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Worcestershire lose eight for 46 in 25 overs to concede big first-innings lead after Jordan Thompson’s 70

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay12-Apr-2025

Ben Coad roars in celebration•Getty Images

Yorkshire claimed eight Worcestershire wickets during a rampant second-afternoon performance as their seamers helped gain a stranglehold on this Rothesay County Championship match at Headingley.Jordan Thompson was Yorkshire’s standout player, but he wasn’t head and shoulders above the rest having completed a swashbuckling 70 at the start of day two before returning 3 for 27 with his seamers. There were a number of impressive performances.In reply to Yorkshire’s 456 all out, Worcestershire had reached 90 without loss shortly after lunch, but they lost eight wickets for 46 in 25 overs to slump to 136 for 8 at tea and were later bowled out for 162, conceding a lead of 294.The hosts, however, opted against enforcing the follow-on, and increased their lead in the day’s remaining 19 overs. They closed on 61 for 1 – 355 ahead.The day started with Yorkshire advancing their first innings from an overnight 425 for 8. Ben Allison struck twice to finish with an impressive three-for, while the excellent Ben Coad also completed a useful 31 amidst a ninth-wicket stand of 75 with Thompson.Coad, 22 with the bat overnight, also added a superb 4 for 39 from 15.3 overs later on.New-ball partner Jack White claimed two wickets and George Hill one, with Yorkshire’s catching behind the wicket particularly impressive. They took five slip catches added to two for wicketkeeper-captain Jonny Bairstow.Worcestershire captain Brett D’Oliveira suffered a dislocated thumb whilst trying to take a diving catch in the outfield before lunch, and he only batted at eight rather than his usual number six before losing his off-stump to White.The Pears had started their reply strongly through openers Jake Libby and Gareth Roderick, who posted 53 and 37 respectively on a pitch which has offered something for everyone. Good pace and carry is its most obvious feature.During the action-packed afternoon, the home attack were right at it. They hardly gave their visitors a moment’s breathing space.Yorkshire’s breakthrough came when White had Roderick caught at second slip by Adam Lyth, who also helped Coad remove Libby at 101 for 3 in the 37th over. Thompson forced Kashif Ali to play on to his leg-stump in between.Hill also held a juggling catch at first slip to help Coad remove ex-Yorkshire all-rounder Matthew Waite for one. Waite was the hero of last week’s draw with Somerset at Taunton, unbeaten in both innings for 32 and 87.Worcestershire suffered a first-innings collapse in that game of all 10 wickets for 84 but dug themselves out of a hole second time around. Whether they can do the same here remains to be seen.Thompson had Ethan Brookes caught at mid-on for 19 after tea before Coad wrapped things up when Jacob Duffy edged behind.The only wicket to fall in Yorkshire’s second innings went the way of Allison as Fin Bean played on for 14. Lyth will begin day three on 32.Thompson ensured an entertaining start to the day, moving from 48 not out to help Yorkshire secure their fifth batting bonus point for passing 450. The visitors also secured their third bowling point.Yorkshire lost Coad caught behind off Allison, leaving the score at 435 for 9.But Thompson took two sixes in an over off another Worcestershire seamer Tom Taylor – one pulled, the other reverse scooped over the wicketkeeper’s head. The second took his side beyond 450. He also reached his fifty off 48 balls.Yorkshire’s innings, however, was wrapped up when sub-fielder Rob Jones took a superb juggling catch on the deep square-leg boundary to help Allison remove Thompson, whose influence on the day was far from done.

Big picture: New Zealand primed for semi-finals

New Zealand are in their element. They came into the Champions Trophy after an unbeaten run to the tri-series title against South Africa and Pakistan, whom they beat convincingly once again in the tournament opener.Will Young and Tom Latham struck centuries to set up a 300-plus score before Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke stifled Pakistan in the powerplay. Their three spinners tightened the grip with impactful spells and the contest fizzled out early in the chase. It was a near-perfect performance from a well-drilled unit.Another win against familiar opponents Bangladesh in Rawalpindi will confirm their place (and India’s as well) in the semi-final, an admirable achievement after losing several frontline bowlers to injuries pre-tournament.Bangladesh’s ODI side has lost its mojo in the last couple of years. Their top order includes Soumya Sarkar and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, both of whom bagged ducks as they slumped to 35 for 5 against India. They may have not got anywhere near 228 had Jaker Ali, who made 68, not been dropped first ball by Rohit Sharma.Related

• Simmons wants top order 'to put things together' in the powerplay

• After lengthy layoff, Jamieson climbs back from 'bottom of the cliff'

• Hridoy: 'I had to fight and find a way' after the early wickets

• Latham, Young hit hundreds on Champions Trophy debut

Towhid Hridoy made his maiden ODI century but suffered from cramps at the end of his innings. Fortunately for him, Rawalpindi will be cooler than Dubai. Bangladesh will also be buoyed by the news that their senior batter Mahmudullah is likely to play against New Zealand after missing out against India with a hamstring niggle.Bangladesh’s bowling was steady against India but they need more from the likes of Taskin Ahmed, Rishad Hossain and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. They could also do with more firepower in Nahid Rana, their fastest bowler. New Zealand have never faced him before, so the surprise factor could be to Bangladesh’s advantage in a game they must win to keep their Champions Trophy campaign alive.Towhid Hridoy battled cramps during his hundred against India•Associated Press

Form guide

Bangladesh: LLLLL (last five completed ODIs, most recent first)
New Zealand: WWWWL

In the spotlight: Towhid Hridoy and Glenn Phillips

A century was a long time coming for the impressive Towhid Hridoy. It has taken him more than two years, and 34 matches, to score one. He was tested by a potent Indian attack but showed off his shots. With a hundred in the bag, he has the platform to push on, but Bangladesh will hope he displays more durability after coming down with cramps and struggling for impact towards the end of his innings in Dubai.Glenn Phillips is an electric cricketer. His catch to dismiss Mohammad Rizwan in Karachi, leaping high and to his left at backward point, is one of the moments of the tournament – an effort that would make the best goalkeepers feel envy. His fielding aside, Phillips’ attacking batting down the order gives New Zealand acceleration towards the end of their innings. He is also a capable offspinner and he can keep wickets too. Is there anything Phillips can’t do?

Team news: What if Mahmudullah and Ravindra are fit?

Two changes are expected for Bangladesh as they look to include Mahmudullah and Nahid. Who will they replace though?Bangladesh (probable): 1 Tanzid Hasan, 2 Soumya Sarkar, 3 Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), 4 Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 5 Tohwid Hridoy, 6 Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 7 Jaker Ali, 8 Rishad Hossain, 9 Tanzim Hasan, 10 Taskin Ahmed, 11 Mustafizur RahmanNew Zealand rested Rachin Ravindra against Pakistan after he was struck on the forehead while fielding during the tri-series just before the Champions Trophy. Since then, Devon Conway has scored of 97, 48 and 10 as an opener while Young scored a hundred in the previous game. So if New Zealand want to bring Ravindra back, who do they leave out?New Zealand (probable): 1 Will Young, 2 Devon Conway, 3 Kane Williamson, 4 Daryl Mitchell, 5 Tom Latham (wk), 6 Glenn Phillips, 7 Michael Bracewell, 8 Mitchell Santner (capt), 9 Nathan Smith, 10 Matt Henry, 11 Will O’RourkeWill Rachin Ravindra play against Bangladesh?•AFP/Getty Images

Pitch and conditions: Rawalpindi could be cloudy

This time, there will be no industrial fans and outdoor heaters to dry the pitch, as was the case ahead of the last international match – a Test against England – at this venue. Rawalpindi is generally good for batting, with a bit of help for fast bowlers as long as the ball is new and shiny. The forecast for Monday is cloudy weather with the temperature expected to drop below 20C after sunset.

Stats and trivia: Bangladesh’s most frequent ODI opponents

• Bangladesh beat New Zealand in their previous Champions Trophy meeting, in Cardiff in 2017. The head-to-head record in the competition thus stands at 1-1.
• New Zealand have been Bangladesh’s most frequent opponents in ODIs since 2015. New Zealand have dominated the head-to-head with 17 wins and three defeats in 21 matches.
• Against Pakistan, Young and Latham became the second New Zealand pair to score centuries in the same match in an ICC ODI tournament. The first pair was Ravindra and Conway, who hit hundreds against England in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
• Jaker and Hridoy’s 154-run partnership for the sixth wicket against India was a record stand for Bangladesh. The previous highest partnership for that wicket also involved Jaker, who had added 150 with Mahmudullah in Bangladesh’s previous ODI, against West Indies in December 2024.

Quotes

“Yeah, we’ve got a few plans for Bangladesh, but I think we obviously – we have to wait and see what the wicket does. If it is pretty flat I think it is probably similar stuff to what we’ve been operating in in Karachi. It’s hitting that hard length for a long period of time and then we know they have some destructive players in their line-up as well.”
“(Preparation time) has to be enough. That’s what the tournament gives us. That’s what we are using. Yesterday was a good practice. The Islamabad Club ground has really good facilities. We had a good session. We will have a sharp session today, and we will be ready for tomorrow.”

Newcastle United’s transfer window has been one of the most eventful in the Premier League.

The Magpies, fresh from a fifth-place finish last season and preparing for a Champions League campaign, have already been among the busiest clubs in the market.

Their recruitment strategy has been clear: target young players with scope to grow.

Jacob Ramsey arrived from Aston Villa to add drive to midfield, Malick Thiaw was secured from AC Milan to bolster the back line, and Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale have added depth in attack and the goalkeeping department respectively.

Yet, for all the excitement surrounding these signings, Newcastle’s summer has been dominated by uncertainty around Alexander Isak.

The Swedish striker has been at the centre of intense speculation, refusing to train with the squad and missing the opening fixtures against Aston Villa and Liverpool.

The absence of a recognised number nine left Eddie Howe short of attacking options, with Anthony Gordon even forced to operate as a makeshift forward before his red card compounded matters further.

A sudden £69m agreement with Stuttgart for Nick Woltemade has steadied nerves, but it has not distracted from Newcastle’s wider concerns in midfield.

Injuries to Sandro Tonali and Joelinton – even if not serious – have exposed how dependent Howe’s side can be on certain personnel.

It is within this context that the Magpies have begun exploring additional midfield reinforcements.

While one target in particular has caught their attention, prising him away from Inter Milan will be anything but straightforward.

Newcastle table approach for Serie A star

According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Newcastle United have lodged a proposal for Inter Milan’s Davide Frattesi, with talks continuing over a potential late move.

Their initial suggestion involved a loan deal with an obligation to buy, but the terms of that arrangement are far from guaranteed.

The Nerazzurri value the midfielder at around €40m (£35m) and would only sanction an exit if the structure of the deal was near-certain – either through a permanent transfer or a cast-iron obligation to purchase.

Frattesi is far from surplus to requirements at San Siro.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

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Although Inter’s midfield remains one of the deepest in Europe, manager Cristian Chivu considers the Italian international an important part of his side.

Indeed, the 25-year-old former Sassuolo man has carved out a reputation as one of the most dynamic midfielders in Italy.

Fabrizio Romano recently described him as “one of the best midfielders in Serie A,” a testament to his all-action playing style.

For Newcastle, the pursuit of Frattesi appears to be linked directly to the fitness issues of Joelinton and Tonali.

While neither is expected to face long-term layoffs, the scare was enough to prompt the club to consider adding extra depth.

However, with Ramsey already added this summer and Inter proving resistant to complex proposals, it remains to be seen if a deal will be struck.

Even so, the very fact they made the enquiry highlights how highly they regard Frattesi and how keen they are to ensure their midfield remains among the strongest in England.

Why Frattesi represents an upgrade on Joelinton

From a tactical standpoint, the Italian midfielder offers a profile that differs significantly from Joelinton.

At 29 years old, the Brazilian is approaching his peak years and has been a vital part of Howe’s project, not least for his versatility in operating as both a box-to-box midfielder and an occasional forward.

Last season, he contributed 4 goals and 3 assists in 29 Premier League appearances, while also ranking well for defensive metrics such as tackles (2.14 per 90) and blocks (1.39 per 90).

His combative style and physical presence have long made him a fan favourite. Frattesi, however, provides a more modern interpretation of the central midfield role.

His ability to break forward into advanced areas is reflected in his statistical profile.

Davide Frattesi – 2024/25

Matches Played

28

Goals

5

Assists

5

Progressive Carries

23

Progressive Passes

31

Shot-Creating Actions

19

Source: FBref

According to FBref, he ranks in the 99th percentile for non-penalty expected goals per 90 (0.37), the 95th percentile for total shots (1.91), and the 93rd percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area (3.08).

Few midfielders in Serie A can match his late runs into the box or his instinct for goal-scoring opportunities.

Compared to Joelinton, he registers a higher volume of shots per 90 (2.06 vs 1.69) and demonstrates greater efficiency in getting into dangerous positions, even if his shot accuracy (25%) lags slightly behind the Brazilian’s (28.9%).

Defensively, the comparison tilts back towards Joelinton.

The Brazilian remains stronger in duels, tackles, and blocks, highlighting his value in regaining possession and providing cover in midfield.

Frattesi, by contrast, is less imposing in pure defensive numbers, averaging 1.25 tackles per 90 and 0.88 blocks – a reflection of his role in a side where he is tasked with progressing the ball and supporting the attack rather than anchoring.

Where the Italian really shines is in transitional play.

His 1.70 progressive carries per 90 underline his ability to drive the ball forward, while his off-the-ball movement allows him to destabilise defensive lines and create space for teammates.

Comparisons have even been drawn with Scott McTominay of Napoli and Roma’s Niccolò Pisilli – midfielders who combine stamina with attacking intent.

In a Newcastle side often reliant on the directness of Joelinton and the passing range of Bruno Guimarães, Frattesi’s blend of dynamism and goal threat could provide a new dimension.

Crucially, the 25-year-old is also a player for the long term.

With a market value of €35m (£30m), as per Transfermarkt, he offers both current quality and future resale potential, aligning with Newcastle’s strategy of recruiting players with prime years still ahead of them.

While Joelinton has been integral to the club’s rise, the Italian’s ceiling appears higher, particularly in terms of end product.

For Howe, the question is whether depth or evolution is the priority.

If the aim is to simply safeguard against injuries to Tonali and Joelinton, then Newcastle’s midfield may already be well-stocked.

But if the ambition is to add a midfielder capable of pushing the side towards the next level in Europe, Frattesi represents a compelling option.

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Nottingham Forest are in “talks” with an “outstanding” player over a move to the club in the summer transfer window, according to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg.

Nottingham Forest willing to spend big in midfield

The Reds continue to be linked with moves to the City Ground before the new Premier League season gets underway, with AC Milan midfielder Yunus Musah seen as an exciting option before the window slams shut.

Forest are reportedly willing to pay as much as £26m for the USA international, with the Midlands outfit also hoping that they can “close the deal quickly”, enhancing Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad depth in the middle of the park.

Away from the Reds’ pursuit of Musah, other exciting options are also being targeted, including Ipswich Town winger Omari Hutchinson. Forest are said to be in talks over a summer move for the Englishman, with a £35m bid tabled.

Juventus ace Douglas Luiz has been heavily linked to the Premier League side, while RB Salzburg’s Mads Bidstrup has been mentioned as an alternative to the Brazilian.

Nottingham Forest in "talks" to sign midfielder

Now, according to Plettenberg on X, “talks have taken place” between Salzburg and Nottingham Forest over the signing of Bidstrup this summer, and with the player himself, who is open to a new challenge.

This is another encouraging update regarding the Reds acquiring the midfielder’s signature, with the Dane looking increasingly like a leading option to move to the City Ground before deadline day ends.

Bidstrup has now racked up 84 appearances for Salzburg, not to mention representing Denmark across five different youth age groups, and analyst Chris Kearney has heaped praise on him.

Still only 24, Forest would get the best years of Bidstrup’s career out of him, with his peak still likely to come, and he can provide welcome competition in midfield, as well as being compared in style to Luiz by FBref.

Hudson-Odoi 2.0: Nottingham Forest in talks to sign "outstanding" £35m star

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The fact that the Salzburg man has the same agent as Taiwo Awoniyi could be a bonus in smoothing negotiations along, and if the Reds can strike a deal, it could prove to be vital business as they prepare to shine in both the Premier League and Europe this season.

MatériaMais Notícias

O executivo de futebol Fabiano Melo esteve à frente do CSA no momento mais vitorioso da história do clube. Entre 2016 e 2020, a agremiação alagoana saiu de uma situação em que não disputava nenhuma divisão do Campeonato Brasileiro e chegou à Série A. O profissional comenta o trabalho realizado.

– Tenho muito orgulho do que fizemos no CSA naquele período. Três acessos consecutivos, um título da Série C e ainda dois campeonatos estaduais. Tantos triunfos sucessivos não ocorrem por acaso. Um planejamento cuidadoso e uma execução certeira foram fundamentais para que alcançássemos o sucesso – declarou.

O último trabalho de Fabiano foi na penúltima edição do Paulistão, em 2022. O executivo levou o Santo André às quartas de final do torneio, eliminando na fase de grupos o Santos. Aos 48 anos, Fabiano crê que o futebol brasileiro viva hoje um momento extremamente profissional.

– Evoluímos bastante nos últimos anos. Cada vez mais os clubes compreendem a necessidade de terem no comando do departamento de futebol indivíduos capacitados, que estudaram muito para ocuparem aqueles cargos. Sou otimista quanto ao futuro do nosso esporte – encerrou.

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أكد مارتن أوديجارد، نجم نادي آرسنال ، على صعوبة مواجهة فريقه اليوم الأحد مع مانشستر سيتي ببطولة الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز، مشيرًا إلى أن اللقاء سيكون تكتيكيًا بشكل بحت.

ويحتضن ملعب الإمارات قمة الجولة الخامسة من بطولة الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز بين آرسنال وضيفه مانشستر سيتي.

آرسنال يسعى إلى تحقيق الانتصار على مانشستر سيتي، من أجل مواصلة المنافسة على المركز الأول مع ليفربول الذي حقق خمس انتصارات متتالية في الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز.

طالع.. روبن دياز يتحدى آرسنال: لا نهتم بهم.. ونريد إسعاد جماهير مانشستر سيتي

وقال أوديجارد في تصريحات لموقع آرسنال الرسمي: ”كان فوزنا عليهم هنا الموسم الماضي رائعًا، لأن مواجهتهم دائمًا ما تكون صعبة، إنها دائمًا مباراة تكتيكية للغاية مع الكثير من الأمور التي يجب التكيف معها”.

وأضاف: ”يجب أن تكون في غاية التركيز طوال التسعين دقيقة، أعتقد أننا أظهرنا في المباريات القليلة الماضية ضدهم أننا مستعدون لذلك، ونأمل أن نحقق ليلة رائعة أخرى مثل العام الماضي وأن نهزمهم مجددًا”.

وأوضح: ”نريد الفوز بالألقاب هنا ولتحقيق ذلك نحتاج إلى تعاون الجميع وتوافقهم، نحن جميعًا في هذا معًا ونسعى لتحقيق نفس الهدف لذا علينا أن نستغله على أكمل وجه”.

وعن إصابته: ”كان كتفي يؤلمني بشدة، لكنني كنت أتعامل مع الأمر يوميًا هذا الأسبوع، وأعمل بجد على أمل أن أكون جاهزًا في الوقت المناسب لمباراة اليوم، إنه نفس الكتف الذي أصبت فيه في مباراة ليدز يونايتد، نفس الإصابة تقريبًا لذا فهو مجرد سوء حظ”.

وتابع: ”شفيت من الإصابة الأولى بشكل جيد وتجاوزتها، ولكن بعد ذلك تكرر نفس الشيء، لم يحدث لي هذا منذ 11 عامًا ولكنه يحدث مرتين خلال أسبوعين، لذا فهو أمر غريب ومؤسف للغاية”.

وواصل: ”كان الالتحام بحد ذاته في كرة الإصابة جيدًا، أعتقد أننا نحن الثلاثة حاولنا التقاط الكرة نفسها وشعرت بشيء يلمس قدمي مما دفعني للأمام، ولم أستطع فعل أي شيء حيال كيفية نزولي على الأرض، كان الخروج من أرض الملعب صعبًا للغاية لأنني كنت متحمسًا للعب على أرضنا مرة أخرى، وأشعر أنني بحالة جيدة بعد المباريات الدولية وأرغب بشدة في اللعب بعد إصابتي ضد ليدز”.

واستكمل: ”لكن أداءنا كان قويًا جدًا ضد نونيتجهام فورست، سجلنا أهدافًا رائعة ولم نستقبل أي فرص على الإطلاق وهذا ما نتمناه”.

وقال: ”كان هدف زوبيميندي الأول ضد نوتينجهام مذهلًا، من الصعب جدًا إنهاء المباراة بهذه الطريقة ويجب أن يكون لديك تواصل مثالي مع الكرة وأن تكون متوازنًا وأن يكون التوقيت مثاليًا، إن التسديد بتلك الطريقة تقنية رائعة منه، لأنه كان من الصعب جدًا التسجيل بهذا الشكل”.

وعن زميله في آرسنال، مارتن زوبيميندي أضاف: ”بالحديث عن زوبيميندي، كان من الرائع اللعب معه وميكيل ميرينو في خط الوسط، كما فعلنا قبل خمس سنوات مع ريال سوسيداد حيث كنا نتحدث عن ذلك، رأينا صورنا معًا آنذاك ، إنها حالة نادرة بالتأكيد وكانت لدي علاقة جيدة جدًا معهم من قبل ومن الرائع اللعب معهم”.

وأوضح: ”لعبنا معًا في عام 2020 في الدوري الإسباني، كان ذلك خلال فترة كورونا لذلك كان الأمر غريبًا بعض الشيء في غياب الجماهير، لعبت مع ميكيل عدة مرات ذلك الموسم عندما كنت معارًا لكن زوبيميندي اندمج مع الفريق أكثر في نهاية الموسم قبل رحيلي مباشرةً”.

وأردف: ”أعتقد أن معرفة أشخاص كهؤلاء جيدًا تسهل الأمور، خاصةً في خط الوسط، لذا على الرغم من أن زوبيميندي لاعب جديد إلا أن الترابط موجود بالفعل وهذا يمثل قوة لنا، إذا نظرتم إلى الفريق ستجدون أن هناك العديد من اللاعبين الذين لعبوا معًا سابقًا في منتخباتهم الوطنية لذا نشعر وكأننا نعرف بعضنا البعض منذ زمن طويل”.

وتابع: ”التقطنا صورة جماعية يوم الأربعاء ورؤيتها مع الجميع تذكرنا بجودة الفريق الآن، أعتقد أنها مجموعة أكبر مما كانت عليه في السنوات القليلة الماضية والمستوى مذهل، نرى أن المنافسة تزداد يومًا بعد يوم في التدريب وفي النهاية الجميع يريد الشيء نفسه”.

واختتم أوديجارد: ”نريد الفوز بالألقاب هنا ولتحقيق ذلك، نحتاج إلى تعاون الجميع وتوافقهم، نحن جميعًا في هذا معًا ونسعى جميعًا لتحقيق نفس الهدف، لذا علينا أن نستغله على أكمل وجه”.

Turning their attention towards a third addition after Lukas Nmecha and Jaka Bijol, there have now been claims that Leeds United have a “verbal agreement” in place to sign a £20m+ star.

Jaka Bijol: Leeds move "biggest of my career"

It’s been a busy summer at Elland Road thus far. To kick things off, the Yorkshire club welcomed Nmecha in a bargain deal at the end of his Wolfsburg contract and have since spent big for the first time to sign Bijol from Udinese. The defender was officially unveiled as a Leeds player earlier this week and instantly stated that it is the biggest move of his career.

The defender told the club website: “This is a big day for me, for my family and I’m happy to be here. Maybe the biggest one of my career so far, but I’m ready for it.

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“I work for it and that’s why I’m here, because it’s a big challenge for everyone. It’s a big challenge for me, for the club, and we’re getting ready for it together. I think the club and myself are ready for the Premier League.

“I can promise that I will give everything, that I will give everything in every training as well to be ready for the first game of the season and then just go from there.”

At £15m, the deal hasn’t come cheap, but it was one that the 49ers were clearly keen to get done ahead of Leeds’ return to the Premier League in the coming months.

Serie A seems to be where it’s at for the American owners too, amid claims that they’ve returned to Italy’s top flight to strike another agreement.

Leeds have "agreement" to sign £20m Krstovic

According to reports relayed by MOT Leeds, Leeds have now got an “agreement in principle” to sign Nikola Krstovic from Serie A side Lecce this summer. In a deal reportedly worth around £20m, the forward could arrive to boost the Whites’ attacking options alongside Nmecha in the coming months.

While a “verbal agreement” is reportedly in place, however, the player himself is reportedly yet to reach a decision regarding an exit away from Lecce this summer, and that decision will ultimately be final.

All involved at Leeds should, of course, be keen to receive the green light from the talented 25-year-old after he scored 12 goals in all competitions for Lecce last summer. If there were any doubts over his ability to perform at the top level then his Serie A record should have helped put those doubts to rest.

After spending big on Bijol, signing Krstovic for an equally impressive fee would send a statement of intent from the 49ers, who will be desperate to help push Leeds away from the dropzone next season.

Jos Buttler has called legspinner Adil Rashid England’s “most important player” and also lauded “class player” Jonny Bairstow for playing a “senior player’s innings”.England registered a commanding eight-wicket win in their Super Eight match against West Indies at T20 World Cup 2024 in Gros Islet. Set a challenging 181 to win, England got home with Phil Salt finishing unbeaten on 87, with Bairstow in tow with a 26-ball 48 not out. The two added 97 off 44 balls to see England home with eight wickets and 2.3 overs to spare.”That was a really good performance from us,” Buttler said at the post-match presentation. “We planned really well, we’ve been practising well and executed both with the bat and ball and deserved to win. I thought we bowled really well to restrict such a powerful batting line-up, such great six-hitters especially. [It was a] decent score, and you had to play well to chase it down.Related

• Jofra Archer on crucial West Indies over: 'One of those times when you just nail it'

• WI coach Sammy: 'This loss will not dampen our spirits'

• Phil proves he is worth his Salt

• West Indies wait on King scans after 'worrying' side strain

• Salt and Bairstow take West Indies down with ease

“I thought we were very smart with the bat. Guys were very calculated when they took their options on. The Bairstow and Salt partnership was so good. Jonny came in with great intent and took the momentum straight back. Salty tucked in behind him for a bit and when he got that one big over, he broke the back of it.”A lot of people say you learn when you lose, but I truly believe you learn when you win as well. [It is] important to reflect on what we did well today. We had a good performance, put that to bed and focus on the next performance.”Talking about Bairstow, Buttler said: “He is a class player, he has been for a really long time. That’s what we decided to do, you just keep backing class players. He hasn’t had many opportunities but today was an incredibly impressive innings. A really mature, senior player’s innings. With a lot of power, he scored at a great gear when the game was just in the balance.”Adil Rashid dismissed Andre Russell for 1•Getty Images

Earlier, riding on a fluent start from Brandon King, who retired hurt with a side strain, Johnson Charles and Nicholas Pooran had helped West Indies race to 72 for 0 in eight overs. But the next five overs – bowled by Rashid and Moeen Ali in tandem – saw them score just 34 for the wicket of Charles. Rashid bowled the 17th over too, for just two runs and the wicket of Andre Russell to finish with figures of 4-0-21-1.”We keep saying [Rashid] is our most important player, he really has been for a long time,” Buttler said. “He’s got so much variation and so much threat of taking wickets and also restricting runs.”

Powell: We strayed away from our plans to Salt

Meanwhile, West Indies captain Rovman Powell felt they were 15 to 20 runs short and strayed away from their plans against Salt.”We left 15-20 runs out there as a batting group,” Powell said. “I will say that we should have put up a better display as a bowling group. We are normally very good in the last five overs, but credit has to be given to the England bowling unit. They had clear plans, and the execution was good.”After their under-par finish with the bat, they offered lives to Salt and Moeen, with wicketkeeper Pooran unable to hold on to thin deflections on both occasions.”Those chances are always difficult,” Powell said. “But credit has to be given to Phil, he seems to like playing against West Indies. Every time he plays against West Indies, he always hurts us. We strayed away a little bit from our plans to Phil. It’s just for us to look back at those plans and re-evaluate.”Our destiny is in our hands. Once we win well, it will bring us back. We are playing good cricket.”

Fresh from Europa League final heartbreak, Manchester United are now reportedly ready to make their move for one of the most wanted young talents that Serie A has to offer.

Rubem Amorim reacts to Europa League final defeat

In a game that could have saved their season, Manchester United simply had it summed up in a painful defeat at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur. The Red Devils had their attacking weakness on full show as they handed Spurs their first clean sheet against Premier League opposition since February, which also came against Ruben Amorim’s side, and showed their defensive frailties when Brennan Johnson scrapped home the opening and only goal of the night.

Amorim’s first six months in charge will no longer centre around victory when it mattered most to somehow find a way into the Champions League. Instead, it will centre around ultimate failure. The failure to make his mark on a Manchester United side that have fallen lower than ever in the Premier League.

The former Sporting Club boss still believes that he is the right man for the job, however, having told reporters in his post-match press conference: “I will not quit. I am confident in my job and I will not change anything. If the board or fans feel that I’m not the right guy, I will go the next day without any conversation about compensation… but I will not quit.”

Games

41

Wins

16

Draws

8

Defeats

17

Whilst Amorim’s record speaks for just how poorly his reign has been, he desperately needs the chance to build Manchester United in his own vision this summer.

The big question on that front, of course, will be whether INEOS are in a position to spend enough to do just that following Europa League defeat. But if they are, then United are seemingly set to make their move for a Serie A talent.

Man Utd ready to make Ndoye move

According to Tuttosport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Manchester United are now ready to make their move for Dan Ndoye, who is one of the most sought after young talents in Italy amid further interest from both Juventus and champions-elect Napoli.

Man Utd working to sign Fenerbahce defender who Mourinho likened to Varane

United are now ready to intensify their move after scouts watched him throughout the season.

ByBrett Worthington May 21, 2025

Reportedly available for around €40m (£34m), Ndoye could become an ideal replacement for Alejandro Garnacho, who has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford more than once in the last year. At 24 years old, the Bologna star is just about to enter the peak of his powers and may soon be asked to make the impact that former teammate Joshua Zirkzee has otherwise failed to make at Manchester United.

It should come as no shock that reports are suggesting that Manchester United have been tracking Ndoye since Euro 2024 last summer, when he enjoyed what football talent scout Jacek Kulug dubbed an “excellent tournament” for Switzerland.

As Manchester United battle against Napoli and Juventus for his signature, Ndoye’s potential decision will give those at Old Trafford the first glimpse at their ability to sign such players without Champions League football this summer.

Leeds United are currently enjoying their title party and could already be set to kick that up a notch after identifying two candidates to join them on their Premier League journey, according to a report.

Leeds crowned champions after stunning win at Plymouth

Daniel Farke has endured plenty of trials and tribulations this term, but his side have been a class above and deservedly find themselves top-flight bound after a successful campaign climaxed with a last-gasp title winner from Manor Solomon at Plymouth this weekend.

Many would argue that a club of Leeds’ stature belong in the Premier League, though there is plenty of work to be done to ensure his squad are equipped to take on the challenge of surviving after promotion from the Championship.

Dipping into the market, Farke has identified Celtic attacker Daizen Maeda as a primary target at Elland Road following his freescoring campaign north of the border. The Japan international is valued at £25 million, while Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are among a host of clubs ready to swoop for his services.

Confidence is high that Solomon will join Leeds on a permanent deal after a fine campaign on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, with the player said to have agreed to a return next term.

Leeds "well-placed" to sign £6m+ ace who's similar to Phillips and Tanaka

He is tempted by a move to the Premier League.

ByHenry Jackson May 3, 2025

Kalvin Phillips and Tomas Soucek have been mentioned in connection with the Whites. The former hardly comes a surprise due to his links with his boyhood club, but it remains to be seen if a fairytale return is on the cards.

Scaling up ahead of their Premier League return won’t be easy for Leeds, given the level of side they are likely to come up against on a weekly basis compared to the English second-tier. Nevertheless, they now have two talented players in their sights that could make all the difference, per recent developments.

Leeds want Nicolas Kuhn and Cameron Carter-Vickers from Celtic

According to TBR, Leeds are in the mix to sign Celtic duo Cameron Carter-Vickers and Nicolas Kuhn to strengthen their Premier League survival bid. The pair earn £50,000 per week between them at Parkhead and have lit up the domestic scene in Scotland, emerging as two of the best players in the top-flight, with Carter-Vickers playing a part in the Bhoys conceding only 22 goals in 34 league matches.

Cameron Carter-Vickers – key statistics in 2024/25 (Scottish Premiership)

Duels won

160

Aerial duels won

119

Recoveries

123

Dribbled past

3

Interceptions

32

Nicolas Kuhn – key statistics in 2024/25 (Scottish Premiership)

Chances created

47

Completed dribbles

55

Shots on target

24

Touches in opposition box

157

Duels won

107

On the other hand, Kuhn has notched 20 goals and 14 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions, earning plaudits for his consistent displays coming off the right flank.

Celtic’s involvement in Champions League football may be a sticking point for Leeds if negotiations were to occur, though the lure of Premier League football can be a tempting one for top performers in Scotland.