He’s been one of the stories of the season and many would argue Jamie Vardy had as much right to bring home the PFA Player of the Year award as team-mate Riyad Mahrez.
But the Foxes will be without their man-of-the-moment for one of the biggest games in the history of English football on Sunday as Leicester City travel to Manchester United with the chance to win the title.
Vardy was given an additional one game ban for angrily confronting referee Jonathan Moss following his dismissal for diving against West Ham earlier this month.
Few would argue if you say Leicester are a better team with Vardy, but without him against Swansea City last week they looked utterly flawless. Leonardo Ulloa gave them a completely different dimension and game plan and if you couple that with the non-stop endeavour given by Shinji Okazaki, you’ve got an extremely powerful and distinct forward line-up.
As we know, Riyad Mahrez has been superb all season and the Algerian shows no signs of letting up as the campaign comes to an end. With the Champions League on the horizon, he will know the world will be watching on Sunday and he’ll be wanting to impress the media in what is one of biggest games in Premier League history.
They’ve got the ever reliable Danny Drinkwater, whilst former Birmingham winger Demarai Gray has been extremely impressive when he’s been given the opportunity towards the end of games.
Completing the job is all that remains to end to their season, and doing it in front of the Old Trafford crowd would have a hint of ‘it could have been you’ about it. ManUnited were widely expected to be the ones challenging for the title, but instead it will be Leicester who could grab the crown at the home of the 20-time English champions.
Few would have thought that nine months ago the 5000/1 outsiders could have been crowned champions for the first time in their league history, but all they need to do this weekend is win and the biggest prize in world football is theirs. The last time the Foxes won at Old Trafford was eighteen years ago in 1998, and each of their last six visits have been underwhelming defeats.
But United do have an agenda of their own still to fulfil, with a top-four berth still extremely getable, and seemingly the only thing that will see Louis van Gaal hold on to his job. It’s as big a game for United as it is for Leicester, and there should be no complacency.
Even if Leicester can only draw on Sunday, they could still take the title should Spurs fail to win at Chelsea on Monday. With the odds well and truly in the Foxes’ favour and Tottenham seemingly tripping up at the last hurdle, it could be in the bag with out without Vardy.
He’s been excellent, but Leicester can go on and do this without him.
Back in 2012, a European Championship that Spain claimed, six players sat atop the goal scoring leaderboard with an output of three goals. Spain weere powered by Fernando Torres, and it was him credited with the Golden Boot, courtesy of also registering an assist in the tournament while playing less minutes than Germany’s Mario Gomez.
As the field of teams increases to 24 countries, up from the 16, this year’s EURO-bound stars have a better chance than ever to find the back of the net regularly. This should lead to an increased chance to help distinguish one prolific goalscorer above the rest of the pack. However, it would take a heroic effort to beat Michel Platini’s record of nine goals in one tournament, achieved in 1984.
In three of the last four competitions, the mark of the top goalscorer was five. Which player is most likely to accomplish the feat and win the EURO 2016 Golden Boot? ere are FIVE candidates…
Thomas Muller, Germany
Football – Bayern Munich v AC Milan – Audi Cup Semi Final – Pre Season Friendly Tournament – Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany – 4/8/15Bayern Munich’s Thomas MullerAction Images via Reuters / Jason CairnduffLivepicEDITORIAL USE ONLY.
Muller, always has a tendency to step up in big tournaments. He finished the 2014 World Cup with five goals, earning him the silver boot. With nine goals in 10 appearances in this year’s EURO qualifying, his play dictates that he is seeking an upgrade to gold.
The 26-year old Bayern Munich product scored 32 goals this year, his most productive season yet. Muller will be relied upon heavily by a relatively young Germany squad that is trying to claim a fourth EURO title, which would be the most by any country in event history.
Muller’s supreme finishing touch will be on display in Group C, where Germany are expected to emerge as the top seed, as their counterparts are Northern Ireland, Poland, and Ukraine. Muller should be able to exit the group stage at a goal per game pace, if not more.
The Bookmakers Odds: 7/1
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal
Ronaldo was one of the half a dozen players to sit atop the goal scoring table with three strikes in 2012. One of the greatest footballers to ever play the game and a behemoth name in this generation, Ronaldo has shown no signs of slowing down.
Ronaldo, 31, scored 51 goals in 48 appearances with Real Madrid last season, his fifth straight campaign at greater than a goal per game pace. Heralded for his mentally sharp play and excellent positioning, along with his physicality, he’ll be Portugal’s main man.
One thing that may leave onlookers weary of choosing Ronaldo is a Portugal team that leaves something to be desired. Ronaldo should be able to have an outstanding group stage, facing off against Iceland, Hungary, and Austria, but that lack of competition could haunt them come the elimination round.
The Bookmakers Odds: 8/1
Antoine Griezmann, France
The French have high expectations entering the tournament as the host country, and if they are going to claim their first EURO title since 2000, much of the goal scoring responsibilities falls on the back of Antoine Griezmann.
However, Griezmann, 25, has proven that he can handle the load. The Macon-born ace pushed Atletico Madrid to the Champions League final, registering 32 goals in 54 appearances in the season just gone, and is a very pacey player. Griezmann is currently in form and with the added boost of France being hosts could provide a real chance that he emerges as the 2016 Golden Boot winner.
With opponents in Romania, Albania, and Switzerland, it’s likely Griezmann, who will also be counted upon for penalties, gets off to a good start.
The Bookmakers Odds: 11/1
Oliver Giroud, France
Another pick from the host country, the exclusion of Benezma should lead to increased responsibility for Giroud, enhancing the probability he finds the net frequently.
Giroud possesses a tantalising shot, while also providing size in the box and sufficient heading abilities. The 29-year old Chambery product scored 24 goals in 54 outings for Arsenal last season, illustrating his quality
He should be able to also benefit from France’s group and host status.
The Bookmakers Odds: 15/1
Robert Lewandowski, Poland
Regarded as one of the most complete strikers in the world, any success Poland will have in this tournament will hinge on the Bayern Munich man. After his most prolific season yet, 42 goals in 51 matches with Bayern, and coming off 11 international goals in 2015, Lewandowski is a striker that could lead his team single handedly.
Deadly on the box, and efficient with both feet as well as his head, Lewandowski is a defender’s nightmare.
The Warsaw native will have to provide a heroic effort to push Poland to new heights, though. They’re yet to advance past the group stage in a tournament, but being paired with Germany, Northern Ireland, and Ukraine, they stand a good chance at the No. 2 spot.
The Bookmakers Odds: 16/1
Dark Horse Candidates
The Real Prince Harry
Belgium has been labeled as a real threat in the EUROs this year, and Romelu Lukaku (17/1) should be their leading candidate to score the biggest share of their goals. The Everton striker bagged 25 goals and 16 assists last season.
Thanks to the emergence of some talented strikers, England’s five-pronged attack has put hopes high in the United Kingdom. Tottenham’s Harry Kane (18/1) and Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy (40/1) have both excelled this year, and the Three Lions hope that their sparkling play carries over to the EUROs
The 22-year old Kane finished atop the goal chart in the Premier League with 25 goals and is a strong pick for the Golden Boot if he retains penalty kick duties for England. Finishing behind Kane was Vardy, who used his relentless work ethic and lethal pace to score 24 goals, including tallying in a record 11 consecutive games.
Arsenal have a history of not spending too much in the transfer window, and despite a second place finish in the Premier League, most Gunners fans can agree that this season was quite a disappointment.
Arsenal lacked quality and hunger in front of goal and definitely need to strengthen if they want to win the title next year. As per usual, Arsenal are bound to be linked with every player on the face of the planet this summer.
Wenger may actually open his chequebook, as this season is said to be his last in north London, surely he wants to go out on a high? so here are the top TEN players that Arsenal will surely be linked with this summer.
Granit Xhaka
This one is Xherious
Easy start here. Grant Xhaka has already been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, with rumours of a move for the Swiss midfielder having been seemingly endless already. Arsenal have a history of taking a very long time with making deals go through, but they may seriously sign the Monchengladbach captain, and the 23 year old would be perfect for Arsenal. Only time will tell whether this deal is real or not.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Dare to Zlatan
Zlatan doesn’t do auditions. Well Zlatan doesn’t need an audition now, the Swedish striker is a free agent and is yet to conquer the Premier League. ‘Ibra’ has won the title in each of his last 12 seasons and is yet to play in the Premier League. As Zlatan approaches the end of his career, this is surely his last chance? Arsenal need a striker, and there are few any better than the Scandinavian.
William Carvalho
Carvalho at the Emirates
The Portuguese midfielder has been linked with a move to north London in each of the last few summers. The 24 year old is powerful and a leader, which is exactly what Arsenal lack. Carvalho will be a real threat at the EUROs in France this summer, so fans can get a glimpse of the Sporting Lisbon midfielder then.
Edinson Cavani
Edi at the Emirates
Another PSG striker here. Cavani has been linked with a move to Arsenal for some time and may want to look for a new challenge, especially as his strike partner, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, is definitely on his way out of Paris. Cavani is yet to play in the Premier League and Arsenal fans may take a liking to the Uruguayan after he helped knock London rivals Chelsea out of the Champions League this year.
Gonzalo Higuain
Goal scoring Gonzalo
Arsenal fans thought that they had signed the Argentine goal poacher in the summer of 2013 before the deal feel through and Higuain headed to Napoli instead. Higuain would be a serious threat in North London, and could be an incredible signing for Arsenal. He would surely score more goals than Olivier Giroud…
Alvaro Morata
The 23 year old has been a star in both Spain with Real Madrid and Italy with Juventus. Morata could be an incredible signing for Arsenal, but astonishingly, he has a worse goalscoring record than Olivier Giroud. However, Arsenal fans would surely love his pace and skills.
Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang
What the Arsenal fans would do for Aubameyang… The 26 year old has been incredible in the Bundesliga this season netting 25 goals and 11 goals in Europe for Borussia Dortmund. The Gabon international has been one of the stars of the season and any deal for below £60m would surely be a bargain for Arsenal. Aubameyang could be the star in north London and potentially fire Wenger’s men to the title.
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Isco
IS it me your looking for?
Another midfielder here. Arsenal broke their transfer record for Real Madrid midfielder Mesut Ozil in 2013 and most Arsenal fans can agree that the deal has now proved worthy of the fee. Isco has struggled to break into the side at Real, but he does have tough competition with the likes of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos competing for the same position. Isco could be a great signing for Arsenal and would surely cost less than £35m, time for Stan Kroenke to open his chequebook…
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N’Golo Kante
N’Golo Kante has been an incredible player for Leicester this season. The French midfielder has made more interceptions than any player in Europe’s top five leagues. Kante could be the next Patrick Vieira for Arsene Wenger, and will surely be linked with Arsenal all summer, especially after cruising into France’s Euro 2016 squad.
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Riyad Mahrez
Riyad is the real deal
Last but not least, Riyad Mahrez. The PFA player of the year fired Leicester to the title, reaching double figures in terms of both goals and assists. The Algerian has been incredible all season and could potentially join Arsenal alongside team-mate N’Golo Kante. Mahrez could be the star that Arsenal so badly need.
According to reports from London Evening Standard, former director of football Damien Comolli has revealed he almost signed West Ham star Dimitri Payet for Tottenham Hotspur.
The attacking midfielder was one of the revelations in the Premier League last season, nominated for the PFA Player of the Year award after claiming nine goals and eleven assists in 30 appearances.
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And the France international has transitioned that form to Euro 2016, bagging two strikes and one set-up as Didier Deschamps’ side finished top of Group A.
He’s now seen as the shining star of the Hammers first team, but Damian Comolli has revealed that the 29-year-old could be plying his trade with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur instead.
As director of football, Comolli was in charge of all matters transfer at White Hart Lane until his departure in 2008 and claims he reached a verbal agreement to sign Payet from one-time employers St. Etienne.
As quoted by London Evening Standard, he said; “When I was at Spurs the Saint-Etienne president telephoned me one day and said, ‘Listen, we’re on the point of signing this player, Dimitri Payet, from Nantes for €4million.
“That was an enormous amount of money for Saint-Etienne. He said, ‘I wondered if you’d be interested in buying him for Tottenham in two years’ time for €10million.
“I said ‘yes’. I didn’t think the player was ready at that point to play for Tottenham but I thought that after two years at Saint-Etienne he would be ready — so I said it was something that I’d be interested in.
“As I left Tottenham and ended up at Saint-Etienne it never materialised. But back then Payet was already a player that I liked a lot, having seen him when he was young at Nantes.”
Everton transfer target Marko Arnautovic has signed a new contract at Stoke City, confirming the deal via his official Instagram account.
Sky Austria reported earlier this week that the Toffees were on the verge of activating a £12.5million release clause in the winger-forward’s contract after agreeing the terms of a four-year deal.
But that was quickly contradicted by English sources, claiming the 27-year-old would snub a transfer to Goodison Park in favour of signing an improved contract at the Bet365 Stadium, with his current deal due to expire at the end of next season.
And the 55-cap Austrian international, who made three appearances for his country at Euro 2016, has now put pen to paper on a new Stoke City contract – confirming the deal via his official Instagram account.
I am proud and thrilled to finally let you know that I am going to stay a Potter and will continue playing with my team and for my fantastic fans. I suppose some times it takes a bit longer to make the right decision and this one comes from my heart. My family and I could not be happier. Can’t wait for the season to begin! #SCFC #potters #pl #premierleague #teamarna #godblessus @stokecity A photo posted by Marko Arnautovic (@arnautovic_10) on Jul 27, 2016 at 6:24am PDT
Arnautovic, who signed from Werder Bremen in summer 2013, bagged eleven goals and six assists 34 appearances to finish as Stoke City’s top scorer and joint-top creator in the Premier League last season.
A big part of football is being able to run with the ball at your feet. Players that can take on opponents with neat footwork and carry possession up the pitch are held in high regard, so it’s only natural that we FIFA players will be on the lookout for the best of the best come September 29 when EA Sports’ latest edition of the game hits shelves.
And being the nice folk we are at FootballFanCast, here’s a list of the top TEN dribblers in FIFA 17…
10. Riyad Mahrez – Leicester City – 85 (88 Dribbling)
Mahrez’s overall rating has, naturally, leapt up to a respectable 85, with a big part of that being his 88 for dribbling!
9. Mario Gotze – Borussia Dortmund – 84 (89 Dribbling)
The German star’s stock may have fallen somewhat in recent years after a difficult period at club level, but his FIFA ratings remain high, with 89 for dribbling.
8. Sergio Aguero – Manchester City – 89 (89 Dribbling)
Aguero really does have it all! The Argentine is quick, can shoot effectively and is rated at 89 for his dribbling skills. Wow.
7. Paulo Dybala – Juventus – 85 (90 Dribbling)
Although most of those that use Juventus this coming season will be looking at the goalscoring prowess of Gonzalo Higuain, Dybala’s dribbling skills (90) are sure to be of vital importance.
Ribery’s partner in crime at Bayern Munich has been Robben for some time, and the Dutchman is just as good on the opposite flank with the ball at his feet.
4. Eden Hazard – Chelsea – 89 (91 Dribbling)
Chelsea’s Hazard had an up and down 2015/16, but he remains a machine in FIFA with his overall rating of 89 made all the sweeter by a score of 91 for dribbling.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo – Real Madrid – 94 (91 Dribbling)
The complete all-round player, Ronaldo’s awesome pace and strength are complimented by the third highest dribbling rating in FIFA 17, 91.
2. Neymar – Barcelona – 92 (95 Dribbling)
Quite a leap up from Ronaldo sits Neymar with NINETY-FIVE for dribbling.
1. Lionel Messi – Barcelona – 93 (96 Dribbling)
Could it be any other player? Messi’s balls skills have long been hailed as the best in the modern era, and his 96 dribbling rating is completely justified.
This season saw them move into the London Stadium, increasing the capacity by practically double what Upton Park offered. They used this move and an impressive campaign last time out, in which they finished 7th, to justify splashing the cash this summer.
They signed a multitude of players, but the Hammers haven’t always enjoyed such fortunes in the transfer market – having spent several years milling about in mid-table, countless underwhelming signings have passed through the east London doors.
And those juxtaposing eras of West Ham’s history have us at Football FanCast very intrigued, particularly in regards to the club’s ten most expensive signings of all time.
Whilst some went on to etch their name in Hammers folk law, others quickly proved not fit for purpose. With that in mind, here’s a rundown of West Ham’s ten most expensive signings of all time – aided by our good mates at Transfermarkt.co.uk.
Craig Bellamy
Entering the list as the Hammers’ tenth most expensive signing is Craig Bellamy, who signed for £9.5m.
He joined in 2007 but was deeply unlucky with injuries and restricted to only nine games during his debut campaign, in which he netted four times.
However, he was fit for the 2008/09 season and great form in the winter months saw him tipped for a move away.
Manchester City eventually tabled a bid of £16million, which the Irons reluctantly accepted. Bellamy left the Hammers with an impressive goals-per-game ratio but featured too little to be considered a success.
Verdict: Flop
Kieron Dyer
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Dyer cost the Hammers £10.2m back in 2007 and he signed after five very fruitful years at Newcastle United.
A lot was expected of Dyer and he made his debut in a 1-0 away win at Birmingham City.
That’s where the positives end for Dyer and West Ham though! He broke his leg in a League Cup tie in the next match and never really returned to full fitness.
After four years, Dyer only featured 30 times for West Ham in the Premier League and never scored. He was released at the end of his contract in 2011.
Verdict: Flop
Manuel Lanzini
Number eight in the list is the Argentinian playmaker Manuel Lanzini, who was bought for £10.2m from Al-Jazira.
The 23-year-old was on loan at Upton Park last season and scored 6 times in 25 league appearances but always looked assured on the ball and created loads of chances for his teammates.
He has scored two goals in the Premier League this season after joining on a permanent deal, too.
Whilst his performances are still under scrutiny as he is technically only a recent signing, things are looking good for the attacking midfielder.
Verdict: Hit
Matthew Upson
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On the last day of the 2007 transfer window, Birmingham City accepted a transfer bid that could rise to £10.7m for their impressive centre-half.
Upson went on to make well over 100 appearances for the Hammers, netting four times.
He was announced as the club captain when Lucas Neill departed but he was also part of the team relegated from the top flight in 2011 and released at the expiry of his contract.
However, he was still a good player for the Hammers.
Verdict: Hit (Just)
Carlos Tevez
Football – FC Barcelona v Juventus – UEFA Champions League Final – Olympiastadion, Berlin, Germany – 14/15 – 6/6/15Juventus’ Carlos Tevez looks dejectedReuters / Darren Staples
Tevez comes in as the joint 5th most expensive signing in West Ham’s history alongside fellow countryman Javier Mascherano.
They both set West Ham back £12.4m respectively but it was one of the most controversial signings in Premier League history.
West Ham were fined heavily for their transfer dealings with the two Argentinians but that still kept them in the Premier League, whilst Sheffield United suffered relegation from the top flight.
However, Tevez was instrumental in keeping West Ham afloat, scoring 7 goals in 26 league appearances and netting the goal that saved them in a 1-0 away win at Manchester United.
Tevez left to join the Red Devils in the summer but is still seen as a hero at West Ham.
Verdict: Hit
Javier Mascherano
Football Soccer – FC Barcelona v Atletico Madrid – UEFA Champions League Quarter Final First Leg – The Nou Camp, Barcelona, Spain – 5/4/16Atletico Madrid’s Saul Niguez in action with Barcelona’s Javier MascheranoReuters / Albert GeaLivepicEDITORIAL USE ONLY.
Tevez’s Argentinian friend Mascherano didn’t enjoy the same successes at West Ham.
He only made five league appearances for the Hammers despite being linked with some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
West Ham were awarded a £5.5m fine for their role in the signings but that didn’t matter as they remained a Premier League team.
Mascherano eventually transferred to Liverpool before moving to Barcelona where he remains today.
He might be sensational now, but he wasn’t for West Ham.
Verdict: Flop
Dimitri Payet
Without doubt, this man comes into the list as West Ham’s greatest signing in the modern era.
The Hammers forked out £12.75m on the 29-year-old and many questioned whether he was a bit too old for a sum of money that high.
However, he wowed the doubters with a string of impressive performances last season. He is renowned for his incredible free-kicks but he has so much more to offer than incredible set pieces.
He impressed for France during the Euros too, but West Ham were able to hold on to their man and they will hope he can fire them up the table again.
Verdict: Hit
Enner Valencia
The Ecuadorian signed for West Ham for £12.75m in 2014 and a lot was expected of him.
He scored a wonderful goal away at Hull but apart from that he was largely disappointing for the Hammers.
He scored eight goals in 54 Premier League appearances before being surprisingly loaned out to Everton on transfer deadline day this summer.
Verdict: Flop
Andy Carroll
Andy Carroll was West Ham’s most expensive signing until this summer.
He was signed for £15m and was expected to lead the line for the Hammers in an attempt to return to the form that inspired Liverpool to spend over £30m for him.
He was initially loaned to West Ham and impressed, netting seven times in 24 Premier League appearances in the 12-13 season.
However, frequent injuries have affected his time in London and he’s only scored a further 16 league goals for the Hammers in the last 3 years.
It’s not all over for Carroll but he must return to fitness and form to be considered a good signing.
Verdict: Flop
Andre Ayew
It seems to be a curse with new signings for West Ham – even the most expensive signing in the Hammers’ history was struck a cruel blow almost instantaneously.
The £20.5m record acquisition signing suffered a thigh injury 35 minutes into his debut and he’s been stuck on the sidelines ever since.
However, the Ghanaian striker impressed for Swansea in his first season in the Premier League, netting on twelve occasions.
If he can return to the form that helped the Swans last season, he will still become a good signing – but it’s too early to make a decision.
We’d feel sorry for Jose Mourinho after Manchester United’s 4-0 defeat to Chelsea in a parallel universe, but given the Portuguese boss’ track record, you can forgive us for enjoying the meltdown surrounding the two-time Blues boss in the wake of the latest defeat.
If Manchester United fans thought last Monday’s drab 0-0 draw with Liverpool was unimpressive, then yesterday’s crushing defeat to Chelsea took things up a notch further and Mourinho, having spent £150m in the transfer window over the summer, has had his fair share of criticism.
The most eye-catching story regarding Mourinho following the Red Devils’ latest defeat comes from alleged comments made to opposing manager Antonio Conte at full-time, where he accused the Italian boss of ‘humiliating’ his travelling side.
Mourinho’s choice of words was fair, with United’s performance certainly humiliating, but Mourinho moaning about someone’s touchline etiquette is the perfect analogy of the pot calling the kettle black – as his track record does not paint him as a saint of Premier League football.
During his time at Chelsea, Mourinho became renowned for his antics and ‘mind-games’ but it’s clear he doesn’t like it when the table has turned – but Twitter was quick to point out the obvious irony of the United boss’ comments.
Believe it or not, a third of the new Premier League season will have already passed us by when all the action finishes next weekend – the 13th matchday out of 38.
It’s been a gripping campaign thus far with just eight points separating the entire bottom half and six clubs seemingly involved in the Premier League title race – although Manchester United are very much the ‘little horse’, to paraphrase Jose Mourinho.
And Football FanCast feel we’ve now received enough evidence to give our verdict on the Premier League’s transfer dealings during a summer window that saw the division break the collective £1billion spending barrier for the first time.
Whilst some acquisitions have already proved their weight in gold – you can read our Top Ten Signings of the Season here – others are currently leaving a lot to be desired.
With that in mind, here’s our Top Ten transfer flops of the season so far.
10. Adnan Januzaj
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A reunion with David Moyes – the manager who famously granted his Manchester United debut and handed the then-teenager a record-breaking contract – appeared the ideal scenario for Adnan Januzaj after two campaigns in the wilderness at Old Trafford.
But the prodigious winger has struggled to deliver, failing to provide a goal or assist in seven Premier League appearances before suffering an ankle injury that has kept him out of action for the last six weeks. In his absence, the Black Cats have claimed all but one of their eight points in the Premier League.
It’s rather incredible to think the United loan starlet was once at the epicentre of a battle for his services between the Belgium and England national teams.
9. Claudio Bravo
Claudio Bravo is yet to justify his £17million price-tag, let alone the commotion surrounding his arrival during the summer – with Pep Guardiola infamously axing club icon Joe Hart to make room for the former Barcelona shot-stopper.
Indeed, whilst the England No.1 is continually earning plaudits in Italy for his performances at adoptive club Torino, registering 32 saves and three clean sheets in eleven appearances, the Chile international has been an unsettling presence, rash when coming off his line and calamitous when attempting to catch crosses – the obvious example being his fumble to Zlatan Ibrahimovich in the Manchester derby.
Pep believes the payoff is worth it for Bravo’s willingness to play out of the back. Although the 33-year-old has certainly demonstrated that, his actual ability on the ball remains questionable.
8. Papy Djilobodji
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The laboured change in management at the Stadium of Light forced Sunderland into some questionable summer deals, not least including their £8million swoop for former Chelsea flop Papy Djiloboji.
Many questioned why the Senegal international’s Blues career consisted of just a single appearance – a one-minute substitute outing in the League Cup – but now we have our answer; in short, Djilbodji is pretty darn terrible.
Premier League strikers have been brushing him off for fun this season and the 27-year-old has a bemusing knack of attempting to win the ball by sliding from behind through opponents’ legs.
Sunderland have claimed just one clean sheet with the centre-back in the starting line-up this season and even during that instance, Djilobodji was sent off in the 89th minute for a double booking.
7. Borja Baston
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Borja Baston arrived at Swansea City last summer following a spate of prolific loan spells, typified by an 18-goal haul with Eibar last season – firing them to an impressive 14th place in La Liga.
The Welsh outfit shelled out a club-record transfer fee for the former Atletico Madrid man, £15.5million to be precise, but he’s just not delivered. The Spaniard’s managed a paltry three Premier League starts so far, although injuries have been a factor, and has found the net just once from his seven outings in total.
New manager Bob Bradley doesn’t appear convinced by the 27#4-year-old and as a consequence of his poor form, the Swans have scored the third-fewest goals of any Premier League side this season – just eleven in twelve games.
6. Sofiane Feghouli
When West Ham announced Sofiane Feghouli’s arrival on a free transfer, many thought the east London club had pulled off one of the deals of the summer.
The Algerian winger stood out for his country at the 2014 World Cup and sealed a move to the London Stadium off the back of five impressive campaigns at Valencia, finishing his last season with four goals in Europe – including two strikes in the Champions League.
A tricky winger with CL pedigree appeared the perfect accomplice to Dimitri Payet in attack, but the 26-year-old hasn’t even earned the right to attempt to link up with the French playmaker, with Slaven Bilic issuing him just 130 minutes’ worth of Premier League action, all from the bench, so far this season.
Although injuries have affected his game-time, Bilic has seemingly already deemed the African attacker not fit for purpose.
5. Lucas Perez
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Spontaneous street parties almost erupted in north London when Arsenal completed a last-minute swoop for Deportivo’s Lucas Perez, as Gunners fans celebrated Arsene Wenger finally splashing the cash on an out-and-out goalscorer to complete with Olivier Giroud.
But many warned Perez’s final campaign in La Liga, which saw him net 17 times in 36 appearances, was a flash in the pan amid an otherwise mediocre career and that’s already proving to be the case.
Admittedly, injuries have limited the Spaniard’s involvement, with him currently sidelined until December 10th. But when Perez has played, he’s been a largely anonymous figure, looking well below the required standard at the Emirates Stadium. Based on current evidence, the 28-year-old was a £17million panic buy.
4. Havard Nordtveit
Another West Ham signing that’s turned out to be more crass than coup. Havard Nordtveit was seen as a solid addition after progressing through Arsenal’s academy and holding down a key role in Borussia Monchengladbach’s squad for five-and-a-half seasons, proving himself a reliable utility man as managers fielded him in defensive midfield and across the backline.
But the Norway international’s Hammers career got off to a worrying start with a shaky performance against Chelsea, which saw him repeatedly squander possession at the base of midfield, and has continued in a similar fashion – typified by him conceding a stoppage time penalty on Saturday after coming on as an 89th-minute substitute to hand Tottenham a shock 3-2 comeback.
The 26-year-old has proved ineffective as a holding midfielder, a right-back and a left-back already throughout his short Irons tenure – which makes you wonder where he and Slaven Bilic can go from here.
3. Jordon Ibe
Another club-record signing struggling to deliver. Young, English players always come at a premium but Bournemouth’s £15million swoop for winger Jordon Ibe is already looking like very poor value for money.
The 20-year-old has plenty of time to turn his Cherries form around, yet to produce a goal or an assist in eleven Premier League appearances, but he’s certainly not had the impact you’d expect of a club-record acquisition, especially one who made 41 appearances for Liverpool last season.
In truth, Ibe has always been a little overrated – flashes of competence rather than brilliance – and Bournemouth appear to be paying the price.
2. Vincent Janssen
Britain Football Soccer – Tottenham Hotspur v Bayer Leverkusen – UEFA Champions League Group Stage – Group E – Wembley Stadium, London, England – 2/11/16Tottenham’s Vincent Janssen looks dejected after missed chanceAction Images via Reuters / Matthew ChildsLivepicEDITORIAL USE ONLY.
Eredivisie imports always come with a warning. For every Luis Suarez or Ruud van Nistelrooy, there’s an Alfonso Alves or Mateja Kezman. Well, Vincent Janssen seemingly belongs in the latter category.
No doubt, the Dutchman’s all-round play has been decent and plenty of Tottenham fans have warmed towards his industriousness in the final third.
But the 22-year-old failed to produce the goods in Harry Kane’s absence, with all three of his Spurs goals coming from the penalty spot, and is yet to provide the impact from the bench assumed when Mauricio Pochettino paid £17million for his services during the summer after a rather protracted transfer saga.
To make matters worse, Janssen’s performances appear to be regressing. Failing to convert decent chances, whilst admittedly finding himself unfortunate in front of goal in other instances, has eaten away at his confidence. Spurs might have another Roberto Soldado on their hands.
1.Simone Zaza
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West Ham deserve to be top of this list for some frankly atrocious business during the summer, epitomised by their late summer deal for Italy striker Simone Zaza.
The Hammers made no secret of their plans to sign a top-class front-man but after missing out on the likes of Alexandre Lacazette and Carlos Bacca, eventually settled for the the 25-year-old’s services on loan with an obligation to buy after making a certain number of appearances.
Based on current form, the Irons management will do anything to prevent activating the £25million clause. Although often isolated for large periods, Zaza has been nothing short of hopeless for West Ham, failing to find the net in eight Premier League appearances, hauled off at half-time in two of them and producing just two shots on target.
Like this article? You can read our Ten Signings of the Season here!
The final game of the weekend certainly lived up to the precedent that had been set by Saturday’s Premier League action.
Liverpool vs. West Ham was the cherry on top of a thrilling weekend of football.
Jurgen Klopp’s men went toe-to-toe with Slaven Bilic’s Hammers in an exciting and dramatic afternoon at Anfield.
Neither side could quite find the winner but it will be West Ham who are the happier of the two sides. The point for them lifts them out of the relegation zone at the expense of Swansea and is a big confidence boost after a series of poor results.
Liverpool will be disappointed, slipping further behind both Arsenal and Chelsea who continue to show incredible form.
It was all going so well for the Reds when Lallana fired them ahead but poor goalkeeping allowed West Ham to make a comeback and only a goalkeeping error of West Ham’s own let Klopp’s side find their way back to parity at 2-2.
Here are FIVE lessons we learned from the exciting encounter…
Payet can still bail the Hammers out
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Dimitri Payet hasn’t quite hit the heights of his form last season this campaign but showed at Anfield that he still has the ability to produce extraordinary results from nowhere for West Ham.
His first half equaliser came at a time when it looked like Liverpool might go on and thrash Bilic’s team.
It may have been his first goal since October 1st but it was worth the wait for the travelling support.
If he hits form then relegation would surely not be on the cards.
Karius may be a weak link
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That’s two weeks running that Liverpool’s young goalkeeper has made errors between the sticks. Arguably he was at fault for both goals during Sunday’s game but it was West Ham’s second where he was most exposed.
At 23 years old, the ‘keeper has plenty of learning to do in the game and it may be too early for him to be relied upon week after week for a team with ambitions for the league title.
Liverpool games are never dull
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If nothing else, Liverpool games are often the most exciting of the Premier League weekend. Sunday’s match was the 12th game of the Reds’ season in which both teams scored and the 8th in which more than 4 goals were scored in the game.
The Anfield faithful are getting their money’s worth under Klopp and let us tell you, it ain’t too bad for the neutrals either.
You never know what’s quite going to happen when Liverpool take to the pitch.
The title could be a step too far
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Despite obvious progress under Klopp, the league title could still be a step too far this season. The German’s young, energetic and exciting side just do not have to have the consistency or the attitude to go and grind out results.
That was never more apparent than this weekend with both Chelsea and Arsenal having to dig deep and find a result in difficult contests.
Qualification for the UEFA Champions League would be an excellent prize for Klopp’s men, there’s no shame in finishing third or fourth, but we can’t envisage this side lifting the trophy at the end of the season.
Lallana has become a key Liverpool player
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Adam Lallana has turned into a very fine Liverpool player indeed. He’s probably having his best season in at Anfield since signing from Southampton in 2014. He’s contributed 4 goals and 5 assists in 13 Premier League appearances and again showed today why he’s one of the first names on the team sheet.
His finish in the opening minutes was a fine one and should have catapulted the Reds towards victory.