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Celtic were left disappointed on Sunday when their lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership table was cut down to 13 points by their rivals at Parkhead.

The Hoops came from 2-0 down to draw the game level at 2-2 in front of their home fans, hoping to then push on for a winner to send them 19 points clear of Rangers.

Unfortunately, however, Morocco international Hamza Igamane hammered in a thunderous volley into the top corner of Kasper Schmeichel’s goal in the 88th minute to secure all three points for the away team.

It was a bad day at the office for the Hoops, who are still on course to win the Premiership title with ease, as several of their key players failed to step up and perform.

For example, Nicolas Kuhn was substituted at half-time after he failed with three of his four dribble attempts in the first half, and did not contribute to any goals.

Jota, who returned to Parkhead after an 18-month absence in the January transfer window, did do his best to make a difference at the top end of the pitch, though.

Jota's form since returning to Celtic

The Portuguese forward was shifted out on to the right flank for the second half against Rangers, after playing on the left in the opening 45, and made an almost instant impact by beating Ridvan Yilmaz down the line and delivering a brilliant cross for Daizen Maeda to score.

Jota managed one goal and one assist in ten matches for Rennes during the first half of the season before his return to Parkhead, which meant that the Hoops were signing a player in poor form and struggling with confidence in front of goal.

As you can see in the graphic above, the winger was full of confidence in the final third during his first spell in Glasgow, and he has tapped into that once again to thrive on the pitch for Brendan Rodgers this year.

The assist for Maeda’s goal against Rangers on Sunday was his fifth goal contribution in seven appearances in the Premiership in 2025, with three goals and two assists to his name.

Appearances (starts)

7 (four)

Goals

3

Conversion rate

27%

Big chances created

3

Assists

2

Successful dribbles

1.1

As you can see in the table above, Jota has been incredibly productive, despite only starting four times, with three goals and three ‘big chances’ created.

Market Movers

Despite his impressive form on the pitch for the Scottish giants this season, the former Benfica starlet is only the seventh-most valuable player in the Celtic squad, as per Transfermarkt, with a value of £7.6m.

Where Jota ranks among Celtic's most valuable players

The Hoops have built a valuable squad that has six other players who are currently worth even more than the Portuguese sensation, who was bought for £25m by Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad just 18 months ago.

One of those players is Maeda, who scored from Jota’s assist, as the Japan international has been in phenomenal form for the Hoops so far this term.

The Japanese marksman has racked up 28 goals and nine assists in all competitions for Celtic, whilst operating on the flank or through the middle as a striker, and he is currently the fourth-most valuable player at the club.

Cameron Carter-Vickers

£11.6m

Arne Engels

£10.1m

Nicolas Kuhn

£10.1m

Daizen Maeda

£9.3m

Reo Hatate

£9.2m

Alistair Johnston

£8.4m

Jota

£7.6m

Auston Trusty

£6.3m

Greg Taylor

£5.5m

Callum McGregor

£5.5m

As you can see in the table above, Nicolas Kuhn, Arne Engels, and Cameron Carter-Vickers are the three most valuable stars at Parkhead at this moment in time.

Celtic signed Engels from Bundesliga outfit Augsburg last summer and have already hit the jackpot with the Belgian star, who has hit the ground running in Glasgow this season.

Why Celtic have hit the jackpot with Arne Engels

Firstly, his market value has soared during his short time at Parkhead to date. Transfermarkt valued the central midfielder at €9m (£7.5m) at the time of his move from Germany last year.

He is now worth £10.1m, as per Transfemarkt, and this suggests that the Hoops have landed a young talent, at the age of 21, who is improving week-in-week-out and now worth even more than both Jota and Maeda.

Celtic have also struck gold with Engels because of his performances on the pitch for the Hoops this season. He has not taken much time to adapt to life in Scotland, as the youngster has emerged as a star performer in the middle of the park.

Engels, despite his age and inexperience, has been relied upon by Rodgers as the go-to penalty taker, scoring eight of his nine spot-kicks for Celtic this term.

The Belgium international has outscored Jota, with ten goals in all competitions, and has offered a creative presence at the top end of the pitch, with 12 assists for the Scottish giants.

Appearances

10

Goals

1

Big chances created

3

Assists

3

Tackles + interceptions

2.4

Duel success rate

59%

As you can see in the table above, Engels also excelled in the club’s run to the last 16 in the Champions League, thanks to his ability in and out of possession in midfield.

The Belgian starlet, who was described as “fantastic” by captain Callum McGregor, has the defensive awareness and mobility to win the majority of his duels and disrupt opposition attacks on a regular basis, whilst also having the composure and creativity on the ball to make things happen for his side.

Overall, Celtic have already hit the jackpot with the former Augsburg star because they have unearthed a midfield talent who can score crucial goals and create chances for his teammates on a regular basis, whilst also offering defensive quality on the European stage.

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ByDan Emery Mar 17, 2025

The 21-year-old talent’s soaring market value also shows that Celtic have signed a player who has the potential to be sold on for a healthy profit in the future, as his value continues to rise alongside his fantastic performances on the pitch for the club.

In a move that would replace Jhon Duran, Aston Villa are now reportedly stepping up their chase to sign a £42m striker who’s outscored Ollie Watkins so far this season.

Aston Villa transfer news

After a blockbuster January transfer window saw the likes of Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio arrive on loan, Aston Villa looked destined to take the top four race by storm, but defeat against Crystal Palace has since stopped them in their tracks. It wasn’t just any defeat, either. The manner in which Unai Emery’s side were brushed aside should concern the Spaniard, who watched on as Palace earned a 4-1 victory.

It’s a game which could have been ready-made for Duran to step off the bench and change for the Villans, begging the question as to whether those in the Midlands need to invest in a replacement for their former super-sub.

When the summer arrives, those at Villa Park should certainly have money to spend after opting for loan moves rather than permanent buys in the January transfer window, and that could yet see one star man arrive.

According to Caught Offside, Aston Villa are now stepping up their chase to sign Samu Omorodion Aghehowa from Porto, who valued their forward at €50m (£42m) this summer.

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Amid interest from West Ham United and Chelsea, Villa certainly have a battle on their hands if they want to secure their Duran replacement and a player who would complete their attack once again.

At just 20 years old, Aghehowa has been one of the signings of the season at Porto, having arrived from Atletico Madrid for a reported £12.7m before the season got underway. Stealing headline after headline ever since, Samu could now be on the move once again in the coming months.

"Powerhouse" Samu can compete with Watkins

Just as Duran did, Samu would push Watkins all the way for a starting place at Villa Park. As goalscorers go, there haven’t been many better than the Porto star this season. Not even Watkins, himself, boasts a better record than Aghehowa’s 19 goals in all competitions throughout the current campaign – highlighting just how clinical he has been.

Starts

15

24

Goals

13

12

Assists

3

6

Dubbed an “absolute powerhouse” by analyst Ben Mattinson earlier this season, Samu would offer Emery an ideal alternative than the more creative and neat Watkins.

In games such as Villa’s thrashing at the hands of Palace, an alternative option can make all the difference as Emery should be well aware of from Duran’s impact before his January exit.

Replacing that impact could be the key to unlocking Champions League football once again next season. As the fixtures come thick and fast, competition between Watkins and a pure goalscorer would be no bad thing.

For just £42m, those at Villa Park would be wise to make their move and secure Omorodion’s signature sooner rather than later.

تحدث لاعب ريال مدريد الإسباني جونزالو جارسيا، عقب مباراة فريقه أمام الهلال السعودي في بطولة كأس العالم للأندية المقامة في الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية.

والتقى الهلال مع ريال مدريد مساء يوم الأربعاء، في الجولة الأولى لدور المجموعات بمنافسات كأس العالم للأندية، وسجل جونزالو هدف تقدم ريال مدريد، قبل أن يتعادل الهلال من ضربة جزاء، وحسمت المباراة بهدف لمثله.

وقال جونزالو في تصريحاته إلى “DAZN”: “إنه شعور حلو ومر في آنٍ واحد، لأننا كنا نرغب في الفوز، أردنا أن نبدأ بنتيجةٍ جيدة، لكننا قاتلنا حتى النهاية وحاولنا، لكن الهلال قدم مباراة رائعة”.

وأضاف بشأن التعادل في المباراة الأولى لفريق ريال مدريد في البطولة: “النقطة ستكون إيجابية بالنظر لما تبقّى، أنا واثق من ذلك”.

اقرأ أيضًا | كورتوا ينتقد أداء ريال مدريد أمام الهلال: ارتكبنا غلطة سخيفة

وعن ركلة الجزاء التي أهدرها فالفيردي، أفاد: “لقد كانت مؤسفة، لكننا جميعًا أخطأنا هنا، أنا أولهم، فقد أتيحت لي عدة فرص، لا بأس، فيدي سيسجل ركلات الجزاء القادمة، كانت خسارة، لكننا متحمسون لخوض المباراتين المتبقيتين”.

وعن تجربته في أول مباراة أساسية له، أردف: “اللعب مع ريال مدريد دائمًا شرف كبير، أنا هنا منذ أن كنت صغيرًا، وأن أتمكن من اللعب هنا، وأن أسجل في أول مباراة أبدأها أساسيًا، فهذا شيء لا يُصدق على الإطلاق”.

سيلاقي ريال مدريد خصمه باتشوكا في الجولة الثانية، ثم يواجه سالزبورج في الجولة الثالثة بدور المجموعات.

Looking ahead towards the summer transfer window, Newcastle United have reportedly joined the race to sign an in-demand striker who has scored at St James’ Park in the past.

Newcastle transfer news

It could yet be a big summer for the Magpies, who have plenty of work to do on the incoming front and even more work to do if they lose Alexander Isak. One of the Premier League’s best strikers, the Swede has unsurprisingly attracted the reported interest of both Liverpool and Arsenal, which could yet culminate in the biggest move of the summer.

Of course, Newcastle will be hoping that’s not the case and they manage to keep hold of Isak amid such interest. They could certainly do with generating some spending power if they want to steal the headlines with reinforcements of their own, however.

With quite the decision to make, those in Tyneside have reportedly turned their attention towards Serie A. According to The Boot Room, Newcastle have now joined the race to sign Tammy Abraham from AS Roma.

Related Newcastle are now "calling constantly" for updates in race to sign £55m ace

He’s enjoying an excellent season…

Posts ByTom Cunningham Feb 19, 2025

The former Chelsea striker has spent the season on loan at AC Milan but has failed to earn a starting role which has only become harder to grasp since the arrival of Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord in January.

Now, as a result, he could be on his way back to the Premier League and to a ground he’s already scored out. Finding the back of the net in a 2-0 victory for Chelsea in the 2020/21 season, Abraham could yet find himself wheeling away in celebration more regularly at St James’ Park next season.

"Amazing" Abraham could replace Wilson

Whilst Isak continues to steal headline after headline, Callum Wilson has continued to struggle on the injury front to leave Newcastle without any back up for their Swede. It’s something which has already proven to be an issue once this season when Anthony Gordon was forced to lead the line for Eddie Howe’s side and it’s something the former Bournemouth boss won’t want to see a repeat of in the next campaign.

That’s where Abraham could come in. With Wilson currently on course to leave as a free agent, Abraham could emerge to replace the experienced forward to provide ideal depth behind Isak. In a similar role at Milan, the former Chelsea striker has scored eight goals despite making just 13 starts in all competitions.

At his best, Abraham has earned plenty of praise during his time in Italy, including from former Roma manager Jose Mourinho. The so-called ‘Special One’ told reporters, via BBC Sport, in 2022: “Today he was my Tammy.

“He played how I wanted him too. He won everything, he kept the ball, he provided an outlet, he won the first ball and he gave us an option in behind to push them back. We always talk about strikers when they score and obviously tonight was Paulo’s night, but Tammy was amazing.”

Ange Postecoglou supported Liverpool growing up, but the Tottenham boss has no desire to facilitate a title celebration at Anfield on Sunday.

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Article continues below

Article continues below

• Liverpool welcome Tottenham to Anfield on Sunday
• Reds need just a point to win title
• But Postecoglou has no desire to help them

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• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Postecoglou insisted his boyhood affection for Liverpool will have no impact on his desire to prevent them from winning the Premier League title this Sunday, with the Reds needing just a point against Spurs to secure a record-tying 20th English championship. Postecoglou has previously spoken of his admiration for Liverpool but emphatically dismissed any notion of mixed emotions should Tottenham delay their celebrations.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  The title race is all but over after Arsenal once again dropped points in midweek. The Gunners were held to their 13th draw of the season in a London derby with Crystal Palace, putting Liverpool on the cusp of history. 

  Destined for a bottom-half finish in a season that could cost Postecoglou his job as manager, Spurs’ focus for the rest of the campaign is on attempting to clinch Champions League qualification by winning the Europa League. Spurs face Bodo/Glimt in the first leg of the semi-finals on Thursday, but Postecoglou made it clear nothing will stop him seeking a result at Anfield.

• WHAT POSTECOGLOU SAID

  Asked if his previous fondness for Liverpool would have any impact on his emotions, Postecoglou told a press conference: "I’m a 60-year-old adult, I’ve gone past my boyhood crushes. It’s got no impact whatsoever. I have great admiration for the football club. Yes, I supported it when I was younger, but that was 50-odd years ago so we’ve well and truly moved on since then."

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  WHAT NEXT FOR TOTTENHAM?

  Sunday’s game may be defining for Liverpool, but it is unlikely to have much influence on Postecoglou’s long-term future. There is already talk he could be sacked by Tottenham even if they win the Europa League, but any hope of him staying in a job likely rests on that competition. As such, Postecoglou may need to be smart in how he manages his team against Liverpool to ensure the squad is in the best shape possible for the first leg with Bodo/Glimt.

Everything you need to know about football's most-used 11 versus 11 formations

Football is a game of inches, seconds, and tactical masterminds. While individual brilliance often steals the headlines, it's the unseen hand of formations, the strategic blueprints dictating player positioning and movement, that truly shape the beautiful game.

Understanding formations is key to unlocking the tactical nuances of football. In this article, we delve into the ever-fascinating world of 11-a-side formations, focusing on the "Big Three" – the 4-4-2, 5-4-1, and 4-3-3 – systems that have dominated the sport at various levels, from grassroots to the grand stage of the Premier League.

• The balanced 4-4-2: England's classic

  A stalwart of the English game, the 4-4-2 is a formation synonymous with balance. Favoured for its simplicity and adaptability, it's the tactical bedrock upon which many young footballers cut their teeth.

  As the name suggests, the 4-4-2 deploys four defenders, four midfielders, and two forwards. This balanced approach provides a solid defensive foundation while offering sufficient attacking potency.

  Strengths

  Solidity: With four defenders and four midfielders, the 4-4-2 offers a compact shape, making it difficult for opponents to break through the lines.

  Flexibility: The midfield four can readily transition between attack and defence, providing support across the pitch.

  Simplicity: The 4-4-2 is relatively straightforward to understand, making it ideal for developing teams.

  Weaknesses

  Overload Vulnerability: Against formations with five-man midfields, the 4-4-2 can be outnumbered in the centre of the park.

  Forward Reliance: The effectiveness of the 4-4-2 hinges on the quality and understanding of the two forwards.

  Ideal For

  Teams with a well-rounded squad lacking standout individual brilliance.

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• The resilient 5-4-1: Defence wins championships

  In an age of attacking football, the 5-4-1 stands as a testament to the enduring power of defensive resilience. As its name suggests, this formation prioritises defensive solidity above all else.

  Five defenders, including versatile wing-backs, provide a formidable barrier in front of goal, while four disciplined midfielders shield the backline. A lone striker leads the line, often tasked with holding the ball up and bringing teammates into play.

  Strengths

  Defensive Wall: The five-man defence makes it extremely difficult for opponents to penetrate, particularly through central areas.

  Counter-Attacking Threat: With pacey wing-backs and a target man upfront, the 5-4-1 can be surprisingly dangerous on the counter.

  Weaknesses

  Lack of Firepower: With only one recognised striker, goals can be hard to come by for teams employing the 5-4-1.

  Midfield Battle: Against teams with three central midfielders, the 5-4-1 can find themselves overrun in this crucial area.

  Ideal for

  Teams looking to frustrate superior opposition or grind out a result.

• The attacking 4-3-3: Goals galore

  The 4-3-3 is the embodiment of attacking football. With a focus on fluid movement, intricate passing, and relentless pressing, this formation is designed to overwhelm opponents with a wave of offensive pressure.

  The 4-3-3 typically deploys a three-man central midfield, with one holding player and two more attack-minded midfielders. The width is provided by two inverted wingers who cut inside, aiming to create scoring opportunities or take on defenders one-on-one.

  Strengths

  Attacking Prowess: With three forwards and two attacking midfielders, the 4-3-3 possesses exceptional firepower.

  Midfield Dominance: The three-man midfield provides numerical superiority in the centre of the pitch, facilitating possession-based football.

  Weaknesses

  Defensive Vulnerability: The attacking nature of the 4-3-3 can leave gaps at the back, particularly against swift counter-attacks.

  Reliance on Wingers: The effectiveness of the 4-3-3 hinges on the quality and creativity of its wingers.

  Ideal for

  Teams possessing technically gifted players and a desire to dominate possession.

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• Choosing the right formation: Finding the perfect fit

  There's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to formations. The ideal system depends on a multitude of factors, including the strengths and weaknesses of the squad, the opponent's playing style, and the tactical philosophy of the manager.

  The 4-4-2 offers balance and simplicity, the 5-4-1 prioritises defensive resilience, and the 4-3-3 is a blueprint for attacking dominance. Understanding the nuances of each formation is crucial for any football enthusiast seeking to deepen their appreciation for the tactical tapestry of the beautiful game.

Lancashire 145 (Henry 5-45, Saini 3-63) and 377 for 5 (Bohannon 134, Wells 98, Jones 53*) lead Kent 270 (Leaning 90, Stewart 64, Denly 59, Bailey 6-64) by 252 runsA century from Josh Bohannon and 98 from Luke Wells were the highlights of an extraordinary turnaround in fortunes for Lancashire on day three of their LV=Insurance Division One clash with Kent at Emirates Old Trafford.The opening two days had seen wickets tumble on a regular basis with the hosts beginning their second innings late on Tuesday evening 125 runs behind Kent’s total of 270 and seemingly right up against it on a used pitch which has proved helpful to both teams’ seam bowlers.But in total contrast to what had gone previously just five wickets fell throughout the day as Wells and Bohannon put Lancashire in a position to potentially win, going into the final day with a lead of 252 runs and five wickets in hand after they closed on 377 for 5.Resuming on 2 for 0, batting instantly looked easier for Wells and fellow opener Keaton Jennings with both Matt Henry and Navdeep Saini lacking the bite and accuracy they had enjoyed during Lancashire’s first innings.The opening pair had built a partnership of 54 off 14 overs and it was something of a surprise when Nathan Gilchrist made the breakthrough tempting Jennings to edge stiffly to stand in captain Jack Leaning at second slip for 14.The wicket brought Bolton-born Bohannon to the crease and with both he and Wells enjoying recent centuries, the stage was set for a partnership that could define the match, should Lancashire somehow prevail.Wells took the role of aggressor, moving to 50 for the fifth time in the Championship this season from 69 balls including five fours and so effective was the partnership, that Leaning was forced to turn to the part-time bowlers Joe Denly and Daniel Bell-Drummond as his side’s lead began to disappear.Wells and Bohannon continued to score freely after lunch with the latter’s innings full of his trademark pushes through mid-on as Kent began to look increasingly ragged as the afternoon wore on.Bohannon had just reached his half-century when Wells fell agonisingly short of a 22nd first class ton when he edged Saini to a diving Leaning at second slip as the second-wicket partnership ended on 117.Despite the breakthrough there was little respite for Kent as Steven Croft joined Bohannon who was reminding everyone why earlier in the season he was being tipped by many to play for England’s Test side this summer.Lancashire had built a lead of 139 when the 25-year-old brought up his sixth first class century and third of the season off 186 balls with 14 fours with the vital knock coming straight after his match-winning hundred at Northampton last week.Croft, captaining the side due to Dane Vilas’ injured finger, was happy to play second fiddle to Bohannon and the pair had compiled a partnership of 109 for the third wicket when Henry got a delivery to jag back and bowl Croft for a patient 42.Rob Jones was next to enter the fray and he and Bohannon looked to up the scoring rate against a beleaguered attack that was becoming increasingly reliant on Bell Drummond’s accuracy rather than Saini’s waywardness.Bohannon eventually fell for 134, feathering a delivery from Grant Stewart to replacement wicket keeper Ollie Robinson by which time the lead was 228 and showing no sign of slowing down with the only respite coming when Leaning trapped Washington Sundar lbw for 10 just before the close.There was just time for Jones to reach his half-century from 73 balls and with the incoming George Lavelle unbeaten on three, Lancashire will look to bat on tomorrow morning before a positive declaration.

Litton Das feels that Bangladesh’s lack of power-hitting skills could be a problem going into this year’s T20 World Cup in Australia, scheduled for October-November. It was one of the main reasons, he said, for the team’s five-wicket loss in the third T20I, which gave West Indies a 2-0 series win.”No one in our team is as powerful as [Kyle] Mayers – they [West Indies batters] can clear big grounds at will,” Litton said. “We are not capable of it. We always think about hitting fours. They hit more sixes. This is the difference that always exists. We are behind most of the big teams in the T20s. We have a lot to work on. We really can’t play powerful cricket.”Related

• BCB cricket operations chairman feels Bangladesh coaches aren't aggressive enough

• Comfort of ODIs brings Bangladesh much-needed respite

• Pooran, Mayers fifties hand West Indies 2-0 win

• Shakib opts out of Bangladesh's white-ball tour of Zimbabwe

• Domingo: Very disappointing to see 'basic errors'

Bangladesh hit two more fours than West Indies [11 vs nine], but the home side struck 11 sixes compared to Bangladesh’s five in Thursday’s game. Overall, in the T20I series, West Indies hit a total of 21 sixes – six more than Bangladesh – while Bangladesh hit 31 fours, compared to West Indies’ 23.”There’s always talk of T20 being a game of skills, technique and tactics, but I feel power-hitting is needed sometimes,” Litton said. “We will be playing the World Cup in a country where the grounds are big. It will hurt us. The only thing we can do is play a lot of matches, so that we can go into the tournament with confidence.”Litton felt that the lack of runs from the openers also hurt Bangladesh. They used two different sets of openers in three matches. On Thursday, Anamul Haque, Litton’s partner, fell off the third ball of the fifth over. In the second game, both Litton and Haque were sent back inside eight balls of the innings, while in the first, Munim Shahriar and Haque were both back midway through the fourth over.”We didn’t bat too well,” Litton, who scored 49 in 41 balls in the third match, said. “We didn’t do it in the first game, nor did we bat well in the second game, except Shakib . I thought we played in batting-friendly conditions. If the openers, including me, played properly, it would have allowed the middle order to express themselves.”Defending 164 in the third and final T20I, Bangladesh started with spinners, and did well, but then lost their way. After picking up three early wickets, Bangladesh were unable to contain Nicholas Pooran and Mayers, who added 85 runs for the fourth wicket to change the course of the match. The two targeted pace bowlers Shoriful Islam and Mustafizur Rahman, who went for 40 in three overs between them.That their two left-arm spinners, Shakib and Nasum Ahmed hardly bowled to the pair might have also played a part in the loss. Shakib took a wicket in his first over while Nasum bowled a handy first spell before both were packed off. However, Nasum came back again in the 15th over to break the Mayers-Pooran stand.”A right-hand bowler can bowl to a right-hand batsman – but it is totally the captain’s decision,” Litton said. “You wouldn’t have asked this question if this decision had gone the right way. The captain conducts the field, not the other ten players. We have to follow this decision.”Litton said that the way Pooran and Mayers batted put the bowlers under pressure because they knew that the West Indies batters could clear boundaries with ease. “We didn’t execute well with the ball,” he said. “Pooran and Mayers also hit the good balls for boundaries. It was to their credit – they play power cricket. We can’t play that way. I think it plays on the bowlers’ mind that they can’t really make a mistake [against such a batting line-up].”

Meanwhile, Ashwin believes Kohli has been “batting beautifully” despite what the numbers say

ESPNcricinfo staff14-Jul-2022BCCI president Sourav Ganguly believes Virat Kohli “has got to find his way” to score runs again, while former India quick Ashish Nehra, who worked with Kohli at Royal Challengers Bangalore, says there is no harm in him taking a break to come back fresh later.Kohli has already been rested for the ODIs and T20Is in West Indies, which means he will be out of action for nearly a month.”Yes, he has had a tough time and he knows that,” Ganguly told ANI. “He himself knows by his own standards it has not been good and I see him coming back and doing well. But he has got to find his way and become successful, which he has been for the last 12-13 years or more and only Virat Kohli can do that.Related

Gavaskar on Kohli: 'There is this anxiety to play at every delivery'

Kohli, Bumrah, Chahal rested for T20Is in West Indies; Kuldeep, Ashwin return

Kohli's nine-ball buy-in shows India's new way is here to stay

Kapil Dev: 'If Kohli isn't performing, you can't keep youngsters out'

Problem of plenty: How do India fit Kohli in their T20I XI?

“These things will happen in sport. It has happened to everybody. It has happened to Sachin [Tendulkar], it has happened to Rahul [Dravid], it has happened to me, it has happened to Kohli. It is going to happen to future players. That’s part and parcel of sport and I think as a sportsman you just need to listen, be aware of what it is, and just go and play your game.”Kohli has been in a lean patch across formats in the last few years, with his last international century coming in November 2019. After a below-par run in IPL 2022, he scored 11 and 20 in the Edgbaston Test earlier this month, followed by 1 and 11 in the second and third T20Is against England. A minor groin strain ruled him out of the first ODI and it’s unclear whether he will play the second match on Thursday.Recently, former India captain Kapil Dev added to the growing chorus questioning Kohli’s place in India’s T20I XI, especially with a number of in-form players fighting for a place in the squad. Nehra said Kohli should keep such discussions out of his head and only focus on his game.”When you are not performing, there will be discussions even if you’re not a player of Kohli’s calibre,” Nehra said in a virtual interaction for Sony Sports Network. “When you are doing broadcasting, newspaper, it is being printed every day and when you are playing, you try to focus on your game and not listen to so-called outside voices from people outside the dressing room. It is important how you are in the dressing room and how your team-mates, management and selectors are backing you. We are talking about a guy like Virat. Yes, it is not written anywhere that Virat Kohli will keep playing for India even if he doesn’t score runs. That will not happen, but when you have done so much in the past, you will always get extra chances.”

“I believe even for the last two and a half or whatever considerable period of time, even though he might not have got the hundreds, I still believe he’s batting beautifully.”R Ashwin

While many former players, including former India coach Ravi Shastri, suggested Kohli needed a break from cricket, Kohli said he could take some time off to rejuvenate himself. He was rested for the first T20I against England following the Edgbaston Test and will not be part of the limited-overs series in West Indies from July 22.Nehra agreed a break was much needed and hoped to see a “different Virat Kohli” turning up for the Asia Cup.”Everybody knows what you have done and the talent you have. At the age of 33-34, fitness isn’t a problem for him. Everybody is hopeful that Virat Kohli will come good, the quicker the better. Let’s hope we see a different Virat after the West Indies series. If he rests for a month or five weeks, it will be helpful for him and any player will be under pressure if you do not score runs, especially the kind of player Virat has been. It has not been just 1-2 series, it has been, you can say 12 months.”Rest is not a bad thing, you just played the IPL and then you played the Test, white-ball cricket, so it is good to see that Virat is getting a break. A break does not mean one week break or a three-day break. When you come back to Asia Cup, you come back fresh.”From closer quarters, India offspinner R Ashwin said Kohli has been “batting beautifully” in the last few years despite what the numbers say, calling his energy on the field “infectious”.”The more he is in the game and the more and more charged up he is, he bats so much more better,” Ashwin said on podcast. “And I believe even for the last two and a half or whatever considerable period of time, even though he might not have got the hundreds, I still believe he’s batting beautifully. The way he’s batting it looks like he’s probably got a double-hundred in the last one. It sometimes can happen, as a batter or as a cricketer you might be bowling well but the wickets are taken by somebody else.”His energy is very infectious. Sometimes bowling in India – like recently we had a couple of Test matches I can’t remember exactly – he wasn’t playing those games and I actually missed him on the field. The kind of energy that he brings to the table. The man standing at short midwicket, stopping those singles, looking for those catches … that’s exactly what makes him. He loves that, and when he does that he definitely bats better as well, and that’s my view of him.”

Manchester United are always on the lookout for the next big talents to bring into the club. In the last few years, they have recruited young talents from around Europe, at academy age or slightly older, who have broken into the first team.

Perhaps the best two examples of this in recent are Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo. The former joined as a 16-year-old from Atletico Madrid for £420k in 2020, with the latter costing £19m upfront from Atalanta.

Of course, the pair are now key first-team players, showing the investment has paid off. Garnacho started the season quickly and has scored eight times this term, with four assists to his name too, in 25 games.

Amad has finally broken into the starting lineup under new United boss Ruben Amorim. He has been exceptional this term, and has five goals and eight assists, also in 25 appearances. As per football statistician Statman Dave, the Ivorian is averaging a goal or assist every 80 minutes under the Portuguese manager.

So, signing young talents and bedding them, into the first team has clearly worked for United previously. In fact, the Red Devils may soon be looking to repeat the feat, as they target another talented youngster.

Man United target starlet

The player in question here is Norweigan starlet Sverre Nypan. The highly-rated midfielder has been linked with a move away from Rosenborg for some time now, but rumours have begun to heat up ahead of the January transfer window.

According to a report from TBR Football, the Red Devils are ‘trying to get a deal done’ for the midfielder and beat other Premier League sides to his signature. This is not a rushed decision from the 13-time Premier League champions, who ‘have been chasing Nypan for years’ and would now like to wrap up a quick deal.

However, they will face fierce competition if they want to bring him in. German trio Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, and Borussia Dortmund are all interested, as are several of United’s Premier League rivals including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle and Aston Villa.

It is believed the player will lean towards a move to the Old Trafford side, with the report suggesting a move to the Red Devils has long been his preference’. A deal for Nypan would not break the bank, and he could cost £10m, the minimum Rosenborg would want for him.

Why Nypan would be a good signing

At just 18 years of age, Nypan is having a fantastic impact in the Rosenborg first team in 2024. He has eight goals and seven assists in the Eliteserien this year, and three assists in three Europa Conference League qualification games.

There have been several memorable moments in 2024 for the youngster. One of those was an impressive hat trick against Lillestrom in September, which was his first in a professional game and helped his side to three points.

However, perhaps the best performance from Nypan this year came against United. The midfielder ran the show in a pre-season friendly against the Red Devils. As per Sofascore, he had 51 touches, creating two chances and completing six from seven dribbles along the way, all of which came in just 45 minutes.

Stat

Number

Touches

51

Pass accuracy

80%

Passes completed

20/25

Ground duels won

8/14

Dribbles completed

6/7

Chances created

2

Indeed, the 18-year-old could become United’s very own Martin Odegaard. The Arsenal midfielder has become one of the best creative players in the Premier League, landing a place in the PFA Team of the Year last season, and there are certainly similarities between the two.

The pair are both creative midfielders hailing from Norway. Their talent was clear from a young age, with both players making their debut at the age of just 15. There are certainly some early similarities between the Gunners captain and United’s potential new superstar.

However, there can also be statistical comparisons drawn between the two when looking at Nypan’s season in 2024, and Odegaard’s campaign now. As per Sofascore, the 18-year-old has created seven big chances and averages 1.7 key passes per game, which is why football analyst Ben Mattinson described him as an “intelligent” player.

On the other hand, Arsenal number eight has created four big chances and averages 2.6 key passes each game, according to Sofascore. Although the standard of the league is different, the creativity is there to see.

With Bruno Fernandes getting older, United will need a replacement sooner rather than later. This is not to say he will retire soon. The Red Devils captain is in the prime of his career and has four goals and five assists in 16 Premier League games this season.

However, he is 30 years old, and sooner or later, United will need a replacement. What better way to do so than by signing Nypan and slowly bedding him in, until he is in a position to step into the shoes of the United captain and eventually take over his spot in the XI.

This could be a fantastic piece of business for the Red Devils, and would only strengthen their squad with a talented young player whilst also offering a long-term replacement for Fernandes.

Of course, there would need to be a degree of patience with the teenage prospect, as there was with Amad – who took time to develop before breaking into the team, and he may not arrive at Old Trafford to make an instant impact, but the youngster could be a long-term signing to eventually replace the skipper.