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Super Mariu stops by for lessons in Chennai on journey to great things

by h716a5.icu Uncategorized

Though just two international matches old, Rhys Mariu has given enough evidence of being a good fit for the highest level

Deivarayan Muthu23-Aug-2025Rhys Mariu was a run machine at the 2024-25 Plunket Shield, churning out 747 runs in 11 innings at an average of 74.70 for Canterbury.The 23-year-old Mariu’s remarkable consistency earned him a New Zealand ODI debut against Pakistan towards the end of the previous home summer. In his second match, he made a fairly smooth transition into top-flight cricket with 58 off 61 balls in Mount Maunganui.Mariu has always had the potential – he was New Zealand’s highest run-getter in the 2020 Under-19 World Cup. More mature now, he has found a method to pile on the runs in red-ball cricket too.Related

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“I think I found a good formula for batting last season,” Mariu told ESPNcricinfo on the sidelines of a camp at the Chennai Super Kings Academy in Chennai in June. “Obviously, with cricket you go through patches of scoring runs and not scoring runs. But I think I just found a good base and sort of worked through that and managed to find some success through that.”Then it was just about staying level, I guess. I was understanding that I’m not always going to be scoring lots of runs, so just trying to stay consistent with it even if it’s not successful. But at that time, I was lucky that it went well.”Mariu credits mental-skills coach John Quinn, who has also worked with Rugby NZ and Black Sticks Men (hockey team), for his success in the previous season.”Yeah, I think it’s mainly down to my mental routines and all that I’ve been working on,” Mariu said. “I work closely with John Quinn back home – a mental skills coach – and he’s really helped me sort of find a routine that I can repeat, and it just keeps me consistent. And when I am tired or things are changing, then I can just go back to that. It’s helped me play long innings as well.”Rhys Mariu hones his skills at the Super Kings Academy•Super Kings AcademyMariu hails from a cricketing family. His father Marcus and older brother Josh represented Canterbury at the Hawke Cup level. When he was younger, Mariu had even operated the manual scoreboard for Canterbury matches at Rangiora’s Mainpower Oval. Years later, he’s troubling the scorers with his prolific batting for Canterbury.”Dad played a little bit and it’s good playing with my brother,” Mariu said. “Obviously, I sort of just followed him [his father] in terms of choices to play cricket, but I was always [watching cricket] on TV and playing in the backyard, so it was good fun.”We would just sit up on the balcony and spend most of the day, especially four-dayers, just watching games and putting the numbers and names up, which was cool at the time. We just got paid 50 bucks a day [for operating the scoreboard], but it was just really good fun spending days with him [my brother] and some of our mates would also come down.”Like most New Zealanders, Mariu played a lot of sports while growing up, cycling through cricket, rugby, football and hockey. He believes that his hockey background has had a positive effect on his cricket.

“At this camp, I’ve worked on hitting straight, which is what I wanted to do coming over here […] Just keeping everything a bit more square-on and finding ways of hitting down the ground. So, that’s been the main work here”Rhys Mariu on the experience in Chennai

“Yeah, I think I’ve always been decent at sweeping just because I think that comes from playing hockey at school. That [sweep] has always come naturally to me.”Given his long reach and strong base, there are shades of Daryl Mitchell in Mariu, especially when he sweeps and reverse-sweeps. It was only fitting that Mitchell had handed Mariu his maiden international cap.”Yeah, it was pretty special with Daz presenting me that,” Mariu said. “He’s been really, really helpful with Canterbury and then making the jump up. He’s always let me know that if I have any questions or need anything, I can go to him. So, it’s nice having someone like that in your corner.”Mariu’s golden run last season included a career-best 240 in just his ninth game for Canterbury and first as captain, against Central Districts at Saxton Oval. His mammoth score led Canterbury to a ten-wicket win.”Yeah, it was a decent CD attack,” Mariu recalled. “I think the conditions were sort of in the favour of the batting team on those couple of days. And I think we just found good partners through that. Like, [Matt] Boyle was really helpful. He obviously had a hell of a knock there as well [116 from No. 4]. It was a young team and there was a really good vibe around for the whole week. Things just sort of fell into place in that game.””I think I’ve always been decent at sweeping just because I think that comes from playing hockey at school”•Getty ImagesMariu, however, wasn’t satisfied. He’s always hungry for runs and improvement. During the New Zealand winter, he travelled to Chennai and focussed on holding his shape for long enough and hitting the ball down the ground.”At this camp, I’ve worked on hitting straight, which is what I wanted to do coming over here,” Mariu said. “Sri [Sriram Krishnamurthy, former NZ pathway coach and current CSK Academy head coach] has been really good. Just keeping everything a bit more square-on and finding ways of hitting down the ground. So, that’s been the main work here.”In the recent past, Canterbury have supplied a number of players to the Black Caps, including Will O’Rourke, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay and Chad Bowes. Mariu draws inspiration from his domestic team-mates and hopes to emulate them.”Fults [Peter Fulton] and Brendon Donkers [the Canterbury coaches] have created a good environment,” Mariu said. “With a lot of Black Caps being churned out, success breeds success. It’s cool seeing those guys go up to the next level. It makes it feel like it’s less of a jump because you spend a lot of time with those guys and then you go see them play up high. It’s cool and it doesn’t make it seem too far away.”Mariu’s next assignment is an A team tour of South Africa, which comprises three one-dayers and two four-dayers. If Mariu can maintain his consistency, he might not be too far away from breaking into the Test side either.

What happens next? Recapping the crazy men's Ashes

by h716a5.icu Uncategorized

There has barely been a session, let alone a day, without some drama

Andrew McGlashan13-Jul-2023The men’s Ashes is poised at 2-1 ahead of the Old Trafford Test next week, but to highlight the extraordinary nature of the series it could easily be 3-0 to either team. There has barely been a session, let alone a day, without some drama.With everyone pausing to take a breath before the battle resumes, it provides a chance to look back on how the first three Tests have unfolded in a contest that is living up to all the hype and arguably matching 2005.1st Test, EdgbastonDay oneZak Crawley drives the first ball of the series from Pat Cummins for four. Australia immediately look on the defensive with spread fields, although it’s part of their pre-series planning. England canter along at five-an-over but trade wickets in the process. Ironically, Harry Brook is bowled padding up to Nathan Lyon. At 176 for 5 when Ben Stokes edges behind it threatens to go wrong, but Joe Root compiles a brilliant century and adds 121 with Jonny Bairstow. Late in the day, England pull their first big trick of the series as, despite Root still flying, Stokes declares and gives Australia’s openers 20 minutes to face. Battle lines have been drawn.Related

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Day twoStuart Broad makes early inroads, resuming his hold over David Warner and claiming Marnus Labuschagne first ball with his ‘new’ outswinger. When Stokes (who else?) traps Steven Smith lbw, Australia are wobbling but Usman Khawaja and Travis Head steady things. Stokes’ aggressive captaincy tempts Head into taking on Moeen Ali – whose Test career was over before an SOS to replace Jack Leach – and he perishes, but crucially Cameron Green is missed first ball when Bairstow fluffs a stumping. However, Moeen produces a beauty to bowl him through the gate although England can’t find a way past Khawaja who brings up a first century in England – another landmark in his triumphant return to Test cricket – and celebrates by flinging his bat to the ground.Day threeOnly 32 overs are bowled, but plenty is packed in. Ollie Robinson gives Khawaja an almighty send off after yorking him for a magnificent 141. Stokes goes full funk with his fields and in the end the difference on first innings is just seven. As the weather closes in, Australia make good use of a brief 20-minute window under stormy skies to nab two top-order wickets. England are grateful they don’t get back on.Joe Root gets into position to play a scoop shot•Getty ImagesDay fourIn a completely normal piece of cricket, Root attempts to reverse scoop Cummins’ first ball of the day over the slips. He doesn’t connect, but soon does against Scott Boland sending him for six. Ollie Pope is yorked by a ball-for-ages from Cummins. England won’t rein themselves in and each time they threaten to pull away lose a wicket. In the end, Australia’s target is a tantalizing 281 – one short of the 2005 figure. Warner and Khawaja start well, but Broad does a Broad thing and surges late to remove Labuschagne and Smith.Day fiveAfter a delayed start there is nothing to split the teams all day. Moeen, whose spinning finger is not fit for purpose, removes Head for the second time in the game. At tea Australia need 98 with five wickets in hand, but Green falls shortly afterwards. Stokes, basically on one leg, ends another marathon from Khawaja and Alex Carey is brilliantly caught-and-bowled by Root. Australia now need 54 with just two wickets left. Cummins and Lyon proceed to put on a stand that will go down in Ashes history although Lyon is dropped, a tough chance to Stokes, with 37 needed. It proves England’s last opportunity. Cummins carves the winning runs at 7.21pm.Pat Cummins is jubilant after leading Australia to victory•AFP/Getty Images***Between Tests, England are very vocal. In a column for , Robinson relays what Brendon McCullum said after the game. “We played all the cricket in the game. If it wasn’t for us, the Australians wouldn’t have even had a chance to win… We’ve entertained the world, and we’ve put the Aussies on the back foot. For him to say that after a loss is quite significant for us.” Meanwhile, speaking to , Crawley shows no lack of confidence. “I think it will suit us a bit more, that pitch. So I think we’ll win by, I don’t know, 150 runs?”2nd Test, Lord’sDay oneJust Stop Oil protestors get onto the field. Bairstow carries one of them off. England can’t make the most of favourable bowling conditions and, again, miss vital chances with Warner spilled on 20. He and Khawaja lay the foundation then Smith and Head take control in a stand of 118 in 20 overs. However, Root just about saves England by removing Head and Green in the space of three balls.Steven Smith and Travis Head give Australia early control at Lord’s•ECB/Getty ImagesDay twoSmith reaches a 32nd Test hundred, but a fightback with the ball sees Australia bowled out for 416, their last seven wickets falling 100. England are superbly placed during the afternoon when what appears a pivotal moment occurs: in his 100th consecutive Test, Lyon pulls up with a calf injury. It’s clear his match – and series – is over. However, from 188 for 1, England offer Australia a helping hand as they fall for the short-ball plan, including Ben Duckett for 98, before Stokes brings a sense of calmness.Day threeStokes falls to the second ball of the day, edging Starc into the slips. There are gasps of disbelief when Brook carves into the off side. England lose their last six wickets for 46 and concede a lead of 91. Another solid opening stand puts Australia well ahead on a truncated day.Day fourThe bouncer barrage. It’s almost a complete diet of short bowling from England which doesn’t make for great viewing but removes Khawaja, Smith and Head in quick succession and Australia’s last eight for 88 in total. Lyon, who is barely able to walk, limps out to bat at No.11, adding 15 for the last wicket alongside Starc. But any hopes the home side have of chasing 371 appear to be blown away when they crash to 45 for 4 against Starc and Cummins. Moments before the close it is nearly five down, but Duckett is reprieved when replays show Starc scrapes the ball along the ground. Stokes is unbeaten at stumps.Day fiveJonny Bairstow’s dismissal triggers a huge controversy•AFP/Getty ImagesDuckett and Stokes start nicely and the requirement dips under 200 when the former is superbly caught by Carey off a top edge. A short while later, chaos ensues. Bairstow ducks a bouncer, walks out of the crease (after briefly tapping his back foot in) and is stumped by Carey’s underarm. England are furious. While Broad goes head-to-head with Australia’s close fielders – telling Carey: “That’s all you’ll be remembered for” – Stokes channels his emotions into the most extraordinary 155 including nine sixes. At lunch some of the Australian players are abused in Long Room. Memories of Headingley 2019 abound as Stokes and Broad get down to 70 needed when Hazlewood removes the England captain and it’s too much for the lower order. Australia are 2-0 up, but the fallout has only just started.***The three days between Tests are dominated by the Bairstow dismissal. Unsurprisingly, Broad takes a leading role. “I was angered by Australia’s decision, particularly having heard their lines about creating a new legacy as a team, and how they have changed since the tour of South Africa in 2018,” he writes in the . “I just said to Pat on repeat: ‘All these boos are for you, for your decision.’ And: ‘What a great opportunity you had to think clearly.'”Australia remain unapologetic. “I don’t think there’s any discussion; it’s out,” Cummins says. “If the shoe was on the other foot, I wouldn’t be looking at the opposition, I’d probably be thinking [about] our own batter, and would be thinking it’s pretty silly.”Three MCC members are suspended for their part in the pavilion fracas.3rd Test, HeadingleyMark Wood’s pace rattles Australia•Getty ImagesDay oneThe recalled Mark Wood produces some of the fastest bowling seen for England. His first spell does not dip below 90mph and nudges 96mph. Australia wobble on 85 for 4 when Mitchell Marsh, who has replaced the injured Green, constructs a remarkable 102-ball century in his first Test for four years. But Wood blows the lower order away to finish with 5 for 34. Cummins responds for Australia. It’s a breathless day.Day twoCummins strikes with the second ball of the day to remove Root for the 10th time in Tests. At lunch England are 142 for 7 and the Ashes are within Australia’s grasp. But Wood swings the first ball of the afternoon for six and Stokes plays another magnificent captain’s innings while barely able to stand. In 10 overs England add 95. It’s almost an even game. Warner goes to Broad again (No. 17) but Australia are building nicely and England are still dropping catches when, almost inexplicably, Labuschagne and Smith hand their wickets to Moeen. Khawaja falls, too. The lead is 142.Day threeIn rains, and it rains. Looks like a washout. Silliness ensues as Carey is mistakenly called out for not paying for a haircut. Then the weather clears for a two-hour session. England seize their moment under cloudy skies as Chris Woakes, Wood and Broad work through Australia. When Cummins falls the lead is only 196, but Head replicates Stokes and it grows to 250. Duckett and Crawley do very well to get through to the close and knock off a vital 27 runs in the process.Cummins: “Everyone kind of feels like you could have done something a little bit different that might have contributed to a different result. But we’ve all played enough cricket so yeah, brush this one off, and make sure we get ready for Manchester.”***Old Trafford awaits.

Tahlia McGrath and Nicola Carey show value of experiencing pressure

by h716a5.icu Uncategorized

Australia needed some luck to secure an incredible victory, but to even have a chance said a lot about their game

Andrew McGlashan25-Sep-2021Was the delivery to Nicola Carey a no-ball? You aren’t going to find a unanimous view (although it’s only what the umpire decided that matters). Was Australia’s victory in Mackay a remarkable chapter for a brilliant team? Of that there is little doubt.Beth Mooney, who was on the field from first ball to last, played the innings of her life. They needed some fortune to finally get the job finished, but she produced a textbook display of calculating a run chase from a long way out. As the latter stages unfolded, Meg Lanning revealed they had wanted to get it down to 90 off the last 10; in the end they needed 87.Yet while Mooney was the standout statistically, it was the supporting cast that was just as significant. Australia were without three first-choice players – Rachael Haynes, Megan Schutt and Jess Jonassen – with another likely starter in Tayla Vlaeminck sidelined and Georgia Wareham injured early in the game and unable to bowl. The talk before the series had been Australia’s much-vaunted depth. Here it was, again.In the opening match teenagers Darcie Brown and Hannah Darlington shared six wickets and now in the second game Tahlia McGrath, playing her seventh ODI, and Carey who has precious little chance to show her batting credentials at the top level combined with Mooney to lift Australia form 52 for 4.Related

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McGrath, who made her debut in 2016 before having three years away from the side, had an outstanding all-round day – becoming the seventh Australian female player to take three wickets and score a half-century in an ODI – with her bowling helping cover the expensive performances of Ellyse Perry and Darlington.She had an underwhelming 2020-21 season with the bat (averaging 16.21 in the WBBL and 27.80 in the WNCL) but Australia have shown faith. It was the early stages of McGrath’s innings which were key to the revival with Mooney yet to find fluency having fought to survive the new ball. When the fifty partnership was raised, McGrath had 34 of them and finished with two-thirds of the 126-run stand.”A lot of credit has to go to T-Mac,” Mooney said, “she came in and looked like she was batting on a completely different wicket. Just goes to show in the investment you make in players like T-Mac, think she has evolved her game massively in the last couple of years.”Nicola Carey drives down the ground•Albert Perez/Getty Images”Motty [Matthew Mott] made the comment before I went out that this is your opportunity, you haven’t really had a good crack at it,” McGrath said. “So I just had to keep us as close to run rate as possible so left with no choice but to play like that and luckily it came off.”For me it’s about being brave in my ability and that’s something, again, that the Australian team is really good at, making sure that you are fearless and back yourself. It’s believing in my ability and showcasing what I can do.”When McGrath fell, pulling a short delivery to fine leg, the job was far from done with Australia still needing 97 off 69 balls and an injured Wareham, herself an ever-improving batter, unlikely to be able to play a role. But up stepped Carey with the most significant innings of her international career – she had never previously faced more than 22 balls and it was just the tenth time in 19 ODIs that she had batted – which included a horrid hit to the helmet from a Jhulan Goswami beamer in the dramatic final over. Australia’s middle order are sometimes left kicking their heels. They were needed on this occasion and delivered.The contrast between how Australia responded to pressure and how India, albeit hampered by a wet ball, couldn’t close out a game they had dominated for so long was stark but also a reminder of how India’s players are being expected to developed with one hand tied behind their back. The role of the WBBL and the strong WNCL should not be understated in Australia’s success.The likes of Carey, who averaged 47.50 for Tasmania in the WNCL last season after a poor WBBL for Hobart Hurricanes, and McGrath bat high up the order so know how to build innings and the players are exposed to pressure situations. Only English cricket currently comes close to providing a comparable platform in the female game.”Experience is pretty valuable and I’ve played a lot of cricket – not so much at this top level – so was backing myself that it was just another game,” McGrath said. “We were really calm, really clear about what we needed to do. We have so much belief in the squad that no matter who is at the wicket we can do a job.”Someone, eventually, will beat this Australia side. But they will have to play the perfect match.

Costa do Marfim x Uruguai: onde assistir, horários e escalações do amistoso

by h79snht.top Uncategorized

MatériaMais Notícias

O Uruguai enfrenta a Costa do Marfim nesta terça-feira (26), em um amistoso internacional no Estádio Félix-Bollaert, em Lens, na França. A partida está marcada para começar às 16h30 (horário de Brasília), com transmissão da ESPN e Star+.

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➡️ Siga o Lance! no WhatsApp e acompanhe em tempo real as principais notícias do esporte

Durante a Data Fifa, o Uruguai empatou com o País Basco, enquanto a Costa do Marfim ficou em igualdade com Benin.

➡️Brasileiro Feminino: coloque R$50 no Lance! Betting e leve mais de R$350 se o Fla vencer as Brabas!

Confira abaixo todas as informações que você precisa saber sobre o confronto do Brasil com a Inglaterra (onde assistir, horário, escalações e local).

✅ FICHA TÉCNICA
Costa do Marfim x Uruguai – Amistoso

🗓️ Data e horário: terça-feira, 26 de março de 2024, às 16h30 (hora de Brasília)
📍 Local: Estádio Félix-Bollaert, em Lens, na França.
📺 Onde assistir: ESPN e Star+

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➡️ Veja tabela com datas e horários da Sul-Americana

⚽ PROVÁVEIS ESCALAÇÕES

COSTA DO MARFIM (Técnico: Emerse Faé)
Yahia Fofana; Wilfried Singo, Ousmane Diomande, Willy Boly e Ismael Diallo; Franck Kessié, Jean Michael Seri e Jéremie Boga; Max Gradel, Simon Adingra e Jean-Philippe Krasso

URUGUAI (Técnico: Marcelo Bielsa.)
Franco Israel; Guillermo Varela, Ronald Araújo, Bruno Méndez e Matías Viña (Sebastián Cáceres); Ugarte, Valverde, Nicolás De La Cruz e Arrascaeta; Canobbio (Facundo Torres) e Luciano Rodríguez

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Shades of Klich & Dallas: Farke’s Leeds “monster” must now start every week

by z3u9t.icu Uncategorized

The upturn in form for Leeds United has shown they have what it takes to stay in the Premier League. The Whites have now gone unbeaten in their last two games, against two of the so-called ‘big six’ sides.

During the round of midweek top-flight fixtures, Daniel Farke’s side toppled Chelsea at Elland Road, securing an outstanding 3-1 victory against the Club World Cup champions.

On Saturday night, once again at a raucous Elland Road, they secured a late draw with champions Liverpool, with Ao Tanaka scoring in the 96th minute.

It has been a brilliant week for Leeds, with a change in Farke’s system certainly helping the Whites.

How Farke has got the best out of Leeds

For most of the season, Leeds, who find themselves in 16th place in the Premier League, two points clear of the drop, have deployed a 4-3-3 system.

However, the German manager switched things up in the second half against Manchester City, a game which they lost in stoppage time.

Instead, the West Yorkshire side played a 3-5-2 system, aiming to offer more defensive solidity and an issue for opponents in the final third with two strikers and a threat from the high and wide wingbacks.

It is fair to say that Leeds have managed to adapt to this system very well. Of course, they beat Chelsea and drew against Liverpool.

In those games, they had less possession each time, but were dangerous in transition and looked to be direct and bring their two strikers into play.

Someone who praised Farke’s side for the way they have taken to this system is Gary Neville. He said, “it looks to be a blueprint” for the club, praising the “legs in the middle of the pitch” who really make things tick.

Indeed, one of those men in midfield has become a key player for Farke.

The Leeds midfielder showing shades of Klich & Dallas

Since moving to the back three system, Farke has rotated a little bit in midfield with Sean Longstaff on the sideline. Tanaka started against Chelsea, and Ilia Gruev played from the start against the Merseysiders.

Club captain Ethan Ampadu has been a consistent starter, as has Anton Stach. The German joined in the summer and has nailed down a place in the middle of the park next to the Wales international.

The two-cap German national team player, who has previously been described as a “ball-winning monster” by Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Kyle Newbould, has shone for Farke’s side.

Stach has made 13 appearances in the Premier League this term, chipping in with two goals and two assists.

The numbers behind Stach’s success in midfield for the Whites this season are impressive.

The German is currently averaging 1.98 key passes and 1.71 progressive carries per 90 minutes, placing him in the top 6% and 22% of Premier League midfielders this season, respectively.

Key passes

1.98

94th

Goal-creating actions

0.72

99th

Progressive carries

1.71

78th

Aerial duel win rate

81.8%

99th

Stach’s game certainly has shades of one former Leeds midfield duo. Mateusz Klich, who played 195 times for the club, and Stuart Dallas, who made 267 appearances, were both key players during the Marcelo Bielsa era.

Described as an “industrious” pair, they offered lots of legs in the middle of the park, just like Stach does, as Neville pointed out. They also posed a threat in the final third, with Dallas bagging 28 times and Klich 24 in that famous White shirt.

Given how Bielsa’s team played, a high-octane brand of football with plenty of running, it is no surprise that Stach has shades of the midfield duo from that era.

As Como scout Ben Mattinson pointed out, he “covers a lot of ground” just as the former Leeds duo were required to do under the former manager.

Stach could certainly be considered undroppable under Farke. His performances this season have been impressive, and he has been a key man since they changed to a back three.

The midfielder is a bit of an “all-rounder” according to Mattinson, and with shades of Klich and Dallas in his game, could quickly become a fan favourite.

A Viduka repeat: Leeds open initial talks to sign midfield "machine"

Leeds United are eyeing up a player from Scotland who could be their next Mark Viduka-type signing.

ByDan Emery 5 days ago

Chris Sale Becomes Fastest Pitcher to Reach Significant Strikeout Milestone

by h716a5.icu Uncategorized

In the history of baseball, 40 pitchers have struck out 2,500 batters—from Hall of Fame icons like Walter Johnson to very good compilers like A.J. Burnett.

No one has ever joined that club faster than Atlanta Braves pitcher Chris Sale.

Sale punched out Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Eduardo Sosa swinging with two outs in the sixth inning Thursday evening to register the 2,500th strikeout of his career. He did so in just 2,026 innings—the fewest needed to reach 2,500 strikeouts in the history of baseball.

A plausible candidate to one day reach the Hall of Fame, Sale ranks second only to Blake Snell on the all-time strikeouts per nine innings leaderboard.

The Lakeland, Fla. native was one of the best pitchers of the 2010s, stringing together seven straight All-Star appearances in that decade for the Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox from 2012 to '18.

In 2024, he made a thrilling, out-of-nowhere return to form with the Braves. He won the Triple Crown with 18 wins, 225 strikeouts and a 2.38 ERA—and finally won an elusive Cy Young award.

This year, Sale is 2-3 with a 3.36 ERA and 78 strikeouts in 61 2/3 innings pitched.

Wirtz 2.0: Liverpool in talks to sign "one of the best wingers in the world"

by h716a5.icu Uncategorized

This is a season of attrition for Liverpool, who must knuckle down and prove that they have absorbed the worst punches after a testing start to Arne Slot’s second term in charge.

Liverpool are in a rut, alright, and need to start stringing together consistent results in the Premier League if they are to steer away from a true crisis, missing out on Champions League qualification after a record-breaking summer of spending.

It’s clear that the sale of Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich for £66.5m has contributed toward knocking the Anfield side out of kilter. The Colombian’s speed and combativeness have been sorely missed.

Stars such as Florian Wirtz have been added to the Liverpool ranks this summer, but sporting director Richard Hughes is already lining up another addition.

Liverpool searching for new attacking midfielders

Wirtz is only 22 years old, and though he joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen for £116m, there is an acceptance from the Reds hierarchy that the German’s integration will take a bit of time.

There’s a superstar in there, but he’s not been brought to the fore just yet. With this in mind, Liverpool might consider adding more talent to their ranks, someone who can jockey with Wirtz for a place out on the left wing.

Well, Juventus’ Kenan Yildiz could be the player for the job, with transfer insider Simon Phillips revealing that Liverpool have joined Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid in the race for the silky attacking midfielder.

It’s previously been understood that United have expressed a willingness to pay €90m (about £79m) for the 20-year-old, and Liverpool have now been name-checked as being among those to make calls for the player as he marks one side of a contractual stand-off in Turin.

However, Hughes will need to act speedily if he is to win Yildiz over, with Juventus pushing to renew their starboy’s terms.

What Kenan Yildiz would bring to Liverpool

Yildiz might be young, but he’s made quite the name for himself over the past few years in Italy, breaking into Juventus’ first team a few years ago after previously spending a decade of his youth in Bayern Munich’s academy system.

With flair and magical skills on the ball, this is a player who is destined for the top, and in Serie A this season, he is creating an average of 2.4 key passes per game, having posted two goals and three assists from only nine starts.

Yildiz might have “all the tools to be one of the best wingers in the world”, as has been said by one analyst, but he shares with Wirtz a focal kind of creativity and snappiness that lend themselves to a central berth.

In this, Yildiz could find himself becoming Liverpool’s next version of Wirtz, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that Hughes should waive the idea of signing him.

There’s no question that the Turkish talent needs to work on his physicality. As per Sofascore, he has won only 44% of his ground duels in Serie A this season, and he ranks among the bottom 3% of positional peers in that division this season for tackles won per 90 (FBref).

But this is a kid, and one with so much potential. He’s tenacious. Talent scout Jacek Kulig has lauded his “bravery”, using his athleticism to “make spectacular solo runs”.

Indeed, the dynamic midfielder ranks among the top 11% of positional peers across Europe for both shot-creating actions and successful take-ons per 90, corroborating that claim.

Having split his time across attacking midfield and left wing roles, performing the latter consistently this season, Yildiz shares even more tactical similarities with Wirtz, though there is a case to be made that he’s more electric when running, and thus could be a more natural fit out wide.

Second striker

59

18 (13)

Left wing

50

10 (9)

Attacking midfield

18

9 (6)

Right wing

17

3 (1)

Centre-forward

4

0 (0)

Wirtz’s start to life in England would serve as a cautionary tale for those elite talents looking to make a name for themselves on English shores. It is no easy feat to marry all the facets together in the Premier League.

Still, there is a sense he will come good, and with Yildiz added into the mix to battle with him for a berth, there’s every chance that the Turkish prospect would prove a jackpot signing for Liverpool, perhaps even working in concert with Wirtz to dynamise and widen the scope of Slot’s attacking dimensions.

The playmaker wouldn’t come cheap, but it has become clear over the past several months that Liverpool miss a snappy wide profile, and Yildiz could find himself growing into a household name in the Premier League down Liverpool’s left.

Shaping into a silky and physical attacking midfielder with stunning creative skills, Yildiz could be a real superstar down the line, albeit one who would be tussling for a starting berth with Wirtz at Liverpool.

But as the Reds’ double signing of Isak and Ekitike has shown us this summer, FSG are not against packaging this side with the best of the best, enough to win silverware across every front and year on year.

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Celtic chiefs readying drastic action in Nicky Hayen pursuit with huge wages on offer

by rastrear-estafeta.com Uncategorized

Celtic are considering appointing Nicky Hayen as their next manager and a new update has now emerged regarding their pursuit of the Belgian.

Hayen has been mentioned as one of the leading contenders to replace Brendan Rodgers at Parkhead, with the Northern Irishman departing last week. The 45-year-old has been very open about potentially leaving his role in charge of Brugge, hinting that he would be keen on coming in as the new Celtic boss.

Hayen is far from the only option for Celtic, however, with Martin O’Neill thought to be open to the idea of staying in charge of the Hoops for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, should the club’s owners like that idea.

The likes of Lee Carsley, Kieran McKenna and Damien Duff have all been linked with the job, too, as the Scottish Premiership champions look to nail their appointment and claw back the deficit on Hearts in the title race.

Celtic willing to offer Hayen big wages

According to Voetbal Nieuws [via Sport Witness], Celtic will try to “lure” Hayen away from Brugge with a high salary, and have knocked on his door. The Hoops are trying to use “money, prestige, and the lure of Glasgow” to bring him to Parkhead, with his current club hesitant to allow him to leave without receiving plenty of compensation.

It is easy to see why Hayen is a leading contender to be Celtic’s next manager, with the Belgian averaging 2.03 points per game across 80 matches in charge of Brugge. He also won the league title with them in 2023/24, and the Belgian Cup last season, showing that the Hoops would be bringing in a manager who knows how to win trophies.

Hayen’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation isn’t dissimilar to Rodgers’ 4-3-3 system, meaning Celtic’s players shouldn’t find it too difficult to make the adjustment, and at 45, he is still a young manager who would bring vibrancy to Parkhead.

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There may be a temptation to give O’Neill the job until the end of the season, but if Hayen makes himself available very soon, he should be looked at as a great option.

Celtic are looking at hiring "box-office" alternative to Nicky Hayen

Nottingham Forest now in talks to sell £26m recent Nuno signing this January

by h79snht.top Uncategorized

Nottingham Forest are now in talks to offload one of Nuno’s summer signings this January, as he has failed to make the desired impact at the City Ground.

Forest looking to offload Nuno signing after Dyche arrival

Evangelos Marinakis wasted little time appointing a successor to Ange Postecoglou, with Sean Dyche recently giving his first interview since becoming manager, in a journey that has come full circle, having started at Forest as a youth player.

Dyche will be under no illusions as to the size of the task at hand, with the Tricky Trees currently in the Premier League relegation zone, having already sacked two managers, while there is also European Football to contend with.

Indeed, the 54-year-old’s first match in charge will be against FC Porto on Thursday evening, with his side still looking for their first win in the Europa League, having suffered an extremely disappointing 3-2 home defeat against FC Midtjylland last time out.

The former Everton boss has just over two months to improve results before the January transfer window opens, at which point the manager may look to reshuffle the squad he has inherited and bring in some new recruits.

According to a report from Corriere dello Sport (via Sport Witness), a departure may also be on the cards, with it being revealed that Nottingham Forest have now entered talks to sell €30m (£26m) summer signing Arnaud Kalimuendo.

Kalimuendo hasn’t hit the ground running since being signed in the summer, with the 23-year-old still yet to start a match, and his time at the City Ground may already be coming to an end, with the Tricky Trees open to a loan departure, which would include a purchase option.

A January exit could be on the cards, with AS Roma named as the team that have entered discussions with Forest, given that sporting director Frederic Massara knows the striker well from their time together at Rennes.

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ByCharlie Smith Oct 21, 2025 Kalimuendo must improve ahead of January

On paper, the signing of the Frenchman made perfect sense, given his goal and assist record in Ligue 1 since making a breakthrough at Lens during the 2020/21 season.

Season

Ligue 1 appearances

Goal contributions

2020/21

28

12

2021/22

32

12

2022/23

30

12

2023/24

30

14

2024/25

33

21

However, the former Rennes man has been unable to force his way into the plans of either Nuno or Postecoglou, appearing for just 65 minutes across five substitute appearances in the Premier League.

Once described as “prolific” by scout Jacek Kulig, the centre-forward has been nothing of the sort since arriving at Forest, and he may continue to struggle to get into the team in the coming weeks, given that Dyche is well-known to be a big fan of Chris Wood.

It seems a little early to sanction Kalimuendo’s departure, as it often takes players time to adapt to life in the Premier League, but the grace period can only last so long.

Everton's "revelation" could become the biggest loser from Grealish's rise

by h79snht.top Uncategorized

Everton’s 2025/26 campaign has begun in quietly impressive fashion.

Under David Moyes, the Toffees look more disciplined, cohesive, and self-assured than they have in years.

The club sits eighth in the Premier League with three wins and eleven points, having beaten Wolves, Brighton, and most recently Crystal Palace, where a dramatic 93rd-minute winner from Jack Grealish ended the visitors’ 19-match unbeaten run.

It’s been a steady rise for a side that finished 13th last season after a late-season surge under Moyes.

The Scot has instilled the same resilience and structure that defined his first spell at Goodison Park, combining tactical discipline with freedom in attack.

Everton’s football has become more pragmatic, but it’s also more purposeful.

Moyes’ entire side seems revitalised – the pressing is sharper, transitions quicker, and confidence higher.

The upcoming trip to Manchester City will provide a true test of their progress, but the early signs suggest Everton have rediscovered an identity built on energy, hard work, and belief.

Grealish’s resurgence under Moyes

Few stories in the Premier League have been as satisfying as Grealish’s revival.

Once a peripheral figure at Manchester City – limited to just 721 minutes last season, starting only seven matches – the 30-year-old has looked reborn since trading sky blue for royal blue.

After struggling with hip and groin injuries that sidelined him for 17 games over the past two seasons, Grealish is finally playing with freedom again.

Under Moyes, he has been encouraged to express himself but with structure – the blend of tactical discipline and creative liberty that once made him one of Europe’s most sought-after wide players.

In just seven games for Everton this season, he has already registered one goal and four assists in 557 minutes – almost matching his entire output from last season.

Jack Grealish – 2024/25

Matches Played

7

Goals

1

Assists

1

Progressive Carries

69

Progressive Passes

52

Source: FBref

Moyes’ trust has allowed him to thrive; Grealish is central to everything good about Everton’s attack, drifting infield to dictate tempo and combining effectively with Beto and new striker Thierno Barry.

The data reinforces his improvement.

In his most productive campaign – City’s treble-winning 2022/23 season – Grealish averaged 6.27 progressive carries, 4.39 progressive passes, and 4.55 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes.

This season, his numbers are trending in a similar direction, showing that he is once again influencing matches both creatively and through his ball progression.

His ball-carrying remains elite, with 42 carries and 33.9 touches in the attacking third per 90, while his 84.1% pass completion underlines how safely he maintains possession in high-pressure areas.

Add to that an increased work rate – 1.10 tackles and 0.75 blocks per 90 – and you have a player fully committed to Moyes’ philosophy.

Thomas Tuchel’s persistent England squad snubs might have stung, but Grealish’s response has been emphatic.

He looks sharp, decisive, and fit – a player rediscovering the joy of football.

For Moyes, he’s become the emotional core of a rejuvenated team; for Everton, he’s the statement signing that signals a new era of ambition.

Why Dewsbury-Hall could be a victim of Grealish's form

While all eyes are on Grealish’s renaissance, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is quietly piecing together a redemption story of his own at Goodison Park – though his place in Everton’s best XI isn’t guaranteed.

The 27-year-old midfielder, who joined from Chelsea in the summer for £28m, has been one of Moyes’ success stories so far.

After a difficult spell at Stamford Bridge – where he was largely restricted to Conference League cameos and late Premier League substitutions, despite featuring in the Club World Cup final win over PSG – Dewsbury-Hall has rediscovered the confidence and control that once made him a “revelation” at Leicester, as per Brendan Rodgers.

He’s been impressive statistically, too: seven appearances in all competitions, one goal, one assist, and standout underlying numbers.

He ranks in the 74th percentile for pass completion (80.4%), 82nd percentile for progressive passes (5.46 per 90), and 87th percentile for tackles (1.90 per 90).

Defensively, he’s been immense – sitting in the 98th percentile for clearances (1.54 per 90) among midfielders.

Those figures underline his all-round profile: a player who can dictate tempo, carry through pressure, and win the ball back when required.

Yet, for all his efficiency and reliability, there’s a growing sense that Dewsbury-Hall may not be part of Everton’s most balanced attacking setup moving forward.

His partnership with Grealish has been a curious one – aesthetically pleasing at times, but frustrating in key moments.

Both players are ball-dominant, preferring to carry and create rather than shoot or make penetrative runs beyond the defence.

That overlap in style can sometimes slow Everton’s rhythm, particularly when facing deep or compact opposition.

Moyes has experimented with Iliman Ndiaye cutting in from the left and Tyler Dibling operating from the right, a combination that offers more directness and goal threat around Grealish, who’s thriving in a free role as a No.10.

In that setup, Dewsbury-Hall’s inclusion becomes less certain – not because of form, but because of fit.

Everton’s attack looked its most fluid when Ndiaye’s willingness to shoot complemented Grealish’s creativity, with Dibling stretching play on the opposite flank.

In that configuration, Moyes gains the verticality and unpredictability that Dewsbury-Hall and Grealish together sometimes lack.

There’s no questioning Dewsbury-Hall’s value – his tactical intelligence and work rate have been crucial in solidifying Everton’s midfield.

But as Moyes refines his system, he may have to decide between control and cutting edge.

For now, Dewsbury-Hall remains a key cog in the Toffees’ evolution, yet the competition for places — and Grealish’s growing influence — could soon push him from automatic starter to strategic option.

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