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Nathan Lyon has warned Australia could still be years away from Test greatness, despite continuing their blistering summer with a record-breaking rout of Sri Lanka.Australia claimed their biggest ever win on the subcontinent, thrashing Sri Lanka by an innings and 242 runs in the Galle series opener, only weeks after sealing their first series defeat of India in a decade.Related

• Kuhnemann, Lyon consign Sri Lanka to their biggest defeat

• Length, more than pace, key to Australia spinners' success, says Smith

• McDonald credits Kuhnemann recovery, Dubai training camp for Galle rout

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph confirmed Australia’s spot in a second consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) final, with the ICC’s top-ranked side winning more Test matches in the past cycle than any other team.Elder statesman Lyon saw signs of greatness in the win in Galle, where Australian appeared in control from a first over that featured three fours off Travis Head’s bat. But Lyon does not feel the current crop of Australian players can yet lay claim to being a truly great side.”We want to become a great Australian team. We’re on that journey, we’re not there yet. That’s our end goal,” he said. “Part of that journey is making sure that when we close the window, we nail it shut. It’s all about being ruthless and doing our best thing for long periods of time.”The win in Galle ensured Australia would continue to hold every bilateral trophy for which they are eligible, alongside the ODI World Cup and the WTC trophy.But Lyon was quick to point out that Australia had drawn and not won the past two Ashes series played in England, last winning outright on the road in 2001. Australia have also not won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India since Ricky Ponting’s side took out the four-match series 2-1 in 2004.Nathan Lyon took seven wickets in the first Test•AFP/Getty Images

“There’s a few things [Australia needs to achieve],” said 37-year-old Lyon. “This is only me and my thoughts as well. We’ve got some great players within that change-room, there’s no point hiding behind that. “Australia will have to wait until 2027 for chances at away series wins in India and England. The country’s greatest ever offspinner, Lyon said he “100 percent” hoped to play on that next trip to spin-friendly India as a 39-year-old.Sri Lanka may be the last time before then that Lyon has the chance to bowl in tandem with fellow offspinners Todd Murphy and Matt Kuhnemann.The trio took 17 of Australia’s 20 wickets in Galle, but the team does not have a subcontinent Test tour planned between the ongoing two-match series and India in 2027.”We’re going okay, but I still feel like we’ve got a lot of improvement to do. That’s about being ruthless,” Lyon said of the offspinning trio. “We’re three totally different bowlers with three totally different mindsets as well. I feel like I’m learning off Todd and Matt, and I feel like they’re pushing me to try and get better as well. Hopefully I’m passing on a little bit of knowledge here and there.”Lyon is mostly free of a left hip injury he suffered in the summer, though he is still in pain if he falls on the area.”But I didn’t have to land on it today, so all good,” said Lyon, who took match figures of 7 for 135 in Galle. “Apparently I ripped the deep tissue off the fascia [hip muscle], whatever that means. Apparently there was a bit of excess blood or something in there. Not ideal, but all good now.”

Everton’s resurgence under David Moyes last season brought much-needed optimism back to Goodison Park.

A 13th-place finish may not look glamorous on paper, but the club’s climb away from the relegation battle during the second half of the campaign provided a foundation to build on.

This summer has therefore been about capitalising on that momentum, ensuring Moyes has the tools to push his side into the top half of the table. Some progress has already been made.

Carlos Alcaraz, who impressed on loan last term, has joined permanently from Flamengo, while Thierno Barry has been signed from Villarreal.

The blockbuster coup came in the form of Jack Grealish, brought in on loan from Manchester City after being told by Thomas Tuchel that regular football would be vital if he is to stake his claim for a World Cup place.

But while Grealish’s arrival has stolen the headlines, Everton still have one glaring vacancy: the right wing.

The Toffees’ search for an answer has been dominated by their pursuit of Southampton teenager Tyler Dibling, but their multiple bids have all been rejected.

That has led them towards a player closer to home – one who could provide the pace, power, and creativity Moyes craves on the right-hand side of his attack.

Everton step up interest in Championship star

According to EFL Analysis, Everton are lining up a move for Leicester City winger Abdul Fatawu, who has an estimated price tag of around £10 million.

The Ghanaian international has long been admired for his dynamism in the final third, and with Leicester struggling financially after a turbulent few years, his name is firmly on Moyes’ shortlist.

Leicester’s transfer business has been telling.

The Foxes missed out on Richard Kone, who opted for QPR, and there are fears that further sales may be required with Valencia circling around Harry Winks and Patson Daka.

Against this backdrop, Everton see Fatawu as a realistic target. The 21-year-old joined Leicester permanently from Sporting Lisbon in 2024 after an impressive loan spell in the Championship.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

His raw pace and ability to stretch defences made him one of the most exciting young wingers in the league. Talent scout Jacek Kulig went as far as to call him “unplayable.”

Everton are not alone in monitoring the situation, though. Aston Villa could enter the race should Leon Bailey depart for AS Roma, though for now it is Everton who have shown the most concrete interest.

Why Fatawu would be a big upgrade on Harrison

The potential signing of Fatawu would inevitably draw comparisons with Jack Harrison, who occupied Everton’s right flank for much of last season while on loan from Leeds United.

Harrison has since returned to Elland Road, leaving Moyes short of options in that role.

Statistically, the contrast between the two players is stark. Harrison, now 28, managed just one goal and one assist across 34 Premier League appearances last season, per Sofascore.

While his work ethic has never been in question, his lack of end product often left Everton blunt in attack.

Fatawu, by contrast, offers significantly higher upside.

At 21, his dribbling and progressive carrying ability are among the best in Europe, while his tackling and defensive numbers suggest he could thrive in Moyes’ high-intensity structure.

He is also far more direct, always looking to beat his man and create overloads in the final third.

On the international stage, Fatawu already has 19 caps for Ghana, scoring twice, and is seen as a rising star in African football. His progress, however, was disrupted by a cruciate ligament injury that sidelined him for 29 matches last season.

What makes him particularly attractive to Everton is his statistical profile.

Few young wingers in Europe rank as highly across so many metrics.

Abdul Fatawu – Stats 2024/25

Progressive carries per 90

6.53

Successful take-ons per 90

4.51

Tackles per 90

3.26

Clearances per 90

1.87

Aerial duels won per 90

2.18

Such numbers point to a winger who is not only explosive going forward but also relentless in his defensive contribution.

For Moyes, whose system demands a high work rate from his wide players, that blend is invaluable.

Moreover, his profile mirrors that of players such as Dan Ndoye (Nottingham Forest) and Brentford-bound Dango Ouattara – both highly sought-after wide players whose blend of speed and physicality has become increasingly valuable in the Premier League.

For a relatively modest £10 million outlay, Everton would be securing a player whose trajectory points sharply upwards.

The risk, of course, lies in his injury record.

But his recovery has shown encouraging signs, and at his age, there is reason to believe he can overcome those setbacks.

Landing Fatawu would also send a message.

Everton have already made a statement by bringing in Grealish, but supplementing that with a hungry, high-ceiling talent on the opposite wing would transform the look of their attack.

With Dominic Calvert-Lewin departing as a free agent and Abdoulaye Doucouré also moving on, Moyes is in the process of reshaping his squad.

Fatawu fits the mould of what Everton need: energy, unpredictability and a dash of star potential.

Their opening fixture at Elland Road against Leeds will be an early test, but the season is long, and depth across the wide positions will be crucial.

He's another Grealish: Everton in the race to sign "world-class" £25m star

Everton are eyeing a Jack Grealish repeat in a swoop to sign this star.

ByWill Miller Aug 16, 2025

Fatawu may not be the finished product, but as an upgrade on Harrison and a player with genuine resale value, he could be one of the smartest additions of Everton’s summer.

A new year of Fantasy Premier League football is just around the corner, with the database now open for managers to select their 15-man squads for the 2025/26 season.

Prices have been revealed for the upcoming campaign and there have also been some changes in regards to the rules of FPL, such as how assists will be recorded.

However, before you can get started with building your squad, a team name is required, which is arguably one of the most important points of FPL. Whether it be a play on past or present footballers, having a name that stands out can always get an extra laugh out of mates and work colleagues.

Ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, we’ve taken a look at 100 of the best FPL names around today in a variety of different categories.

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ByBen Goodwin Jul 5, 2025 100 of the best FPL names for 2025/26

Ait Nouri Geller

Baby Reijnders

Back of the Neto

Beef Cherki

Bowen 747

Brennan Jerry’s

Cheesy Garnachos

Dunk and Disorderly

Eze Come, Eze Go

Haalandaise Sauce

Hakuna Mateta

Kai Me a River

Kinder Mbeumo

Livin’ Saliba Loca

Luke Kyle Walker

Major League Saka

Net Flekken Chill

Palmer Violets

Pro Evolution Saka

Shiver Me Timbers

AC/DC United

Ajax Trees Down

Bayer Neverlosin’

Bayern Bru

Bayern Maiden

Bilbao Baggins

Borussia Teeth

Cameroon Diaz

ChampagneSuperRovers

Cry Me A River Plate

Expected Toulouse

Fiorentina Turner

Imaginary Madrid

IsYourMotherwell

One Night In Palace

Pathetico Madrid

Spartak Costco

Sub-standard Liege

SucculentChineseLille

The Molde Peaches

Absolutely Fabregas

Benteke Fried Chicken

Blink 1-Eto’o

Cleverley named

Crouch Potato

Delph & Safety

Diego Costa Coffee

Hakuna Juan Mata

Ibe Gotta Feeling

Kings of Leon Osman

Krul and the Gang

Lady Yaya

Ninja Skrtels

Men Behaving Chadli

Moves Like Agger

Pepe Pig

Pjanic at the Isco

The Wizard of Ozil

Tinchy Sneijder

Two’s Kompany

50ShadesOfAndyGray

ABCDE FC

Alisson Blunderland

Backstreet Moyes

Ctrl + Alt + De Ligt

DropItLikeIt’sSlot

Flying Without Ings

Game Of Throw-Ins

Gangsters Allardyce

Giroud Awakening

Khedira Pin Drop

Klopps and Robbers

Löw Island

MurderOnZidanesFloor

Neville Wears Prada

Norfolk n’ Good

Obi 1 Kenobi 0

Sound of the Lloris

TAA Very Much

The Cesc Pistols

Who Ate All Depays?

Areola Grande

ABCDE FC

Charli xGx

Farke The Bus

Gavi Barlow

Gross Misconduct

Hotel? Thiago

How Dalot Can You Go

I Baleba Can Fly

Isak Newton

Just 1 Cornet 0

Lallanas in Pyjamas

MacAwoniyi Cheese

Rubber Digne Rapids

Rutter Woke Nonsense

Snoop Udogie Dogg

Stone Cole Steve Palmer

Tea & Busquets

Thomas The Frank Engine

Turkish De Ligt

You’re a Wissa Harry

Liverpool won the Premier League last season, and they are acting like it. Arne Slot’s side have spent a lot this summer, and there is more still to come, with FSG recognising the importance of consolidating this position of power.

With Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike on the cusp of sealing his £79m move to Merseyside, Liverpool have the Darwin Nunez upgrade they crave.

Though much work has been plied in the summer market, there is more to be done. Luis Diaz is slated to move to Bayern Munich, after all.

Should he leave, there’s no question that the Reds will need to find themselves a replacement.

Liverpool's shortlist of Diaz replacements

With Diaz looking more and more likely to leave Liverpool this summer, the likes of Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon have been touted as potential replacements.

The problem with such targets is that they would cost a steep amount of money. Perhaps too steep. While Liverpool could pull such deals off and remain within profit and sustainability good books, would it not be more worthwhile to target an up-and-comer for a shrewder figure, with so much quality already within Slot’s squad?

That’s why the Reds are seemingly ready to lodge a bid for Lyon’s Malick Fofana, who has been making waves in Ligue 1 over the past 18 months.

According to reports, the sale of Chiesa will advance FSG’s transfer plans, with the Belgium winger having been on Liverpool’s radar for many months. The Merseysiders are “expected to move for the Belgian” once the Italian departs.

Lyon value the 20-year-old as high as £51m, but Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes will be set on securing his signature for a cheaper fee, chopped into instalments.

Why Liverpool should sign Malick Fofana

Fofana is a top talent, but he’s not yet even sighted the horizon on which his full potential is surmounted. Still, across 62 appearances with Lyon (whom he joined from Belgium club Genk in January 2024), he’s scored 15 goals and supplied seven assists.

Last term, the versatile winger hit 17 goal contributions despite only starting 23 matches across all competitions.

There’s a long way to go, but Fofana might even emerge as an even bigger talent than Ekitike in the long run, who is at a further stage in their development right now, true, but with Fofana already doing as well as he has over the past few years, there’s little question that he could be among the finest wideman in football in just a few years.

And looking at how Slot succeeds at coaching young talents to incredible levels, this is underscored further. Journalist Antonio Mango has drawn attention to Fofana’s “game-changing potential”, while journalist Dev Bajwa has praised his “electric” pace.

Should Liverpool sell Diaz, this is the man to go for. And that’s without even shining a light on Cody Gakpo, who played with regularity off the left flank for Slot’s team last term and thus would ease the burden that a youngster like Fofana would shoulder when making their way onto the senior Premier League stage.

You need only look at Ekitike’s growth in recent years. The 23-year-old left Reims for Paris Saint-Germain in a £30m deal in 2022 (rejecting Newcastle United) where he got lost in the crowd and jumped over to the Bundesliga, with Frankfurt.

Ekitike’s final term in Ligue 1 was with PSG in 2022/23, and from that peripheral campaign you perhaps don’t get the most accurate gauge on his skill set during that youthful stage in his homeland.

But the season before, with Reims, makes a firmer comment. From that, we can examine the teenage Frenchman’s quality and see how he compares to Fofana, who turned 20 in March.

Matches (starts)

29 (16)

24 (15)

Goals

5

10

Assists

4

3

Shots (on target)*

1.1 (0.5)

1.3 (0.8)

Big chances missed

4

6

Pass completion

84%

71%

Big chances created

6

3

Key passes*

0.9

0.7

Dribbles*

0.8

1.0

Tackles*

1.1

0.8

Duels won*

2.9

4.1

Ekitike is a centre-forward, but he’s mobile and athletically dynamic. At that point in his journey, the soon-to-be Liverpool star was fielded out on the left, arcing inwards in a showing of that natural predilection for goalscoring.

Both, furthermore, are firm defensive presences, tackling at a rate that bespeaks their quality as their side’s first line of defence.

But goals are Fofana’s forte, and his innate clinical edge could see him become an even more dangerous force than Ekitike, who is three years his senior.

Fofana ranked among the top 10% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues last season for non-penalty goals scored and the top 2% for progressive carries per 90, as per FBref, perfectly illustrating that whipped blend of pace and potency.

It goes without saying that there would be a period of transition in which Fofana would not perform with the smooth completeness of Diaz, not look on the same level as Ekitike (who might himself require a bit of time to adapt to the pace of the English game).

But, nonetheless, Liverpool could strike gold by opting against spending something in the £100m ballpark on one of Gordon or Rodrygo and instead spending a more astute figure on Fofana, who is young and talented and hungry to prove himself.

It would be a better deal in the long run, and one which would see Liverpool enjoy the fruits of their labour which will have grown the wide forward into one of Europe’s most feared players all the same.

A better signing than Rodrygo: Liverpool leading race to land £45m star

Liverpool are hoping to make a few more signings in the summer transfer window.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 23, 2025

A Sky Sports reporter has labelled a Leeds United sale a “done deal” after a “full agreement” was reached with the Whites.

Players who could leave Leeds this summer

Daniel Farke and the 49ers Enterprises have added to their squad already this summer with moves for Lukas Nmecha, Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw all moving to Elland Road.

However, there have also been some departures, with both Junior Firpo and Josuha Guilavogui leaving following the expiry of their contracts.

Huge Rothwell upgrade: Leeds make enquiry to sign "phenomenal" £30m star

Leeds United are interested in signing a star who would come in as an upgrade on Joe Rothwell.

ByDan Emery Jul 2, 2025

Joe Rothwell and Manor Solomon’s loan moves have both ended, with the former of the two since moving to Rangers, and more Leeds players could depart before the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Forward Mateo Joseph has been linked with a move to Real Betis, whereas Max Wober has also admitted he has been told to find a new club this summer.

Now, it looks as if the Austrian defender has found his new club following a recent transfer update.

Wober Leeds exit a “done deal” after "full agreement” with Werder Bremen

Linked with a move to Werder Bremen, Wober’s move to the Bundesliga side is now “considered a done deal”.

That’s according to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, who says that Bremen have a “full agreement with Leeds” and that Wober has agreed on a four-year deal with his new side.

Wober, a 6 foot 2 defender who can play as a centre-back or as a left-back, joined Leeds in 2023 but couldn’t help them remain in the Premier League.

Games

28

Goals

1

Yellow cards

5

Minutes played

1,837

He was loaned out to Borussia Mönchengladbach shortly after and returned to Yorkshire for the 24/25 campaign, playing nine times in all competitions. Farke did praise Wober, though, labelling him as a player with a “great mentality”.

“We knew he could play this position. He has played there for other clubs and for his country, but often more of a solid defender that closes the wings. But we have worked a lot on our offensive game with him.

“He’s perhaps not natural going forward, but he has a great mentality and always puts a shift in. If you do this, he has good technique and put a cross in, then you can effect the offence. Really good performance.”

Ready to go again? Newcastle United supporters have to wait for several interminable months until their team will be competing competitively once again.

But when Eddie Howe does lead his team back out onto the field, he will be doing so having ended the club’s 70-year wait for major domestic silverware after deservedly beating Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final.

Moreover, the Magpies’ efforts across the Premier League campaign led to the euphoria of final-day success in the top flight, sealing a fifth-place spot and unlocking the doorway back into the Champions League.

Newcastle did it all having endured a miserable 2024 summer transfer window, also starting the campaign off on weak footing. Now, PIF are in a better position for compliance with PSR, and signings are to be expected.

While incomings are expected, one or two may need to go. Chiefly, Anthony Gordon could be at risk, with Liverpool interested and United listing him at £80m.

Let’s have a look at how the Magpies boss might pull it all together.

1 GK – James Trafford

Nick Pope has been a fantastic servant for Newcastle, but a conclave has been held to determine whether a new face is needed between the sticks, and James Trafford has been deemed the right fit.

Reports claim Newcastle have prepared a £20m offer for the Burnley shot-stopper, whose manager Scott Parker has hailed him for his “world-class” ability.

2 RB – Tino Livramento

Manchester City’s bid for Tino Livramento has hit a standstill, and let’s hope it stays that way, for the robust and dynamic full-back is shaping into one of the best in the business.

As journalist Zach Lowy put it: “Livramento isn’t just one of the best right backs in England, but one of the best left backs too.”

3 CB – Marc Guehi

Last summer, Newcastle failed with not one, not two, not three, but four bids for Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi.

Now, the Toon are back in for the Three Lions star, who won the FA Cup in May and is just one year away from free agency.

The Eagles know they are fast running out of time to cash in on their £50m-rated superstar.

4 CB – Sven Botman

Sven Botman has endured another injury-wrecked campaign, but he’ll be hoping to build up his fitness across the off-season and form a rock-solid partnership with Guehi over the coming years.

However, with Dan Burn and Fabian Schar still in the mix, Howe could certainly have a wealth of talented defensive options to choose from.

5 LB – Lewis Hall

Sidelined since March following ankle surgery, Lewis Hall proved one of Newcastle’s biggest success stories last season, producing performances of age-belying completeness to solidify himself as one of the best young players in the Premier League.

A shining endorsement of United’s recruitment set-up.

6 DM – Bruno Guimaraes

Newcastle could stake their case to having the finest midfield in the Premier League, and Bruno Guimaraes has been the linchpin.

The complete package and then some, signing the Brazilian general from Lyon for £40m was one of PIF’s first moves back in January 2022.

1.

Bruno Guimaraes

154

1=

Fabian Schar

154

3.

Dan Burn

149

4.

Jacob Murphy

137

5.

Sean Longstaff

134

No Newcastle player has featured more regularly than Guimaraes under Howe’s wing.

7 CM – Sandro Tonali

One of Newcastle’s best players across the 2024/25 campaign – if not the best – Sandro Tonali’s redemption arc has been a thing to behold, such an elegant and intelligent part of United’s build-up play, of their backline protection.

The decision to place the Italy international in the deep-lying midfield role in lieu of Guimaraes last autumn kicked off the free-winning run of results, creating a foundation for glory further down the line.

8 CM – Joelinton

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Newcastle need to make a series of signings this summer, but the centre of the park is one area where moves should be catered toward depth, rather than high-profile investment, with Joelinton’s brutish energy adding the perfect counterpoint to Tonali’s class and Guimaraes’ all-influencing ability.

9 RW – Anthony Elanga

Nottingham Forest signed Anthony Elanga from Manchester United in 2023 and he hasn’t looked back, with his performances across 2023/24 leading Newcastle to launch a swiftly rejected £50m bid on transfer deadline day last summer.

While Bryan Mbeumo has opted to join the chaos at Old Trafford this summer, Newcastle can still bag themselves a high-level winger in the 23-year-old Elanga, hailed for his “special” qualities by Nuno Espirito Santo.

24/25 – Forest

38

6

11

23/24 – Forest

36

5

9

22/23 – Man Utd

16

0

1

21/22 – Man Utd

21

2

2

20/21 – Man Utd

2

1

0

Making the move to the City Ground proved a career-defining move for the Sweden star in the best sense, and now he must take the next bold step in his development, with the Magpies lurking.

10 LW – Joao Pedro

If Newcastle sell Gordon, they will bank up to £80m. Redirecting that toward a dynamic forward, such as Joao Pedro, would be a sure-fire way to keep the club firing on all cylinders.

According to The Telegraph, the Tynesiders have identified Pedro – who could fetch £59m – as the perfect man to join the club after missing out on Mbeumo.

He’s scored 30 goals and added ten assists across 70 appearances for the Seagulls, and at 23, is only going to get better and better.

Leeds United are currently preparing for a huge summer transfer window as they look ahead to trying to avoid instant relegation from the Premier League.

The Whites won the Championship title, with a staggering 100 points, with their win over Plymouth Argyle on the final day, and now have a top-flight season to look forward to.

Daniel Farke and his staff must recruit players who they feel can bolster the squad to improve their chances of survival, and the West Yorkshire outfit are reportedly looking to bring a former star back to Elland Road.

Leeds considering move for Premier League midfielder

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Leeds United are “considering” a deal to sign Manchester City defensive midfielder Kalvin Phillips in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

The reporter claims that the England international would be “ready” to return to West Yorkshire ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, having left the club to join the Cityzens in the summer of 2022.

Bailey’s report on The Boot Room adds that a permanent deal would be difficult for the Whites to do, because the midfielder has three years left on his contract at The Etihad, and that they are currently eyeing up a loan move for their former academy graduate.

Phillips has spent the current season on loan with Ipswich Town, who have already been relegated from the Premier League, but his previous form for Leeds in the top-flight suggests that he could star alongside Ao Tanaka at Elland Road.

Why Kalvin Phillips could thrive with Ao Tanaka

The Japanese midfielder enjoyed a fantastic season in the Championship with the Whites and showed potential to make the step up to the Premier League, with his passing and defensive qualities.

Tanaka ended the 2024/25 campaign with a pass completion rate of 90% and a duel success rate of 55% across 43 appearances, which shows that he was efficient in and out of possession in the middle of the park.

Leeds will need their midfielders to be reliable on the ball and strong off it in the top-flight, as they will be battling against relegation, and that is also why Tanaka could thrive alongside a physical operator like Phillips, who was once dubbed “exceptional” by U23 scout Antonio Mango.

Appearances

29

43

Pass accuracy

85%

90%

Tackles per game

2.6

2.2

Interceptions per game

1.6

1.3

Duels won per game

5.3

4.5

Duel success rate

52%

55%

As you can see in the table above, the English maestro’s defensive form for Marcelo Bielsa in the Premier League during the 2020/21 campaign was even more impressive than the current Leeds star’s in the second tier this term.

This suggests that the potential is there for them to be a robust midfield pairing who can provide protection in front of the back four, whilst also being reliable with their passing into the front players, which could be needed as they battle it out for vital points.

Of course, there are question marks over whether or not Phillips can get back to that level, having struggled of late in loans with Ipswich and West Ham, losing 57% of his duels in the top-flight for the former and 52% of his battles for the latter.

Perhaps a return to familiar surroundings at Elland Road, where he has been successful at the top level in the past, could help him to return to form.

Leeds could seal best striker signing since Wood with move for 20-goal star

Leeds could land their best striker signing since Chris Wood in a swoop for this star.

ByDan Emery May 7, 2025

Signing him on loan, therefore, could be a worthwhile gamble and one that could pay off for Leeds and Farke as it could result in him and Tanaka forming an impressive midfield partnership.

Aston Villa have now held internal talks over a move for an “unbelievable” midfielder, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, according to a report from Sky Sports.

Villa pursuing attacking midfielder

As we edge closer to the summer transfer window, it is becoming apparent that one position in which Villa are keen to strengthen is attacking midfield, and they are particularly keen on bringing in Rosenborg youngster Sverre Nypan.

Sporting director Monchi was recently spotted in Norway, having held talks with Nypan’s father to discuss the possibility of a move, and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now suggested the deal could be edging closer to completion.

At just 18-years-old, the Rosenborg starlet is likely to be one for the future, and there are now suggestions the Villans could look to bring in an attacking midfielder with a plethora of experience at the top level.

According to a report from Sky Sports, Aston Villa have now held internal discussions over a move for Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne, who is set to leave the Etihad Stadium upon the expiration of his contract at the end of the season.

De Bruyne may be reluctant to leave England due to family reasons, which has alerted a number of Premier League clubs to the Belgian’s availability, while there is also widespread interest from abroad.

Inter Miami, Chicago Fire, NYCFC and D.C. United have submitted enquiries, with Serie A side Como also in the picture to sign the 33-year-old.

Romano: Aston Villa star club are "happy" with could leave for right offer

He’s future at Villa Park isn’t guaranteed.

By
Barney Lane

Apr 22, 2025

"Unbelievable" De Bruyne is a Premier League great

The Belgium international has admitted he was surprised not to be offered a new deal to remain with City, perhaps considering he has still performed well this season, despite a slight drop-off, picking up three goals and seven assists in the Premier League.

The City legend has recorded a remarkable 121 assists and 71 goals in 284 Premier League games, which establishes him as one of the true greats, and he ranks highly across some key attacking metrics over the past year.

Statistic	Average per 90
Assists	0.43 (97th percentile)
Shot-creating actions	5.97 (96th percentile)
Progressive passes	7.45 (97th percentile)

While De Bruyne is perhaps not at the level he once was, he is clearly still capable of competing at a high level, and it could be a little early to move to the MLS, so it may be worth Villa making a move, as long as his wage demands are reasonable.

The biggest game of the season so far is on the horizon, ahead of Thursday’s clash with Lyon in the Europa League, yet for those of a Manchester United persuasion, attention is already beginning to turn toward the summer transfer window.

As manager Ruben Amorim has already stated, even winning Europe’s second-tier competition would not be enough to “save” their season, with major surgery needed to the squad once again over the coming months.

Club legend Gary Neville stated after the dour Manchester derby that he feels United need at least “five new players straight away” to help give Amorim a fighting chance, while even the former Sporting CP boss has stated that he is keen to bring in “one or two big players”, ahead of next season.

Work is likely to already be underway in that regard, with rumours currently rife over just who will be on their way to Old Trafford. Might Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman, Matheus Cunha, be among them?

Latest on Man Utd's pursuit of Matheus Cunha

If Cunha had been auditioning for Amorim and co earlier this season, he certainly couldn’t have done much more to impress, with the Brazilian inspiring the hosts to a 2-0 win at Molineux on Boxing Day.

The 25-year-old memorably scored directly from a corner – while teeing up his side’s second goal – in what was an all-action display on the night, with scout Mick Brown stating that he “fits the system perfectly”, in relation to Amorim’s 3-4-3 set-up.

With 13 goals to his name for the Old Gold this season, Cunha has unsurprisingly caught the attention, with reports earlier this week suggesting that United have now joined Arsenal and Nottingham Forest in the race for his signature.

As per the report, there has already been ‘initial contact’ between the Red Devils and the player’s agent, ahead of a possible summer move, with the option there for United to trigger the forward’s £62.5m release clause.

The player himself has already confirmed that he wants to “take the next step” in his career, with it yet to be seen whether that ‘step’ will lead him toward the Theatre of Dreams.

Regardless of whether or not the one-time RB Leipzig star does move to Manchester, it could be argued that Amorim already has his own version among the current Red Devils ranks.

Man Utd already have their own Matheus Cunha

As the aforementioned Brown has stated, what sets Cunha apart is that he is “not a one-trick pony”, with the respected insider listing a variety of traits which make him such a worthwhile investment:

Those are all attributes which the Old Gold hero seemingly shares with a certain Amad Diallo, with the pair noted as similar players among those in their position in the Premier League this season, as per FBref.

Indeed, not only are both men remarkably versatile – amid their ability to feature centrally, or on the flanks – but they both have that knack for making things happen for their respective sides, with Amad ranking in the top 15% for shot-creating actions per 90, while Cunha ranks in the top 19% in that regard.

The pair are also adept at beating their man when in possession, with the 22-year-old United starlet ranking in the top 21% for successful take-ons per 90, while his Wolves counterpart ranks in the top 19% for that same metric.

Games (starts)

17 (12)

32 (29)

26 (24)

Goals

2

12

13

Scoring frequency

492 mins

204 mins

165 mins

Big chances missed

1

6

2

Assists

0

7

4

Big chances created

1

7

12

Key passes*

0.4

0.9

1.7

Pass accuracy*

76%

82%

78%

Successful dribbles*

1.5

2.0

1.9

Possession lost*

7.0

11.8

16.7

Defensively too, there is also a likeness in their ability to lead the press from the front, with Amad ranking in the top 23% for interceptions made, while Cunha ranks in the top 19%. In essence, neither man gives their opponent a moment’s peace.

While currently sidelined with injury, the Ivorian had dazzled prior to that at Old Trafford, notably chalking up six goals and six assists in 22 league outings, while averaging 1.8 key passes per game. That creative spark is mirrored by the Brazil international who averages 1.7 key passes per game, having registered 17 goals and assists thus far.

There is the prospect of having the two men operating in tandem in United’s forward line next term, although even a deal for Cunha can’t be secured, Amorim can rest safe in the knowledge that he has is own “sensational” talent – as described by journalist Liam Canning – to call upon.

Biggest deal since Bruno: Man Utd make contact to sign "world-class" star

Man Utd are believed to have joined the race for another standout signing

ByRobbie Walls Apr 8, 2025

All-time great innings comes after batter’s self-doubts following mid-tournament axing

Sruthi Ravindranath30-Oct-20254:31

Rodrigues: I wanted to be there till the end

Some of sport’s greatest tales are about comebacks. The kind that linger in memory, where moments of silence suddenly erupt into thunderous cheers. That’s what fans live for: those fleeting instants when hope turns noise into belief.At the DY Patil Stadium, Jemimah Rodrigues was on 82 when she slog-swept Alana King and got only a top-edge. The ball spiralled high toward midwicket, with King and Alyssa Healy converging under it. For a few seconds, the 35,000-strong crowd fell utterly silent.Rodrigues had been batting like a dream until then. It had been a game of nerves. India still needed 131 from 102 balls, but Rodrigues looked composed, piercing gaps and running hard between the wickets despite the suffocating humidity. Every run drew cheers, even well-timed dots found appreciation.Then came that silence. It was a familiar sight for India fans: a set batter dismissed mid-chase, momentum slipping away. They had felt that when Smriti Mandhana had fallen in the chase against England in the league-stage match at this World Cup.And then, the roar. Rodrigues had been dropped by Healy. Her face barely flickered, but the stands exploded for the reprieve.Moments later, silence again.Rodrigues was struck in front by King, and Australia confidently reviewed the not-out call. Thousands of eyes fixed on the big screen. Two reds, one green, ball passing over the stumps. The roar returned.From that point, Rodrigues’s mind was clear: capitalise. But the conditions were brutal. With humidity over 75%, she was hours into her innings and revealed later she felt drained.Jemimah Rodrigues and Amanjot Kaur embrace in the middle at the moment of victory•ICC/Getty ImagesYet this wasn’t just about one night. It was about the weeks, the months, the years that had led her here. This was the kind of story sport loves: a redemption arc written through grit.It began with heartbreak. A lean run of form had led to her being dropped for the 2022 World Cup. She clawed her way back, and by 25, had become one of India’s senior batters. But at this World Cup, things turned again. Two ducks. Two 30s. Then came another blow when she was dropped for the England game. It was, as head coach Amol Muzumdar put it, “one of the toughest decisions” to leave out, not just a senior batter, but also one of the team’s best fielders.Off the field, Rodrigues was struggling. Anxiety crept in. She spoke of “feeling numb”, of days when she cried a lot. The omission only deepened her doubts.”To be honest, when I was dropped and when I came in to this World Cup, I wanted to come out there, not prove a point, but do things so my team wins,” she said. “I kept reminding myself that, because it’s very easy to get into that mindset, and that mindset never has helped me. But I think today, today not just today, but from the last few games, all I thought about was, because I didn’t start off well, things just kept getting, worse and worse.”But sport, cruel as it can be, also offers another chance. Rodrigues returned to the XI against New Zealand, promoted to No. 3. The response was emphatic: 76 off 55 to guide India home. But that was just the beginning.Then came Thursday. Another promotion to No. 3, this time against the unbeaten defending champions, Australia. This wasn’t just any chase – it was a world-record one, in front of a home crowd. The kind of stage that tests every nerve.Harmanpreet Kaur, her captain and partner for much of the chase, had done this before. Her 171 not out against Australia in the 2017 semi-final had changed women’s cricket in India forever.Rodrigues’ innings completed the highest chase in W-ODI history•Getty ImagesMandhana’s early dismissal had silenced Navi Mumbai. Amanjot Kaur was listed at No. 3 on the team sheet, but Rodrigues instead walked out. She’d only known of her promotion five minutes earlier.For the first 11 balls, she played herself in. Then came a four, and the tension eased slightly. Questions loomed: would India go too deep again, as against England? Could they do it without Mandhana, their best batter in the tournament so far?Rodrigues knew they could. She believed India could chase 300-plus, and she batted like it.The turning point came with a cheeky, audacious scoop off Kim Garth in the eighth over. India had watched Phoebe Litchfield play such shots earlier, now Rodrigues answered back. Between deliveries, she talked to her partners, and to herself. “I was praying, I was talking to God,” she would later reveal.The classic Rodrigues shots began to flow: the loft over short third off Ash Gardner, the late cut past backward point, the flick through midwicket, those crackling sweeps of all kinds. India’s momentum was rising but so was the pressure.Related

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With 150 needed off 20 overs, Harmanpreet shifted gears, unleashing a series of boundaries. Rodrigues applauded, raising her thumb after sharp runs, willing her captain on. When Harmanpreet fell for 89, cramped and spent, the silence, and a familiar dread returned: was another collapse coming?Not this time. Rodrigues, calm and steady, guided her partners.”I was telling Harry [Harmanpreet] that we both have to finish it and we can’t leave it for the end, just because we are set and we know we can take it through,” she said. “And when that happened [Harmanpreet was dismissed], it was like a blessing in disguise for me because I was kind of losing my focus because of my tiredness. But when Harry got out, I think that added more responsibility to me that, ‘Okay, I need to be here. Okay, she is out, I will score for her’. And I think that again got me in the right zone. Then I started just sensibly playing.”When her century came, off 117 balls, there was no wild celebration, just a quiet fist bump and a hug from Richa Ghosh. The job wasn’t done. The asking rate still hovered above a run a ball.Ghosh struck some heavy blows before falling for 26, and the stadium hushed again. But Rodrigues ensured the silence didn’t last. A four off Sophie Molineux, then two more off Annabel Sutherland. The equation was down to single digits and Amanjot Kaur finished it with two boundaries in the 49th over.Harmanpreet Kaur’s 171 not out in the 2017 semi-final was proof of what could be achieved against Australia•Getty ImagesRodrigues dropped to her knees, tears streaming, her team-mates hovering around her. The near 100-overs she spent on the field in punishing conditions was well worth it. There would be more tears later, during the presentation and at the press conference. But they told a story larger than any chase – the story of redemption.”I know how important this match is, and I wanted to be there to finish it off, so all I did was, you know, just kept telling [myself] to just stand here, amazing things can happen towards you, you never know what can happen towards the end of the match,” she said.”When I reached my fifty, when I reached my hundred, I didn’t celebrate, because, at that moment I looked at our hotel right here, and I said [to myself] tomorrow morning, what would make me happier? Would it be a fifty? Would it be a hundred? No, it would be India winning. And I want to wake up with that feeling, I want to sleep with that smile, that we are playing the finals, and I’m waking up to get ready for the finals.”In recent memory, few comebacks in sport have glowed quite like this. Perhaps Femke Bol’s redemption after her fall in the 4x400m mixed relay at the 2023 World Championships, returning with an astonishing effort to win Olympic Gold for Netherlands a year later, or a 35-year old Rafael Nadal’s impossible rally in the 2022 Australian Open final from two sets down against Daniil Medvedev.Rodrigues belongs among the great comeback stories, rising from self-doubt and tough times to lead her team past a side that almost never loses. In the end, at the DY Patil Stadium, she made sure all the silences turned to roars.