Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is facing a potentially defining week in his career at the club ahead of Premier League clashes with Chelsea and Liverpool at Elland Road.

The Guardian reported on Monday that Farke’s job may be on the line in these next two matches, because senior figures at the club believe that two losses could lead to his dismissal.

It added that his position in West Yorkshire could be ‘untenable’ if he does not pick up at least one point, as the report states that his job hangs ‘in the balance’.

The Guardian, though, also revealed that some sources have expressed sympathy for the German manager because the results have not been as positive as the performances have been.

Leeds exploring move for English head coach

Whilst a final decision has not been made on the former Norwich City head coach’s future at the club, a fresh report has named one of the managers already in the frame to take his place.

Manager Focus

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According to Football Insider, Leeds United are exploring the possibility of a move to appoint former Wolverhampton Wanderers boss Gary O’Neil as Farke’s replacement at Elland Road.

The report claims that the English tactician is ‘firmly’ in the running to be the next Whites manager if they decide to part ways with the German this week.

It adds that Farke will be in the dugout for the clash with Chelsea on Wednesday night, as the earlier report from The Guardian backs up, but his future beyond these next two games remains in doubt.

However, the 49ers should change their mind and avoid a deal to appoint O’Neil as their next manager if they opt to move on from Farke, because he could be a Javi Gracia repeat for the club.

Why Gary O'Neil could be a Javi Gracia repeat for Leeds

The Whites appointed Gracia to replace Jesse Marsch in February 2022 in an attempt to avoid relegation from the Premier League, and it seemed to be a shrewd move on paper.

Prior to joining Leeds, the Spaniard had finished 14th and 11th in the Premier League with Watford in his first two seasons with the Hornets, per Transfermarkt, before losing his job after three defeats in four games at the start of his third campaign.

He, therefore, arrived as a ‘proven’ Premier League manager, but that did not stop him from losing six of his 11 games in charge before being sacked by the Whites, who then brought in Sam Allardyce.

O’Neil would arrive at Elland Road with a similar reputation because he finished 15th and 14th with Bournemouth and Wolves in his first two seasons in the division, before being sacked after a run of 11 losses in 16 games in his third top-flight campaign, per Transfermarkt.

The English boss, who typically deploys a 3-4-2-1 formation, per Transfermarkt, lost his job with the Old Gold for a run of form that was even worse than Farke’s current performance at Leeds.

As you can see in the table above, Farke would still have a better record than O’Neil did last season if he loses these next two games against Chelsea and Liverpool.

These statistics suggest that there is no guarantee that the ex-Wolves manager would be an upgrade on the German in the dugout, as Gracia wasn’t, despite his Premier League experience, when they sacked Marsch in 2022.

With this in mind, the 49ers should avoid moving for the out-of-work head coach if they decide to sack Farke, because it could be a repeat of the mistake that former sporting director Victor Orta once made with Gracia.

Instead, they should look to appoint a manager who is a clear upgrade on the German boss, whether they have Premier League experience or not, to help them in their battle against relegation.

Leeds lining up January spending spree for "phenomenal" Farke replacement

Daniel Farke will reportedly be sacked if Leeds lose their next two matches.

By
Ben Goodwin

Dec 1, 2025

Of course, it would be remiss of us to ignore the possibility that Farke can turn things around in these next two games to save his job, which would alleviate any need for the board to step in and make a decision on a replacement for him in the coming weeks.

Phil Foden and Rebecca Cooke have dropped another hint that wedding bells will soon be ringing, with the Manchester City star’s partner flashing a huge diamond engagement ring. The childhood sweethearts have three children together and would appear to be drawing up plans for a tying of the knot. There has been no official word that they are preparing to get married.

Is Foden getting married? Engagement speculation

Speculation has, however, been rife for several months. Eldest son Ronnie has helped to fuel those rumours. He has shared a video on his Instagram account – which now boasts 4.2 million followers – that features his mum and dad.

In that, which sees the Fodens getting into the Christmas spirit, Cooke can be seen sporting a dazzling piece of jewellery on her left ring finger. She has been making no attempt to hide that sparkler across a series of images and videos that have been posted online.

AdvertisementRing shopping: No official word on wedding

Foden and Cooke sparked engagement gossip when they were spotted ring shopping in Wilmslow, Cheshire. They were seen heading into a local jewellers after arriving in a £400,000 Mercedes G-Wagon.

Back in February, Cooke was seen sporting a ring on her left hand. It was reported at the time that Foden had popped the question during a romantic break in Paris – with the England international apparently getting down on one knee as the new year was welcomed in.

The happy couple – who both hail from Stockport – have been together since they were teenagers, with City playmaker Foden now 25 years of age. A source has told : “The pair of them have been together since they were young and their family and friends have been expecting them to get engaged for a while.

“The time seemed right for Phil to pop the question. He took her away to Paris for New Year's Eve and when they came back Rebecca had a sparkling diamond ring on her engagement finger.”

The insider added: “The ring is absolutely huge. It's a massive diamond. She loves it and she's very proud of wearing it although she hasn't announced anything about it. But all the wags know and all the players know in Manchester about the ring and everybody is looking forward to maybe an announcement soon that something has happened, maybe an engagement.

“It would certainly be a massive wedding full of footballers and celebrities and WAGs. Rebecca loves a party and has hosted some amazing baby showers.”

Star-studded ceremony: Foden & Cooke are parents of three

A Foden-Cooke wedding would certainly be a star-studded affair, with several international footballers likely to be in attendance. Extended family would also be invited along, with Foden having remained close to his roots since bursting onto the senior stage. A source has previously told the Daily Mail: “Phil is very close to his family, particularly his parents.”

Foden and Cooke became parents for the first time in 2019, when Ronnie was welcomed into the world. The Manchester City and England star said of that experience: “I was there for the birth. I walked out of the room, gave it a little tear and then went back in like nothing happened.”

The couple's daughter, True, was born in 2021. Cooke gave birth to a second son in June 2024, with Foden being released from European Championship duty with England in order to be at his partner’s side in the delivery room.

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Getty Images Sport2026 World Cup dream: Foden hoping to make England squad

He is hoping to grace another major tournament next summer, with the Three Lions having secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup. They will discover their group stage opponents for that event when said draw takes place on Friday.

Foden has not always been called upon by Thomas Tuchel, with the German tactician making it clear that there are no guaranteed selections in his ranks, but a welcome return to form has been enjoyed with club and country. The classy midfielder has registered four goals across his last two Premier League appearances for City – against Leeds and Fulham.

Manchester United have a conundrum in midfield which needs to be solved sooner rather than later.

Ruben Amorim’s infamous 3-4-2-1 system, which he is insistent on sticking to, operates with a double pivot. Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro are his first choices in that role this season.

That has left a few players out in the cold this season, without regular minutes. The two players who have tended to be left on the sidelines are Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte. The England international is yet to start a Premier League game this season, and former Sporting man Ugarte has not been able to get into the side over Casemiro.

It seems as though the Red Devils are targeting a new midfielder who can slot into the side.

Man Utd looking to sign England international

The Manuncian side have already begun a mini-revolution in the centre of the park. They have recently signed young Colombian Cristian Orozco, who will perhaps start in the youth team but could well be considered a first-teamer in the future.

Elliot Anderson is a name who is regularly linked with a move to Old Trafford but he’s not the only England international in the crosshairs of INEOS.

Indeed, according to a report from Football Insider, Atletico Madrid and England midfielder Conor Gallagher is a player the club continue to ‘monitor’ ahead of the January transfer window.

There has been previous interest in the former Chelsea star from Premier League clubs. Crystal Palace wanted him last summer, and Tottenham Hotspur are also interested.

However, Amorim’s side are described as ‘frontrunners’ for Gallagher. As far as a fee is concerned, it has been reported that a bid in the region of £26m could be accepted.

Why Gallagher would be a good signing

The signing of Gallagher could well be a strong addition to United’s midfield. Described as a “warrior” in the middle of the park by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, he would bring Premier League experience.

Indeed, Gallagher has made 136 appearances in the English top flight, for boyhood side Chelsea, as well as loan spells at Crystal Palace and West Brom. That ready-made experience in the Premier League could be vital for Amorim, as he would need little to no adaptation period.

Of course, over the last 18 months, the former Chelsea star has been plying his trade in La Liga for Atleti. He’s played 69 times for Diego Simeone’s side, chipping in with six goals and six assists. That included a strike against Real Madrid in the Champions League last season.

If the Red Devils were to sign Gallagher this winter, he could prove to be the long-term replacement for Casemiro. United’s Brazilian midfielder is out of contract soon, and it seems like he could be on his way at the end of the campaign.

Indeed, he is a hard man to replace. The former Los Blancos star has been a key figure in that midfield pivot for Amorim, making 12 appearances and chipping in with three goals.

That included this effort against Gallagher’s former side, Chelsea, at Old Trafford.

Replacing Casemiro in that United midfield would not be easy for Gallagher. Aside from his potent threat in the final third, the Brazilian, of course, is a master at breaking up play and winning the ball back.

However, when looking at the stats, it suggests that the Atleti star possesses the skills to do just that. For example, he’s averaged 4.12 tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes this season, compared to just 3.6 each game for Casemiro.

Progressive passes

3.73

5.07

Key passes

0.59

0.93

Progressive carries

2.75

0.67

Tackles and interceptions

4.12

3.60

Ball recoveries

4.71

5.60

Finding the man who can eventually step into Casemiro’s shoes was never going to be easy for Amorim. Yet, in Gallagher, United may have landed upon the perfect player. He still has plenty of quality on the ball and final third threat, whilst also being an efficient ball winner.

Furthermore, he’s also got energy, something Casemiro lacks. Indeed, he has been described as an “intensity monster” and as “one of the best midfielders in the sport when it comes to running long distances” by one notable analyst on social media.

£26m is a small fee in the current market, and should the Red Devils choose to pay it, they could have finally found the perfect player to replace Casemiro.

The new Garnacho: Man Utd ready £131m bid to sign the "best in the world"

Manchester United could be about to smash their transfer record in the upcoming January transfer window.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 30, 2025

England XI haul in target of 202 as warm-up game with Lions goes the distance

Tristan Lavalette15-Nov-2025

Joe Root and Harry Brook had final hits in the middle before the first Ashes Test, but weren’t able to kick on from encouraging starts in England’s five-wicket victory over the Lions on a slow surface at Lilac Hill.Chasing 202 runs in batting-friendly conditions, England stuttered at 14 for 2 after the wickets of openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley. The pair had combined for a swashbuckling 182-run stand in the first innings, but Duckett fell for a golden duck after fending a short delivery from seamer Nathan Gilchrist to point.It was a rare occasion that the ball reared off the sedate surface and the type of fierce delivery that Duckett can expect on the bouncier surface of Optus Stadium, while Crawley edged Matt Potts to slip after a loose drive.Potts followed up from his impressive effort earlier in the match with 1 for 9 off his four-over burst with the new ball.Related

Hazlewood out of Ashes opener with hamstring injury

Stokes six-for highlights England's first day of pre-Ashes action

England hint Pope will retain No.3 berth for Perth Ashes opener

Ollie Pope’s stylish century in the first innings put to bed any speculation over his spot for the first Test and his confidence was further underlined with a rapid 90 off 67 balls.With belligerent blows all around the wicket, particularly effective down the ground, Pope dominated a 113-run partnership with Root, who had a lengthier stint at the crease after making just 1 run off 12 in the first innings.Root was mostly intent on rotating the strike with sharp running between the wickets, quietly moving to 31 off 52 balls before being bowled by offspinner Will Jacks after playing down the wrong line.Brook came to the crease after an ugly first-innings dismissal when he was bowled after charging down the pitch. He motored to 19 before his stumps were rattled after botching a reverse paddle against Jacks.Jamie Smith ensured the game wrapped up quickly, clubbing an unbeaten 39 off 22 while Ben Stokes finished 15 not out as England hauled in the target in just 34.4 overs.There had been an unknown over whether the final day would meander into an early finish or whether a chase late in the day would be conjured. But Stokes followed through with his “balls to the wall” mantra from ahead of the match, with the game going the distance.The Lions declared at 251 for 6 midway through the second session as England’s hierarchy opted for their top-order to have another hit-out. Quick Brydon Carse made a compelling case for selection in the first Test with three wickets after missing the opening two days due to illness.Shoaib Bashir in discussion with Jeetan Patel•Getty Images

“It [Optus Stadium pitch] might be a little bit different to this week’s preparation, but this was all about bowlers getting miles in their legs,” Carse told reporters.”Over the handful of Tests that I’ve played, whether that’s with the new ball or first change….I’m pretty open to both of those [roles]. We’ve got a group of bowlers that can do different roles and happy to slot in anywhere.”Offspinner Shoaib Bashir bowled for the second consecutive day, but again proved ineffective with little turn on offer to finish with 1 for 83 off 12 overs, an even more expensive return than his earlier effort against England’s main XI.England were buoyed earlier in the day by the news that quick Mark Wood was cleared of a hamstring injury, just hours before Josh Hazlewood was ruled out of the first Test. But Wood did not take the field on the final day as the England XI had a shake-up with Bashir changing teams having taken 1 for 68 from 12 overs in the Lions’ first innings.Much like on day two, the surface seemed livelier earlier in the day with Jofra Archer producing sharp bounce and beating the bat on several occasions. But Archer and Gus Atkinson were upstaged by Carse who threatened with a nagging back-of-a-length approach. His accuracy frustrated opener Tom Haines, who on 12 slashed straight to point.Carse also claimed the wickets of Ben McKinney and Jordan Cox, who both made half-centuries in each innings. The 6ft 7in McKinnie dominated the opening session and took the aerial route against Bashir, his eyes lighting up when he threw the ball up.Jacob Bethell’s chances of a first Test call-up are unlikely, but he did stroke an effortless 70 off 80 balls having failed in the first innings with 2. Bethell appeared to be cruising to a century until he whacked straight back to Bashir who took a sharp return catch.After a six-wicket haul in the first innings, Stokes bowled just one four-over spell while Root claimed Jacks in his only over before the Lions declared.

MatériaMais Notícias

Após o rebaixamento à Série B, o volante Jadson se despediu do Juventude na quarta-feira (10). Ele deve acertar com o Athletico para a próxima temporada.

continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasSão PauloSão Paulo: Arboleda entra na mira do AthleticoSão Paulo10/12/2025Futebol NacionalAthletico avança por volante da seleção da ColômbiaFutebol Nacional10/12/2025Futebol NacionalAnálise: Athletico abre o bolso por acesso e tenta se realocar no BrasileirãoFutebol Nacional09/12/2025

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

– Até breve, Jadson 🇳🇬🥹 Foram cinco temporadas e 220 jogos honrando o manto Jaconero. Inúmeros momentos que vão ficar para sempre gravados na memória da Papada. Nosso agradecimento e reconhecimento por liderar o Ju dentro de campo com a dedicação de um verdadeiro capitão. Você se tornou um de nós, um Jaconero de alma, que sempre representou o sentimento alviverde. Todos nós, da família Juventude, te desejamos sucesso na nova jornada. A você, Jadson, as portas do Alfredo Jaconi estarão sempre abertas! – publicou o clube, nas redes sociais.

Jadson tinha contrato com o time gaúcho até o fim de 2026, mas conseguiu a liberação antecipada. O meio-campista é aguardado em Curitiba (PR) nos próximos dias para fechar o acordo com o Furacão.

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A diretoria rubro-negra já tinha tentado o atleta na última janela de transferência, entre julho e agosto deste ano. Diferente da tentativa anterior, o contexto atual favorece o time paranaense.

O Athletico conquistou o acesso à Série A de 2026, enquanto o Papo caiu e vai jogar a Série B. Na metade de 2025, o cenário era invertido.

Caso feche a transferência, Jadson jogará no Athletico pela segunda vez. Entre 2015 e 2016, ele atuou com a camisa rubro-negra por empréstimo da Udinese-ITA e disputou 27 jogos, com um gol marcado.

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

Carreira de Jadson, ex-Athletico

Com passagens na base do CFZ e Flamengo, Jadson foi revelado pelo Botafogo em 2011. Dois anos depois, ele foi negociado com a Udinese por 2,5 milhões de euros (R$ 6,4 milhões, na cotação da época).

No time italiano, o volante fez apenas um jogo e passou a ser emprestado para o próprio Athletico e a Ponte Preta. No Brasil, também defendeu Santa Cruz, Fluminense, Bahia e Cruzeiro.

No Juventude desde 2021, Jadson fez 220 partidas, com seis gols e 17 assistências.

➡️ Veja mais notícias do Athletico

Athletico mira outros volantes

Além de Jadson, o Athletico também tem outros três nomes na mira para o setor: Otávio, do Fluminense, o argentino naturalizado paraguaio Andrés Cubas, do Vancouver Whitecaps, do Canadá, e o boliviano Gabriel Villamíl, da LDU, do Equador.

Na posição, o técnico Odair Hellmann conta com Felipinho, Élan Ricardo, Raul, Zapelli, João Cruz e Dudu, além do recém-contratado Alejandro García. A direção ainda avalia se algum deles será emprestado ou vendido – veja o balanço.

De olho em 2026, o Furacão iniciará os treinos online em 24 de dezembro e marcou a reapresentação no CT do Caju para 2 de janeiro, quando está marcada a pré-temporada. O time sub-20 jogará o Campeonato Paranaense com alguns jogadores do time principal, enquanto o Athletico estreia no Brasileirão em 28 de janeiro.

Tudo sobre

AthleticoAthletico ParanaenseAthletico-PRBrasileirãoFutebol NacionalJuventudeMercado da Bola

Tarik Skubal won the American League Cy Young award in 2024 by winning the pitching Triple Crown and leading the AL in wins, strikeouts and ERA. In 2025 he proceeded to have an even better statistical season, lowering his ERA and WHIP and striking out even more batters than he did during his Cy Young season.

About to enter his age 29 season, Skubal has one more campaign under Detroit's control before he becomes a free agent. As of right now, he's due to make $22.5 million next season, which is about half what Max Scherzer got annually from the Mets when they signed him to a three-year deal back in 2022.

The Tigers made Skubal an offer last offseason that was deemed "non-competitive" and it seems that another incredible season on the mound did not convince them to make whatever he considers a competitive offer.

According to Jon Heyman of the , the two sides are about a quarter of a billion dollars apart. No, seriously. In the words of Heyman, "Yep, that’s not a misprint. It’s close to $250 million."

While the total money or number of years is not clear, Heyman says that the "baseline for Skubal is seen as $400M." So the Tigers could be doing anything from making an insultingly low offer to being right there on the average salary, but far apart on the length of the contract.

Either way, they're going to have to pay Skubal to keep him.

Who is the highest paid pitcher in MLB?

For Skubal to crack the top five highest-paid pitchers, he'd need more than $35 million a year, which is exactly what Corbin Burnes is getting from the Diamondbacks. Shohei Ohtani has an average salary of $70 million, but unless Skubal can hit 50-plus home runs a season as a designated hitter, he should probably focus on what these guys are making.

Here are the five pitchers with contracts worth an average annual value of over $30 million, when they signed those deals and how long they are.

Pitcher

Average Annual Value

Signed

Contract Length

Zack Wheeler

$42,000,000

2025

3 years

Jacob deGrom

$37,000,000

2023

5 years

Blake Snell

$36,400,000

2025

5 years + club option

Gerrit Cole

$36,000,000

2019

9 years

Corbin Burnes

$35,000,000

2024

6 years

ظهر حارس مرمى ليفربول، أليسون بيكر في مؤتمر صحفي اليوم الإثنين، وتحدث عن أزمة زميله محمد صلاح ووضعه الحالي مع الفريق، واستبعاده قبل المباراة أمام إنتر ميلان الإيطالي.

ويحل ليفربول ضيفًا على إنتر ميلان غدًا الثلاثاء بالجولة السادسة في مرحلة الدوري لدوري أبطال أوروبا، وقام المدرب آرني سلوت باستبعاد محمد صلاح من قائمة الفريق للمباراة، بعد تصريحاته التي انتقد خلالها جلوسه على مقاعد البدلاء وأشار إلى أن النادي تخلى عنه.

وقال أليسون عن صلاح: “ليس وضعًا سهلًا، كمجموعة، نبذل قصارى جهدنا، تربطنا به علاقة شخصية، فأنا ألعب مع محمد صلاح منذ أن جئت إلى أوروبا، لمدة عام في روما وسبع سنوات في ليفربول”.

وأضاف: “إنه رجل رائع، وشخصية رائعة، إنه أسطورة في نادي ليفربول، حققنا الكثير معًا، وبالطبع الوضع الحالي ليس أمرًا يسعدني شخصيًا”.

وأكمل: “لكن في عالم كرة القدم، لا نملك الكثير من الوقت للشكوى من أي موقف، لدينا تحدٍّ كبير غدًا، فريق قوي سنواجهه، يقدم إنتر أداءً رائعًا هذا الموسم، لذا فإن تركيزي وتركيز الفريق منصبّ على التحدي الذي سنواجهه غدًا”.

طالع ديلي ميل: محمد صلاح لن ينال نهاية مثالية في ليفربول.. وشبح مصير جيرارد يحوم في الأفق

واستطرد أليسون: “غيابه عن المشاركة هو نتيجة لما فعله، هو ذكي بما يكفي ليعرف ذلك، لم أتحدث مع صلاح عن الأمر بالطريقة التي أرغب بها، علاقتنا جيدة، وليس مجرد زميل في الفريق، بل نقضي وقتًا طويلًا معًا، نحن أصدقاء مقربون، نتشارك الكثير من اللحظات معًا، لحظات سعيدة ولحظات حزينة، وهذا ما يُنشئ رابطة قوية بيننا، سأجري محادثة معه، لكنها ستكون خاصة لأنها شخصية”.

اقرأ أيضًا.. سلوت عن تصريحات محمد صلاح: لست ضعيفًا.. وقررنا الرد على ما قاله بطريقتنا

وواصل: “أتمنى أن يلعب مجددًا مع النادي، لكن هذا أمر شخصي بين محمد والنادي، كزملاء له وأصدقائه، نتمنى له كل التوفيق، لكن كلاعبين في ليفربول، نتمنى الأفضل للنادي، نريد مصلحة مشتركة له وللنادي، وعلاقتي بالمدرب سلوت جيدة”.

وعن تصريحات واين روني بأن ما حدث من صلاح عدم احترام، علّق أليسون: “لم أسمعها بنفسي، قد يكون لها تأثير، ليس بالأمر الهيّن، إنه محمد صلاح، ما يحدث الآن يُخبرنا عن الوضع، لكننا رجالٌ ناضجون، ونتفهم أن هذا وضعٌ شخصيٌّ في رأيي”.

واسترسل: “لا أعتقد أن هدفه هو عدم احترام أي شخص، أعتقد أن لديه حرية التعبير، والتحدث عن مشاعره تجاه وضعه الخاص، ما نتوقعه هو لاعبٌ يرغب في اللعب، لا يشعر بالراحة وهو على مقاعد البدلاء، مرة أخرى، لديك حرية التعبير، لكن عليك التعامل مع عواقب ذلك، أعتقد أن هذا واضح”.

وشدد: “كفريق، ليس المهم كيف نشعر، المهم هو رد فعلنا، ورد الفعل هو البقاء معًا والعمل بجد، الأمر لا يتعلق بما هو الأفضل لمحمد أو للفريق، بل بما هو الأفضل للنادي”.

وأوضح أليسون: “بعد المقابلة، ظننتُ أن الأمر سيكون غريبًا، لكنه لم يكن كذلك، نعلم أنه وضع شخصي، ونحترم ذلك، لعبنا مباراتنا الأخيرة مساء السبت، ولم يكن لدينا الكثير من الوقت، خصصنا وقتنا للتدريب للراحة والتعافي والتركيز على فريق قوي، إنتر يلعب بشكل جيد، ويمتلك لاعبين مميزين، لديهم مهاجمون ولاعبو وسط ومدافعون رائعون، وحارس مرمى رائع”.

وعن قول صلاح بأنه يتعرض لانتقاد بشكل غير عادل، رد: لا أتابع كثيرًا ما يُقال عنه، لذا لا أعرف تحديدًا ماهية الانتقادات، إذا قال إنه يشعر بذلك، فمن حقه التحدث عنه، لكن النقد جزء من كرة القدم”.

وأصر: “أتعامل مع هذا الأمر بنفسي، وأحاول ألا أتابعه، ليس لعدم اهتمامي، بل لأن لديّ ثلاثة أطفال في المنزل وليس لديّ وقت كافٍ لذلك!، علينا أن نكون واقعيين بشأن وضعنا الحالي، والأمور التي نحتاج إلى تحسينها، من الصعب تحديد المشاكل، لكننا نركز عليها”.

وعن ضرورة حصول صلاح على مكانه في التشكيلة الأساسية، أفاد: “في كرة القدم، الأمور تجري بسرعة، نلعب كل ثلاث مباريات، فزنا مؤخرًا بالدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز، وهو إنجاز مذهل، والآن نحن في هذا الوضع، وعلينا التعامل مع هذا الوضع”.

وأكد: “هكذا تسير الأمور في كرة القدم، وعلينا التعامل مع هذا الوضع، هذا جزء من اللعب مع ليفربول. عليك أن تُنافس على أعلى مستوى، وهذا ما أسعى إليه: أن أكون في أعلى مستوى لأكون الأفضل للفريق أيضًا”.

وعن أجواء المعسكر، أشار: “الوضع جيد للغاية، لكل لاعب رأيه في الوضع، لكننا ندرك التحديات التي نواجهها حاليًا، فعدم الأداء الجيد وعدم تحقيق نتيجة جيدة كان أمرًا صعبًا بالفعل، علينا تغيير ذلك لنكون أكثر ثباتًا في المباريات”.

وأردف: “لا يهمنا كثيرًا شعورنا الشخصي، لكننا نريد أن نتعامل مع الوضع غدًا بشكل مناسب، مع كل الاحترام والتقدير لإنتر ميلان الذي يسعى للفوز بالمباراة ويستحق الفوز بأدائه الجيد”.

وعن القيادة داخل الفريق، أستطرد: “نعم، بالتأكيد نحن كذلك، الجميع يضع توقعات علينا، من اللاعبين الكبار أن نتقدم ونُظهر مستوى القيادة، والتوقعات موجودة من النادي أيضًا، وهذا هو سبب وجودنا هنا”.

وأوضح: “في رأيي، أنا أتحمل هذه المسؤولية وأشعر بها، وأعتقد أن بإمكاني أن أقدّم للفريق أكثر من مجرد الأداء الجيد داخل الملعب، أقدّم مساهمة إيجابية للاعبين الأصغر سنًا والجدد، لدينا في ليفربول ما يُعرف بـ ‘طريقة ليفربول’ في العقلية، ويجب أن تنتقل هذه الثقافة إلى اللاعبين الآخرين”.

وأتم: “ونحن اللاعبون الذين يجب أن ننقلها، ليس أنا فقط، أو فان دايك، أو روبيرتسون، بل كل اللاعبين الذين قضوا وقتًا طويلًا هنا، كورتيس لاعب محلي، وهناك العديد من اللاعبين الذين قضوا أكثر من عامين أو ثلاثة في ليفربول وهم يحاولون الارتقاء أيضًا، ربما ليس من خلال المقابلات، بل من خلال الأفعال، إن التصرف على أرض الملعب هو ما نتوقعه من كل قائد”.

Crystal Palace have now joined the race to sign an “absolute star”, who is being targeted by some of Europe’s top clubs.

Palace on track to push for Europe after Burnley victory

After the disappointing 2-1 loss at home to Manchester United last weekend, Palace returned to winning ways against Burnley on Wednesday night, securing a 1-0 victory courtesy of Daniel Munoz’s goal on the stroke of half-time.

It was another resolute defensive display from the Eagles, who boast the second-best defensive record in the Premier League this season, having shipped just 11 goals, with only Premier League leaders Arsenal conceding fewer.

Having jumped to fifth place courtesy of the win at Turf Moor, there is every sign Oliver Glasner’s side could make a push for European qualification this season, particularly if they continue to be tough to score against, with captain Marc Guehi at the heart of their defence.

However, with Guehi’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, and Liverpool recently opening fresh talks, Glasner will have to start making plans for life after the England international soon, and Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande is one of the centre-backs of interest.

Crystal Palace are keen to strengthen at the opposite end of the pitch too, according to a report from TuttoAtalanta (via Sport Witness), which states they have now joined the race for Watford star Rocco Vata, alongside Fulham and two Champions League clubs.

Indeed, Eintracht Frankfurt and Atalanta are also vying to sign Vata, who has an affordable asking price, with it being revealed potential suitors will have to fork out a fee of around €8m – €12m (£7m – £11m).

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"Absolute star" Vata could be savvy addition for Palace

Scout Ben Mattinson has been left impressed by the 20-year-old’s performances since signing for Watford, lauding him as an “absolute star” back in January, and the starlet established himself as an important player last season, chipping in with seven goal contributions in 33 Championship games.

Palace have been very successful when recruiting players from the Championship in the past, signing the likes of Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise, and the Watford star could go on to achieve similar things, having performed very well across some key statistics over the past year.

Rocco Vata’s key statistics

Average per 90 (past year)

Assists

0.30 (88th percentile)

Successful take-ons

2.31 (92nd percentile)

Tackles

1.70 (79th percentile)

Given that Vata could be available for a very affordable fee, Crystal Palace should look to get ahead of the likes of Atalanta and Frankfurt in the race for his signature by making a January offer.

Are Tottenham Hotspur finding their feet under Thomas Frank’s stewardship?

Certainly, we have seen green shoots in recent matches. After that dismal home defeat to Fulham at the end of November, Spurs battled to a 2-2 draw at St. James’ Park before beating Brentford in the Premier League and Slavia Prague in the Champions League.

Two clean sheets from two games, but Tottenham still could do with reinforcements in the rearguard. Namely, ENIC Group are planning to help Frank piece together a lasting project with a new left-back.

Destiny Udogie picked up a hamstring injury against Newcastle United and will be out until the New Year. But the Italian defender has been out of sorts this season anyway, and Tottenham are ready to take action.

Spurs' search for a left-back

Udogie quickly established himself as one of the most dangerous up-and-coming full-backs in Europe after joining Tottenham from Hellas Verona. Better known for his time on loan with Udinese across multiple years, the Italian was hailed as “the best left-back” in the country by Clinton Morrison on BBC Sport a few months into his arrival under Ange Postecoglou’s wing.

However, Udogie’s persistent injury issues have stunted his growth, and the 23-year-old has been told he “needs to wake up” by one coach this term, lacking awareness and dynamism. With Ben Davies getting on – and rarely getting off the bench – competition is needed, especially with the Lilywhites making headway in the Champions League.

That’s why Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange are circling in on Eintracht Frankfurt star Nathaniel Brown, with TEAMtalk revealing that the 22-year-old German international is on Tottenham’s wishlist ahead of the winter window.

A versatile wideman with no qualms about playing further upfield, Brown would add depth and new dimensions to Frank’s team, though this is a sentiment shared with rivals, Arsenal and Manchester United also among the suitors named.

He would cost upwards of £50m, but Brown has the potential to become one of the best in the business, and he would slot right into Frank’s set-up.

What Brown would bring to Spurs

Brown, a German-born player with American heritage, boasts blistering pace and a desire to progress play whenever he can. However, he is also defensively sound, mixing between duties seamlessly.

As per FBref, Brown ranks among the top 9% of full-backs across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for assists and the top 3% for tackles per 90, underlining his dynamism and ability to mix defence with attack.

In this, he has something of a likeness to Udogie, the finest iteration of the Italy star, and while Spurs’ talented wide defender has fallen by the wayside of late, his profile remains tailor-made for a starring role in one of Europe’s top outfits.

Brown, moreover, is on an upward trajectory, with analyst Spencer Mossman claiming earlier in 2025 that he is “one-two years away from being the most coveted left back” in the world. Already, several of the Premier League’s biggest sides want to bring him over, suggesting that he is indeed ahead of that prediction already.

Frankfurt has a rather porous defence this season, and that is a concern, but Brown is one of the standouts, showcasing an impressive mix of qualities. Furthermore, he rode the crest of a wave into the current campaign, having played so well in the Bundesliga last year.

As we can see from the respective left-backs’ Champions League campaigns, Brown is enjoying greater success, with his staggering duel success rate something to note.

Last season, talent scout Jacek Kulig said Brown is “moving to another level”, so perhaps it is the right time for him to take the leap of faith over the channel and down N17 to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

What Tottenham decide to do remains to be seen, but Frank needs a few more instruments in his tactical toolbox, and Brown could mark his crowning signing as improvements start to reveal themselves.

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Shaka Hislop has revealed he is battling an aggressive form of prostate cancer, sharing the emotional update in a deeply personal message to fans. The former Newcastle and West Ham goalkeeper detailed his 18-month medical journey, including surgery, spreading cancer and recent radiation therapy, while urging men, especially those at higher risk, to get tested early.

Hislop announces his prostate cancer diagnosis

Former Premier League favourite Hislop shocked the football world by announcing he has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer, outlining an 18-month timeline of tests, surgery, recurrence and ongoing treatment. The 56-year-old revealed the cancer was initially detected after an elevated PSA reading during routine screening, before spreading months later despite a radical prostatectomy. Hislop, now a respected pundit, disclosed that he has just completed seven-and-a-half weeks of radiation therapy and is continuing treatment.

The diagnosis marks a difficult chapter for the ex-goalkeeper, who is widely remembered for starring in Newcastle’s title-challenging sides under Kevin Keegan and for making over 100 appearances for West Ham. Hislop’s video update has sparked an outpouring of support from fans, teammates and viewers who have followed his post-playing career in broadcasting. His message stressed both the importance of early detection and the reality that prostate cancer can develop even without a family history.

Hislop’s announcement has renewed attention on the risks of prostate cancer for men over 50 and particularly for Black men, who statistically face higher mortality rates. His call for regular PSA testing challenges the inconsistent medical guidelines found across different countries. The news has also prompted wider conversations about awareness within football communities, where former players have increasingly used their platforms to highlight major health issues.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportHislop urges men to get tested early for prostate cancer

In a video released on his social media, Hislop said: “I have a story to tell. Roughly 18 months ago, I went for my annual physical and insisted on a PSA test, as I always do. This time around though my PSA was elevated.

“An MRI and biopsy quickly determined that I had a fairly aggressive prostate cancer. A year ago, almost to the day, December 6 to be exact, I had a radical prostatectomy. And I thought that was it.

“But then, six months later, my PSA was again on the rise and another scan showed that my prostate cancer had spread to my pelvic bone. I started on medication pretty soon after, and just this morning completed seven-and-a-half weeks of radiation therapy. The journey continues.”

“Doctors recommend that all men over the age of 50 get their PSA checked regularly. If you're of African descent, that age drops to 40. If you're somewhere like the UK or somewhere else where PSA tests aren't encouraged, you have got to insist.

“Having a history of cancer in the family doesn't matter. I had genetic testing done and it showed no traits in my family, yet this year would show that, without going into too much detail, even that didn't exclude everybody in my immediate family. The highest rate of prostate cancer mortality is in Caribbean men, so allow me to speak to my community, my people. Please, go get tested. Know your PSA, track – its history.

“Prostate cancer is survivable if caught early enough. There are treatments for it. Testing saves lives. It saved mine.”

Getty Images NewsProstate cancer awareness: A growing necessity

Hislop’s message resonates strongly because prostate cancer is one of the most common yet most quietly developing cancers in the world, often showing no symptoms in its early stages. Many men only seek medical attention once the cancer becomes advanced, making Hislop’s insistence on annual testing a crucial reminder about preventative health. The 99% survival rate for early-stage prostate cancer highlights why screening remains the single most impactful step men can take.

The former Trinidad and Tobago international has long been admired not only for his playing career but for his off-field contributions as an activist and broadcaster. His leadership within the Show Racism The Red Card campaign and his standing within ESPN FC make his message highly influential across global audiences. By speaking directly to Black and Caribbean men, Hislop underscores a demographic reality: these groups face some of the highest prostate cancer mortality rates in the world, making early detection uniquely urgent.

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Hislop contines to undergo treatement after radiation therapy

Hislop’s treatment continues following the completion of his radiation therapy, and he has vowed to keep supporters updated as he navigates the next phase of his recovery. His central aim is to use his platform to amplify awareness around PSA testing and encourage men worldwide to prioritise early screening. For now, the football community will rally around him as he continues both his medical journey and his mission to save lives through education and advocacy.