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The 2023/24 campaign was a season in which Wolverhampton Wanderers’ key players stood up for the count. Despite many fans and pundits predicting relegation for Gary O’Neil’s side, including BBC Sport’s chief football writer Phil McNulty, they defied expectations. Before the start of the season, McNulty expressed that he had a “very, very worrying feeling” about Wolves; and yet they managed to comfortably survive.

The Midlands side’s 14th-place finish made the season much more comfortable than many thought it would be. With 46 points to their name, Wolves were 20 points clear of the drop, and were close to a top-half finish, just three points off tenth place Crystal Palace.

The performances of their key players were largely to thank for this. The likes of Matheus Cunha performed brilliantly for O’Neil, and, despite picking up an injury which kept him out for several weeks, he still managed to score 14 goals and register eight assists. The Brazilian’s teammates including Hwang Hee-chan also contributed, with 13 goals to his name.

However, with the transfer window around the corner, Wolves could be in line to lose some of their key players, with one man already thought to be subject to interest from one Premier League club.

Wolves could lose key figure

The player in question here is Wolves’ club captain Max Kilman, who is attracting interest from one of the Molineux club’s rivals in the Premier League. This rumoured interest has come off the back of an impressive season once again under O’Neil.

According to Tom Collomosse, journalist for The Daily Mail, the club thought to be interested in recruiting Wolves’ skipper is West Ham United. Should this deal go through, it would see Kilman reunite with his former manager at Molineux, Julen Lopetegui, who recently took over from David Moyes as Hammers boss.

As Collomosse reports, it would take an offer of around £45m for Wolves to part ways with their talisman at the back. The Hammers have shown prior interest in signing Kilman, and last season he was a player that they 'followed closely', before renewing their interest in him this summer.

It remains to be seen if West Ham are the only side keen on signing Kilman. During the summer window of 2023, Wolves rejected bids from Italian giants Napoli, and the 27-year-old signed a new deal at the club, keeping him at Molineux for five years. However, he could now be subject to a transfer this summer if West Ham keep pushing.

Why Kilman would be a big loss

Football analyst H described Kilman on X as “one of the most underrated players” in the Premier League. His importance for Wolves cannot be understated. He played every single minute of their 2023/24 campaign in the top-flight, helping to keep five clean sheets. Kilman was only rested in the Carabao Cup Third Round and played just 81 minutes out of the 90 in the Second Round.

As far as box defenders go, Kilman is one of the best across Europe. As per FBref, the 27-year-old averaged 1.68 blocks and 4.79 clearances per 90 minutes last season. That ranks him in the top 14% and top 20% of defenders in Europe.

However, he is also good on the ball and averages 0.45 key passes and 0.53 switches per 90, which rank him in the top 13% and 27% respectively. Take those numbers with a pinch of salt, because Wolves are not a side who have a lot of possession, just 48.9% according to Sofascore, the 11th highest in the Premier League. This means Kilman’s in-possession numbers could be lower than if he played in a side that dominated the ball.

If their captain were to leave, it could be a bigger blow for Wolves than losing Pedro Neto. The electric Portuguese winger was superb last season, scoring twice and assisting nine times in just 20 Premier League games. He was one of their key contributors last term, albeit while being hampered by injury.

Player

Number of G/A

Number of games

Matheus Cunha

19

32

Hwang Hee-chan

15

29

Pedro Neto

11

20

Pablo Sarabia

11

30

Reports have been intensifying for months about a departure for Neto. The Telegraph reported in May that Manchester City and Newcastle could pay £60m to sign him, and links to both Arsenal and Tottenham were also reported by talkSPORT in February.

However, they may have already brought in a replacement for Neto, signing countryman Rodrigo Gomes from Braga. The 20-year-old is an exciting prospect on the right wing and could get lots of game time if Neto departs.

However, replacing Kilman will not be as simple. Not only would Wolves lose one of their best defenders, but also their captain who is such a big presence in the side – with former teammate and skipper Conor Coady stating that he is "brilliant to have around and is a brilliant professional".

The in-demand talent would not be easy to replace over the course of the transfer window, given his superb box-defending abilities and his leadership.

Should Wolves lose Kilman this summer, it would be a departure that would be felt right throughout the club. Whilst they perhaps do need the money to help strengthen their squad, losing the captain and key man at the back is not an ideal situation. It will be a fascinating transfer saga and one Wolves will no doubt hope to come out on the right side of.

How Wolves' starting XI could look after £83m summer spending spree

The Old Gold might not boast the deep pockets of other teams but some exciting arrivals could be welcomed this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 9, 2024

Liverpool supporters rejoiced at seeing new head coach Arne Slot sit down and conduct his first interview after replacing Jurgen Klopp at the helm, with a particular piece of information gleaned.

Indeed, Slot revealed that he has been in near-daily contact with Anfield's sporting director, Richard Hughes, to discuss transfer strategies and the best players to boost the functionality of the Dutchman's possession-centric, heavy-pressing system.

With Joel Matip now gone after his contract expired this month, signing a centre-back is arguably the most pressing concern, with sights indeed set on some exciting targets.

Liverpool lining up new defender

David Ornstein stirred up some excitement when revealing last week that Liverpool – alongside Manchester United – are actively pursuing precocious defender Leny Yoro, though with the acceptance that Real Madrid's rival interest makes the Santiago Bernabeu the 18-year-old's optimum location.

FSG understand that there's a good chance Yoro won't end up at Anfield and thus are searching for alternatives, with The Athletic reporting this week that Liverpool are among the Premier League clubs to have enquired about Bologna's Riccardo Calafiori.

Bologna are determined to keep the versatile 22-year-old and can offer Champions League football next season, but Liverpool's pedigree holds sway and a deal could be completed for €40m (£34m) – a fee that could prove to be a bargain down the line.

Riccardo Calafiori's 23/24 season in numbers

Liverpool bosses will no doubt have one eye fixed on Italy's Euro 2024 fixture against Spain tonight, eager to see how Calafiori performs against ostensible title challengers after a commanding, dynamic display against Albania in the opener, instrumental in the 2-1 victory.

Minutes played

90'

Touches

117

Accurate passes

99/106 (93%)

Key passes

1

Long balls

2/4

Dribble attempts

2/2

Tackles

1

Clearances

3

Calafiori only made his Italy debut three weeks ago but he has been called up to Luciano Spalletti's squad on merit. Bologna enjoyed an incredible 2023/24 campaign, qualifying for the Champions League after finishing fifth, opening the door to Europe's elite club competition after Serie A was awarded an extra spot via the UEFA coefficient rankings.

As per Sofascore, the £12k-per-week centre-half featured 30 times – keeping ten clean sheets – in the Italian top flight last season, scoring two goals, providing five assists, completing 90% of his passes and averaging 1.7 interceptions, 1.6 tackles, 2.5 clearances and 6.5 ball recoveries per game.

Given that Bologna only conceded 32 goals in Serie A last term (the third-best tally in the division), his skill set clearly played an important role.

Competent at left-back too, Calafiori would be an excellent addition to a Liverpool team in transition, and while he doesn't quite carry the prodigious air of Yoro, his modern-suited, ball-focussed style of play could actually make him an ideal player under Slot.

Why Riccardo Calafiori could be perfect for Arne Slot

Athleticism and energy are fundamentals for Calafiori's success – by his own admission, Manchester City and England centre-back John Stones is his most stylistically similar player.

Pass completion

89.6%

Top 21%

Assists

0.19

Top 1%

Shot-creating actions

1.76

Top 3%

Passes attempted

69.35

Top 20%

Progressive carries

1.07

Top 19%

Successful take-ons

0.50

Top 8%

Interceptions

1.92

Top 4%

Crisp in possession, creative on the ball and effective in driving it forward, the Italian differs from Yoro, who has innate maturity and exceptional reading of the game – a bit like Virgil van Dijk – but is more languid and straightforward in his play.

That, of course, is not a bad thing. Talent scout Jacek Kulig has declared the young Frenchman to be "world-class material" – corroborated by the vested interest of Real Madrid, but for Slot's expressive style of football, Calafiori would dovetail right into the backline.

Slot's philosophy is characterised by aggressive, front-footed attacking football, not too dissimilar to that of Klopp, his predecessor, but he has admitted that he's somewhat more possession-centric, with a tactical approach drawing parallels to Manchester City's brand under Pep Guardiola.

There's also an element of completeness to his game. Analyst Ben Mattinson has hailed the defender an "aerial monster", and indeed he won 71% of his aerial battles in Serie A last season, though he only stands at 6 feet tall.

He's certainly not diminutive but he would be the shortest of Liverpool's central defenders – Van Dijk is 6 foot 3, Ibrahima Konate 6 foot 4 while the 21-year-old Jarell Quansah is a veritable giant at 6 foot 5.

But he's shaping into an all-action defender with elite passing acumen and the fitness quality to succeed. Slot's hyper-energised Feyenoord team undoubtedly played a defining role in convincing Michael Edwards and Co to make the appointment, with the pace and power only deepening the argument for Calafiori's inclusion.

While Liverpool have three talented central defenders in the fold, Calafiori could be the final piece of the puzzle to ensure that the structural transition runs without a hitch.

However, with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur among the Premier League rivals to have been credited with an interest in recent months, FSG might need to move fast, especially with his stock likely to rise after his international escapades this summer.

Diaz sold, £216m spent: What Arne Slot's dream Liverpool XI could be

Anfield could boast quite the team come the end of the transfer window.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 16, 2024

After an intense week of training, the USMNT will finally showcase their new look under their new coach

AUSTIN, TEXAS – There was one word repeated by just about everyone around U.S. men's national team camp this week: intensity. That's the entire vibe. Last month, multiple U.S. players bemoaned the lack of effort and fiery instinct in a loss to Canada and a draw with New Zealand.

That hasn't been on display this time around.

That, of course, is all centered around one big change, and it goes by the name of Mauricio Pochettino. The new coach is finally in place, and the difference is immediately being felt. Everyone has to be on, everyone has to focused, everyone has to be ready.

That's in part because of Pochettino's arrival and the standards to which he he holds players. It's also partly driven by the players, all of whom are understandably eager to prove themselves to the man who is now judging them up close.

"[They] to try to show that and demonstrate because it’s new," Pochettino said of the increase in player energy. "They want to have a happy start with a new coaching staff and new people. But of course, we are going to start with that a lot, because we really believe that, if you want to compete at your best, you need to train trying to replicate intensity and competition."

How that intensity will manifest itself in Pochettino's first two matches is an open question – and more important, can it be sustained over the next 18 or so months in the lead up to the 2026 World Cup? That's why Pochettino is here, to answer those questions. And it all begins at 9 pm. EST Saturday night when the USMNT's Pochettino era officially kicks off against Panama.

Getty ImagesTraining ground intensity

For those unaware, it's hot in Texas, even in October. Temperatures have reached into the mid-90s in Austin, where the USMNT has set up a home base ahead of Pochettino's first two matches: the friendly against Panama, and then another Tuesday night against rival Mexico in Guadalajara.

The heat hasn't melted the USMNT's initial preparations under Pochettino, though. In fact, it has only turned up the temperature – literally and figuratively.

Training sessions have been grueling, as Pochettino's reputation for fitness has immediately shined through.

"It's just us kind of getting to know the whole staff," said Christian Pulisic, the USMNT's leader, "and the training has been real intense. It's been good, a lot of work, a long time on the pitch to show how we want to play and getting some ideas across. It's been good. Everyone has been really friendly, and I've enjoyed the steps."

Pochettino is quick to point out that this is all about striking a balance. He's been on the other side as a club coach and has seen players return exhausted and injured. He's also seen them return out of shape, having not trained hard enough.

"I think today, or in all these days, intensity is not only physical; it's also concentration," Pochettino said. "Always when new people arrive, you have more focus, you concentrate, you [apply yourself]… They want to show that. That’s why you spend more energy here, and that affects your body.

"That is good because, I think, in the high competitions, it's about working really hard and maybe because we have seen a percentage of players in the squad that maybe didn't play too much, we need to be responsible also to the clubs. We need to send them back the same, not worse, but for us, hopefully in better condition, if that's possible, not in worse condition."

That is a two-way street, both in how the clubs send the players to their respective national teams, and the shape in which they return.

"Sometimes, when we were on the other side, players arrived in all in different ways," Pochettino said. "The players arrived here not because we want to take risks. We also don’t want to do anything where they arrive and they come back fatter than when they arrive or with a condition that is not so good because they don't train too much. I think the balance is the best way to be responsible."

AdvertisementGettyTactical foundations

Pochettino has been around the game long enough to know when and how to implement new concepts. He has his key principles, yes, but he's also smart enough to know how to form a team around those principles. And it's not simply flipping a switch.

In many ways, that's what this camp is about: the USMNT learning how to play under Pochettino and Pochettino learning how he should guide this USMNT to play.

"People sometimes say, 'No, that is my philosophy, my idea, and I want to die [with that],' " he said. "No, I want to live! Life is amazing! I want to be clever. I want to win. I don't want to die! Sometimes we cannot play [in a certain way], so then we need to find different ways to put our players in comfortable situations, not in an uncomfortable situation."

Make no mistake: even in the brief period of this inaugural Pochettino camp, there has been a considerable volume of information for the players to take in. They're all open to it and excited about it, though, as they adjust to the new leadership.

"The trainings have been a little bit longer, I guess, but I think in a good way," Pulisic said. "I think it's trying to get a lot of information across, which is normal at the beginning.

"It's been spread quite evenly. I wouldn't say that there's one thing we've been working on this whole time. I think early on, we're trying to get kind of all the points across and do the best we can with that."

Getty Images SportFirst introductions

In Pochettino's 2018 book, he writes about the difference between being a boss and a leader. From the outset, he's been determined to show the USMNT's players the difference.

Pochettino, of course, understands what he's walking into. He and his staff are the new guys and, while it's largely on the players to impress him, it's also on him to get to know the players, both on and off the field.

"The biggest surprise? I didn't know how he was as a person," Pulisic said. "He's a person that's close to the team, likes to interact with us and tries to know us in our person as well."

Before the strategy, before the tactics, before the lineups, Pochettino was focused on the relationships.

"The first thing that we did when we arrived here on Saturday, and the players started arriving Sunday late with four or five players, was to meet with them, spend time with them, maybe a minute or half an hour," he said. "It was a very good way to know each other and to share ideas."

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GettyFirst up: Panama

Pochettino's first game is against Panama, which comes with no lack of irony. It was a shocking 2-1 loss to Panama in the group stage of the Copa America in late June that ultimately led to the USMNT's crashing out of that tournament on home soil, and foreshadowed the subsequent firing of then coach Gregg Behalter. If the U.S. wins that match, is Pochettino here?

That's unanswerable, but what is known is this: the new coach is not taking his debut lightly. Friendly, Copa, World Cup, whatever, there is only one expectation: win. Panama and stars Aníbal Godoy and Adalberto Carrasquilla will certainly look to have something to say about that, but the USMNT are favorites to win and are motivated to avenge that Copa performance – not to mention a pair of disappointing friendlies in September – and show their new coach that what's past is not prologue.

This is not the first USMNT debut that drew the nation's soccer attention. The likes of Bruce Arena, Bob Bradley and Jurgen Klinsmann, among others, all came into the program with great expectations. But other than Klinsmann, no USMNT coach could boast the resume, the name recognition or the hopes that Pochettino carries into this new assignment in America.

That all leads back to the intensity. Under Pochettino, there's no turning it off. Training sessions and games require it. Anything that falls short? Unacceptable.

Pochettino's first XI will offer a glimpse into how he sees this player pool, although it won't be a full picture. Injuries to several key starters leave this team shorthanded but, under Pochettino, that will never be an excuse. Led by veterans such as Pulisic, Antonee Robinson and Weston McKennie – not to mention a number of intriguing young players – this team wants to put first things first.

"We want to go out and get results," said Pulisic, who just last month was frustrated with the USMNT's inability to do just that. "But the main thing is getting to know each other and feeling comfortable as staff and as players, and just feeling confident moving forward for bigger events to come."

The bigger events are down the line. June 2026 is seemingly just around the corner. The road there starts against Panama, and Pochettino and the USMNT will look to make a great first impression.

Players arriving in Sydney from New Zealand won’t need to quarantine for 14 days and will be allowed to move freely

Andrew McGlashan23-Oct-2020The West Indies squad could provide a lucrative source of overseas signings for the BBL, after the competition added scope for a third foreign player in the XIs, if the tournament can take advantage of the travel bubble that exists with New Zealand.West Indies have a three-match T20I series in the country at the end of November followed by two Tests, and since earlier this month it is now possible to travel from New Zealand into New South Wales without needing to quarantine on arrival.The West Indies players will undergo managed isolation when they arrive at the start of the tour next month, but under current regulations, they will then be able to move around freely with the normal population unlike the restrictive biosecure bubbles which are in operation around the world. ALSO READ: BBL clubs to be allowed three overseas players in XIThat could mean they are able to fly directly to Australia to take up BBL deals without the need to quarantine for 14 days, although Cricket Australia (CA) stressed that all overseas players are subject to Australian Border Force approval. The T20I series finishes on November 30 and the second Test ends on December 15 in Wellington. The BBL, meanwhile, is expected to begin in the second week of the month.A significant number of the West Indies squad could be of interest to BBL clubs since it was confirmed there is now room for an extra overseas player, revealed by ESPNcricinfo earlier this week, which will be funded outside of the salary cap.Kieron Pollard is captain of the T20I side which includes Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer, the latter who is also in the Test group. West Indies Test captain Jason Holder is not part of their T20 set-up but is currently at the IPL and could interest clubs as might fast bowler Kemar Roach who has previously played in the BBL.Andre Russell, who would likely gain plenty of interest, Lendl Simmons and Evin Lewis opted out of the New Zealand tour so they would need to go through 14 days quarantine to be part of the BBL. Dwayne Bravo recently withdrew due to an injury sustained at the IPL.The BBL is attempting to attract as many big-name overseas signings as possible to help compensate for the potential absence of more Australian internationals to the larger squads that will be needed this season. They’re also looking to ease tensions with broadcaster Channel Seven, although the postponement of New Zealand’s limited-overs tour in January means there is a clear window in the latter part of the competition. However, given the strains on multi-format players this season, it would appear unlikely the likes of David Warner, Steven Smith, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc will feature.Steven Smith and David Warner may not be able to play in the BBL this season•BCCI”It’s such a fast-changing environment with borders and different considerations. Our clubs have been really innovative and agile to be able to adjust their recruitment strategies so that [bubble] is a good example of one that’s opened up recently and I know there’s conversations happening,” Alistair Dobson, the head of the BBL, said. “There’s a unique opportunity to capitalise on it if that’s the way our clubs decide to go, there are a players that are available and suit the contracting strategies. That would be a great result.””I think having the best players in the BBL is always a primary objective of our clubs. You can see by some of the announcements in recent days that they’ve been really ambitious. The third player on the list just adds another dimension, [more] depth and quality to the teams. The types of players we get, there will be some names you know and some up and coming stars. There’s plenty of history in the BBL of players leaving the competition with much bigger profiles than when they arrived.”However, while the bubble exists with New Zealand it could be harder to get their own players involved. Pakistan tour after West Indies and though that series finishes on January 7, there is no more international cricket until late February. When the schedule was announced, NZC made specific mention of having their leading names available for the T20 Super Smash, although some could well be attracted across the Tasman.”One of the silver linings is that our Super Smash competition, which will be played in that window, will now be boosted by the presence of Blackcaps and White Ferns,” David White, the NZC CEO, said last month. “It’s going to be the best Super Smash yet, I’m confident of that.”Dobson said: “I know there’s some players from New Zealand we’d love to have in the BBL if it lines up. I can see a way for them to be part of it. They’ve got their own commitments at the same time, [so] it all comes down to the unique requirements of each club, borders and contract strategies. But it certainly looks like there’s a unique opportunity this year with that bubble opening.”Outside of the potential advantages of the New Zealand bubble, Dobson said that all indications were that other overseas players would still require 14 days hard quarantine including the England contingent who will have come from a biosecure series in South Africa. The WBBL players recently completed the same protocols and were not allowed outside of their hotel rooms for that period, but Dobson added he had not received any significant concerns from the BBL players already signed.The schedule itself is expected to be confirmed shortly after the rubberstamping of the Australia-India fixtures. That tour received government approval on Thursday and is awaiting final BCCI sign-off. On Friday, Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison indicated that state borders, expect Western Australia’s, could be open again by Christmas which may give the BBL more flexibility with the fixturing.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes admits that he has to improve after a difficult start to the season.

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Fernandes sent off against Tottenham & PortoPortugal star currently with national team30-year-old admits he must take responsibilityFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Fernandes has linked up with Portugal for the international break on the back of a dire week for United, in which he was sent off in back-to-back games. Having been shown a straight red card against Tottenham, which was later rescinded, he was shown two yellow cards against Porto in the Europa League.

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Fernandes' form this season has also been hit, with the 30-year-old only contributing one Premier League assist in seven games. Now, though, he has vowed to improve once he returns to life under the embattled Erik ten Hag.

WHAT FERNANDES SAID

Speaking to O Jogo, Fernandes said: “When I spoke about the bad moment, it was in relation to the two expulsions in the same week, which I thought were unfair. The first was withdrawn and the second, because it was a yellow card, was not, but these are things that are part of football and I can’t think about that. I took responsibility for that moment, because especially against Tottenham I left my team-mates with one less player chasing the result.

“But it’s not just about the national team, which is where I feel increasingly good and where I can enjoy my football due to the dynamics and quality that I have by my side. At the club, I have to improve as soon as I get there, the goals will come and I also have to take responsibility for that, because I have scored a high level of goals in recent years and I also have a ‘standard’ that I want to maintain, I hope to score as soon as I get there to help the club return to winning ways and to the best level.”

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Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT?

United return to action against Brentford in the Premier League on October 19. They are currently 14th in the table after winning only two of their opening seven matches.

As the Arne Slot era begins at Liverpool, it is clear that FSG are eager to give their manager significant backing in the transfer market with the Reds making moves for some of Europe's top talents.

Liverpool set for busy summer in the transfer market

As is common for any team undergoing a massive transition in the dugout, Liverpool are also set to bring a slew of fresh faces to Anfield this summer.

£27m release clause: Slot eyeing Liverpool swoop for the next Firmino

This talented forward has a release clause in his contract.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 14, 2024

The latest rumours have seen the likes of Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo linked with a move to Merseyside. The Japanese winger is said to be available for a fee of just over £50million, a figure not unreasonable for a club of Liverpool's stature.

Also heavily linked with a transfer to Liverpool is Portuguese defender Goncalo Inacio. The 22-year-old currently plies his trade at Sporting CP, however could be set for a move to England this summer.

With a defender clearly high on the Reds' list of priorities this summer, the Premier League side are now stepping up their pursuit of a highly rated European centre back.

Reds set to offer bumper deal for top target

As first reported by Caught Offside, Liverpool look ready to put in a massive offer in their pursuit of Lille defender Leny Yoro. The outlet claims that the Reds are set to put a weekly wage of £125,000 per week on the table in order to secure one of their top targets this summer.

This latest development follows the previous day's news that Liverpool had seen their initial bid of £42million rejected by the French side. It is believed that an offer in the region of £50million will be required in order to tempt the 18-year-old away from his current club.

The Reds are said to face stiff competition from the likes of Manchester United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain for Yoro's signature. Putting a wage offer on the table this early into the window could be what helps the Merseyside outfit win the race for the highly coveted teenager.

Yoro made 32 league appearances for Lille last season as the French side finished fourth in Ligue 1. The defender also featured heavily during his team's Europa Conference League campaign. Whilst they were eventually knocked out by Aston Villa, Lille made a good account of themselves in the competition, taking the Midlands outfit all the way to a penalty shootout.

Speaking prior to the first leg at Villa Park, Lille boss Paulo Fonseca sang the praises of Yoro, telling the press: "I believe Leny in the next year will be at one of the best clubs in Europe. He started here at 16 with us. He is very ambitious, but very disciplined.

"He grew a lot but he is a kid with a big maturity, with big quality. He's very focused, very concentrated, he wants to learn every day and I have no doubt in modern football he will be one of the best central defenders in the world."

Whilst the race for Yoro's signature looks set to be one of the fiercest of the summer, Liverpool may have just edged in front of their European rivals by offering the teenager a salary that may prove too good to turn down.

Boyd Rankin, Tyrone Kane and Stuart Thompson miss out on contracts list for 2021

ESPNcricinfo staff16-Oct-2020Curtis Campher, Josh Little and David Delany have been awarded their first full-time senior contracts by Cricket Ireland. They are among a batch of 18 centrally contracted players for 2021, with a further two on retainer deals.Campher, a former South Africa U-19 allrounder, impressed on debut in the summer, scoring back-to-back half-centuries and taking five wickets in three ODIs against England. Little played twice in the series, picking up five wickets, while Delany has featured eight times in T20Is since his debut in 2019.Those to miss out on contracts from the 2020 group were Boyd Rankin, Tyrone Kane and Stuart Thompson – all of whom played in Ireland’s maiden Test in 2018 – while George Dockrell and Shane Getkate were switched on to retainers. Seamer Peter Chase has returned to the full-time list.Cricket Ireland announced earlier this week a change to the contractual period, with new deals running from March 2021 until February 2022, instead of in line with the calendar year. Those players retaining contracts will have their current deal extended from December 31 up until the end of February.”Two years ago the selectors embarked on a long-term strategy that aimed to identify and mould a squad of players with the right blend of skill sets that will allow us to compete on multiple fronts and in varying conditions around the world,” Andrew White, chairman of national men’s selectors, said.”A key part of this was a strategic approach to succession planning, and 2021 will see a further step in this process. We believe this selection reflects the successful implementation of that strategy – perhaps best demonstrated by the number of players under the age of 25 in our recent victory against England.”The selectors have been extremely pleased with the successful start to Curtis Campher’s Irish career, and the positive progress displayed by two exciting young talented pacemen in Josh Little and David Delany – it’s exciting for fans to see these three young players in the green, and it creates a sense of anticipation as to the potential impact they may have on the international stage.”We have also been delighted by the hard work and commitment shown by Peter Chase in improving his game – when he lost his full-time contract last year, Peter went away and worked on his action and approach to his craft, and we hope that he will once again be showing his skills at the highest levels.”Richard Holdsworth, Cricket Ireland’s high performance director, said that the decision had been taken to only offer 18 full-time contracts – as opposed to 19 in 2020 – in order to add more players on retainers. He added that “despite the uncertainty that hangs around world cricket due to the pandemic”, Ireland hoped to contest a full international programme in 2021, culminating in a trip to India for the T20 World Cup.”The limited performances in 2020 showed remarkable progress,” Holdsworth said. “Despite dealing with the obvious challenges, we can look back with great pride at wins over the West Indies in the Caribbean, England in England, and Afghanistan in subcontinent conditions. However, the result is only half the story – that many young players stepped up and began to perform on the highest stage was probably just as pleasing.”Graham Ford, Andrew Balbirnie and the selectors should be proud of the way they are moulding a competitive and confident squad. Fingers crossed for a big 2021 with many more great performances.”Full-time contracts: Mark Adair, Andrew Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Peter Chase, David Delany, Gareth Delany, Josh Little, Andrew McBrine, Barry McCarthy, James McCollum, Kevin O’Brien, William Porterfield, Simi Singh, Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Gary Wilson, Craig YoungRetainers: George Dockrell, Shane Getkate

The England star heads off to international duty in flying form after scoring the equaliser on Sunday before then setting up Jill Roord for the winner

Lauren Hemp continued her incredible early-season form and inspired Manchester City to another comeback win on Sunday, scoring the equaliser before setting up Jill Roord to net the team's second in an important 2-1 victory over Aston Villa.

It was a result that looked unlikely at the break, when Villa led through Gabi Nunes' first goal for the club and City had looked extremely passive. However, with Hemp on the pitch, a turnaround was always possible and her contributions helped the title hopefuls return to the top of the Women's Super League table.

The England star would have had City level at half-time, too, if it wasn't for a brilliant save from Sabrina D'Angelo. It was a rare bright spot in a rather dull first period from the hosts' perspective, with poor communication and marking from the centre-back pairing of Laia Aleixandri and Alex Greenwood the big grumble, as it had allowed Nunes to run in and convert Kirsty Hanson's cross to open the scoring.

That all started to change after the break. Villa looked more and more reserved and City pinned them in, finally getting the goal that had been coming just after the clock ticked past the hour. Leila Ouahabi's cross could only be punched by D'Angelo and Hemp was there to stop the ball getting away, controlling with her head before hooking a volley into the empty net.

Less than 10 minutes later, Hemp then turned provider for what would be the winning goal. An injection of pace allowed her to dart past a couple of defenders and cut back for Roord, who bagged her first goal since suffering an ACL injury back in January, one which secured the three points.

GOAL rates Man City's players from the Joie Stadium…

Getty ImagesGoalkeeper & Defence

Ayaka Yamashita (5/10):

Distribution just wasn't quick enough for large parts.

Kerstin Casparij (6/10):

Done for pace for the goal, which happens. Didn't put a foot wrong besides that, though.

Laia Aleixandri (5/10):

Had no idea where Nunes was for the goal. Passing was too slow and not positive enough in the first half especially.

Alex Greenwood (5/10):

Has to communicate with Aleixandri about Nunes' positioning for Villa's opener. Should have done more with possession too, though did improve in the second half.

Leila Ouahabi (6/10):

Got forward plenty and it was her cross which caused D'Angelo problems for the equaliser.

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Yui Hasegawa (7/10):

Could've injected more pace in the game in the first half and did that in the second.

Jill Roord (7/10):

Grew into the game and got a goal that will mean a lot to her, after only recently returning from her ACL injury.

Jess Park (7/10):

Burst into life a little more once Villa scored and was always trying to make something happen.

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Mary Fowler (5/10):

Wasn't positive enough when she got on the ball.

Khadija Shaw (6/10):

Struggled for service so dropped deep a lot to contribute to build-up and drag defenders out.

Lauren Hemp (8/10):

Always looked like the player to inspire a comeback and so it proved, with an equalising goal and a match-winning assist.

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Aoba Fujino (N/A):

On in the final few minutes to help City see the win out.

Gareth Taylor (7/10):

Trusted his starting XI to turn things around in the second half and they did, bringing much more energy and creativity to the table following a rather uninspiring first half.

Leeds United officially confirmed the arrival of central defender Joe Rodon on a permanent deal on Tuesday as their first signing of the summer transfer window.

The 26-year-old star spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan with Daniel Farke's side and has now completed a £10m transfer to return to Elland Road.

Yorkshire Evening Press reported that the Wales international had a chance to join a Premier League team, with interest from Ipswich, Leicester, and Brentford, but opted to extend his stay in West Yorkshire after an enjoyable first season with the club.

With Pascal Struijk's recent injury issues and Ethan Ampadu being a midfielder by trade, Leeds could look to find Rodon a new partner at the back for next term by dipping into the transfer market.

Leeds' interest in left-footed colossus

Back in May, Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg named the Whites as being one of the teams in the running to land centre-back Jordan Torunarigha.

The journalist claimed that Belgian side Gent could demand a fee of up to €3m (£2.5m) for the 26-year-old ace, who has one year left to run on his current contract with the club.

Plettenberg added that Stuttgart and Hoffenheim are both interested in signing the Nigeria international, who was born in Germany, and this means that Leeds could face serious competition for his services if they opt to pursue a deal for him.

It has been around six weeks since this report came out but he is yet to move on from Gent and Farke could secure a dream partner for Rodon at the back by acting upon the club's interest in the Nigerian titan to bring him to Elland Road this summer.

Why Leeds should sign Jordan Torunarigha

Struijk missed the last 29 matches of last season with a groin injury and it remains to be seen whether or not he will be able to return to his best, or maintain fitness throughout the 2024/25 campaign.

This is why the naturally left-footed Torunarigha could be an excellent addition for the Whites as he would offer a balance when playing out from the back on the left side of the defence, next to the right-footed Rodon.

Appearances

33

43

Pass accuracy

85%

91%

Tackles + interceptions per game

3.3

2.3

Ball recoveries per game

5.2

4.2

Ground duel success rate

56%

69%

Aerial duel success rate

59%

67%

As you can see in the table above, the towering 6 foot 3 Gent star was an aggressive defender in the Pro League last season as he constantly looked to step in to win the ball back with tackles, interceptions, and recoveries.

This suggests that the £2.5m-rated ace could be perfect next to Rodon as he could be the aggressor who looks to push forward and press up on opponents, whilst the Welshman can sit back and be dominant in duels sweeping up behind him.

The Nigerian colossus was also cultured in possession with 4.79 progressive passes per 90 – ranking with the top 30% of his positional peers in the division – and this suggests that the quality is there for him to play in a ball-dominant Farke team that wants to progress play constantly.

Farke could land an "exciting" Piroe upgrade for Leeds

The Whites have been linked with a swoop to sign the attacking midfielder this summer.

ByDan Emery Jul 2, 2024

Therefore, the 26-year-old talent could be a fantastic addition to the squad for a fee of £2.5m to compete with Struijk for a spot next to Rodon next term.

Board under scrutiny as former official John Holder claims of ‘years of racism’ in appointments

George Dobell16-Nov-2020Former Test umpire John Holder is among those calling for an independent inquiry into the lack of non-white match officials in English cricket.While Holder enjoyed almost three decades as a professional umpire, he is concerned that no non-white umpires have been appointed to the first-class list since 1992. He also claims there has never been a non-white Pitch Liaison Officer, Cricket Liaison Officer, Match Referee, Umpires’ Mentor or Umpires’ Coach.In partnership with Ismail Dawood, the former county player whose career in umpiring stalled when he could not gain promotion, Holder is now accusing the ECB of “years of racism” and calling for an independent QC-led investigation and an investigation from the Equality and Human Rights Commission.While the pair have shared many of their concerns with ECB officials, they say they have “no faith in the ECB handling of complaints” and have a dossier containing “evidence of deliberate obstruction and interference” in the handling of those complaints.ESPNcricinfo understands that a senior member of the ECB’s staff was recently suspended following claims of racial discrimination in connection with this issue. It is believed the employee, who we have chosen not to name, was cleared of wrong-doing and is expected to return to work shortly.Vanburn Holder, who retired at the end of the 2010 season, was the last non-white umpire on the ECB’s first-class list. He was also the last appointed to that list in 1992. While numerous other non-white candidates have expressed an interest in the profession – including high-profile figures such as Devon Malcolm – none have progressed.”I’ve lived in England for 56 years,” John Holder told ESPNcricinfo. “And I can tell you, hand on heart, I have never experienced racism before. But when you look at these figures, when you understand what is going on, it is hard to reach any other conclusion.”When I stopped working for the ICC, I contacted the ECB to offer my services to mentor umpires. I didn’t even get a reply. Instead, ex-players, some of whom have never stood as umpires, were appointed to the role. That is ludicrous. It’s like employing someone who can’t drive to be a driving instructor.”I’d have had no chance if I was looking to start a career as an umpire today. If Devon Malcolm, who is not only a fine cricketer but an exceptional man, cannot progress, what chance would I have had?”My suspicion is that there has been a definite policy of only employing whites for this position. There needs to be a transparent policy related to selecting, training and mentoring umpires, which presently does not exist.”Dawood, meanwhile, was described as a “sound, technical umpire” in his performance appraisal but was told that consideration also had to “made about who best fits in”. Dawood’s final year on the ECB’s reserve list was 2014.ALSO READ: What has English cricket been like for black players?”The glass ceiling is incredibly low for BAME individuals, with systematic racism at the heart,” Dawood says in a statement to be released shortly. “I feel I have encountered racial discrimination, dishonesty and misinformation, cronyism, bullying, all which is deep rooted in the organisation. It was an isolating place for a person from a BAME background.”The language I have heard over the years has been horrendous, words such as P**is, C**ns, N***ers featured from individuals attached to the ECB. Some of this language was used in front of Senior ECB managers, which I found extremely disturbing. Having worked in different progressive sectors to cricket, I feel the ECB is the last colonial outpost. It is archaic and any change is mere marketing rhetoric.”While unaware of being named in the statement, Malcolm supported the call for an independent inquiry.”It’s true that I did express an interest in umpiring,” Malcolm told ESPNcricinfo. “I love cricket and I love watching cricket. I did a bit of umpiring and it turned out I was pretty good.”But I was basically told ‘I wouldn’t bother if I was you’. It was quite a knock-back at the time. I felt there was no chance. A few years later, I had another go and I passed my Level One exams. But if my initial enquiry had met with a more positive response, I’d be well on my way by now.”We all know the lack of black players and coaches needs to be addressed. So yes, I’d support the calls for an enquiry. But it really would have to be independent.”The ECB, having been sent a draft of this piece, responded to ESPNcricinfo with a statement. It read: “Today’s group of professional umpires don’t reflect the diverse ECB we are determined to be. We want to see more BAME representation among our officials, and recognise we still have a long way to go as a game to achieve this.”Earlier this year we commissioned a full independent employment investigation into allegations made against an individual, and while these were not upheld, the investigation did identify areas where we need to be better and do more to be inclusive and diverse.”The ECB has now commissioned a review, with Board oversight, to look at how we can reform our approach to managing Match Officials. This will set out actions as to how we can improve our systems and processes to increase the diversity of umpiring, inspire the next generation of umpires and match referees, have a world class umpiring programme and ensure a culture of inclusivity and fairness throughout the umpiring system.”