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The tournament is scheduled to begin on October 17 with the final on November 29

Andrew McGlashan15-Jul-2020The WBBL will feature a three-week hub in Sydney and won’t be played in Melbourne until late November as the tournament builds in contingencies to deal with the ongoing challenges posed by Covid-19.The sixth season of the tournament is scheduled to begin on the weekend of October 17 and 18 at Allan Border Field in Brisbane and in Perth before a weekend of matches in Adelaide and Tasmania ahead of the lengthy stint in Sydney which begins on October 28 and lasts through to November 15. The venues in Sydney will be Blacktown International Sports Park, Hurstville Oval and North Sydney Oval.Melbourne is then set to host the last period of group matches from November 19-22 ahead of the finals which will be played November 27-29. Melbourne is going through its second Covid-19 lockdown following a spike in cases, with the restrictions currently set to last until at least August 19, while there has also been an increase in cases in New South Wales.”The League is pleased to have delivered a fixture that includes matches in each club’s home market while also reducing the overall travel burden on clubs,” Alistair Dobson, the head of Big Bash Leagues, said. “By focusing parts of the competition in a central location (Sydney), it also provides optionality should the COVID-19 situation affect the flow of the season and we remain vigilant in all aspects of our planning to provide a safe environment for players and staff.ESPNcricinfo Ltd”As with all sporting competitions around the world, we must remain vigilant and agile in responding to the Covid-19 situation as it develops and we will continue to work with all relevant federal and state government agencies, biosecurity experts, venues, clubs, players, broadcast partners and our own internal teams to ensure a safe and successful summer.”There will be an increase in televised matches from the tournament, 26 in total, three more than last season with the remaining 33 games available via streaming.”Our clubs should be commended for their determination and commitment to delivering a full 59-game season for the rebel WBBL06,” Dobson said, “along with the commitment shown to the WBBL from our broadcast partners Seven and Foxtel to bring more of the WBBL action live to TV screens across the country than any of the previous five seasons of the competition.”The Brisbane Heat will be aiming to make it a hat-trick of titles in the 2020-21 season.

Manchester City could land a bargain this summer after a new report emerged linking Pep Guardiola's side with one of the most dangerous players in the Bundesliga.

Manchester City a win away

A nervy 2-0 win over Tottenham on Tuesday left Pep Guardiola's side in charge of the Premier League title race heading into the final day of the season.

Two points ahead of Arsenal, the Cityzens know that three points against West Ham at the Etihad on Sunday will see them clinch their fourth Premier League title in five years, while a draw could be enough depending on the result Arsenal manage against Everton.

£250k-p/w star who Pep Guardiola loves is now "very unhappy" at Man City

Could a shock summer departure from Manchester be on the cards?

ByBen Browning May 14, 2024

They could not have asked for a better opposition, with West Ham in turmoil and David Moyes heading into his final game in charge of a side that have conceded 10 times in their last two away games, and have won away from home just twice in 2024.

Though it has been less than a vintage season for Guardiola's side, they could yet end it with a double should they also lift the FA Cup in nine days time, and they are only likely strengthen this summer.

City target new defender

Now, Manchester City are reportedly chasing one of their former players, in a move that could set them back around £35m this summer. That, of course, comes in the shape of Jeremie Frimpong, who has been deployed as a right-wing-back by Xabi Alonso and has been a massive factor in Bayer Leverkusen having gone the whole season unbeaten to date.

Though nominally a defender, the Dutchman has been a constant threat for the German outfit, grabbing a massive 14 goals and 12 assists, numbers normally expected from attackers and better than those put up by Kevin de Bruyne for example, though of course the Belgian was sidelined for the first part of the campaign.

Jeremie Frimpong's outrageous season

Domestic Cups

Europa League

Bundesliga

Appearances

5

9

30

Goals

2

3

9

Assists

3

0

9

His performances have drawn high praise from all corners, with Eurosport Germany's Dennis Mezler explaining: “Frimpong is also enormously dangerous in front of goal for a nominally ‘defensive’ player. Now that the whole team is playing strongly under Alonso, Frimpong is underlining his class even more."

Linked with Arsenal and Manchester United previously, the Dutchman is said to have a 40m euro release clause in his contract, though it is added that it must be triggered before the European Championships kick off in Germany next month.

Now, HITC claim that Manchester City "have spoken to Jeremie Frimpong" and that the defender "has opened discussions" about a move back to his former side, in a far more senior role than when he left.

With Kyle Walker now the wrong side of his peak, Frimpong's explosive speed and ability in the final third could be a massive addition to the Etihad side, who have no natural right-back besides the Englishman, a fact which has seen Manuel Akanji and John Stones play there in recent months.

Available for just a fraction of what he would otherwise cost courtesy of his release clause, should City sign him he could be one of the bargains of the summer.

Glasgow Rangers can end their season in style as they prepare to travel away from Ibrox to Hampden Park for the SFA Cup final on Saturday.

The Light Blues won the League Cup earlier this term, shortly after Philippe Clement's arrival in Glasgow, and they now have an opportunity to complete a clean sweep of the domestic cup competitions in Scotland.

They missed out on the Scottish Premiership title, as they finished second behind their closest rivals, and they can dish out a bit of revenge on Saturday by beating Celtic to secure the SFA Cup trophy.

The Gers come into this game off the back of a 3-3 draw with Hearts in the Premiership on the final day of the season last weekend, as the Jam Tarts struck an equaliser in stoppage time.

Clement could now make a few changes to his starting XI from that draw in order to give his team the best chance of lifting another piece of silverware this weekend.

With that in mind, here is FFC's predicted Rangers lineup to take to the field at Hampden Park for this cup final clash with the Hoops…

1 Jack Butland

Starting off between the sticks, Jack Butland should be selected to play as he has been the manager's first-choice shot-stopper throughout the season so far.

Signed on a free transfer from Crystal Palace last summer, the former England international kept 18 clean sheets in 38 Premiership outings for the Gers.

2 James Tavernier

The captain, James Tavernier, should retain his position at right-back. He knows how to step up on the big occasion, as the English whiz did in the League Cup final at Hampden Park earlier this term.

Tavernier scored the only goal of the game against Aberdeen in the final to secure the trophy for the Light Blues, and the ex-Newcastle United prospect may hope for similar success this weekend.

3 Leon Balogun

The first change to the starting XI could come at the heart of the backline as Leon King could be brutally dropped to the bench to make space for Leon Balogun to return.

Football Insider's Sean Fisher handed King a player rating of 4/10 for his performance against Hearts, as Lawrence Shankland enjoyed great success against him, and FFC published an article urging Clement to ruthlessly bin him from the XI for the cup final.

Balogun, who was once hailed as a "tremendous" player by ex-Rangers man Alex Rae, is an experienced operator who played the full 90 minutes against Aberdeen in the League Cup final earlier this season, keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 win.

Therefore, the manager should unleash the Nigerian titan, who won 68% of his duels in the Premiership, from the start to marshal the backline.

4 Ben Davies

On the left of the centre-back pairing, Ben Davies could retain his position in the starting XI to offer a naturally left-footed balance to that side of the pitch.

With John Souttar and Connor Goldson both missing out on the matchday squad against Hearts, the former Liverpool man may also be the only experienced option available to partner Balogun.

5 Borna Barisic

The second change to the starting XI could come at left-back as Borna Barisic could come in to start ahead of B team prospect Robbie Fraser.

Ridvan Yilmaz is a big doubt for the game after coming to Clement with an injury issue this week, which leaves the Croatian international as the only experienced option in this position.

Fraser only played two Premiership matches this season, with one start, and it would be a risk to chuck him in from the start for a cup final, which opens the door for the experienced Barisic to come in.

6 Mohammed Diomande

Mohammed Diomande should line up at the base of the midfield once again and look to bring dynamism to the middle of the park against the likes of Reo Hatate and Matt O'Riley.

The 22-year-old star won 53% of his duels in the Premiership as he proved that he can hold his own in physical contests in Scottish football.

7 Nicolas Raskin

Alongside Diomande, Nicolas Raskin could be trusted to compete in midfield after his impressive performance against Hearts, when he won 12 duels and completed seven tackles.

The Belgian battler could use his tenacity and workrate to close down Celtic's players and stop them from dominating the middle of the park at Hampden.

8 Ross McCausland

Academy graduate Ross McCausland should start on the right side of the attack after a fantastic run of form in recent weeks for the Scottish giants, with two goals and two assists in his last four matches.

The Northern Ireland international offers direct running and pace down the right flank and could help to push Greg Taylor back, to limit his impact going forward.

9 Todd Cantwell

In the number ten position, Todd Cantwell's recent form suggests that he is the best man to select in this role once again for this cup final clash.

The English attacking midfielder has produced two goals and one assist in his last two appearances for the Light Blues, and will be looking to be a difference-maker against Celtic.

10 Abdallah Sima

The third change to the starting XI could come on the left flank as Brighton & Hove Albion loanee Abdallah Sima could return to the team ahead of Scott Wright.

After ending the Premiership season with two goals, both of which came in a recent 5-2 win over Dundee, and zero assists in 23 games, Wright should not be trusted to make an impact against Celtic at the top end of the pitch.

Sima, who scored 11 goals and provided two assists in 17 league starts, should replace him in the XI after making his return from injury off the bench against Hearts.

Carlo Ancelotti's side followed a fantastic first half with a poor second, and were perhaps fortunate to run out winners

Real Madrid started in style before finishing in uncertainty in a tense 3-2 win over Alaves. For 45 minutes, Los Blancos were rampant, the Vinicius Jr-Kylian Mbappe-Rodrygo trio purring to give the home side a 3-0 lead. But two late Alaves goals made things interesting – and almost saw Carlo Ancelotti's men collapse.

The Madrid opener came from an unlikely source, Lucas Vazquez sweeping Vinicius' cutback into the bottom corner. Mbappe made it two shortly before half time, a quick interchange with Jude Bellingham leading to an easy finish for Los Blancos' big summer signing.

Rodrygo scored the third shortly after half time, sliding one through the keeper's legs after far too easily evading two Alaves defenders. Endrick came close to adding a fourth within minutes of entering the fray, his deflected shot pinging off the post.

Alaves stuck around, though. Carlos Protesoni grabbed the first, curling one off the post from outside the box. Veteran Kike Garcia added a second two minutes later, setting up a nervy finish. Los Blancos held on, though, some smart defending securing a win that turned out to be far from easy.

GOAL rates Madrid's players from Santiago Bernabeu…

Getty Images SportGoalkeeper & Defence

Thibaut Courtois (5/10):

Nothing to do until the 85th minute, when he was beaten by a long range strike. Couldn't stop the second either.

Lucas Vazquez (5/10):

Scored the opener with a smart finish. Gave it away for the Alaves first, and could have been tighter on the second.

Antonio Rudiger (7/10):

A few nice bursts of pace halted opposing attacks. Can't be blamed for either goal, really.

Eder Militao (7/10):

Spent most of his time passing the ball sideways, and had very little defensive work to do. Madrid were markedly worse at the back when he went off.

Ferland Mendy (6/10):

Went about his usual shielding role with aplomb. His defensive cover allowed Vinicius to do all of the fun attacking things.

AdvertisementAFPMidfield

Aurelien Tchouameni (6/10):

Recycled possession and passed it forward when he needed in the first half – probably his best 45 minutes of the season. Followed it with an unsteady second.

Federico Valverde (8/10):

Never stopped running. Won the ball deep, got involved in the final third. A fine shift.

Jude Bellingham (7/10):

Held onto the ball for too long at times, but was more decisive when it mattered. Combined wonderfully with Mbappe for the second. Less effective – and perhaps a bit tired – in the second half.

Getty Images SportAttack

Vinicius Jr (8/10):

Spent most of the game making opponents look very silly. Assisted the opener. Unlucky not to grab a goal of his own.

Kylian Mbappe (8/10):

Was a more willing runner than in past weeks. Took advantage of the acres of space offered to him by opposing defenders. Dropped deep and connected well, when needed. Much, much better.

Rodrygo (8/10):

Held width, stayed patient, got his goal. Did some important defensive work, too. Still playing out of position, but was incisive when it counted.

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AFPSubs & Manager

Endrick (5/10):

Hit the post within minutes of coming on. Could have been sent off for a reckless kick.

Luka Modric (5/10):

Lacking defensively, didn't add much going forward.

Jesus Vallejo (3/10):

A rare appearance to give Militao a rest. Had a nightmarish 15 minutes.

Arda Guler (N/A):

Made a couple of vital defensive interventions late.

Fran Garcia (N/A):

Late legs for Vini.

Carlo Ancelotti (5/10):

What a confusing one! His side were rampant in the first half, but so, so poor after the break. A few more minutes on the clock and they really could have throw it away. He won't be happy whatsoever.

Saif Zaib’s useful cameo takes game away from Somerset

ECB Reporters Network30-Aug-2020Adam Rossington defied a hand injury as he struck a quickfire half-century to lead Northants Steelbacks to a nine-run win over Somerset at Wantage Road.Rossington was left grimacing in pain for the majority of his 51 from 31 balls after he was pinned on the right hand by Somerset seamer Ollie Sale and required treatment on the field.But the wicketkeeper-batsman, profiting from targeting the leg side, played the match-defining innings and he shared an 81-run stand with captain Josh Cobb.Rossington was then unable to take his place in the field as the hosts held on to defend 171 for six, with 39-year-old allrounder Gareth Berg, making his Northants debut in the Vitality Blast, claiming 2 for 31.Somerset made a bright start to their chase, reaching the end of the six-over Powerplay at 54 for 1, but lost four wickets in the next five overs as Berg’s experience and changes of pace proved invaluable.Berg initially fooled debutant George Bartlett with a slower ball that found his off stump after a 50-run partnership with James Hildreth.Hildreth played fluently for 34 but picked out Saif Zaib in the deep off Berg before Tom Abell and Eddie Byrom fell cheaply from successive deliveries.

Heads! https://t.co/8dFjdygtAT pic.twitter.com/BRVLJMeYQm

— Northamptonshire CCC (@NorthantsCCC) August 30, 2020

Ben Sanderson removed the big-hitting threat of the Overton twins, on his way to 3 for 36, but Roelof van der Merwe kept Somerset’s faint hopes alive with an unbeaten 41 from 25 balls.Van der Merwe shared an unbroken 46-run stand for the ninth wicket with Sale, but with 21 needed from Sanderson’s final over he was left with too much to do.Northants will now await injury news on Rossington, who missed last week’s Bob Willis Trophy match with a right finger injury, as the only misfortune of their otherwise fine start to the Vitality Blast.After an opening-night washout at Gloucestershire the Steelbacks thumped last season’s finalists Worcestershire Rapids by nine wickets on Saturday before casting aside a Somerset side in good spirits following their Bob Willis Trophy form.Paul Stirling, the hero of Northants’ opening win over the Rapids, had picked up where he left off by carving Craig Overton over point for six but was out next ball edging behind as he stepped away to try and replicate the shot. Richard Levi was then unluckily run out backing up when Craig Overton got a finger to a Cobb straight drive.Rossington suffered the blow to the hand early and while he was in visible pain, struck seven fours and a six, before an athletic diving catch from Sale at backward square leg off Max Waller.The impressive Sale was the pick of the Somerset attack and produced another smart piece of fielding off his own bowling when he held a reflex catch to dismiss Cobb, for 42 from 41 balls, just as the home captain looked set to accelerate.Zaib ensured the late hitting with an unbeaten on 28 from 13 balls – including 10 from the final two deliveries – which proved invaluable.

Jamie Porter and Simon Harmer revive Essex after they gain vital first-innings lead

Paul Edwards26-Sep-2020Somerset 301 and 227 for 7 (Lammonby 116, Porter 4-51) lead Essex 337 for 8 (Gregory 6-72) by 191 runsThe penultimate morning of the first-class cricket season offered both a familiar elegy and a fresh dynamic. The trees in St John’s Wood Church Grounds were crisping gently into autumn and it seemed fitting that John Sell Cotman, the 19th century landscape painter, has his marked grave in their abundant shadow. The day could have been mistaken for summer’s finest vintage until one stood in the bitter breeze and realised why the track-suited Essex players were muffled up as they strolled down Circus Road towards Lord’s. “The sunlight on the garden / Hardens and grows cold,” Louis MacNeice wrote.Tom Westley’s players could not allow either the weather or the many attractions of St John’s Wood to deter them. Panzers may sell 15 varieties of tomato – is there a finer food emporium in the land? – but Essex have a cup to win and are more concerned with taking the Bob Willis Trophy back to Chelmsford. It would be their fourth domestic triumph in as many seasons and would confirm them in many minds as the best team in the land. Such an achievement, though, rested on their ability to secure a first-innings lead and then avoid losing this match.That first goal was attained with little trouble; the second will depend on their ability to withstand Somerset’s attack on what is effectively a fourth-day Test match pitch. (If they do that they will probably win the game in any case.) Until the last couple of hours on Saturday the wicket had misbehaved as frequently as the most unctuous teacher’s pet but Somerset’s batsmen have given their bowlers a chance. One suspects the last day of this game will hold the interest of those watching around the country on live stream before they bid farewell to the type of cricket they most enjoy. “We cannot cage the minute / Within its nets of gold,” MacNeice continues.There is, though, little doubt that Tom Lammonby is currently making excellent use of almost every hour the gods allow him. When the Somerset opener eased Jamie Porter through midwicket for three runs in the fourth over after tea he completed the third hundred of his first-class career, all his centuries coming in successive matches in the Bob Willis Trophy. Yet so assured had been Lammonby’s strokeplay, particularly through the leg side, that a century had looked likely ever since he had swept Simon Harmer to fine leg, thus reaching his fifty off 73 balls with his ninth boundary.That first landmark was reached during Lammonby’s 105-run opening stand with Ben Green, who made 41 before he nicked Aaron Beard to Alastair Cook. Tom Abell then offered almost trifling assistance as a further 50 runs were added off 47 balls for the second wicket; by contrast most bowlers came alike to his partner. Porter was clipped square off Lammonby’s toes and then punched through midwicket. Harmer, who had been smacked over midwicket for six by Green, was driven against the spin through the leg side, which Lammonby favoured for a dozen of his 17 fours. The 20-year-old’s command appeared absolute until Harmer, as he so often does, had his revenge.Lammonby’s wicket was the second of the three that fell for one run in the ten balls that may be seen as vital in determining the destiny of the trophy. Well-placed to set a decent target when they were 159 for 2 at tea, Somerset had already lost Eddie Byrom, who played on to Porter for 1, before George Bartlett perished at mid-on when trying to muscle the same bowler to the Nursery End. Harmer’s arm ball then hit Lammonby on the back pad to give Russell Warren one of his easier decisions and Essex’s revival was maintained when Alastair Cook, whose enjoyment of cricket remains so obvious, dived to his left to take Lewis Gregory’s sharp edge.And quite suddenly the cricket, and even the day itself, seemed far removed from the first half-hour of the morning in which Essex had gained the lead that ensured they will win the trophy should the game be drawn. That task had been accomplished in almost perfunctory fashion, one that belied the importance of the runs scored.Essex began the session a mere 35 runs behind Somerset but with four wickets in hand. The common expectation was that we would watch a grim and glorious struggle for every run; the reality was that Porter and Adam Wheater knocked off the runs needed for a lead in 7.2 overs and there was roughly as much tension as would normally accompany the washing-up. Two sets of four leg-byes got things moving and Wheater’s boundaries through midwicket and long leg off Overton brought the target down to single figures. It was fitting that a Steve Davies fumble and four byes should provide the anti-climactic moment that was greeted with understandable applause on the away balcony. By the time the innings closed when 120 overs had been bowled, Gregory had taken his fifth and sixth wickets but Essex’s lead was 36 runs.Some seven hours later Somerset had their own lead of 191 but after hoping to set their opponents a target in excess of 250, they had spent the rest of the session after Gregory’s dismissal struggling towards advantage of 200. And by the close they had also lost Davies, caught at slip for 19 by Cook, who seems impervious to both frost and fever. Mortal men – or at least those of us who do not have to brave the climate on a Bedfordshire farm – are not so fortunate. Describing the weather as autumnal when the umpires took the players off seven overs before the close was an act of verbal generosity towards it. One thought of Michael Rosen’s poem, “London Fields”:The wicket falls
High fives all round
Conkers shining in their nests
Mr Softee pulls away.Perhaps they do, perhaps he does, but we have had a fine season, all two months of it. There has been sunlight on our gardens, a brighter sunlight than we thought possible. Let us pray it is a portent.

Lille wonderkid Ethan Mbappe has confirmed he will miss a "dream" clash with brother Kylian and Real Madrid after suffering a serious injury blow.

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Lille's Mbappe picks up a thigh injuryWon't feature against Real & facing long spell outSends out an emotional message to fansFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Ethan joined Lille after leaving Paris Saint-Germain in the summer, and has made four appearances for his new team so far this season. However, the midfielder ruptured his quadriceps muscle during Lille's latest Ligue 1 encounter against Le Havre. As a result, he is now set to miss Lille's Champions League match against his brother Kylian's Real Madrid, as well as a host of other matches.

AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Ethan played alongside Kylian at PSG after graduating from the club's academy, but both men left Parc des Princes as free agents at the end of the 2023-24 campaign. The midfielder expressed his emotions over his injury setback at Lille in an Instagram post, admitting he was disappointed to miss out on a clash with his older brother.

WHAT ETHAN MBAPPE SAID

Ethan wrote: "I got injured during the match [against Le Havre] and I'm going to be away for several weeks. It's a difficult moment for me because it's the first time since I've played football.

"But the sadness has passed, I am determined to come back stronger. With the support of my family, my teammates and all the medical staff, I will put all my energy into my rehabilitation to return to the best level.

"Even though I'm not on the field for a while, I'll continue to support my team and work hard behind the scenes.

"My dream of meeting my brother in the Champions League is getting far but not disappearing… Thank you all for your messages of support, it gives me the strength to get through this time. I can't wait to come back and meet you all on the field. Let’s go, Lille."

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It remains to be seen when Ethan will return to the pitch, but Kylian is getting closer to his Real comeback after a hamstring injury. The World Cup winner missed the Madrid derby due to the issue and wasn't expected to be back on the pitch until after the October international break, but Carlo Ancelotti included him in his final squad for the trip to Lille on Wednesday night.

It has been a summer of change for Chelsea so far. They sacked Mauricio Pochettino at the end of the season, despite the fact he reached the Carabao Cup final, the FA Cup semi-final and managed to qualify for Europe. The Blues will play in the Europa Conference League next season as a result.

However, Chelsea’s board got rid of the Argentine and replaced him with Leicester City’s Championship-winning manager Enzo Maresca. The former Manchester City coach arrives at Stamford Bridge with great expectations surrounding him, especially given the ruthlessness of Chelsea’s board. The Italian is the sixth manager during their reign, including interim coaches.

Indeed, Chelsea have already dipped into the transfer market this summer, after heavy spending under Todd Boehly.

Former City academy defender Tosin Adarabioyo will reunite with his former coach with the Citizens Maresca, after joining from Fulham. Ironically, despite all their spending under Boehly, Tosin was a free transfer for the Blues.

Although they have not signed anyone else so far this summer, that has not stopped Chelsea from being linked with other potential incomings. In particular, there has been one apparent target who has constantly been linked, with the transfer thought to be moving quickly in the last few weeks.

Chelsea target Premier League winger

The player in question here is Crystal Palace and France U21 international Michael Olise. The 22-year-old has had a stellar season at Selhurst Park and has been linked with a move away from the club, with Chelsea a potential destination.

That is according to a statement from well-connected Chelsea social media presence Felix Johnston. Johnston explains that, according to his sources, “Chelsea are progressing” on a deal for the winger, before confirming that they are “in talks with Olise’s agent”, suggesting that they are quite far along in the deal.

However, the Blues are not thought to be the only club that want to bring Olise in over the summer. Chelsea’s Mancunian rivals, Manchester United, are also hoping to acquire his services this summer. However, as per Johnston, Olise “prefers a move to Chelsea” ahead of the Red Devils during the transfer window, putting the Blues in pole position.

Olise’s price is well documented, and it was reiterated recently by The Standard. Palace are thought to have placed a release clause worth £60m in the 22-year-old’s contract, and will not sell him for any less. Thus, both Chelsea and United would need to meet this valuation to prise the winger away from Selhurst Park.

How Olise compares to Cole Palmer

In terms of pure goals and assists this season, the Eagles sensation has been in superb form. Despite struggling with injury, and then having his return to the first-team fold somewhat mismanaged, the 22-year-old has still put up some superb numbers. He scored ten goals and registered six assists in just 19 games in the Premier League.

That is certainly comparable to the numbers that Chelsea’s talisman Cole Palmer posted. The Englishman, who joined Chelsea from Man City in the 2023 transfer window, won the Premier League’s Young Player of the Year award for the 2023/24 campaign.

In 34 Premier League games, Palmer scored 22 goals and registered 11 assists. He has more combined goal involvements than any other Premier League player last season, as per Sofascore.

Games

19

34

Goals

10

22

Assists

6

11

Minutes

1,277

2,628

Both Olise and Palmer’s stats on Fbref are also comparable. Both players have a wand of a left foot, which showed with their goal involvements last season. They had very similar non-penalty expect goals numbers per 90 minutes last term, with Palmer averaging 0.38npxG to Olise’s 0.33npxG.

Not only that, they are both very similar creatively. Olise’s 2.54 key passes per 90 slightly beats Palmer’s 2.47 key passes per 90, although the Englishman averages more passes into the final third per 90, with 4.67 compared to Olise’s 3.03.

Players like Olise and Palmer are constantly finding ways to make things happen on the pitch, another thing reflected in their impressive stats. The Palace star averages 5.79 shot-creating actions and 0.99 goal-creating actions per 90, which just slightly trumps Chelsea’s number 20. The England international averages 5.57 shot-creating actions and 0.89 goal-creating actions per 90, which is still an incredibly effective number.

One of the best things about both players’ games is their dribbling ability, where they are able to slalom between defenders, using their impressive ability to change direction at pace. Indeed, this is also shown in their stats. Olise averages 5.85 take-ons and completes an average of 2.82 per 90. Comparatively, Palmer averages 3.57 take-ons, all the while completing 1.79 take-ons per 90.

However, neither player just dribbles for the sake of it. In actual fact, they are very progressive when carrying the ball. The Chelsea target has managed 4.79 progressive carries, and Palmer just a tick less, with 4.02 progressive carries.

One of the big worries for Chelsea fans, if they sign Olise, is how to fit the Frenchman and Palmer into the same side, given they are both left-footed right-wingers of a very similar profile. However, both wide men are adaptable, with the latter having played 18 times last season as a number 10, and even leading the line as a centre-forward on seven occasions. Similarly, the former can also play behind the striker, having done that once for Palace last term.

The 22-year-old is very highly thought of in the footballing world. Former Man City and Aston Villa defender Micah Richards explained on The Rest is Football Podcast that he believes Olise will be “world-class” one day. Richards then went on to say that Olise is “going to be a superstar”.

Should Chelsea manage to get the deal for Olise over the line it would certainly be a statement of intent. Of course, they will have to fend off interest from Man United in order to land the winger, but if they sign him, it will be a superb acquisition.

No Jackson, £226m trio sign: Enzo Maresca's dream lineup at Chelsea

Chelsea are set for a busy summer with plenty of signings expected.

ByTom Lever May 29, 2024

There's no pressing need to sell at Liverpool this summer, but with Arne Slot now formally anointed as Anfield's head coach, several cogs are going to be shifted and certain players may well be deemed expendable.

Darwin Nunez, ever adored, much-maligned, has now completed two seasons for the Reds following his transfer from Benfica – for a fee that could rise to a club record £85m – but only has 20 goals from 65 Premier League matches, missing not so much a catalogue of big chances as a sprawling volume.

1.

Erling Haaland

31

27

34

2.

Darwin Nunez

36

11

27

3.

Nicolas Jackson

35

16

24

4.

Ollie Watkins

37

19

22

5.

Alexander Isak

30

21

21

Reports earlier in June suggested that Liverpool would listen to offers for the Uruguayan, but he's not the only one, with Luis Diaz still on Barcelona's radar, as per The Athletic.

Diaz was one of Liverpool's standout performers last season but is 27 years old and has ebbed from form in phases and if Liverpool's €75m (£63m) valuation is met, it's likely he would be allowed to leave.

A high-level replacement, of course, would need to be welcomed to the fold.

Liverpool transfer news

According to HITC, Liverpool have joined Arsenal in the race for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, who has his sights set on a transfer to Barcelona but may find that dream hit a wall given La Blaugrana's financial struggles.

With that in mind, Liverpool might need to lower their price tag for Diaz somewhat to complete this rotation of moves, though Paris Saint-Germain, who have just lost Kylian Mbappe, are also interested in the Colombian.

Williams has a €58m (£49m) release clause in his contract and given his impressive displays at Euro 2024 so far, Liverpool might want to push for his signing as quickly as possible.

Nico Williams' Euro 2024 performances

Williams is only 21 but he's made a big impression in La Liga and produced a masterful display of dribbling and playmaking against Italy on Thursday evening, awarded the UEFA Player of the Match award after the 1-0 victory.

Minutes played

78'

Touches

60

Accurate passes

27/29

Shots taken

2

Hit woodwork

1x

Key passes

4

Dribble attempts

4/10

Duels won

6/21

The pacy winger had also started against Croatia in his nation's opening victory, and while he didn't have the same resounding effect that time, his winding runs and ability to stretch the opposing defence highlighted the distinctive qualities that make him such an impressive outlet, succeeding with two of four dribbles and making one key pass.

The fixed fee in his £172k-per-week contract does strip a layer of complexity away from any negotiations but it will also leave rival suitors like Arsenal and Barcelona in similarly attractive positions, but with such excellent displays on the international stage and a fleet-footed, dynamic approach, he could be the perfect player to kickstart Slot's tenure.

In Luis de la Fuente's squad on merit, Williams enjoyed a highly effective playmaking campaign in Basque Country, scoring five goals and supplying 11 assists from 29 La Liga starts as well as notching eight goal contributions from five matches as Bilbao won the Copa del Rey.

He's an excellent winger with a range of skills that would make him a real asset for Liverpool. If Diaz is to be sold this summer, there is no available positional peer better placed to succeed in his stead.

Why Liverpool are interested in Nico Williams

Wingers. What are they? Are those creative, man-beating speedsters ebbing away from the modern game? The archetypal winger of old replaced by the ball-retaining, machine-like cogs in the intricate systems of the modern game.

Perhaps not. Football has evolved over the past few decades but winger remain ever important, especially so for the Reds boss. Slot, now at work at Kirkby as he looks to build from the bricks of Jurgen Klopp's illustrious legacy, plays a system reliant on the pace and dynamism of wide forwards.

Williams, in this regard, would be the perfect addition to a team in transition. The Spaniard offers many of the qualities that Diaz boasts but is younger, unceasing in his snap-speed movements.

Goals

0.32

0.20

Expected goals (xG)

0.39

0.24

Assists

0.15

0.44

Shots taken

3.05

2.23

Shot-creating actions

5.40

4.81

Progressive carries

4.49

5.69

Successful take-ons

2.20

3.42

Ball recoveries

4.35

5.22

When collating the respective metrics between Diaz and Williams throughout the 2023/24 campaign, a few interesting points can be drawn.

Firstly, Diaz is a more prolific goalscorer but this is only because he strikes on goal with greater regularity. In actual fact, the Colombia international underperforms his expected goal tally by 0.07, whereas Williams underperformed by just 0.04, having taken far less shots across the year.

This might feel marginal but it illustrates how Williams, still so young, can improve over the coming years and eventually eclipse Diaz in striking ability and accuracy.

Secondly, the Spanish star is far more effective in his dribbling, boasting a superior output and proving to be altogether more energetic and athletic. His electric pace blends with consistent surging movements that have been an integral part in his assist-making success (Williams ranks among the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers for assists per 90; Diaz, in comparison, among only the bottom 43%).

Lest we forget, the 5 foot 11 whiz is six years younger than Liverpool's left-sided forward. He'd bring so much energy and exuberance to the team. Hailed as a "mind-blowing" talent by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Slot needs to get this one done with haste.

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David Maddocks believes it is important for stability as the game battles the Covid-19 pandemic

Daniel Brettig22-Oct-2020David Maddocks, the new Cricket Victoria chair, has declared that on his first impression there is a strong case for the Cricket Australia chairman Earl Eddings to be granted a second term when his current three-year stint expires next year, arguing that the game requires “stability in a period of great instability”, underlined by uncertainty about India’s port of arrival for this summer’s tour.A lawyer and governance expert, Maddocks cut his administrative teeth at the North Melbourne Cricket Club before it merged to form the Greenvale Kangaroos and as such has known Eddings, who is also a former president of North Melbourne, for decades. In a rocky year for CA, which has seen its chief executive Kevin Roberts moved on amid issues around Covid-19 and disputes with the states, the players association and most recently the free-to-air broadcaster Channel Seven, Maddocks argued that CA should consider the need for continuity when so much was changing around the game.”You often hear it said that board members by the time their period is about to expire, they’re really at their best, they’ve been around, they understand the issues, they understand the interrelationships and all those sorts of things,” Maddocks said. “I think at the moment in terms of CV and CA, there is a strong case for stability in a period of great instability. There are a number of issues CA’s dealing with, the upcoming Test series and so on. My personal view is I think Earl is doing a very good job and I think if there was potential for him to stay on, I think it’s something that ought to be considered.ALSO READ: Cricket Australia chairman Earl Eddings gains ally from Victoria board change”Do I agree with where CA is going and its vision? Yes, I do. In terms of my relationship with Earl, I know Earl very well through cricket circles going back a long time. But I understand my duty entirely as CV chair is I’ve got to exercise my own judgment on issues in the best interests of cricket in Victoria. I know Earl well enough, and I think this is a good thing, to tell him if I have concerns or what CV’s interests might be if there’s something that’s not consistent with where CA are heading.”Eddings’ predecessor David Peever attempted to continue for a second term and was re-elected as such at the CA AGM in late 2018, before the release of a cultural review following the Newlands scandal saw his resignation forced when New South Wales and its chairman John Knox withdrew support a matter of days later.Both Knox and the Queensland chairman Chris Simpson raised governance concerns at the AGMs of their respective states earlier this year, but Maddocks is of the view that structural change to the CA board – to have the direct representation of states on the board rather than state nominated independent directors – is not a path cricket should return to.”As I understand it, the fundamental concern about this old style is that decisions could be dominated more by self-interest and perhaps controlled by the larger, more powerful states, whereas decisions need to be made by CA for the best interests of cricket throughout Australia,” Maddocks said. “No problem with the dialogue, no problem with the discussion, but my personal view is the structure as it presently stands is overall a more appropriate style than that old school style”One positive side of it would be if the states understand more what’s happening, and the difficulties or issues that CA are confronting, we all might be able to contribute in a positive way to working towards solutions. The states shouldn’t just sit back and wait to be told what to do, and I don’t believe we are. I think under Earl there’s been very good communication to the states and there’s nothing to stop states from raising issues and getting more information from CA.Nevertheless, Maddocks emphasised the need for strong communication between boards, and saw no reason why CA directors should not be welcome at every CV board meeting, citing the example of Mel Jones who was Victoria’s nominee to the CA board in late 2019.”The first delegates meeting I chaired was last Monday and Mel attended, and Earl attended,” he said. “My understanding from talking to Mel is that she’s keen to attend every delegates meeting that takes place in Victoria, but also to be involved in the CV board meetings as well. Earl has also said that he is available at any time. That’s one thing I’ll be very much taking advantage of.”I accept there has been comment previously that there’s a feeling with that board-nominated person we could have more communication from them, and we will. When they are independently appointed, they’re there to make decisions in the best interest of cricket in Australia, but I don’t see how that in any way precludes them from coming back and attending any meetings to keep Cricket Victoria informed and that’s exactly what I’ll be encouraging.”Maddocks accepted, too, that there had been a high degree of criticism about CV’s cuts to community cricket earlier this year, and also acknowledged that one of his key tasks was to ensure unity across the state. “What I’d like to encourage is that we work together constructively,” he said. “A good example recently was that we’ve got a proper process for people to raise issues and vote directors in and out. We have elections, there’s always a potential for change. So, I’d really want to encourage a sense of working together and looking at solutions.”