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There might have been a few shaky moments in the first half, but Arsenal’s win over Brighton & Hove Albion in the League Cup went about as well as it could have last night.

Mikel Arteta almost completely changed his entire starting lineup, but instead of collapsing like some other Premier League-chasing sides, the North Londoners came out 2-0 winners.

Moreover, while the changes in the second half helped secure the win, a number of the starters did put in a good shift.

This is especially true of a starter who outperformed Bukayo Saka and showed some shades of Mesut Özil in his game.

Arsenal's standout stars vs Brighton

When looking at some of those who put in a good showing against Brighton, it’s hard to look past Ethan Nwaneri.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Yes, it’s certainly true that he almost tried too hard at times in the first half, but in the second 45, the Hale Ender was a serious threat.

He helped to create chances, kept the ball ticking over, and, most importantly, following a great pass from Myles Lewis-Skelly, placed the ball in the far corner for the opening goal.

His fellow Hale End graduate also had a brilliant game, as, on top of the assist, he once again showed his immense strength and even made several lung-busting runs through the middle of the pitch.

Talking about academy gems, it would be unfair not to praise debutant Andre Harriman-Annous.

The 17-year-old didn’t score a goal, but he provided the pass before the assist for Nwaneri, made several impressive runs, and it was his initial shot that allowed Saka to score his goal in the second half.

The Gunners’ talismanic number seven came on in the 71st minute, and unlike on the weekend, when he was ill, the 24-year-old was a handful and looked to make something happen whenever the ball was at his feet.

The Brighton defence simply didn’t have an answer for the dynamic winger, and if he plays like that on Saturday, it could be a very long game for Burnley’s backline.

With that said, there was another player who made even more of an impression than Saka, someone who showed shades of Ozil in his performance.

The Arsenal star who outshone Saka

While several other Arsenal players impressed against Brighton on Wednesday night, it should come as no surprise that the real talking point, and the gem who shone more than Saka and Co was Max Dowman.

The 15-year-old became the youngest player to ever start a game for the Gunners, but that lack of genuine experience at the top level did little to slow him down.

Nor did it see the Seagulls go easy on him, as time after time the visitors doubled and tripled up on him, and even then, more often than not, he made them look foolish.

The Hale End superstar in the making, whom analyst Rohan Jivan dubbed a “certified worldie of a talent”, was able to beat the Seagulls’ backline both through his incredible close control and eye for a pass.

It’s the fact that he’s already so impressive in both facets that makes it easy to argue that there are, in fact, shades of Ozil to his game, as, like the German, he can – and most certainly will – punish the opposition with his dribbling and passing.

Moreover, while the former Gunners ace was primarily a ten, he was no stranger to playing out on the right-hand side when Arsène Wenger needed him to.

Unsurprisingly, the teenage sensation more than left an impression on the watching press, with the Standard’s Simon Collings awarding him a match rating of 8/10, writing that he was ‘electric all night.’

Minutes

71′

Touches

34

Dribbles (Successful)

8 (5)

Fouls Won

4

Accurate Passes

14/16

Ball Recoveries

3

Ground Duels (Won)

14 (9)

Key Passes

1

The statistics from the night more than justify such praise, as in 71 minutes of action, the youngster completed five of eight dribbles, played a key pass, took 34 touches, won nine of 14 ground duels and completed three ball recoveries.

Ultimately, it’s still absurdly early in Dowman’s career, but he looks to be the real deal, and if he can perform like he did against Brighton again, he could be in for far more starts this season.

Not Zubimendi: Arteta has found Cazorla 2.0 in Arsenal's "little magician"

The international monster has been one of Arteta’s best signings at Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Oct 29, 2025

Ben Cox makes defiant 70 on return to New Road but old team-mates have the final say

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay13-Jul-2025

Ben Cox, a former Worcestershire stalwart, starred in vain for his new team, Leicestershire•Getty Images

Worcestershire Rapids delivered a complete performance with bat and ball to secure an impressive six-wicket victory over Leicestershire Foxes at Visit Worcestershire New Road, keeping their quarter-final hopes alive heading into the final round of fixtures.Chasing a target of 174, the Rapids timed their pursuit to perfection, anchored by a stunning, unbeaten 56 from Ethan Brookes, his clean ball-striking and composure under pressure proving the decisive factor.The all-rounder arrived with the match finely poised at 134 for 4 and accelerated superbly through the closing overs, hitting five sixes and four boundaries in just 28 balls to seal the win with 13 deliveries to spare.The chase was set up by a positive start from Isaac Mohammed and Brett D’Oliveira, who added 50 for the first wicket inside the power-play.Though both openers departed in quick succession, Gareth Roderick’s punchy 26 from 13 balls kept the tempo up and ensured the Rapids never lost control of the required rate.When Kashif Ali fell for 16 in the 15th over, there was a flicker of opportunity for the Foxes.But Brookes, alongside a composed Henry Cullen (18 not out off 12), ensured there would be no further stumble, launching a fearless assault on the Leicestershire attack.Earlier in the day, Worcestershire’s bowlers had combined well after the Foxes opted to bat first. Tom Taylor was the standout, picking up 3 for 25 in an outstanding spell that dismantled the top order and removed both openers inside two overs.The Foxes were reduced to 5 for 2, and when Rehan Ahmed was dismissed for 32, they had stumbled to 59 for 4 inside eight overs.Former Worcestershire wicketkeeper Ben Cox, however, produced a determined recovery.The Foxes wicketkeeper played with authority and placement en route to a defiant 70 not out off 44 balls, guiding his side to a competitive total.His partnerships with Louis Kimber (32) and Tom Scriven (9*) helped stabilise the innings, but the Rapids’ bowlers held their nerve well at the death. Ben Dwarshuis, Khurram Shahzad, and Adam Finch each picked up a wicket, and boundaries were largely kept in check after the 15th over.Despite Cox’s efforts, Leicestershire’s total of 173 for 6 always felt slightly under-par on a quick-scoring surface, and Worcestershire’s clinical response with the bat proved just that.The win keeps the Rapids back in the mix in the North Group standings ahead of the final round of fixtures, with one of their most complete performances of the campaign so far.

Newcastle United, after once again qualifying for the Champions League, had a busy summer transfer window ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season.

The saga of the summer was Alexander Isak’s eventual move to Liverpool, however, the Magpies also broke their transfer record by bringing in Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart. But how much do Newcastle’s star players pick up in wages? Here is a list of the Magpies squad’s salaries, per Capology.

Disclaimer – only the club and the players themselves truly know their wages, so take each of these figures as you will.

Newcastle United wages 2025/26
Rank	Player	Wage per week	Wage per year
1	Bruno Guimaraes	£160,000	£8,320,000
=2	Anthony Gordon	£150,000	£7,800,000
=2	Joelinton	£150,000	£7,800,000
4	Yoane Wissa	£140,000	£7,280,000
5	Nick Woltemade	£132,500	£6,890,000
=6	Sandro Tonali	£120,000	£6,240,000
=6	Aaron Ramsdale	£120,000	£6,240,000
=6	Kieran Trippier	£120,000	£6,240,000
9	Jacob Ramsey	£120,000	£6,240,000
10	Anthony Elanga	£100,000	£5,200,000
11	Sven Botman	£90,000	£4,680,000
=12	Joe Willock	£80,000	£4,160,000
=12	Harvey Barnes	£80,000	£4,160,000
14	Malick Thiaw	£75,000	£3,900,000
=15	Dan Burn	£70,000	£3,640,000
=15	Fabian Schar	£70,000	£3,640,000
17	Nick Pope	£60,000	£3,120,000
18	Emil Krafth	£55,000	£2,860,000
19	Tino Livramento	£50,000	£2,600,000
20	Lewis Hall	£45,000	£2,340,000
=21	Jamaal Lascelles	£40,000	£2,080,000
=21	Matt Targett	£40,000	£2,080,000
23	Jacob Murphy	£35,000	£1,820,000
24	Lewis Miley	£30,000	£1,560,000
25	William Osula	£25,000	£1,300,000
=26	Mark Gillespie	£15,000	£780,000
=26	John Ruddy	£15,000	£780,000
=26	Harrison Ashby	£15,000	£780,000
29	Alex Murphy	£8,000	£416,000

Here's a detailed look at Newcastle's top 10 earners:

10

Anthony Elanga

£100,000 a week

The first 2025 marquee summer signing at St James’ Park was Anthony Elanga, with the winger arriving from Nottingham Forest in a deal worth £55m.

The pacey forward starred at the City Ground which caught the eye of Eddie Howe and co, with Elanga signing a long-term deal.

9

Jacob Ramsey

£120,000 a week

Also joining from a Premier League rival in 2025 was midfielder Jacob Ramsey, who cost Newcastle an initial £39m from Aston Villa.

The versatile midfielder is in line to pick up £6.24m per season at St James’ Park, the same figure as three other Magpies stars.

8

Kieran Trippier

£120,000 a week

Kieran Trippier was the first signing of the Howe era, and it’s safe to say that it’s been a success on the whole. The former Tottenham full-back immediately settled into the team and became one of the group’s core leaders seemingly overnight.

In his first season at the club, he helped to guide them to safety before guiding them to European football the season after. Trippier’s deal expires in 2026.

7

Aaron Ramsdale

£120,000 per week

Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale joined Newcastle on a season-long loan from Southampton in 2025 after the Saints were relegated from the Premier League.

Brought in to rival Nick Pope, Ramsdale earns more than his fellow countryman, and there is the option for the Magpies to make a move permanent in 2026.

6

Sandro Tonali

£120,000 a week

Sandro Tonali returned to the Newcastle squad after serving a lengthy ban for breaching betting rules, with the Italian since becoming a mainstay in Howe’s side.

The midfielder joined the Magpies in 2023 from AC Milan in a big-money deal, and those at St. James’ Park will be hoping he can continue to star in the famous black and white stripes.

5

Nick Woltemade

£132,500 a week

Newcastle’s all-time record signing, Nick Woltemade arrived at St James’ Park shortly before Isak departed for Liverpool.

In a deal worth up to £69m, the German eclipsed Isak as Newcastle’s most expensive addition, and Woltemade made himself an instant hero by scoring the winner on his Premier League debut.

4

Yoane Wissa

£140,000 a week

Yoane Wissa was signed with minutes to spare in the summer on deadline day, hours after Isak’s move to Liverpool was announced.

In similar fashion to Isak, Wissa went on strike at Brentford to force through a move to Newcastle, and he’ll earn £7.28m per season at St James’ Park.

3

Joelinton

£150,000 a week

Joelinton, who initially arrived as a forward from Hoffenheim for a then club record £40m fee, has been transformed into a midfield powerhouse at St James’ Park.

The Brazilian is now one of Newcastle’s biggest earners after signing improved terms in 2024. He’s under contract until 2028.

2

Anthony Gordon

£150,000 a week

Boyhood Everton fan Anthony Gordon moved to St James Park from the Toffees in January 2023 with a hefty price tag of £45m. Moving to a new club with such a price tag can be challenging enough for many players, but the controversy surrounding his move only brought more scrutiny as he handed in a transfer request to get out of Goodison.

After a rather lacklustre start to his career on Tyneside, Gordon dazzled in his first full season and has rarely looked back. The winger was rewarded with a new contract in October 2024 that is thought to have more than doubled his wages, with Gordon now one of Newcastle’s highest earners.

1

Bruno Guimaraes

£160,000 a week

Top of the charts as Newcastle’s biggest earner is Bruno Guimaraes, although compared to other Premier League clubs, £160,000 per week isn’t a huge amount.

Guimaraes was awarded a five-year deal back in October 2023 after his move from Lyon, and he has proven to be worth every penny of the £40m fee.

In the absence of Stoinis and Inglis, PBKS might turn to new recruits Mitch Owen and Kyle Jamieson

Shashank Kishore17-May-20255:39

Moody expects PBKS to pick Owen vs RR

Big PictureRicky Ponting knows the challenge of navigating a disrupted season. In 2021, when he was with Delhi Capitals (DC), he coached them to a top-of-the-table finish before a Covid-induced mid-season pause. When the IPL resumed at the time, DC maintained the momentum to finish in the top two only to stumble in the playoffs.Now with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2025, Ponting has a familiar task: keeping a playoffs-bound team on track. PBKS, who are aiming for a top-two finish for the first time since 2014, currently sit on 15 points with three games left in the league stage. Two wins will guarantee qualification; they may sneak through with one, with help from other results. The abandoned game in Dharamsala against DC being replayed gives them a vital extra shot.However, it hasn’t been smooth sailing for PBKS. Two key overseas players, Josh Inglis and Marcus Stoinis haven’t returned, forcing changes in team balance. Mitchell Owen, a BBL standout known for his exploits as an opener, could debut in the middle order, given how well Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh have clicked at the top.While PBKS will chase a top-two finish, Rajasthan Royals (RR) are fighting to avoid the wooden spoon. With just three wins from 12 games, their playoff hopes are long gone, and the focus has now shifted to salvaging pride and shaping the future.Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the 14-year-old who lit up the league with a 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans last month, offers hope for the future. Riyan Parag, who had earlier stood in as captain for Sanju Samson, also showed signs of resurgence, smashing 95 in his previous innings, at Eden Gardens, as RR almost chased down 207.The batting has found some rhythm, but the bowling continues to flounder for RR. Injuries to Sandeep Sharma and the absence of Jofra Archer have left their pace attack short on quality and confidence. For context, Royals have the worst average (52.1) for a pace attack this season.Form guideRajasthan Royals: LLWLL (last five completed matches, most recent first)
Punjab Kings: WWLWWIn the spotlight: Sanju Samson, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran SinghSanju Samson has cleared hit fitness test after a three-week absence due to a side strain. In his absence, young Suryavanshi impressed at the top with 155 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 209.45. With Yashasvi Jaiswal also back in form after a middling start to the season – he has hit four half-centuries in his last seven innings – Samson will probably have to slot in at No. 3.Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya have been key to PBKS’ success, consistently setting the tone in the powerplay. Their 534-run aggregate is the second highest this season, behind only Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan (634). When either scores 45 or more, PBKS have won five games (plus two no results); when neither does, they’ve lost all three.4:33

What went wrong for Rajasthan Royals this season?

Team news and probable XIIsRR are without Archer and the injured Sandeep, with left-arm seamer Nandre Burger brought in as Sandeep’s replacement. Samson will take over the captaincy from Parag.Rajasthan Royals: 1 Vaibhav Suryavanshi, 2 Yashasvi Jaiswal, 3 Sanju Samson (capt, wk), 4 Riyan Parag, 5 Dhruv Jurel, 6 Shimron Hetmyer, 7 Shubham Dubey, 8 Wanindu Hasaranga, 9 Maheesh Theekshana, 10 Tushar Deshpande, 11 Kwena Maphaka, 12 Akash MadhwalPBKS will have to replace two overseas players. Owen, BBL 2024-25’s breakout star, could be playing his first game in India. Kyle Jamieson, who has replaced Lockie Ferguson, could also get a game.Punjab Kings: 1 Priyansh Arya, 2 Prabhsimran Singh, 3 Shreyas Iyer (capt), 4 Mitch Owen, 5 Nehal Wadhera, 6 Azmatullah Omarzai, 7 Shashank Singh, 8 Harpreet Brar, 9 Marco Jansen, 10 Arshdeep Singh, 11 Yuzvendra Chahal, 12 Kyle JamiesonThe big questionPitch and conditionsDay-time temperatures in Jaipur are expected to reach a high of 42 degrees Celsius. The dry heat will test the players’ fitness. RR believe the surface could be on the slower side. Since it’s a 3.30pm start, dew is unlikely to be a factor.Stats and TriviaYashasvi Jaiswal (19) and Priyansh Arya (16) have hit the most sixes in the powerplay this season. Meanwhile, Parag’s 12 sixes are the most by a batter in his first 10 balls.Arya’s strike rate of 189 is the highest in the powerplay among batters who’ve faced at least 100 balls.Despite playing two seasoned overseas spinners in Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, RR have one of the highest economy rates among teams at 9.3 and an average of 37.40.RR have won only one out of eight matches chasing so far this season.PBKS have the second-highest powerplay run rate (10.4) this season.

Tottenham Hotspur’s business within the transfer market this summer has been impressive, to say the least – subsequently handing boss Thomas Frank the tools he needs for success in the role.

Former chairman, Daniel Levy, backed the new manager with the funds to make the desired changes, leading to over £100m being spent on new additions in North London.

Mohammed Kudus was the biggest addition, costing £55m from rivals West Ham United, with Xavi Simons also making the move in a £52m transfer from RB Leipzig.

Such moves have offered the Lilywhites further quality and depth in the final third – strengthening their chances of being competitive in the Premier League throughout 2025/26.

However, they’ve already made numerous departures, offloading players who are no longer in the manager’s plans and or below the levels needed for success in the near future.

Spurs’ departures throughout the summer window

Winger Heung-min Son ended his decade-long Spurs career this summer, leaving the club in a £20m deal to join MLS side Los Angeles FC earlier in the window.

The South Korean international racked up over 450 appearances for the Lilywhites, ending his tenure in North London as the club’s fourth-highest goalscorer in their history.

Yves Bissouma is another player who was constantly touted with a move away from the club – after Frank axed him from his squad for multiple disciplinary reasons.

The Malian international has also failed to appear in a single matchday squad since the Dane’s arrival, prompting huge rumours about an exit away from North London.

With the Saudi and Turkish transfer windows still open, the 29-year-old could yet leave the club, ending his three-year spell in the side – after joining from Brighton in a £35m deal back in 2022.

The former Spurs star who’s now worth less than Bissouma

Given his absence from the first-team squad, it would be a surprise to no one to see Bissouma depart Spurs in the coming days – putting a sour end to his time at the club.

However, his spell with the Lilywhites has been littered with various incidents, previously being suspended after being caught inhaling nitrous oxide during the Ange Postecoglou reign.

Despite scoring two goals and often having a positive impact, it’s his off-field antics that have negatively affected his time at the club – with the hierarchy needing to cut loose in the weeks ahead.

The hierarchy could still command a decent fee for the midfielder, similarly to the departure of former attacker Steven Bergwijn, who left the club back in the summer of 2022.

The Dutchman arrived in a £27m deal from PSV back in January 2020, with the attacker making an immediate impact after his big-money transfer to England.

He scored a superb effort in a 2-0 triumph against Manchester City in North London, but it’s safe to say his career at the club never took off after such a spectacular moment.

Bergwijn only managed to score eight goals in his 83 appearances for the Lilywhites, subsequently returning to the Netherlands after just 18 months at the club.

He subsequently rejoined Dutch outfit Ajax in a £28m deal in the summer of 2022, leading to one content creator labelling his spell at the club as “woeful”.

The winger, who now plies his trade for Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, is now valued at £9.3m by FootballTransfers – showcasing the decline he’s endured over the last couple of years.

Transfer Fee

£27m

Wages (Total)

£75k-per-week (£9.4m)

Appearances

83

Cost per Appearance

£439k

Goals

8

Cost per Goal

£4.5m

Assists

9

Cost per Assist

£4m

Goal Involvements

17

Cost per Goal Involvement

£2.1m

Such a figure is lower than that of Spurs outcast Bissouma, with the Malian still valued at £15.7m despite his recent antics and lack of first-team action in North London.

Given the value of Bergwijn, there’s no denying that the hierarchy made the right call in allowing the attacker to depart the club after his unsuccessful stint in the Premier League.

As for Bissouma, it’s crucial that the board replicate such a deal in allowing him to depart, subsequently avoiding losing him for nothing when his contract expires next summer.

Not just Tel: Spurs dud who's like a "pub player" is finished under Frank

Tottenham Hotspur could be set to part ways with numerous players in the near future.

1 ByEthan Lamb Sep 4, 2025

Newcastle United have emerged from the summer transfer window with a quietly impressive array of signings, Eddie Howe bringing together an exciting new chapter against the backdrop of much summer turmoil.

Alexander Isak was sold to Liverpool for a British record £125m fee. In his stead, Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade have arrived, the latter emphatically announcing himself with a debut goal against Wolves at the weekend, sealing United’s first three points of the Premier League season.

Cashing in on Isak was a rueful thing, but the 25-year-old intimated in no uncertain terms his desire to leave St. James’ Park, and keeping him on would only have disrupted and tattered the harmony Howe has spent so long perfecting.

However, the number nine spot wasn’t the only point of reshuffle for the Toon, with Anthony Elanga landing as the man to strengthen the attacking right flank instead of other high-profile targets.

Why Newcastle signed Elanga

Newcastle signed Elanga, 23, from Nottingham Forest for £55m in July, signing a winger who believes himself to be “one of the fastest players in the league”.

This is true: Elanga clocked a top speed of 36.7 km/h when he broke free and darted 85 yards upfield to score against Manchester United for Forest last season.

Indeed, he adds quite the zippy dimension to Howe’s frontline.

But he wasn’t actually the first choice this summer. Bryan Mbeumo was chased before he opted to sign for the Red Devils, and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo was also of a vested interest, ultimately staying put despite fierce efforts from multiple clubs for his signature.

However, Semenyo’s £70m price tag was off-putting, but his excellent start to the season, a continuation of last year’s success, surely leaves some PIF officials regretting their decision not to make their move.

Interest could have been entirely waived from the get-go, though, had Newcastle kept their hands on another young and exciting forward.

Newcastle must regret selling £30m star

Yankuba Minteh is the man in question here, sold to Brighton & Hove Albion for £30m in July 2024 to turn the glare of PSR away.

Minteh had initially joined Newcastle from Danish side Odense in 2023 and spent the following season on loan with Arne Slot’s Feyenoord, and he left Tyneside having never worn the United shirt in a proper capacity.

It was a necessary sale, but Minteh, now 21, showed plenty of promise with the Seagulls last term and has started the current campaign off in the right way too.

Spanish reporter Jose Alberto Chozas even called him “public enemy number one for Newcastle fans”, for he has scored twice in two matches against the Magpies.

Where Are They Now

Your star player or biggest flop has left the club but what are they doing in the present day? This article is part of Football FanCast’s Where Are They Now series.

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In total, the right-sided forward has scored seven goals and provided six assists across 41 games for Brighton.

Minteh is so young and yet so talented and so comfortable on the Premier League stage. He’s not got the smooth lick of paint on his exterior that Semenyo has showcased over the past year, but the best times are still to come for this one, no doubt about that.

Premier League 25/26 – Semenyo vs Minteh

Stats (* per game)

Semenyo

Minteh

Matches (starts)

4 (4)

4 (4)

Goals

3

0

Assists

2

1

Shots (on target)*

3.0 (1.3)

1.8 (0.5)

Accurate passes*

18.8 (72%)

11.3 (55%)

Key passes*

1.8

1.5

Dribbles*

2.3

3.3

Ball recoveries*

4.5

4.5

Tackles*

1.5

1.5

Duels won*

7.3

7.8

Data via Sofascore

The biggest difference, clearly, is that Semenyo has notched five goal contributions from just four matches so far, whereas Minteh has just one assist to his name.

A prolific touch has not yet materialised for the Gambian talent, but he really is just that: a top talent.

And the underlying data threads together a similarity of style that suggests that Minteh, with the right work over the next few years, could become a player of a similar standing in the Premier League.

Given that Howe has conceded that he did not want to sell Minteh before he could even make his competitive debut for the Toon, it’s clear that there is plenty of resentment underneath the decision to pass him on to a divisional rival.

Might Newcastle have been better off cashing in on Anthony Gordon, who had been linked with a move to Liverpool and who was tied to rumours of a £100m price tag?

As Minteh continues to go from strength to strength on the south coast, it’s one which will continue to sting Newcastle and Howe.

Related Barnes replacement: Newcastle's 18-year-old prodigy will "go to the top"

Newcastle United could now have a long-term Harvey Barnes heir up their sleeve with this promising starlet.

Posts ByKelan Sarson Sep 15, 2025

Neymar’s career faces fresh scrutiny after another injury and a Brazil squad omission. Despite returning to form at Santos following his 2023 ACL injury, he remains out of national team coach Carlo Ancelotti’s plans for technical reasons. Legendary striker Ronaldo defended the forward, insisting “we don’t have another player like him” and urged Neymar’s return ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

• Another injury setback for Neymar

  Neymar’s return to Santos was meant to be a fresh chapter, but his progress has been marred by recurring thigh and knee problems. His latest setback, a rectus femoris injury, has kept him sidelined again, casting doubt over his role for club and country. Amid this uncertainty, Ronaldo has urged Brazil coach Ancelotti to bring the star back into the squad, insisting the Selecao cannot afford to ignore their most unique attacker.

Advertisement

• AFP
  

  Ronaldo defends Neymar from criticism

  Ronaldo, speaking at an event to , firmly backed Neymar despite mounting criticism. The legendary striker also empathised with Neymar’s struggles, pointing out how gruelling it is to return from serious injury.

  "He's a key player for the Brazilian national team . We don't have another player like Neymar. And we hope he's 100% for the World Cup, because if he is, we'll definitely have better results than if he's not," said Ronaldo.

  He further added: "It's an exaggeration on the part of this minority who believe he's neglecting his physical recovery. Anyone who's played football understands perfectly how difficult it is to come back from an injury and regain rhythm and confidence. He's on time. The other day, I was playing tennis with Luisa Stefani, the São Paulo Open doubles champion, and she tore her cruciate ligament at the same time as Neymar. She still feels pain. It's a gradual process."

• Neymar’s side of the story

  Since returning to Santos after a lengthy layoff due to a torn ACL he suffered in October 2023, Neymar has faced repeated injuries in his right leg, most recently a rectus femoris muscle setback, his fourth since returning. Despite this, he insists his Brazil omission is for “technical reasons” and not fitness, saying, “It’s the coach’s opinion, and I respect it.” Neymar continues to play full matches for Santos, gradually regaining rhythm and confidence, and recently extended his contract with the club until the end of 2025, with an option to continue through the 2026 World Cup.

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• Getty
  

  Brazil’s path under Carlo Ancelotti

  Since taking charge in 2025, the Italian coach has built a stable and disciplined Brazil side that already sealed qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The team is defensively strong and tactically flexible, but critics argue it lacks Neymar’s creativity and spark in attack. With Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and Matheus Cunha leading the charge, Brazil look balanced yet cautious. The big question remains: as Brazil chase a sixth world title, will Ancelotti find room for Neymar’s magic or has the Selcao quietly moved on from their former talisman?

Rasooli has also returned to Afghanistan T20I’s squad while Zadran is still recovering from ankle surgery

ESPNcricinfo staff01-Dec-2024Offspinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who has not played for Afghanistan since June because of injury, has made a return to their white-ball squads for the tour of Zimbabwe this month. Mujeeb was sidelined by a right phalanx (hand) sprain, and only returned to competitive cricket for the first time in five months at the Abu Dhabi T10 on November 21.Top-order batter Zubaid Akbari earned his maiden call-up to Afghanistan’s T20I squad for the Zimbabwe tour, while another top-order batter Darwish Rasooli also returned to the shortest format.Afghanistan will continue to miss the services of top-order batter Ibrahim Zadran, who is still recovering from the ankle surgery he had recently undergone in England.Akbari is coming off an impressive Emerging Teams Asia Cup T20 tournament where he was the fourth-highest run-getter and the second-highest for Afghanistan A with 137 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 131.73. It was under Rasooli – who has played seven T20Is – that Afghanistan A clinched their maiden Emerging Teams Asia Cup T20 in Oman earlier this year. Rasooli’s last T20I was against UAE in Sharjah in January this year.Noor Ahmad has been named only in the T20I squad and Riaz Hassan has also been left out of the ODI squad.ACB interim chief selector Ahmad Shah said: “It’s a great feeling to see our frontline spinner, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, recover from his injury and be available for selection. He is an essential member of our squad, and we hope he continues to shine brightly for Afghanistan. Additionally, Zubaid Akbari and Darwish Rasooli have been consistent performers, not only in domestic cricket but also in the recently concluded ACC Emerging Teams Cup, where Afghanistan claimed the title. We have included both players in the T20I squad and wish them the very best for the upcoming series.”The white-ball leg of the Zimbabwe tour consists of three T20Is and as many ODIs, following which the teams will play two Tests between December 26 and January 6, 2025. Afghanistan are yet to name their Test squad.Change in datesThe limited overs leg of the tour has seen a slight shift in dates and according to ACB, this is “to help the spectators attend the key games during weekends”. As per the revised schedule, the three T20Is, which were originally slotted to be played on December 9, 11 and 12, have now been pushed to December 11, 13 and 14. These adjustments have also affected the ODIs, with the first game now scheduled for December 17 and the second and third ODIs on December 19 and 21, respectively. All these matches will be played at the Harare Sports Club.Afghanistan squad for Zimbabwe ODIsHashmatullah Shahidi (capt), Rahmat Shah (vice-capt), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ikram Alikhil (wk), Abdul Malik, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, AM Ghazanfar, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Bilal Sami, Naveed Zadran and Farid Ahmad MalikAfghanistan squad for Zimbabwe T20IsRashid Khan (capt), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Hazratullah Zazai, Mohammad Nabi, Darwish Rasooli, Zubaid Akbari, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Azmatullah Omarzai, Nangyal Kharoti, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad and Naveen Ul Haq

The three who quit are Naimur Rahman, Khaled Mahmud and Enayet Hossain Siraj

Mohammad Isam31-Oct-2024

Faruque Ahmed chairs the BCB meeting•BCB

The BCB has removed 11 directors from the board after they failed to attend three or more consecutive meetings, in accordance with the board constitution. The list includes former president Nazmul Hassan and BPL chairman Sheikh Sohel.The others are Manzur Kader, AJM Nasir Uddin, Anwarul Islam, Shafiul Alam Chowdhury, Ismail Haider Mallick, Tanvir Ahmed, Obeid Nizam, Gazi Golam Murtoza and Nazib Ahmed. In addition to the 11, the BCB accepted resignations from three other directors: Naimur Rahman, Khaled Mahmud and Enayet Hossain Siraj.All of the above names have been missing in action since the Awami League government was dethroned on August 5 following a violent student uprising. They have direct or indirect connections with the Awami League. Nazmul was the sports minister, Shafiul an Awami League MP while Nasir was a former Chattogram mayor during the Awami League’s 15-year reign. Sohel and Nazib are relatives of Sheikh Hasina, the former prime minister, while Mallick was Nazmul’s close associate.The BCB had 25 directors in all before the fall of the government and 10 remain after the departure of those 14, as one had passed away before August.The BCB also formed a constitution amendment committee headed by director Nazmul Abedeen. According to the press release, “the committee will be responsible for assessing the current BCB constitution, identifying areas of improvement and proposing amendments that align with the strategic goals and evolving needs of the BCB”.Two weeks after an interim government was sworn in on August 8, the BCB directors elected Faruque Ahmed, the former Bangladesh captain, as the president while Abedeen, the renowned coach, also became a director. They took the places of Jalal Yunus who resigned as a director and Ahmed Sajjadul Alam was removed as director.

Paul Gascoigne is one of the geatest players in Glasgow Rangers history and undoubtedbly one of the most entertaining footballers of all time.

‘Gazza’ joined the Gers from Lazio in 1995 and won the lot in his debut campaign at Ibrox, lifting the Premiership title and the Scottish Cup while being crowned the SFWA Player of the Year and PFA Players’ Player of the Year.

Perhaps his finest moment in a Blue shirt came against Aberdeen in that 1995-96 campaign, as a hat-trick at Ibrox which included a stunning solo goal sealed the league title.

The 10 greatest Rangers players of all time – ranked

Rangers have had plenty of legendary players turn out for them over the years.

ByRoss Kilvington Nov 29, 2024

The following year is remembered for Gascoigne’s masterclass in the Scottish League Cup final against Hearts, as he scored twice in a 4-3 victory, and Ally McCoist recalls an argument with the match-winner that day: “The half-time whistle goes and we’re up the tunnel and we’re still at it the two of us, we’re in the dressing room and we’re still at it, so Walter Smith comes in and says: ‘Right, everybody shut up and calm down’.

“But Gascoigne is still raging and I can see Walter getting angrier and angrier. I’ve known Walter long enough by this point to just keep my mouth shut, but Gascoigne keeps going.

“Eventually Walter picks him up by the scruff of the neck and hangs him up on the peg where you put your coats and he says: ‘Paul, I will not tell you again to shut up!’”

He continued: “Eventually when it calmed down Gazza got up, went out of the dressing room and straight into the director’s room – in his gear by the way! – and had a whiskey.

“He threw it down his neck, came back into the dressing room, sat down, Walter did his team talk, he walked out for the second half and he scored two goals. He was unbelievable.”

McCoist and Gascoigne played with some incredible names during that era – perhaps no surprise given they won nine straight league titles – from Richard Gough to Brian Laudrup, and Gazza has revealed it was the Dane who blew teammates away in training.

Gascoigne: Laudrup was 'one of the best players in the world'

Speaking about his greatest teammates, Gascoigne named EURO 1992 winner Laudrup as a ‘match-winner’ who was ‘virtually untouchable’ both in games and on the training ground.

Laudrup won three titles in four seasons at Glasgow, while both he and his brother are widely regarded as two of Denmark’s greatest ever players.

1994/95

49

16

1995/96

40

10

1996/97

48

23

1997/98

42

7

Even in a team stacked full of big names, his elegance, quick feet and creativity stood out like a sore thumb.