possession with X recoveries. 

Mateo Silvetti (8/10):

Withdrawn from his typical winger/forward spot, the 19-year-old played in a No. 10 spot and was less effective in the first half than he had been in previous weeks. Yet, he effectively booked Miami's trip to the finals with his goal in the second half. 

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Lionel Messi (7/10):

This wasn’t Messi’s best outing, with NYCFC swarming him on nearly every touch. But after the postseason he’s had — and with the performances his teammates delivered on Saturday – it didn’t really matter.

Tadeo Allende (10/10):
Who needs Neymar or Luis Suárez when you have Allende? Jokes aside, the unheralded Argentine – quietly brought in on loan from Celta Vigo – has turned into one of Inter Miami’s smartest pickups. And he showed it again when his team needed him most. In a tense, grinding match, it was the 26-year-old’s clinical edge in front of goal that finally brought calm and confidence to Mascherano’s side. Almost had a hat trick, but his header sailed wide. 

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Telasco Segovia (7/10):

Took full advantage of Alba’s outrageous backheel, applying a composed finish to cap Miami’s second-half surge.

Yannick Bright (6/10):

A steady, if unspectacular, outing from the Italian midfielder, who helped Miami manage the game and close out the win.

Ian Fray (6/10):

Provided stability at right-back after coming on, especially with Hannes Wolf growing dangerous on the flanks.

Luis Suárez (5/10):

Replaced Silvetti but struggled to match Miami’s uptempo rhythm, never quite finding his footing in the flow of the match.

Javier Mascherano (8/10):

Mascherano has fully settled into his postseason groove. Once again, he showed he’s unafraid to make bold calls – from benching Suárez to trusting his young emerging players – and his tactical flexibility was central to Miami’s dominance in the Conference Final. His fingerprints are all over this MLS Cup run.

An ACB statement says that Naveen-ul-Haq is still recovering from a shoulder injury and has not been declared fit by the medical team

ESPNcricinfo staff15-Sep-2025

Afghanistan fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq has been ruled out of the ongoing Asia Cup, and Abdollah Ahmadzai has been named his replacement.Naveen had been named in the Asia Cup squad despite missing the UAE tri-series prior to the tournament. According to an Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) release, Naveen is still recovering from a shoulder injury and has not been declared fit by the medical team. “Naveen will continue to undergo intensive treatment and rehabilitation until he is fully fit,” the statement said.Ahmadzai, who was originally in the list of reserves for the Asia Cup, was a part of the UAE tri-series with Naveen out of action. He made his international debut in the series – also the only T20I he has played so far – where he took 1 for 31 in three overs against UAE. Overall in T20s, he has 15 wickets from 11 games.Naveen last played for Afghanistan in December 2024, against Zimbabwe in a T20I in Harare. He was part of the SA20 earlier this year, taking five wickets in eight games for Durban’s Super Giants. He also played MLC in June where he took eight wickets in five games for tournament champions MI New York.Fazalhaq Farooqi and Fareed Ahmad are the other specialist quicks in the squad, with Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib and Karim Janat the fast-bowling allrounder.Afghanistan have played only one match at the Asia Cup so far, the tournament opener, where they beat Hong Kong by 94 runs. Their next group match is against Bangladesh on September 16, and they play Sri Lanka on September 18.