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“Our bench strength has been as strong as it has ever been. That’s a great sign for Indian cricket”

ESPNcricinfo staff06-Mar-2021The 3-1 victory against England was Virat Kohli’s 10th series win in a row at home as India captain. It extended India’s dominance at home to 13 straight series wins with their last home defeat coming against Alastair Cook’s England in 2012.The manner in which India dominated England, especially in the last three Tests – they won the pink-ball ball Test in two days and the fourth Test in three days – no doubt pleased Kohli. According to him, the biggest strength India showed was their “comeback” after losing the series opener in Chennai by massive margin of 227 runs. Following are the key men and points Kohli pointed out during the presentation that played a key role in India winning the series and booking a berth in the World Test Championship final.On the two key match-winners: R Ashwin and Rohit Sharma
“Ashwin has obviously been a banker for us in the past six-seven years in Test cricket. His numbers speak volumes of what he has done in the last few years.Related

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“Rohit’s knock was the defining moment in us coming back into the series. Getting 160 (161) on that pitch is as good as getting 250 on any good batting wicket. It is definitely one of his best Test knocks, if not the best. That gave us the kind of momentum we needed as a side and it really got us into the contest. So, yeah, it was an outstanding innings.”He batted really well at the top of the order throughout the series, he gave us important knocks, important partnerships as well which is unnoticed when you don’t get those three figures.”On what pleased him the most after the first Test defeat
“The comeback pleased me the most. The first game was a bit of an aberration in the way that we play as a team – that was just a hiccup. England outplayed us. The toss became very crucial because of the way the pitch played on the first two days; I don’t think the bowlers were in the contest at all.3:22

What made Axar Patel so effective?

“From the next game onwards it was more exciting cricket and we got into the game early. Even in the second innings (of the first Test) in Chennai we bowled and fielded with a lot more intensity. So for me the comeback was way more pleasing and the way we batted in the second Test match in Chennai.”On Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar making an impact when it mattered
“Our bench strength has been as strong as it has ever been. That’s a great sign for Indian cricket. The idea was exactly this: to have youngsters who come in and perform with fearlessness, take the situations on so that when the transition happens eventually it is not difficult for Indian cricket and the standard does not fall below what we have set in the last few years.”It is up to the individuals as well, like taking the situation on, like Rishabh and Washy did with that game-changing partnership and then Axar as well – a 100-run partnership. These are the kind of situations where individuals stand up and say: ‘okay, I’m going to make a mark and be that player who can be counted on.’ That is what exactly what they have done.”On India’s 13-series winning streak at home
“You obviously are happy when you are winning so many series but there are always things to improve. Like, after the first game in Chennai, we had to pick up our body language. We spoke about the fact that nothing is a given whether you are playing at home or away because every team at international level is a quality side and we need to be at our A game to be able to beat them. And that is exactly what our mindset is. I know in the future as well we’ll have hiccups, we’ll have a few things that will be a concern, but we will have to keep ironing them out and that’s been the hallmark of our team.”

West Ham United have reportedly now made an offer worth up to £25m to sign another striker.

West Ham sign Niclas Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund

The Hammers’ busy transfer window is showing no signs of slowing up, with Niclas Fullkrug joining Crysencio Summerville through the London Stadium door. The attacking duo have arrived from Borussia Dortmund and Leeds United respectively, becoming the club’s fourth and fifth signings after Luis Guilherme, Wes Foderingham and Max Kilman earlier in the summer.

Speaking after putting pen to paper with the Irons, Fullkrug said: “I’m delighted to be here, and I can’t wait to get out on the pitch with my new teammates. I think the Premier League is the best league in the world, and for me it is the right time to move over to England and play for a big Club like West Ham.

“I have been thinking about West Ham for a long time now – I know the Technical Director Tim Steidten very well, because we have history at Werder Bremen together, and I have watched some games and seen how much quality there is in the team.

“The chance to play under the Head Coach [Lopetegui] is also really exciting. His playing style is important for me, and I am confident that under him I will be able to perform at my best, and score lots of goals.”

Steidten was also excited to have brought in Fullkrug, adding: “We are delighted to have signed Niclas. I have worked with him previously and I know what he will bring to us in terms of his physical and finishing qualities, as well as his character and mentality.

“He has enjoyed a really positive last couple of seasons, both at club level, where he played in the Champions League final last season, and with Germany at the Euros this summer, and he joins us with a clear desire to build upon that progress and prove himself in the Premier League.”

However, it looks as if Fullkrug isn’t the only striker wanted by new manager Julen Lopetegui, following a recent update.

West Ham make £25m bid for Tammy Abraham

According to reports in Italy, relayed by Sport Witness, West Ham’s offer to sign AS Roma forward Tammy Abraham is worth up to £25m.

It is stated that Lopetegui’s side have made an attempt to sign Abraham and it appears the offer is actually more than the £21.4m asking price, however, the Englishman doesn’t seem to be keen on a return to the Premier League.

AC Milan are also credited with an interest in the ex-Chelsea striker, who would rather move to the San Siro than the London Stadium.

With Fullkrug now through the door, though, West Ham may even drop their interest in Abraham altogether. However, it appears as if their £25m bid would be enough for Roma to sell, and with Lopetegui having just Danny Ings and Michail Antonio to rival Fullkrug, it could potentially still be one to keep an eye on.

Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero has branded Liverpool's eight-point lead at the top of the Premier League table "insignificant".

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Liverpool have healthy lead at top of tableAguero backing Manchester City to fight backTwo teams meet at Anfield on SundayFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Another intriguing weekend of Premier League action saw Liverpool extend their lead over defending champions Manchester City to eight points. The Reds saw off struggling Southampton at St Mary's to maintain their impressive start to the season, while Manchester City crashed to a fifth-straight defeat in all competitions to Tottenham.

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Liverpool's healthy lead after 12 games ensures Arne Slot's team are now red-hot favourites to claim the Premier League title. However, Aguero says there is still a long way to go in the title race and is backing Pep Guardiola's side to produce another stunning comeback, like the one he played a central role in in 2012 as City claimed the title on the final day having chased down Manchester United.

WHAT AGUERO SAID

Aguero told : “Pundits are always quick to call the race and my response is always the same: it ain't over until it's over. The current point advantage may be insignificant by the end of the season. We've seen that happen frequently. The 2011-12 season had us eight points below United and we took that trophy. Of course, beating Liverpool will certainly help, but it's not wise to make such sweeping statements when the tournament still has a long way to go.”

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Getty Images/GOALWHAT NEXT FOR LIVERPOOL AND MAN CITY

Manchester City do have the chance to cut the gap on Liverpool on Sunday when the two teams meet at Anfield in the Premier League. Victory for the Cityzens will leave Guardiola's men just five points behind, but another defeat will see Liverpool move 11 points clear of their title rivals.

West Indies’ newly appointed Test captain has hailed his predecessor for doing a “superb job”

ESPNcricinfo staff15-Mar-2021Kraigg Brathwaite has taken over from Jason Holder, who led West Indies in 37 Test matches•Getty ImagesKraigg Brathwaite, West Indies’ newly appointed full-time Test captain, has said it’s a “privilege” to take over from Jason Holder.Holder, who became captain in 2015, led West Indies in 37 Tests before opting out of the recent tour of Bangladesh amid concerns over Covid-19. Brathwaite led a depleted West Indies side to an unexpected 2-0 Test series win, following which CWI gave him the captaincy full-time, with lead selector Roger Harper contending that he “was able to motivate his players to play to a very high level and create the culture we are looking to establish where the team showed a collective determination to fight and a real hunger for success.”Related

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Ahead of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on March 21 in Antigua, Brathwaite hailed his predecessor, who remains a key member of the West Indies side as one of the world’s premier allrounders.”I just want to thank god for giving me this opportunity, and also want to say I thought Jason Holder did a superb job leading the Test team for the last five years, so obviously taking over from him is a privilege,” Brathwaite said. “I was very happy [to be made captain], obviously very proud, and I look forward to the challenge.”Speaking about the Bangladesh tour, Brathwaite said he had tried to help the young players in the West Indies team back their own ability.”Well, I really enjoyed that tour,” he said. “For me, I just made sure I let the guys know, to believe in themselves and believe in their ability. I’ve played youth cricket with most of those guys, and if not, first-class cricket for a number of years, so I know the ability they have. Just assured them that they can do it.”Just trust in your plans and believe in them, and prepare well. The word attitude is always key, and I thought we did that well, and it’s important for us as a team to continue that same attitude.”On his own batting, Brathwaite said he had been working on his balance against fast bowling in the lead-up to the Sri Lanka series.”The more you’re balanced, the better your shots, and that was something important for me,” he said. “I also went about planning even better, in terms of how I want to go about my innings, and topping up on power. But mainly getting my balance in order, and backing yourself. You always have plans, and it’s to really trust them, that was the key for me. Planning was very very important.”

Leeds United have been knocked out of the League Cup at the earliest possible opportunity after a 3-0 defeat to Middlesbrough at Elland Road on Tuesday night.

The Whites have now conceded six goals in their first two games of the season in all competitions, having drawn 3-3 with Portsmouth in their first Championship match on Saturday.

All three of Middlesbrough's goals came in the space of 17 minutes in the second half, from the 50th through to the 67th, after it had been a fairly even first 45.

Whilst there are obvious concerns defensively, given the six goals conceded in two matches, Daniel Farke's forwards let him down badly against Boro – including Joel Piroe, who was even worse than Brenden Aaronson.

Why Joel Piroe was worse than Brenden Aaronson

Both players were selected as part of the three attacking midfield players behind Patrick Bamford in the League Cup clash but failed to provide a goal or an assist, as Leeds failed to score on the night.

However, Aaronson did create one 'big chance' for his teammates and this suggests that he was slightly unfortunate to end the match without an assist to his name.

The USA international, who scored in the 3-3 draw with Portsmouth on Saturday, did not have an outstanding display but still outperformed Piroe.

G/A

0

0

Big chances missed

0

1

Big chances created

1

0

Pass accuracy

89%

76%

Possession lost

8x

10x

As you can see in the table above, the Dutchman was far less secure in possession and missed a 'big chance' to find the back of the net, without creating any for his fellow attackers.

The former Swansea star, who had fewer touches (33) than goalkeeper Karl Darlow (45), was awarded a match rating of 3/10 by LeedsLive reporter Beren Cross, who described the attacking midfielder as a 'non-existent threat'.

Overall, Piroe let Farke down badly because he stepped into the side and did not perform to a high-level to help Leeds qualify for the next round. On another day, the left-footed ace could have scored his 'big chance' and it may have been a different match.

What Farke should do next

The German head coach must now ruthlessly ditch Piroe from the starting XI for the clash with West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns on Saturday.

It was a huge opportunity for the 25-year-old to show the manager that he deserves more minutes on the pitch. Instead, he has given the former Norwich tactician a reason not to select him from the start in the coming matches.

Georginio Rutter should now return to the team in the number ten position due to his immense creativity in the middle of the park for the West Yorkshire outfit.

The French wizard created 22 'big chances' and assisted 15 goals in 45 appearances in the Championship during the 2023/24 campaign, which shows that he can consistently split open opposition defences to create high-quality opportunities for the side.

Piroe, meanwhile, created just three 'big chances' and assisted three goals in 41 outings in the second tier for Leeds and Swansea, who he started the season with, last term.

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ByDan Emery Aug 14, 2024

These statistics, and the Dutchman's dreadful display against Boro, suggests that Rutter is the clear favourite to start in a number ten position, which is where the creativity should be coming from in the XI.

Their 48-run win is their 15th consecutive T20 victory in the UAE as captain Afghan equalled Dhoni’s record for the most wins in this format

Firdose Moonda19-Mar-2021Afghanistan sealed the T20I series against Zimbabwe, with a match to play, in another authoritative display with both bat and ball. Their 48-run win is their 15th consecutive T20 victory in the UAE and captain Asghar Afghan has equalled MS Dhoni’s record for the most wins in this format.Usman Ghani and Karim Janat’s 102-run second-wicket stand laid the foundation for Afghanistan to post a total close to 200. They fell seven short, but it was still more than enough against a Zimbabwe side that has not come to grips with how to pace a chase. Zimbabwe’s biggest partnership of 62-run between Ryan Burl and Richmond Mutumbami kept them in the game but collapses at the beginning and end of their innings meant they were always behind the game. Zimbabwe slumped to 56 for 5 inside seven overs and then lost four wickets for seven runs in seven balls at the end. They have not won a T20I since October 2019.Lucky No.13 Mohammad Nabi had gone 12 T20Is without a wicket before he bowled Zimbabwean captain Sean Williams, who missed a slog sweep and lost his offstump. The dismissal was celebrated enthusiastically by Afghanistan’s batting coach HD Ackerman but it wasn’t Nabi’s biggest contribution on the day. That came a little earlier with his 40 off 15 balls, and later, when he ended the 62-run stand between Richmond Mutumbami and Ryan Burl that threatened to keep Zimbabwe in the hunt.With the bat, Nabi took Afghanistan’s total from middle to mammoth and was an exhibition of power-hitting. Nabi struck three sixes off legspinner Brandon Mavuta in the 16th over, all over long-on to bring up 24 runs off 7 balls for himself and elevate Afghanistan’s scoring rate over nine runs an over. He hit one more six, off Muzarabani, when the tall seamer missed a yorker before holing out off a slower ball in the penultimate over of Afghanistan’s innings. By then, the stage was set for Asghar Afghan and Rashid Khan to have some fun and they took 18 runs off the last over to take Afghanistan close to 200.Rashid’s records mount The third-highest wicket-taker in T20Is. All because of three wickets in one over that ended Zimbabwe’s hopes of staying in the series. Rashid Khan went for runs – 23 in his first two overs, 21 of them off Burl – but he had the final say once again. Searching for big runs, Burl was caught at deep mid-wicket when he didn’t get hold of the first delivery of Rashid’s third over. Two balls after that, Brandon Mavuta swept to long-on. And three balls later, Donald Tiripano was bowled as he missed the reverse sweep.Rashid Khan poses with a special cap gifted to him on the occasion of his 50th T20I appearance•Abu Dhabi CricketPower in the powerplay Left-arm seamer Richard Ngarava’s two overs for three runs in the powerplay kept Afghanistan quiet in the opening period of their innings but with one over of fielding restriction left, Karim Janat decided to up the ante. He took 20 runs off Blessing Muzarabani’s second over including a six down the ground, two cuts that went for four, and upper cut off a short, wide delivery that sailed for six. Janat left Afghanistan one away from fifty runs at the end of the powerplay and had raced to 33 off 18 balls. While Ghani farmed most of the strike in the next six overs, Janat brought up his fifty off 31 balls in the 13th over.The first no-baller no-one wants Tinashe Kamunhukamwe enjoyed Zimbabwe’s best batting return from the first T20I and their worst in this match when he was dismissed off the first ball of the innings. He was hit on the back leg by a Naveen-ul-Haq ball that moved in sharply from outside off stump. Kamunhukamwe cleared his front leg to try and hit it to the leg side but missed and was struck on the knee, as the pad slipped down. Aleem Dar gave it out lbw, although there may be an argument for the ball sliding past leg stump especially as the wicketkeeper was moving that way, but Kamunhukamwe had more to worry about than that. He needed on-field treatment for what will likely be a painful bruise and had to be helped off the field.Decisions in the spotlight Zimbabwe had another batsman who may also have felt aggrieved with the decision made against him. Richmond Mutumbami had reached a run-a-ball 21 when he missed a reverse-sweep and was given out lbw to Nabi, although replays showed he may have been hit outside the line. There is no DRS in this series, but it would have been welcome.

Former Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius has revealed he is pondering retirement at the age of 31 after failing to find a new club.

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Karius without a club since Newcastle exitGerman keeper considering retirement aged 31Opens up about 2018 Champions League final errorsFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Six years after the aftermath of the ill-fated 2018 Champions League final, Karius has had a wild and downward ride, playing in just 74 club games since May 2018. Karius' two-season stint with Newcastle ended over the summer, leaving him without a club. As he continues to look for a new destination for his services, Karius has now revealed that he is 'considering retirement' from the game if he fails to find a club soon.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesWHAT KARIUS SAID

Speaking to SPORTbible, Karius said: “If you've been out for as long as I have then you obviously have to consider retirement. I haven’t made a decision yet because there's no need to. I'm still fit. I still have all the potential and the ability.

“But if a door doesn't open then I have to be honest and say to myself, ‘Listen, I've got many other things that I can pursue that excite me, that I enjoy and put effort into.’ I don't think it would hit me that hard because I've already been going through this process over the last few years.”

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The 2018 Champions League final saw Karius make two grave errors to hand Real Madrid a walk in the park against Liverpool. After the game, it was revealed that the goalkeeper had suffered a concussion after an off-the-ball incident with Sergio Ramos. However, the German was never absolved of his errors and decided not to stay at Liverpool to get away from the critics, which he mentions was possibly a mistake.

He said: "I was trying not to pay any interest but you couldn't get away from it all. You still notice. People are telling you. I was getting confronted all the time. And that's why I wanted a fresh start rather than staying at Liverpool, where I could have been behind Alisson, and still getting game time.

“Maybe in the end that would have been the better step but it's difficult to say at that stage. The experience made me stronger as a person. It's part of my story. It's part of my history. At the end of the day, I was a Liverpool player.

“I reached the Champions League final. It didn't play out how I wanted but less than one percent of professional footballers play in a Champions League final. We did great things. You can't deny that.”

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WHAT NEXT FOR KARIUS?

The former Liverpool goalkeeper remains optimistic but realistic about the future as he continues to look for a new club.

Wayne Rooney has joined a host of Manchester United stars in mourning the death of the club's beloved receptionist Kath Phipps.

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Phipps dies aged 85Had been associated with the club since the 60sFormer & present Man Utd stars pay tributesFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Kath began her journey with the club in 1968, serving as a telephone switchboard operator during the era of the legendary Sir Matt Busby. Over the decades, she held various roles, but her impact went far beyond the confines of her job description. She became a symbol of loyalty and warmth, embodying the spirit of Manchester United through generations of change.

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Phipps, whose association with the Red Devils spanned an extraordinary 55 years, was not only a devoted employee but also a beloved presence to players, and staff alike. Her passing, announced on Thursday, has led to an overwhelming response on social media from those fortunate enough to have known her including Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney, and Marcus Rashford among others.

TRIBUTES TO KATH

Rooney created a collage of three pictures and wrote: "The heart and soul of Manchester United. Everything what the club is about. A legend who will be greatly missed. Thanks for the memories Kathy. My thoughts are with family and friends."

Harry Maguire added: "A legend that will never be forgotten. I will miss you. We will miss you. RIP Kath."

Diogo Dalot wrote: "🤍😔 we love you Kath. Thank you for showing everyday what this club is about and taking care of us ❤️".

Patrice Evra said: "Losing a family member is never easy."

David de Gea said: "Such a wonderful woman! Thanks for taking care of everyone ❤️"

Mary Earps on her Instagram story wrote: "Heaven gained an incredible woman today. One of the first faces I met at United and made me feel at home straight away with her kind nature. So glad our worlds collided and we became friends. One of a kind and the heartbeat of the club. Rest easy Kath, you'll never be forgotten."

And Rashford wrote: "Awful news, admired by all at the club and beyond, you will be missed ❤️"

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'HEARTBROKEN' MAN UTD ISSUE STATEMENT

Kath’s connection with the players extended beyond professional interactions. She formed meaningful relationships with many of them and even featured in Netflix’s acclaimed documentary about David Beckham. Beckham himself publicly honoured her contribution in May 2022 when she was presented with a prestigious Service to Football Award.

Manchester United put out a statement which read: "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved colleague Kath Phipps at the age of 85. An omnipresent figure at Manchester United since the late 1960s, Kath worked for the club for over 55 years in a variety of roles, but her contribution went beyond any particular job title.

"A childhood United fan from Irlam, Kath became the Reds’ switchboard operator in September 1968, shortly after the Reds’ first European Cup success, and was soon forging friendships with Sir Matt Busby, Jimmy Murphy and United’s star-studded squad, spending countless hours with Ballon d’Or winners George Best, Bobby Charlton and Denis Law as they signed autographs to send to their fans.

"Having become a key member of the club’s office staff in the ensuing years, Kath later became a matchday fixture at Old Trafford’s directors’ entrance and took on the role of training ground receptionist, ensuring that any visitor to Carrington was greeted by the cheeriest of welcomes. For regulars, that greeting would extend to warm hugs and friendly chats as Kath came to embody the familial atmosphere underpinning the club's culture.

"If Kath ever had a bad day, she never brought it to work; her positive attitude helped set the mood for everyone entering the training ground, always ready to lend an ear and offer words of encouragement to anyone who needed them – be they megastar footballers, casual staff or occasional visitors.

"Kath’s contribution to the cause was always recognised by those around her. When her husband, Richard, passed away, Sir Alex Ferguson took his squad along to the funeral to pay their respects and stand in solidarity with Kath as she grieved. During 2020’s mid-pandemic lockdown, she was visited at home by players and staff members who wanted to ensure she had company. In 2022, she was recognised by the League Managers’ Association with a Service to Football award, prompting public tributes from David Beckham, Gary Neville and others who appreciated her role in their careers and in the day-to-day workings of the club. Kath was a one-woman institution, whose memory will be cherished by everyone at the club who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in peace, Kath."

Leeds United are keeping close tabs on a potential new attacker in the final stages of the summer transfer window as they look to bolster their ranks in a bid to secure promotion from the Championship.

Leeds endure slow start to the season

Daniel Farke's side have not enjoyed the first week of the Championship season, and are yet to record their first win of the campaign.

In a summer that has been overshadowed by departures, Georginio Rutter is the latest on the move, with the Frenchman set to join Brighton in a £40m deal that will become a new record signing for the Seagulls.

After snatching a late equaliser on the opening day of the season to draw 3-3 with Portsmouth, Leeds followed that up with a 3-0 home loss against Middlesbrough in the EFL Cup first round, before drawing 0-0 with last season's fellow playoff side West Bromwich Albion, leaving them 16th in the Championship after two games and already four points behind both Burnley and Watford.

Leeds in transfer talks to sign new £8m striker who could replace Rutter

He could be the man to replace Rutter at Elland Road.

2 ByBen Browning Aug 18, 2024

Speaking before the draw at The Hawthorns, Farke revealed that he still wanted four new faces in the final days of the summer transfer window.

"We need cover at full-back, a midfielder, a winger or offensive player and after Georgi (departs) a second offensive player. They need the full package in all areas. You are not a top player unless you deliver goals and assists."

"They have to the right personality, mentality and be affordable. (It's) not easy to attract this quality. It's easier in the Premier League. This is what we work on."

Now, it has emerged that they are keeping a close eye on someone who fits just that description.

Leeds United chase "super talent" forward

That comes with reliable reporter Mike McGrath of The Telegraph revealing that Leeds are continuing to keep an eye on former Leeds and Tottenham winger Jack Clarke as they seek reinforcements.

As per McGrath, the Yorkshire outfit are "well aware" of the winger, who scored 15 goals for Sunderland in the Championship last season, and a potential move is "one to watch" in the final two weeks of the transfer window.

Jack Clarke's 23/24 Championship season

Appearances

40

Goals

15

Assists

4

Minutes per goal/assist

191

After leaving Leeds for Tottenham back in 2019, Clarke, valued at £25m by Sunderland, has gone on to become one of the Championship's most skilful forwards despite still being just 23 years old.

He was singled out for high praise by former Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray back in 2023, who dubbed him a "super talent" after one performance against Blackburn Rovers.

“He was amazing tonight. Scored two great goals, earned the penalty, he stuck it away, which shows the confidence level he’s got to stand up and take the penalty, and the composure for his second goal."

“But not just the goal. The more the game went on, the more this team knows to give it to Clarke who can run it 40 yards up the pitch, he can cut inside, pass it to people in the box, he can shoot."

“He’s a super talent, he’s a great kid."

Clarke is now down to the final two years of his £17,000-per-week deal in the north east, and so far there have been no assurances that he will pen a new contract with the Black Cats, which could convince them to part ways with him should a suitable offer come in during the final days of the transfer window.

Would he be the right move for Leeds?

Lamine Yamal's agent Jorge Mendes has given confirmation that the Golden Boy winner's foreseeable future will be in Catalonia.

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Yamal set to renew Barca contractAgent Jorge Mendes confirms the newsHas €1bn release clause in current dealFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Lamine Yamal has become one of the biggest talents in world football at the age of just 17, creating numerous records at Barcelona and becoming arguably one of the best players in the world. Now, the attacker is set to continue his story in Blaugrana colours as his agent Jorge Mendes has confirmed he will sign a renewal at Camp Nou.

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Yamal first broke into the Barcelona first team under Xavi at the end of the 2022-23 season, before making his way into the starting XI in the 2023-24 season. In October last year, Barca renewed Yamal's contract until 2026, inserting a €1 billion release clause and showing massive faith in the youngster's potential.

In fact, in February earlier this year, sporting director Deco was confident about tying Yamal down with a new deal. “We will extend Lamine Yamal’s contract when he turns 18,” he told Esports3. “We are not afraid that he will leave because of the pact agreed upon when Lamine signed his last official document. We have a contract for the next eight years.”

WHAT JORGE MENDES SAID

Speaking to reporters, Mendes confirmed that Yamal is going nowhere. "Of course he will renew with Barca, Lamine is a Barca player and he will sign a new contract,” Mendes said at the Golden Boy ceremony.

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Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR LAMINE YAMAL?

Yamal sustained an unfortunate ankle injury during his team's chastening 1-0 defeat to Leganes on Sunday evening, which will see him remain on the sidelines for at least 3-4 weeks. Hansi Flick will be sweating upon the youngster's fitness, given that Barcelona are set to participate in the Spanish Super Cup next month.