Jasprit Bumrah “is the best bowler in the world at this stage”, declared Sachin Tendulkar, the Mumbai Indians icon, after the paceman had returned 2 for 14 to star in their IPL 2019 final win over Chennai Super Kings on Sunday.His returns – not a boundary hit off his 24 balls, and 13 dot balls thrown in – were incredible all right, making him a straight pick for the Man of the Match award too. Chatting with Tendulkar for after the match was Yuvraj Singh, who played a few matches early on in the season for Mumbai but was subsequently benched.Asked by Tendulkar what made Bumrah so difficult to face, Yuvraj said that apart from an “awkward” action, it was “very tough to understand at what pace he is coming”.”I think he is bowling the best I have seen in his career,” he added, and Tendulkar agreed: “Let me go on record and say that he is the best bowler in the world at this stage. And the best is yet to come, hopefully.”Bumrah was the toast of the Mumbai team, and their fans. Not for the first time either. Forget the past, just this year, Bumrah came on at the toughest of moments for Mumbai, and delivered almost without fail. Among bowlers to have sent down at least 60 overs, only Rashid Khan had a better economy rate for the season – 6.28 – than Bumrah’s 6.63.For two fewer wickets – Bumrah ended with 19 and Rashid 17. Expand that list to bowlers who have bowled at least 40 overs, and Bumrah’s economy rate stands at No. 4, with Ravindra Jadeja (6.35) and Chahar (6.55) slotting in between Rashid and Bumrah. Bumrah still ended with the most wickets among them.Let’s look at more numbers.Bumrah bowled 172 balls in the death overs (17 to 20), 52 more than the next on the list: Kagiso Rabada. And how did he do in them? His economy rate in that period was 7.67, by far the best among bowlers to have sent down at least ten overs at the death. Next on the list is Chris Morris, with an economy rate of 8.61. And Bumrah’s 13 wickets at the death was also second only to Rabada’s tally of 17.But Bumrah was – is – more than just his numbers. It’s the effect he has had on opposition batsmen, coming it at crunch moments and making sure liberties were kept to a minimum. “Phenomenal”, Zaheer Khan, the Mumbai director of cricket, called Bumrah – he’s been doing it year in and year out, for Mumbai and for India.”Just trying to be calm, always learning from all the legends of the game that we have over here, trying to execute, trying to keep things simple whenever I’m trying to bowl … so that’s probably it,” Bumrah told Zaheer about his agenda out in the middle.Those are words one hears often – not much there. But Zaheer did give away a bit of inside information about Bumrah: he is “stubborn”, and he takes “a lot of convincing” when new plans are discussed. But, at the same time, chatting about bowling with Bumrah can make for “great conversations”.One such conversation – more than once, actually – was apparently about bowling more outswingers, which Bumrah did against MS Dhoni in the final. Only three balls Bumrah got to bowl at Dhoni on Sunday night. The first was an awaygoing delivery, angling in and holding its line, leaving Dhoni poking at thin air.”He’s been behind [after] me for the outswingers since the tournament’s beginning,” Bumrah said of Zaheer. “I told him I’d bowl it, but he was behind me all the time ‘you should bowl it more often’. So after bowling it today he was very happy.”

Prior to the PIF takeover back in 2021, the main aim for Newcastle United was to buy players to help them survive in the Premier League. Often, this led to puzzling recruitment and a hangover of players who weren't good enough to play in the top flight.

However, now the club can go out in the transfer market and sign players who are young, hungry and have incredibly high ceilings such as Sven Botman, Anthony Gordon and Tino Livramento.

Eddie Howe is reportedly keen to put this recruitment strategy to work once more before the January window passes.

Newcastle United transfer news – Joshua Zirkzee

According to a report from TuttoBolognaWeb, Newcastle are interested in signing Bologna's dynamite Dutch centre-forward Joshua Zirkzee before the winter window slams shut. The outlet are claiming that the Magpies face stiff competition from the likes of English rivals Manchester United and Italian duo AC Milan and Juventus for the striker's signature.

Having signed in 2022 from Bayern Munich for a reported £8.6m, Zirkzee has been in fine form for the Rossoblu this season under Thiago Motta and the manager even described his 22-year-old sensation as an "extraordinary" player.

Zirkzee spent several years with the Bundesliga giants, coming up through Die Roten's academy, but scored just four goals in 17 appearances.

The in-demand talent struggled to break into Bayern's side as a result of being behind goal-machine Robert Lewandowski in the pecking order. However, the former Netherlands U21 international has reignited his career at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, garnering interest from Newcastle in the process, and reportedly has a release clause of £34m – although this is only valid for his former employers at the Allianz Arena.

Joshua Zirkzee's stats this season

Callum Wilson is no longer the main man at St. James' Park anymore, that title is now held by Alexander Isak who is Newcastle's top goalscorer this season with 13 goals. The England international hasn't started a game for the Magpies since before Christmas and only has one goal in his last nine appearances in the black and white stripes.

With Wilson now on the wrong side of 30, as he's set to turn 32 in February, Howe may be considering the long-term future of his forward department and whether Wilson can continue to play at the intensity he requires from his centre-forwards. Zirkzee has scored the same number of goals as Wilson this season, with eight goals apiece, but the Dutchman has four assists to the Newcastle striker's one, meaning he adds that something extra when leading the line.

Furthermore, Zirkzee looks like a more well-rounded frontman statistically in comparison to Wilson which has seemingly piqued Howe's interest.

Goals

0.41

0.65

Expected Goals

0.3

0.75

Assists

0.21

0.08

Expected Assists

0.07

0.03

Progressive Passes

2.71

0.56

Progressive Carries

1.3

0.84

Key Passes

1.41

0.56

Passes To Final 1/3

1.36

0.19

Passes To Penalty Area

0.85

0.09

Stats via FBref

Zirkzee has been a better finisher than Wilson this season based on the outperformance of his xG, but the young striker is certainly a far more creative player and could help get Newcastle's frontline firing again.

Toon fans may also recall the last time Newcastle signed a highly-rated Dutch centre-forward back in 2004 by the name of Patrick Kluivert.

The Barcelona and Ajax legend went on to record 13 goals and two assists for the Geordie outfit in 37 appearances, having also had experience in Italy's top flight before his move, with then-boss Sir Bobby Robson describing the deal as "one of the most significant signings in Newcastle in many years"

Despite his time at St James' Park having only been brief – as he merely lasted a season before joining Valencia – the 6 foot 3 ace still managed to make an impact, having been hailed as a "special player" by ex-teammate, Jermain Jenas.

Zirkzee – who is also an imposing frontman like Kluivert, at 6 foot 4 – has the chance to be even better than his compatriot on Tyneside.

Pep Guardiola admits his "game plan was not good" during Manchester City's FA Cup final defeat to Manchester United.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Guardiola admits he got tactics wrong
• City beaten at Wembley
• Dreams of double up in smoke

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  City were beaten by their bitter rivals at Wembley, as their dreams of a Premier League and FA Cup double crumbled. A mistake from Stefan Ortega gifted United the opener, as he rushed out of his goal and Josko Gvardiol headed the ball over the goalkeeper's head, allowing Alejandro Garnacho to score. Kobbie Mainoo then added a second prior to half-time before Jeremy Doku pulled a goal back. City, however, couldn't muster a late comeback.

Advertisement

• Getty
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Guardiola made a number of bold tactical decisions throughout the game, substituting both Nathan Ake and Mateo Kovacic at half-time, then hooking Kevin De Bruyne before the hour. And he has now admitted that he got his tactics wrong.

• WHAT GUARDIOLA SAID

  He told reporters: "Congratulations to Manchester United for winning the FA Cup. I think my game plan was not good.

  "The second half was much, much better. We were more intense, in part because we were 2-0 down and had nothing to lose. It was a tight game. We gave away the first goal, they made a good transition for the second so credit to United for the second goal. We tried. We had clear chances in the second half which wasn't easy because they had man marking and defended the pockets but we had the chances and unfortunately we scored a goal a little bit late. Maybe it could have been different but the team was there like all the time when we lose.

  "Disappointed today, it's normal teams can lose finals but this season has been extraordinary fighting for all the trophies in a good way. We will rest and come back next season."

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty
  

  WHAT NEXT?

  City will begin preparations for next season as they aim to win a historic fifth successive league title. It remains to be seen how they will invest in the summer.

All the big transfer stories at Wolves so far this month have concerned exits, with the likes of Fabio Silva (Rangers), Yerson Mosquera (Cincinnati), Goncalo Guedes (Benfica), Luke Cundle (Stoke) and Sasa Kalajdzic (Eintracht Frankfurt) making loan moves and Jonny ripping up by his contract by mutual consent ahead of an anticipated move to Greek side PAOK.

Related 8/10 Wolves star was just as good as Cunha & Neto vs West Brom

Wolves victory sets them up for an FA Cup clash versus Brighton in the next round.

Posts ByTom Lever Jan 28, 2024

But ahead of deadline day on Thursday, there's still time for that to change, amid recent links to Habib Diallo and Che Adams. Another potential target for Gary O'Neil is Birmingham City midfielder Jordan James after Fabrizio Romano revealed on Saturday that Wolves are showing interest. It seems they've already taken another step towards trying to sign him.

Wolves get in touch over James

According to The Daily Mail and journalist Simon Jones, Wolves have now made contact over a move for James. The Molineux outfit have been in touch with their Midlands rivals to ask about a deal, but they face competition from fellow Premier League side Crystal Palace.

It's noted that Italian club Atalanta made an offer for the Welshman earlier in the window, but their £3m proposal fell way short of Birmingham's £10m valuation. It now remains to be seen whether Wolves make a bid too, and whether it's in the territory that the Blues would accept.

James shining despite Blues turmoil

James is only 19 years old but he's already he's only one short of 80 Championship appearances. While he's been playing first-team football for three seasons now, he's taken on a greater role this season, already setting a career-high for league minutes and matching his career-high for starts. He's making a big impact too – only Jay Stansfield (eight) has scored more second-tier goals for Birmingham than the teenager (six) this term.

Jordan James' Birmingham stats

Starts

Mins

2021/22

13

1,183

2022/23

9

1,048

2023/24

13

1,290

In a further mark of James' maturity, he's now up to eight caps for Wales even though he only made his senior debut last March. Described as a "lovely player to watch" by football presenter and reporter Danny Jamieson, he's succeeding despite the turmoil at St Andrew's this season.

Birmingham are already onto their third manager of the season in Tony Mowbray, having sacked John Eustace in the autumn and then dismissing Wayne Rooney after just 15 games at the start of this month. Sitting 20th in the Championship after 28 games, the club face a fight for survival.

Despite that, James has continued to impress, and Mowbray has offered an intriguing verdict on his future. While he'd like to build around James as one of his "best young players", he also accepts that "every player has a price" and sees the argument for selling a wantaway asset if the funds can then be reinvested. Keep an eye out, then, for a late transfer request, one that could set the wheels in motion for this particular deal.

انتهت مباريات الجولة الأولى من بطولة دوري أبطال أوروبا، موسم 2024/25، في نظامه الجديد، بعد عدة مباريات والعديد من المفاجآت.

ويتواجد الـ36 فريقًا في مجموعة واحدة، حيث يتأهل أصحاب المراكز الثمانية الأولى إلى دور الـ16، بشكل مباشر.

بينما ستتنافس الفرق التي تحتل المركز التاسع إلى 24 حيث سيخوضون مباراتين فاصلتين (خروج المغلوب) للتأهل إلى الدور المقبل.

في حين أن الفرق التي تحتل المركز الخامس والعشرين وفيما بعد، سيودعون المنافسة دون الوصول إلى الدوري الأوروبي.

وشهد يوم الثلاثاء 6 مباريات في تلك الجولة من البطولة، أبرزها مباراتي ليفربول وميلان، ريال مدريد وشتوتجارت.

وفاز ليفربول على ميلان بثلاثة أهداف مقابل هدف، وبالمثل انتصر ريال مدريد ضد شتوتجارت بثلاثة أهداف لهدف.

وانتصر بايرن ميونخ على دينامو زغرب بنتيجة 9/2، كما فاز يوفنتوس على آيندهوفن بثلاثة أهداف لهدف، في حين انتصر أستون فيلا على يونج بويز بثلاثة أهداف دون رد.

وأقيمت يوم الأربعاء 6 مباريات أخرى، أبرزها مانشستر سيتي وإنتر ميلان، باريس سان جيرمان وجيرونا، بوروسيا دورتموند وكلوب بروج.

وتعادل مانشستر سيتي سلبيًا أمام إنتر ميلان، باريس سان جيرمان أيضًا تغلب على جيرونا بهدف نظيف، وتغلب بوروسيا دورتموند على كلوب بروج بثلاثية نظيفة، وحقق سيلتيك فوزًا على سلوفان براتيسلافا بخماسية لهدف.

ومساء الخميس، خسر برشلونة من موناكو وتعادل أتالانتا مع آرسنال، بينما اكتسح ليفركوزن نظيره فينورد برباعية. ترتيب دوري أبطال أوروبا بعد نهاية الجولة الأولى

1 بايرن ميونخ، 3 نقاط.

2 سيلتك، 3 نقاط.

3 باير ليفركوزن، 3 نقاط.

4 أستون فيلا، 3 نقاط.

5 بوروسيا دورتموند، 3 نقاط.

6 سبارتا براج، 3 نقاط.

7 ليفربول، 3 نقاط.

8 يوفنتوس، 3 نقاط.

9 ريال مدريد، 3 نقاط.

10 سبورتينج لشبونة، 3 نقاط.

11 بنفيكا، 3 نقاط.

12 أتلتيكو مدريد، 3 نقاط.

13 بريست، 3 نقاط.

14 موناكو، 3 نقاط.

15 باريس سان جيرمان، 3 نقاط.

16 آرسنال، نقطة.

17 أتالانتا، نقطة.

18 بولونيا، نقطة.

19 إنتر ميلان، نقطة.

20 مانشستر سيتي، نقطة.

21 شاختار، نقطة.

22 برشلونة، بدون نقاط.

23 لايبزيج، بدون نقاط.

24 شتورم جراتز، بدون نقاط.

25 ريد ستار، بدون نقاط.

26 جيرونا، بدون نقاط.

27 أيندهوفن، بدون نقاط.

28 شتوتجارت، بدون نقاط.

29 ميلان، بدون نقاط.

30 ليل، بدون نقاط.

31 كلوب بروج، بدون نقاط.

32 ريد بول سالزبورج، بدون نقاط.

33 يونج بويز، بدون نقاط.

34 سلوفيان بارتيسلافا، بدون نقاط.

35 فينورد، بدون نقاط.

36 دينامو زغرب، بدون نقاط.

ويمكن متابعة ترتيب دوري أبطال أوروبا، موسم 2024/25، محدث بشكل مستمر من هنا.

Reliable transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has some news on Arsenal's transfer plans for 2024, saying it's a "matter of time" before they make a permanent signing for manager Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal want to bolster squad in key areas

The Gunners have been one of the least active sides this transfer window, having been faced with both a limited January budget and the added complication of abiding by Financial Fair Play.

All confirmed Premier League done deals: January transfer window 2024

With the January transfer window coming towards its conclusion, FFC has all the info for tracking your club’s winter transfer activity.

ByLuke Randall Feb 1, 2024

While Arteta is thought to be keen on signing a new full-back, midfielder and striker (Miguel Delaney), their lavish spending last summer means they're in a slightly more precarious position this window.

Arsenal have been linked with a fair few star players regardless, with reports earlier this month suggesting that talks were held over a move for Everton star Amadou Onana.

In their search for a new full-back, they apparently hold an interest in Wolves star Rayan Ait-Nouri as well. Indeed, Football Transfers reported recently that Arsenal had a bid rejected for Ait-Nouri, as Arteta seeks to completely overhaul his full-back options.

There is also the small matter of a striker as well, with the Gunners thought to be after a proven goalscorer. Before their 5-0 win over Crystal Palace last weekend, where Arsenal looked re-energised, they had been struggling to convert many chances in what has been a real worry for them – coming as the north Londoners chase a first league title in 20 years.

Ivan Toney

17th January

Serhou Guirassy

19th December

Dominic Solanke

16th January

Boulaye Dia

16th December

Kylian Mbappe

15th December

Dusan Vlahovic

12th January

Borja Mayoral

12th January

Club legend Ray Parlour, speaking exclusively to FFC recently, urged the club to sign a striker in particular and gave his theory that a loan deal could happen before February 1.

"I do think Arsenal need to strengthen up front as we had four top strikers in my day with Bergkamp, Henry, Wiltord, Kanu and also Jeffers would pop up with a few goals," said Parlour.

"Arsenal have two main recognised strikers in Jesus and Nketiah. It’s very tough in January to get the striker you want, so I trust Edu and Mikel to get it right and maybe a loan could happen."

Fabrizio Romano says Arsenal will sign Raya permanently

As the north Londoners reportedly wish to bolster the aforementioned key areas, one of the few positions they appear resolute in is the goalkeeping department.

David Raya was signed on loan from Brentford over the summer, with England international Aaron Ramsdale sitting just behind him.

Sharing an update on Raya's future, Romano has claimed to GiveMeSport that Arsenal are set to sign Raya permanently and it's only a "matter of time".

"I don't know when it will happen, but it is just a matter of time because everything is already agreed, including on the player's side. Raya already agreed the contract with Arsenal, and it is going to be a long-term deal," said Romano.

"He already said yes to all the conditions last summer, so it's just about preparing documents and signing at the best moment for Arsenal and Brentford. Raya will be an Arsenal goalkeeper next season and in the future."

The Spaniard usurped Ramsdale as Arsenal's number one shot-stopper earlier this term, with Bees boss Thomas Frank previously hailing the "very aggressive" keeper.

The two teams are meeting for the first time since Bangladesh’s tour of New Zealand was tragically cut short by the Christchurch terror attacks

The Preview by Saurabh Somani04-Jun-2019Big PictureLondon is a long way from Christchurch, and New Zealand will be meeting Bangladesh for the first time in more than two months. But the shadow of March 15 will still hang heavy, with Bangladesh’s tour of New Zealand cut tragically short due to a heinous terror attack. There was grace and empathy shown by both sides that time, and both sets of players will doubtless have warm feelings towards each other, even if born out of tragedy. But this is a World Cup, and sentiment will be left at the boundary when the teams face off in what shapes up to be a crucial match.That New Zealand have begun this World Cup strongly shouldn’t surprise anyone. They fly under the radar at most times, but in spite of that, they’ve been a remarkably consistent team at World Cups, and a consistent presence in the later stages of the tournament.That Bangladesh, too, are among the teams in the top half of the table at this early stage will have surprised several people, though it shouldn’t. Since the 2015 event, Bangladesh have steadily grown as a one-day force, and they came into this tournament as one of the banana-peel teams. South Africa duly slipped up against them.But Bangladesh will believe, with justification, that they aren’t just here to upset teams, but are serious contenders. The scrum for the four semi-final spots is likely to be a close one, and the team that goes on a run of form will have the advantage over similar contenders. Bangladesh have taken a big step towards being near the front of that line. Another win against an established team and they will hold legitimate hopes.Bangladesh’s two weaker areas of late have been their opening pair and pace bowling. With Soumya Sarkar’s recent run of form, they’ve got one of them covered, while Mustafizur Rahman finding his rhythm again and Mohammad Saifuddin’s progress have ensured the second one isn’t crippling.New Zealand will be quietly confident, though, with a win against India in the warm-ups followed by a demolition job against Sri Lanka. Their pace bowling, in particular, looked in fine fettle. Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry looked a fearsome prospect in helpful conditions. If they get that help again, they could have the Bangladesh batsmen hopping.Traditionally, subcontinental teams have had their share of problems against accurate and hostile short-pitched bowling, so unless the pitch is flat, that could be part of New Zealand’s plans. Their batting is helmed by a powerful top order, with Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson the reassuring figures relied upon to steer the innings.Form guideBangladesh WWWWW (last five completed matches, most recent first)
New Zealand WWWWLIn the spotlightSoumya Sarkar hasn’t always done justice to his enormous talent. He averages 36.80 in ODIs, but scores at better than a run a ball. The speed of scoring speaks of his ability to find the boundaries and the gaps, but the average says he hasn’t always made fast starts count. Since the start of 2018, though, despite a spell out of the team, Soumya has added consistency too. He averages 41.69 and rattles along at a strike-rate of 109.05 – both considerably above his career numbers. He has been a changed batsman since hitting his maiden Test century during the tour of New Zealand at the start of the year. His last four ODIs have brought scores of 73, 54, 66 and 42. Another good score at fast pace, and he will have set the platform for Bangladesh’s pedigreed middle order to take charge.Since the 2015 World Cup, Ross Taylor’s ODI average of 68.85 is second only to Virat Kohli’s. He has quietly, efficiently and methodically piled on the runs. He made 71 against India in the warm-ups, and by almost any reckoning has been among the top few batsmen in ODIs in the last four years. That he’s still not spoken of in the elite category of batsmen says more about perception than his performance. But New Zealand know just how reliable Taylor is. And opposition teams know it too.Lockie Ferguson celebrates taking the wicket of Dhananjaya de Silva•Getty ImagesTeam newsBangladesh will likely stick with the XI that delivered victory against South Africa. Tamim Iqbal, Mustafizur and Saifuddin all have niggles, though nothing serious enough to prevent them from playing.Bangladesh (probable): 1 Tamim Iqbal, 2 Soumya Sarkar, 3 Shakib Al Hasan, 4 Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5 Mohammad Mithun, 6 Mahmudullah, 7 Mosaddek Hossain, 8 Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 9 Mohammad Saifuddin, 10 Mashrafe Mortaza (capt), 11 Mustafizur RahmanNew Zealand are also likely to stay unchanged. Tim Southee and Henry Nicholls are not yet at 100% fitness, which makes the decision easier.New Zealand (probable): 1 Martin Guptill, 2 Colin Munro, 3 Kane Williamson (capt), 4 Ross Taylor, 5 Tom Latham (wk), 6 James Neesham, 7 Colin de Grandhomme, 8 Mitchell Santner, 9 Matt Henry, 10 Lockie Ferguson, 11 Trent BoultPitch and conditionsIn the two matches that have already taken place at The Oval at this World Cup, three innings have gone past 300. This match will take place on a new pitch, though. The weather could also play a part. The forecast is for a mostly cloudy day with some showers. Depending on when those showers arrive, it could force teams to change tactics midway through.Strategy punt Bangladesh have been promoting Shakib Al Hasan up the order in recent times, and it’s a move they should stick with. His average at Nos. 3 and 4 is 43.4. From No. 5 to 7, it slips to 33.8. There is no big difference in strike rate, 80 in the upper middle order and 82.3 lower down. The reason for Shakib’s improved numbers up the order could lie in his respective records against pace and spin. Since 2016, he has averaged a stunning 60.5 at a strike rate of 96.5 against pace. The corresponding numbers against spin are 28.8 and 73.9 – making it a no-brainer, really, to push him up the order. Matt Henry might have got his opportunity partly due to Tim Southee being injured, but now that he’s in the XI, New Zealand shouldn’t hesitate to throw him the new ball. Henry has been among the most effective, and under-rated, opening bowlers in ODIs. He averages 19.3 in the first ten overs, better than Trent Boult’s 24.1. He also has a better bowling average against the top three (24.1) than he does against Nos. 4 to 7 (27.3), or even the tail (25.3) – further arguments for giving him the new ball. Finally, the clincher is Henry’s stats against Asian teams versus non-Asian teams – he outperforms on every metric, average (20.7 to 35.9), economy rate (5.0 to 6.4) and strike rate (24.6 to 33.8).Stats and trivia Ross Taylor is set to play his 400th international match. He will be the third New Zealander, behind Daniel Vettori and Brendon McCullum, to get to the landmark. This will be Shakib Al Hasan’s 200th ODI. Trent Boult needs two wickets to get to 150 in ODIs. Quotes”We played in their home conditions recently, but we are in a neutral venue for this game. There’s always pressure in a big tournament. They would be under more pressure if they are considered the favourites. We know each other well. We cannot underestimate ourselves, regardless of who we are playing against.”
“Last time Bangladesh were in our country, it obviously wasn’t ideal. It will be great to see them tomorrow. I’m sure both sides are looking forward to getting out there, and I guess getting back to the cricket field around what we love doing. You know they left pretty quickly, so we didn’t get a chance to, I guess, see them, but it will be great to get out on the cricket field tomorrow and do what we love doing.”

It has been another horror season for Chelsea fans this year, as despite a positive pre-season and impressive opening-day draw against Liverpool, Mauricio Pochettino's men have been consistently poor in the Premier League.

With their league campaign already rendered a dead rubber and hope of a top-four finish seemingly out the window, the Blues have turned their attention to the domestic cups.

Chelsea could sign a big Jackson upgrade in "unplayable" £86m "game changer"

The 25-year-old would be an instant upgrade on the inexperienced striker.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Jan 5, 2024

Pochettino's side pulled off an unlikely home win over Newcastle United last month to secure a League Cup semi-final against Middlesbrough for their fans, and this weekend, they'll have the chance to progress in the FA Cup.

Championship side Preston North End stand in their way, ready to cause an upset, although with how the rest of the season has gone, Pochettino will likely field a near-enough full-strength side, with at most three changes from the starting XI that ran out 3-2 winners over Luton Town last time out.

1

GK – Đorđe Petrović

Starting between the sticks will be Đorđe Petrović, one of the few Chelsea players who can hold his head high this season. However, that is mainly due to him only coming in following Robert Sanchez's injury against Everton last month.

That said, since he has pulled on the gloves, he has been relatively impressive for the Blues and was the hero in the Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle United, saving Matt Ritchie's penalty to send the Pensioners through.

2

RB – Malo Gusto

With Reece James still out injured, Malo Gusto keeps his place at right-back for the game.

The Frenchman has started almost half of the team's Premier League games this season, and while he has been far from great, he also hasn't been the main culprit for the side's failings either.

3

CB – Axel Disasi

Another French defender, Axel Disasi, is keeping his place as the right-sided centre-back.

The former AS Monaco man has endured a mixed first campaign in west London, with some impressive performances here and there but plenty of blunders along the way – having been described as a "disaster" talkSPORT's Andy Jacobs earlier in the campaign.

The 25-year-old has started 90% of Chelsea's league games this season, and while the FA Cup can be a good place to blood youth players, Disasi will likely keep his place to maintain some momentum from Kenilworth Road.

4

CB – Alfie Gilchrist

The first change from the weekend comes in the left centre-back position, as the elder statesman Thiago Silva makes way for one of the club's most promising youngsters, the "unbelievable" Alfie Gilchrist, as described by club legend John Terry.

As mentioned, the FA Cup can be a great way to give youth products valuable competitive minutes. This also means Pochettino can rest the experienced Brazilian.

Ultimately, this is a small gamble, but with the rest of the defence staying much the same, Gilchrist should be fine.

5

LB – Levi Colwill

Rounding off the defensive unit is another star who keeps his place from the win over Luton, Levi Colwill.

The natural centre-back will start in the absence of Ben Chilwell, plus he hasn't given the manager a reason to remove him from the position yet.

6

DM – Moises Caicedo

Moises Caicedo keeps his place at the base of midfield for this one, as despite making a shaky start to life as a Blue, he has since settled in and is starting to look better by the week.

Additionally, if things go as they should, a game against a Championship side should fill him with even more confidence – unless he gives away another penalty, that is.

7

DM – Conor Gallagher

Just like he did against the Hatters, fan favourite Conor Gallagher starts alongside Caicedo just ahead of the defence, although, while the stand-in captain can certainly chip in with the defensive side of the game, he is likely to have more of a free role against Preston.

His ability to dart from one area of the pitch to another should serve the Blues well against a side they have the quality to beat quite comfortably.

8

RM – Raheem Sterling

The second change to the XI comes out on the right, as Raheem Sterling takes back his starting spot from Noni Madueke.

Now, the 21-year-old did get himself on the scoresheet last time out, but with how Chelsea's season has panned out, the domestic cup competitions have now become the focus.

So, with that in mind, the manager will likely play his best-attacking players, one of whom is clearly Sterling.

The England international boasts a respectable haul of 11 goals and assists in all competitions this season and could do the business once again.

9

CAM – Cole Palmer

Now, when it comes to the unequivocal bright spots of Chelsea's season this year – and there aren't many – Cole Palmer is one of them.

The former City player joined the Blues in the summer and has since established himself as one of the best players at the club, if not the outright best – he was even dubbed "the leader of Chelsea" by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

With his tally of 16 goal involvements this season he has given the fans at Stamford Bridge something to scream and shout about, and after he scored a brace and provided an assist over the weekend, he simply has to start against Preston.

10

LM – Mykhaylo Mudryk

The third and final change to the starting XI comes on the left, and it probably isn't a change that Pochettino would have wanted to make after Nicolas Jackson provided an assist last time out, but the striker's departure for AFCON has forced his hand.

However, while Mykhaylo Mudryk has come in for a lot of criticism since his arrival in England – some of it fair – his performances have improved in recent months.

First, it was a goal against Fulham; then a questionable goal-come-cross against Arsenal and finally, the opening goal against Crystal Palace just after Christmas.

The Ukrainian still hasn't justified his £88.5m transfer fee, but if he keeps on delivering on the pitch, fans will quickly forget how much he cost, and against a Championship side, he will fancy his chances to add to his tally.

Arsenal are considering an "official" offer to sign one club's £100,000-per-week star, with manager Mikel Arteta thinking he's perfect for them.

Arsenal chasing new midfield signing for January

Despite having to operate under some constraints, with Financial Fair Play being a concern and the budget somewhat limited after a lavish summer of spending (Miguel Delaney), Arsenal are still keen to bolster their ranks in January.

World Cup ace now wants to join Arsenal after Edu opens transfer talks

The Gunners are finally becoming active.

ByEmilio Galantini Jan 9, 2024

Fabrizio Romano recently claimed Arsenal signing a new right-back is a possibility this transfer window, while other media sources suggest they haven't given up on their chase for a new midfield signing.

Thomas Partey's injury problems have been a thorn in Arteta's side this season, so much so that Arsenal have been linked with the likes of Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz in the build up to January.

The Brazilian looks unattainable, though, given his star presence as Unai Emery's side look to secure a coveted top four Premier League place.

20

13

6

1

45

25

20

13

3

4

42

16

19

12

4

3

40

24

20

12

4

4

40

17

Alternative options are being mooted by sections of the press, with Belgian journalist Amadou Onana claiming this week that Arsenal have even opened talks to sign Everton star Amadou Onana.

According to the reporter, Onana is keen on joining Arteta in January, and this is a transfer which could develop fairly quickly.

Following Tavolieri's claim, a separate report from Belgium has backed up Arsenal's talks for Onana, while sharing their own bit of detail on the potential transfer.

Arsenal plotting "official" Onana bid

Indeed, According to news outlet Nieuwsblad, Arsenal are considering an official bid for Onana and Arteta is personally "very charmed" by him. The Gunners head coach apparently sees him as the "ideal reinforcement" for Arsenal's midfield, given his pace, power, physicality and good feet.

They back that talks have been opened over the 22-year-old, with Arsenal pushing for Onana's signature and serious about bringing him in. However, the Toffees are believed to be demanding around £52 million to let him go mid-season.

On around £100,000-per-week (SpotRac), Onana is a star player at Everton, having played 16 league games under Sean Dyche as a mainstay of his midfield.

Former Belgium boss Roberto Martinez has also called the 6 foot 3 powerhouse a real one to watch.

“I know that sometimes when we speak about players, it’s very difficult to measure their potential," said Martinez in 2022.

"I think we are talking about a 20-year-old boy, who is probably one of the most talented at that age in European football, and that’s how excited we are in Belgium."

Michael Beale could well have turned a corner as Sunderland boss, alleviating the severe pressure mounting on his back last game by masterminding a 3-1 win over Stoke City.

That precious victory came after three games without a win for the under-pressure Black Cats manager, with the business conducted by the Wearside club in the transfer window also encouraging fans again at the Stadium of Light.

Leo Hjelde in through the door from Leeds United adds strength finally to a depleted left-back spot for Sunderland, whilst a move for former Tottenham Hotspur winger Romaine Mundle also looks to be on the cards.

Could Sunderland potentially make it a hat-trick of positive buys with this young loan recruit before the impending deadline?

Sunderland eyeing up Arsenal starlet

A report from Football Transfers at the start of this week indicated that the Black Cats are interested in signing young Arsenal winger Charles Sagoe Jr on loan, Sunderland arguably in need of an added injection of creativity if Alex Pritchard's expected departure gets over the line.

Moreover, Sagoe Jr – who has been referred to as the next Bukayo Saka at the Emirates Stadium – could well be viewed as a dream Amad Diallo substitute with the Red Devils attacker looking unlikely to return to Sunderland despite having his heart set on a reunion according to reports.

With Sunderland's model often seeing them give young gems a go – showcased in Jobe Bellingham's starring role this season – Sagoe Jr could well blossom further making the step-up to senior football with the Championship promotion hopefuls.

Slotting into the side alongside his fellow new signing, 20-year-old Mundle, could see two players once separated by a north London divide come together, the youthful duo potentially helping Beale's men push on and successfully leap up to the Premier League.

How Charles Sagoe Jr would fit into the Sunderland team

Predominantly playing as a left winger for the Gunners at various different age brackets, Sagoe Jr wouldn't instantly come in and take Jack Clarke's place. After all, who would?

Rather, the exciting 19-year-old would bide his time and benefit from the loan spell as an understudy to Clarke if the ex-Tottenham man doesn't up and leave dramatically on deadline day.

Although, his numbers this season at U23 level could demand first-team action at the Stadium of Light is forthcoming – picking up six assists in the Premier League 2 from just eight games so far.

Adept at playing down the right-hand flank as well, this could be where Sagoe Jr gets more joy with minutes for the time being. Yet, this could even ignite friendly competition with Mundle too who excelled at right wing with Spurs at youth level before moving onto Standard Liege.

Helping himself to eight goal contributions playing in this spot for Spurs at U23 level, Sunderland could well strike gold if they land both of these young talents, with the Black Cats potentially set to bolster their armoury with a crop of creative outlets.

Beale will feel his squad has the necessary strength to compete at the top end of the division if Sagoe Jr falls in through the door alongside Mundle, with a deal for Diallo one Sunderland could well explore again at another time.