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It is not only a matter of doing the difficult job, but often how the opener chooses to do it

Mohammad Isam26-Apr-2021Tamim Iqbal gave confidence to the Bangladesh dressing room at the start of the Pallekele Test against Sri Lanka, and then calmed nerves again with his counter-attacking half-century when there was a jitter and a stutter on the last day. When Iqbal is in such situations and in charge, it is not only a matter of doing the difficult job, but often how he chooses to do it.On the fifth afternoon, he blazed Dhananjaya de Silva’s offspin straight down the ground for three sixes. The art was how he met the ball while charging towards it and then finding the right moment to lift the ball. The third of those sixes, he went inside-out, hitting the ball over long-off. Iqbal also drove and pulled Vishwa Fernando freely, hitting him for three fours in an over to bring up his quickfire fifty.Sri Lanka had left Bangladesh 68 overs to bat in the last two sessions with a 107-run lead. Over four days, when both sets of players have fielded for 170-odd overs in searing heat and humidity, it was hard to tell which side would blink first. Bangladesh lost two early wickets including Najmul Hossain Shanto, who made 163 in the first innings. Doubts are bound to creep in to a team that has lost their eight previous international matches. This was also a side that had lost two Tests even after scoring 500-plus runs. Iqbal saw the situation at hand differently.Related

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He played attacking shots, particularly going after de Silva, who was brought on early to disturb the batters’ rhythm. He didn’t let Vishwa Fernando settle too, but was mostly quiet against Suranga Lakmal and Wanindu Hasaranga. Mominul Haque had begun stonewalling at the other end.Iqbal’s opening act too had a resounding effect on Bangladesh. His 90 was the ideal response that captain Haque and coach Russell Domingo would have wished for, after deciding to bat first with five specialist bowlers. However, Bangladesh, who have won only four overseas Tests in their history, often prepare for the worst scenario.Instead of being on a defensive side, Iqbal went after Sri Lanka’s bowling on what could possible be the first green pitch in the visitors’ backyard. He didn’t let any of their fast bowlers settle down, hitting them for 15 fours, before getting carried away against Fernando.

Tamim set the tone for us with his 90 in the first innings. He likes to play shots. He bats with a specific plan.Mominul Haque on Tamim Iqbal

Haque acknowledged Iqbal’s twin fifties, particularly the first innings score of 90 which laid the foundation for their total of 541 for 7.”Tamim set the tone for us with his 90 in the first innings,” Haque said. “Since the start of his career, this is how he has batted. I bat in a different way. Everyone has their own style. He likes to play shots. He bats with a specific plan. If I try to play like him, I might have scored five more centuries instead of eleven.”It was the eighth instance of Iqbal making 50-plus scores in both innings. But this time, he has done it slightly differently. Lack of a senior player in the top order has often meant he has to cut down on his attacking shots and make sure he stays at the crease for long. In the limited-overs format, Iqbal’s role is more refined. As a Test opener, it is not often that he gets the license to play freely, while also looking to provide stability at the top.However, Shanto – who hit his maiden Test hundred in this match – said that Iqbal’s presence made it easier for him, and it allowed him to bat in his own way.Maybe this Test is the start of a new role for Iqbal, particularly in a team that has many unsettled batting spots. Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim are in charge of the middle order. But at the top, Iqbal is expected to provide a good start irrespective of who his partner is. It is a tough balancing act. But it isn’t something new for him, having thrived in various roles for Bangladesh over the years.

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Em parceira com a Adidas, o Atlético-MG anunciou, na última segunda-feira (25), o novo uniforme principal da equipe para a disputa da temporada 2024.

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Chelsea are in conversation with the representatives of a defender as midfielder Moises Caicedo offers his opinion on the potential transfer, according to a new report.

Chelsea play Bournemouth after Leeds United blow

Chelsea travel to Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon desperately seeking a response to their shock midweek defeat at Leeds, with Enzo Maresca’s title credentials under scrutiny after a damaging loss that left them nine points adrift of Arsenal.

The Blues suffered a humiliating 3-1 loss at Elland Road on Wednesday, falling two goals behind by halftime before Pedro Neto’s second-half strike proved insufficient.

The defeat represented their second loss to newly-promoted opposition this season, raising fresh doubts about their ability to maintain consistency and challenge Mikel Arteta for the Premier League.

Bournemouth present a challenge despite their own recent struggles.

The Cherries have endured a miserable November without a single victory, collecting just one point from four games while conceding 12 goals.

Tuesday’s narrow 1-0 home defeat to Everton extended their winless streak to five matches and marked their first loss at the Vitality Stadium all campaign.

Andoni Iraola’s side have plummeted from second to 14th during this barren spell, though they remain only five points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with significant room for optimism.

The hosts have collected 14 of their 19 Premier League points on home soil this season, establishing the Vitality as a fortress until Everton’s breakthrough.

Chelsea arrive as clear favourites based on superior stats and historical dominance, having won 15 of 23 meetings between the two clubs.

However, the visitors face selection headaches, with Caicedo still serving his suspension after picking up five yellow cards.

The Ecuadorian’s absence is a significant blow given his pivotal role protecting the defence, and Caicedo’s presence was sorely missed against Leeds.

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Chelsea boast the division’s best away attacking record with 15 goals in seven games, averaging over two goals per match. Yet, their vulnerability without Caicedo was exposed ruthlessly by Leeds, with the midfield lacking its usual protection.

While the £150,000-per-week star continues to sit out, he’s at least making himself useful in other ways.

Chelsea hold talks with Joel Ordonez as Moises Caicedo offers opinion

That is according to TEAMtalk and journalist Graeme Bailey, who report on Chelsea’s serious interest in Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez.

Chelsea have renewed contact with Ordonez’s representatives in recent weeks as they intensify their pursuit of the 21-year-old, with Caicedo also offering behind-the-scenes ‘thoughts’ about his former Independiente del Valle teammate.

The west Londoners are said to have tracked him since before his 2023 move to Belgium, maintaining long-standing interest in the player.

Caicedo and Ordonez developed their friendship during their time together at Independiente’s famed South American academy, and have remained close through international duty.

The Chelsea midfielder now appears to be playing agent, giving his verdict on Ordonez to the club’s hierarchy.

Liverpool represent significant competition for Ordonez’s signature, though.

Arne Slot’s side have monitored him closely over the past year as they desperately seek solutions to their defensive crisis. The Reds initially prioritised Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, but understand he will not depart Selhurst Park during January, forcing them to explore alternative options.

Crucially, both Club Brugge and Ordonez himself are open to a winter transfer, with England emerging as the most likely destination.

Fresh discussions between the player’s camp and Chelsea have taken place recently, building on months of established communication channels, but Man City and Tottenham are also keen.

City and Spurs have shown admiration for Ordonez, closely assessing him in recent weeks as they evaluate their own defensive requirements.

However, Chelsea and Liverpool currently lead the race after laying more groundwork, and perhaps Caicedo’s presence could prove key here in the race for Ordonez’s signature.

يواجه نادي برشلونة نظيره ديبورتيفو ألافيس اليوم السبت، وذلك لحساب منافسات بطولة الدوري الإسباني للدرجة الأولى على ملعب كامب نو.

ويستضيف برشلونة ألافيس على ملعب كامب نو، ضمن منافسات الجولة الرابعة عشر من الدوري الإسباني.

وفاجأ ألافيس برشلونة في لقاء اليوم واستطاع أن يتقدم بالهدف الأول في الدقيقة الأولى، وذلك عن طريق بابلو إيبانيز.

إيبانيز استغل كرة ركنية لعبت في بداية اللقاء، حيث استغل اللاعب قلة تركيز لاعبي برشلونة ليضع الكرة بسهولة في شباك حارس المرمى خوان جارسيا.

أقرأ أيضًا .. برشلونة يصدر بيانًا بسبب أزمة الجمهور قبل لقاء ألافيس في الدوري الإسباني

لكن برشلونة استطاع أن يدرك التعادل بالفعل عن طريق لامين يامال، وذلك بحلول الدقيقة الـ8.

واستغل لامين يامال تمريرة رائعة من رافينيا من الجهة اليسرى ليسددها في مرمى ديبورتيفو ألافيس معدلًا النتيجة للبلوجرانا. ودخل برشلونة بقوته الضاربة في لقاء اليوم، حيث عاد فرينكي دي يونج للتواجد بشكل أساسي في الدوري، بعدما غاب في الجولة الماضية ضد أتلتيك بلباو بسبب الإصابة، إلى جانب رافينيا دياز.

ويتواجد على دكة بدلاء برشلونة اليوم بيدري، والذي عاد من جديد للظهور مع برشلونة، عقب غياب عن الملاعب تجاوز الشهر بسبب الإصابة.

ويحتل برشلونة المركز الثاني في ترتيب الدوري الإسباني وبفارق نقطة واحدة فقط عن ريال مدريد صاحب المركز الأول.

وبإمكان برشلونة احتلال المركز الأول في ترتيب الدوري الإسباني بشكل مؤقت إذا انتصر اليوم، في انتظار مواجهة ريال مدريد مع جيرونا مساء يوم غدًا الأحد.

Kate Abdo and Co. can fly into the UK as Paramount Plus has reportedly won the rights to the Champions League from 2027 to 2031. The move signals the end of TNT Sports’ decade-long grip on Europe’s most prestigious club competition and marks a major expansion of the American-owned streaming giant into the UK market.

Paramount+ set to takeover UK

According to Paramount+ has committed a substantial financial package to secure the rights, outbidding powerful rivals and positioning itself as the next major player in European football coverage. The company delivered a “knockout” offer, believed to be significantly higher than the competition. The decision, which spans six seasons, aligns the UK broadcast strategy with Paramount’s operations in the United States, where its affiliate CBS Sports already hosts the Champions League with presenters like Abdo, Micah Richards, Thierry Henry, and Jamie Carragher. That star-studded team may now extend their presence to British screens as part of a seamless international expansion.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportTNT Sports’ decade of Champions League coverage draws to a close

It is a major turning point for TNT Sports, formerly BT Sport, which first acquired the rights in 2013 through an enormous £897 million deal that prised them away from Sky Sports. The partnership began with the 2015–16 season and grew to include coverage of the Europa League and the UEFA Conference League. However, TNT saw its exclusivity diminish in 2022 when Amazon Prime entered the fray, picking up one game per week. Now, in just two years’ time, TNT’s association with UEFA club competitions will end completely. Despite this setback, the broadcaster still holds the rights to several domestic properties, including the Premier League until 2029 and a four-year FA Cup contract secured last year that guarantees extensive third-round coverage.

Although Paramount+ has emerged victorious in this bidding war, the development places yet another financial burden on viewers already juggling subscriptions to Sky Sports, TNT, Amazon, and DAZN. With the fragmentation of sports rights accelerating, British fans may soon find themselves paying more than ever to follow Europe’s top clubs. However, there is a silver lining as reports that Paramount intends to air a selection of matches for free through Channel 5, its UK terrestrial network. This strategy mirrors its approach in other territories and could soften the blow for supporters reluctant to pay for yet another streaming platform.

Streaming giants Netflix and Disney+ also tested the waters

Although Paramount came out on top, the race was far from one-sided. Both Netflix and Disney+ reportedly explored bids, especially after Netflix’s breakout success with the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing spectacle last year. That event drew an extraordinary audience of more than 100 million viewers, convincing the streaming pioneer to continue experimenting with live sports. Its latest splash, broadcasting Paul vs. Anthony Joshua this week, suggests Netflix’s ambition in the sports market remains strong, even if it fell short here. The scale of Paramount’s investment reflects the soaring value of Europe’s top football competitions. The current set of Champions League rights is estimated at close to £3 billion per season, highlighting just how fiercely broadcasters compete for a slice of the action. UEFA’s revamped tournament format, which launched in 2024, might be a factor in driving the value even higher.

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AFPWhat happens to the Super League?

While the broadcast landscape transforms, UEFA is simultaneously working through another massive development, which is a renewed proposal for a European Super League. According to a confidential eight-month negotiation process has been underway involving UEFA, A22 Sports Management (the Super League’s backers), and powerhouse clubs Barcelona and Real Madrid. The discussions aim to bring an end to years of conflict by reshaping the structure of elite European competitions in a way that satisfies all parties. The most groundbreaking element of the proposal may be its broadcasting model. The Super League concept introduces UNIFY, a global streaming service offering both free, ad-supported broadcasts and premium paid options. Designed to give worldwide supporters unrestricted access to every match, UNIFY marks a radical departure from the existing broadcasting service. 

With Paramount+ preparing its UK takeover and UEFA weighing fundamental structural changes to European football, the mid-2020s are shaping up to be an era of profound change. How these developments intersect, and whether the new Super League format might redefine the broadcasting landscape once again, remains an open question.

Everton has long been synonymous with the development of English talent, cultivating players through one of the Premier League’s most respected academy systems.

From the legendary emergence of Wayne Rooney to modern stars like Anthony Gordon, the club has consistently provided a pathway for young players to break into the first team and make an impact on both domestic and international stages.

The club’s focus is clear: technical development, tactical intelligence, and professional growth are embedded from academy to senior squad.

Competitive youth fixtures, exposure to domestic cups give emerging players confidence and experience under pressure.

This structured approach ensures that English graduates are not only technically proficient but also resilient and tactically aware – qualities essential in modern football.

Under David Moyes, Everton’s strategy of integrating homegrown talent continues, blending experienced professionals with promising English players.

This season, Jack Grealish has become the symbol of the club’s revival, while another young talent represents the future of English defensive prospects at Goodison Park.

Why Grealish deserves a World Cup place for England

Grealish, 30, has been central to Everton’s resurgence under Moyes.

Arriving from Manchester City, Grealish has gradually regained the form that once made him a household name in England – staking his claim to be part of Thomas Tuchel’s plans heading into 2026, despite being overlooked recently.

In the 2025/26 season, he has already contributed a goal and four assists in seven Premier League appearances, playing 557 minutes – almost matching his totals from last season when he played only 721 minutes due to injury.

Known for his creativity and ability to dictate the tempo, Grealish ranks in the 6th percentile for progressive carries per 90 (6.27), 4.39 progressive passes per 90, and maintains an 84.1% pass completion rate.

His shot-creating actions per 90 sit at 4.55, while he completes nearly two successful take-ons per game.

These metrics underline his influence in Everton’s attacking transitions, providing both flair and functional output.

His 93rd-minute goal against Crystal Palace to end their 19-match unbeaten run highlighted his ability to perform under pressure, again boosting his claim to be in Tuchel’s next squad, or next summer’s roster at the very least.

Despite past injuries limiting his minutes, Grealish’s resurgence under Moyes shows that he remains a key creative fulcrum, bridging experience and leadership for Everton’s younger English talents.

However, while all eyes focus on Grealish’s headline performances, his role may impact other English players like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who thrive in similar carrying and passing areas but lack the freedom to shoot.

Everton’s system will need to balance flair and structure, ensuring Grealish’s influence does not inadvertently limit opportunities for other homegrown talents.

Why Branthwaite is the next big English talent at Everton

While Grealish is providing immediate returns, Jarrad Branthwaite represents the long-term promise of Everton’s English talent pipeline.

Born in 2002, the 6 foot 5 left-footed centre-back joined Everton from Carlisle United in January 2020 after nine league appearances.

Branthwaite has since made over 75 appearances for the senior side, featuring prominently during loan spells at Blackburn Rovers (ten appearances in 2021) and PSV Eindhoven (27 league games in 2022/23), where he scored twice, featured in European competitions, and won the KNVB Cup.

His leadership qualities and composure on the ball are complemented by defensive steel, ranking in the top 9% for clearances among Premier League defenders per 90.

Matches Played

30

Minutes

2,511

Blocks

31

Tackles

36

Challenges

20

Internationally, Branthwaite has progressed steadily through England’s youth setup, earning eight U21 caps and winning the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship before making his senior debut in June 2024 in a 3–0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Despite missing the start of the 2025/26 season due to a hamstring injury, his market value of £42m – as per Transfermarkt – and long-term contract until 2030 underscore Everton’s commitment to securing homegrown English talent.

Branthwaite – described as a “physical beast” by analyst Ben Mattinson – embodies the club’s vision: combining technical skill, tactical awareness, and maturity beyond his years.

As Everton continue to develop a squad capable of competing in the top half of the Premier League, the centre-back is expected to play a pivotal role once fully fit, complementing experienced players like Grealish and ensuring Everton’s tradition of nurturing English talent endures.

Everton’s commitment to developing English talent remains clear, blending the immediate impact of established stars like Grealish with the long-term promise of Branthwaite.

While Grealish’s resurgence provides creativity, energy, and leadership, Branthwaite represents the next generation of homegrown players ready to step into key roles.

Under Moyes, Everton continues to balance development and performance, giving both established and emerging English talents the platform to succeed.

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

Jack Grealish’s form at Everton could nudge another star out of Moyes’ best team

ByWill Miller Oct 16, 2025

Danny Rohl has officially arrived and, with that, Rangers have already reportedly joined the race to secure his first signing in the form of a talented midfielder.

Charlie Austin: Rangers should be "excited" by Rohl

After Russell Martin’s disastrous 123-day spell in charge, Rangers fans are understandably apprehensive when it comes to welcoming a young manager with open arms. Rohl arrives at just 36 years old and with just one permanent managerial role under his belt. According to former Premier League striker Charlie Austin, however, the Gers should be excited by his appointment.

In terms of the tactics that Rangers can expect, they can forget the slow build-up that Martin demanded his side to play. Rohl is far more about counter-pressing in what has become synonymous with German football over the years.

The young coach has worked with some fantastic attacking managers, including Barcelona’s Hansi Flick and Ralph Hasenhuttl when his Southampton side were at their very best.

He wasn’t their first choice, but Rohl may yet turn into the best choice at Rangers. Up first, he has the task of getting the Gers back to winning ways on the European stage against Brann, before travelling to face Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership.

Meanwhile, as another manager arrives, Kevin Thelwell and the 49ers have already reportedly joined the race to hand him his first Rangers signing.

Rangers battling to sign David Watson

As reported by TeamTalk, Rangers are now battling to sign David Watson to hand Rohl his first signing. The Kilmarnock midfielder is on course to leave as a free agent when his contract expires at the end of the season and has attracted interest from those at Ibrox as a result.

That said, the Gers aren’t alone in their pursuit. Joining them, shock league leaders Hearts have also set their sights on signing the young Scot at the end of the season. A league title could certainly hand them an advantage over Rangers for the first time in a long time.

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It’s no surprise that the top clubs are after Watson’s signature, either. The 20-year-old is one of the best young talents in Scotland and has been involved in four goals in eight league games so far this season.

Earning plenty of praise amid that form, Kilmarnock vice-captain Robbie Deas told reporters: “Davey’s fantastic, honestly. He’s one of the hardest workers you’ll ever meet. He’s absolutely fantastic. You see that today, and he’s putting those tackles in later on.”

Signing a young midfielder to match a young manager with lofty ambitions would be an ideal way for Rangers to commence the Rohl era. To do so, though, they’ll have to fend off plenty of interest.

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has calmed fears surrounding Rafael Leao after the attacker was substituted early in the 1-1 draw against Atalanta on Monday. While the Portugal winger felt some discomfort during the game, Allegri insists his early exit was merely a precautionary measure following his recent fitness struggles.

Leao withdrawn at half-time as injury fears return

Milan were forced into a precautionary change at half-time during their 1-1 Serie A draw against Atalanta, with the Portuguese international substituted after feeling discomfort in his hip. The 26-year-old forward, who had scored four goals in his last three appearances, was replaced by Christopher Nkunku as coach Allegri looked to avoid aggravating the issue.

Allegri’s decision to remove Leao sparked concern, especially with crucial fixtures on the horizon. Leao has been struggling with fitness issues since he sustained a calf injury in their first competitive game of the season in August. He then missed the first four Serie A matches before making his return in late August. Leao was then released early from Portugal’s national team camp by head coach Roberto Martinez after suffering another setback. The winger sat out the World Cup qualifier against Hungary and returned to Milan to follow a tailored rehabilitation program.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesAllegri explains Leao substitution and injury updates

Speaking to media after the match, Allegri clarified that Leao’s substitution was a precautionary move, saying: "He had a hip problem. Then at the end of the first half he wasn’t feeling great, so I decided to take him off anyway because the team needed fresh players. Rafa wasn’t getting going, so I decided to take him off."

Allegri also provided updates on striker Santiago Gimenez and defender Pervis Estupinan, both of whom have been managing knocks. “Gimenez is a bit of a knock, we’ll see about Leao, but it shouldn’t be anything special. We should also have Estupinan against Roma. These are ten days where we need to grit our teeth a bit, and then after the break we’ll start again with all the players.

“We’re having a few injuries at this point, but the team is responding well. The lads should be happy with their performance in Bergamo.”

Allegri reflects on Milan’s display against Atalanta

The game at the New Balance Arena began brightly for Milan, as Samuele Ricci’s deflected half-volley put them ahead in the fourth minute. However, Atalanta struck back through Ademola Lookman’s powerful finish in the 35th minute and the sides could not be separated over the second-half and left with a point each.

The Milan boss admitted frustration over his side’s first-half errors but was pleased with the team’s response after the break. “We were forced to defend because we made a lot of technical mistakes on outbound balls. The second half was a good one, with plenty of chances to score. We made bad decisions in the final 20 meters, where we absolutely must improve,” Allegri stated.

Despite conceding what he called an “avoidable goal,” Allegri saw encouraging signs in Milan’s approach. “We need to improve our scoring percentage and our passing choices in the final 20 meters. This team needs to be more confident than they are. The lads should be happy with their performance in Bergamo. We’re extending our positive streak.”

Atalanta, who pressed aggressively throughout, forced several crucial saves from Mike Maignan as Milan managed to hold firm under pressure.

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AFPLeao’s season form and Milan’s Serie A outlook

Leao’s early exit overshadowed what has been an efficient start to the campaign. With three starts and four goals across all competitions since his return from injury, he has been central to Milan’s attacking output, thriving in a role closer to goal and showcasing improved efficiency. His fitness will be key as Allegri’s side faces a crucial stretch of fixtures before the international break.

The draw in Bergamo marked Milan’s second consecutive stalemate, following another 2-2 result against Pisa. With Napoli and Roma both in strong form, Milan’s margin for error is shrinking. However, the Rossoneri remain well-placed in second with 18 points from nine games, a solid foundation as they continue to rebuild under Allegri’s system.

“Now on Sunday we have a good match against Roma,” Allegri said. “We need to grit our teeth, stay compact, and finish this run of matches strongly before the break.”

Attention now turns to Sunday’s high-powered encounter against Roma at San Siro. Allegri is optimistic about having both Leao and Gimenez available for selection, with further medical tests confirming that the winger’s hip issue is minor. The upcoming fixture carries major implications in the Serie A title race, with Milan hoping to close the gap on Napoli and maintain pressure on Roma and Inter.

Arsenal finally ended their long search for a prolific number nine with the signing of Viktor Gyokeres in the summer, and Mikel Arteta is silently hoping the Swede can replicate his heroics from Portugal.

Over two sensational campaigns for Sporting CP, Gyokeres scored 97 goals in 102 appearances — firing Rui Borges’ side to a domestic double last season and motivating sporting director Andrea Berta to splash a potential £64 million on him.

The Gunners agreed to pay a guaranteed £55 million, plus a further £9 million in potential add-ons for the 27-year-old, and you can make a serious case that this comes as a bargain fee.

Gyokeres’ proven goalscoring consistency in one of Europe’s top five leagues, not to mention the fact he’s currently in the prime of his career, emphasise how Berta potentially secured one of the signings of the summer.

The former Coventry City and Swansea City star also has some experience in England already, with Berta reportedly persuading Arsenal to move for Gyokeres over fellow long-time striker target Benjamin Sesko (The Athletic).

Arsenal made proposals for Sesko in the summer of 2024 and in January this year, making multiple attempts to sign the Slovenian, but Berta’s arrival prompted the north Londoners to shift focus towards Gyokeres instead.

Thus far, despite barely having a sniff against tough opposition in Man United and Liverpool, Gyokeres did net a Premier League brace during Arsenal’s 5-0 win over Leeds United, with the player still arguably finding his feet in Europe’s toughest, most competitive division.

That being said, some critics already have doubts, like Rio Ferdinand, with the pundit telling his YouTube channel that he’s yet to be convinced by Gyokeres after his performance at Anfield just prior to the international break.

Now, ex-Arsenal left-back Gael Clichy has explained his own doubts about the centre-forward in an interview with The Metro.

Gael Clichy explains why Arsenal could regret signing Viktor Gyokeres

The Frenchman says that Gyokeres lacks the link-up play to help Arsenal, insisting that now-Liverpool star Alexander Isak was far more suited to Arteta’s system.

Football is often very reactionary at the best of times, and perhaps Gyokeres has come in for some unfair criticism since his arrival from Sporting due to the heavy expectations on his shoulders.

Arsenal are desperate to end their two-decade-long wait for a Premier League title, with Gyokeres widely seen as one of the potentially game-changing signings to help them do just that.

Arteta’s side take on Nottingham Forest in the early kick-off on Saturday following the return from internationals, and Gyokeres can take advantage of the visitors settling under new manager Ange Postecoglou.

A convincing display against Forest in a must-win game will do wonders to restore faith in Gyokeres, with Postecoglou’s brand of open, high-pressing football potentially playing right into the number nine’s hands.

Leeds United did not add any new players to their squad to bolster their options at the top end of the pitch on deadline day before the summer transfer window officially slammed shut.

That was despite the fact that Daniel Farke claimed that it would be “difficult” for the club to avoid relegation from the Premier League if they did not add more quality to their frontline.

The German head coach was clear that he wanted more recruits to improve his options in the final third to give his side the best chances of avoiding the drop back down to the Championship.

Unfortunately, the club were unable to deliver on what the manager wanted. The Athletic’s Beren Cross has since reported that the club felt that there were not many wingers on the market who were better than Daniel James and Wilfried Gnonto, who scored four goals combined in their last season in the Premier League.

Despite that claim from sources inside the club, it was well-reported that Leeds were interested in a deal to sign Harry Wilson from Fulham on deadline day.

Why missing out on Harry Wilson was a blow for Leeds

The Championship champions reportedly agreed a deal with the Cottagers to sign the Wales international by meeting their asking price on the final day of the window.

However, Fulham then had a late change of mind and opted to keep the left-footed star at Craven Cottage, which left the Whites with little time to find an alternative before the window slammed shut.

Ultimately, Leeds should have known that they needed another option on the right wing the second they were promoted to the Premier League, given James’ aforementioned struggles in the division in the past, so there cannot be too much sympathy given to them for missing out on Wilson on deadline day.

However, it was a blow to miss out on the winger at the time because it then left the club without enough time to source a replacement before the window closed, and it was a blow because Wilson is a quality player who could have been an excellent signing.

As you can see in the table above, the Welsh wizard is a proven Premier League performer who has delivered ten goals and seven assists in the last two seasons, outperforming his xG in both campaigns.

Given that James has never scored more than four goals in a Premier League season in his career, Wilson’s tally of six in the top-flight last term suggests that he could have been an upgrade on what Farke currently has at his disposal.

Given Farke’s claim that it will be difficult for Leeds to avoid the drop without any additions to the frontline, the club must now consider looking into the free agent market, as they did around this time last year with the signing of Josuha Guilavogui to bolster their midfield.

There are some interesting names in the free agent pool, including recently released former Leeds striker Patrick Bamford, and one player who could fit the bill for the Whites is Hakim Ziyech.

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The Morocco international is a reported transfer target for Spanish side Elche, after leaving Al Duhail earlier this summer, and Leeds should now push to convince him to make a move back to the Premier League this season.

Why Leeds should sign Hakim Ziyech

The West Yorkshire outfit should attempt to sign Ziyech on a free transfer as an alternative to Wilson because it is clear that they need an addition to their options in that position.

James’ historical struggles in the Premier League and his poor start to the current campaign, with zero goals and zero ‘big chances’ created, suggest that he is not going to be the answer to their attacking woes any time soon.

Bringing in Ziyech, who is vastly experienced at the top level, on a free transfer could be a shrewd and relatively low-risk move that could pay off big time for Farke and his side.

The 32-year-old star has played over 200 Eredivisie matches, over 60 games in the Premier League, and 45 times in the Champions League, per Transfermarkt, which shows that he has had a fantastic career and proven himself in big competitions.

Ziyech, as you can see in the clip above, showed signs of quality during his time with Premier League giants Chelsea, with this stunning strike against Spurs arguably the individual highlight of his spell at Stamford Bridge.

As you can see in the table above, the Moroccan wizard delivered an eye-catching return of 21 ‘big chances’ created in 35 league starts for the Blues.

James, meanwhile, has created 16 ‘big chances’ in 109 appearances in the Premier League, per Sofascore, for Manchester United, Fulham, and Leeds combined, which shows that he does not offer anywhere near as much creative quality as Ziyech.

The former Ajax star, whose touch was hailed as “extraordinary” by Galatasaray boss Okan Buruk, also scored 79 goals in 216 Eredivisie games earlier in his career, per Transfermarkt, which means that he can also offer a goal threat when given regular game time.

At the age of 32, Ziyech may not be at the peak of his powers or a signing that would be as exciting as it would have been five years ago, but he is still at a stage where he can contribute at the top end of the pitch and provide a touch of class that Farke’s side are clearly lacking.

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The Whites clearly wanted a left-footed right-wing option, given the interest in Wilson, and the Morocco international could be a dream alternative option now that the club are restricted to free agents.