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Tottenham Hotspur were held to a 0-0 draw by Monaco in the Champions League last time out, but it was the hosts who had the better chances to win the match.

The French side created five ‘big chances’ in the game, compared to Tottenham’s one, and Guglielmo Vicario prevented a whopping 2.68 xG with eight saves.

Whilst Thomas Frank will be concerned that his goalkeeper needed to make so many saves, the Spurs head coach should be concerned about the lack of potency in the final third.

Tottenham have struggled at the top end of the pitch under the former Brentford boss in the Premier League so far this season, as shown in the table below.

25/26 Premier League

Rank

Big chances created

Big chances missed

1

Crystal Palace – 33

Crystal Palace – 22

2

Man City – 27

Man City – 17

3

Liverpool – 24

Liverpool – 17

4

Chelsea – 23

Leeds – 14

5

Arsenal – 22

Man Utd – 14

6

Man Utd – 22

Arsenal – 13

7

Brighton – 18

Newcastle – 11

8

Leeds – 17

Nottingham Forest – 11

9

Newcastle – 15

Chelsea – 10

10

Everton – 15

Everton – 10

Stats via Sofascore

Spurs do not rank within the top ten Premier League sides for ‘big chances’ created or missed, as they sit 15th in the division for ‘big chances’ created with 13, per Sofascore.

On top of struggling to create chances on a consistent basis, it also remains to be seen whether or not the Lilywhites have a striker who can provide consistent quality in front of goal.

Ranking Tottenham Hotspur's striker options

Mathys Tel, Richarlison, and Dominic Solanke are the main centre-forward options at Frank’s disposal this season, although Solanke is currently making his way back from an ankle injury.

Despite scoring a goal against Leeds United last month, Tel may rank at the bottom of the manager’s options in the number nine position, because he is still a young and inexperienced player.

The France U21 international has scored four goals in 28 appearances in all competitions for the club, per Sofascore, which shows that he still has development to go through before he can offer a consistent threat.

Richarlison is currently the first-choice number nine, in Solanke’s absence, and he has scored eight goals in 37 matches since the start of last season, per Sofascore, including three goals in eight Premier League outings this term.

24/25 Premier League

Dominic Solanke

Appearances

27

Starts

25

xG

10.97

Goals

9

Big chances missed

12

Minutes per goal

245

xA

1.15

Assists

3

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, Solanke scored more goals in the Premier League alone last season than Richarlison has managed in all competitions since the start of the 2024/25 campaign.

This suggests that the England international is the best striker in the current Spurs squad, but the club are reportedly keen on a player who is even better than him.

Spurs ready to pay up for Serie A striker

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, as relayed by TuttoJuve, Tottenham Hotspur are one of a number of clubs interested in a deal to sign Juventus centre-forward Dusan Vlahovic.

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The report claims that Fabio Paratici is eyeing up a potential swoop for the Serbia international, but will face competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United.

It adds that all three clubs are willing to pay the fee that Juventus are looking for, which is up to £22m, as they look to move on from Vlahovic in the upcoming January transfer window.

The experienced striker’s contract in Turin is set to expire at the end of the 2025/26 campaign, which is why the Old Lady are keen to move on from him in January to avoid losing the forward for nothing in the summer.

Why Spurs should sign Dusan Vlahovic

Paratici should push to secure a deal for Vlahovic ahead of both Chelsea and Manchester United because he could arrive in North London as an instant upgrade on Solanke.

The Serbian number nine’s form last season and throughout his career at the top level suggests that he would offer a far more clinical and lethal presence at the top end of the pitch for Spurs.

Vlahovic scored 17 goals in all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign, including the summer Club World Cup, and hit double figures for goals in the Serie A, per Sofascore.

24/25 season

Vlahovic (Serie A)

Solanke (Premier League)

Starts

21

25

Goals

10

9

Minutes per goal

180

245

Shots on target per game

1.0

1.0

Assists

4

3

Aerial duels won per game

1.3

1.7

Aerial duel success rate

48%

43%

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, Vlahovic was far more prolific than Solanke at league level, as shown by their respective minutes per goal ratios, whilst he also won a higher percentage of his aerial duels and provided more assists.

These statistics suggest that the Juventus striker, who was described as an “absolute monster” by reporter Carlo Garganese, would provide more quality than the Englishman in the final third.

That is further backed up by their respective career finishing statistics. Per UnderStat, Solanke has scored 38 goals from 52.23 xG in his top-flight career, whilst Vlahovic has 89 goals from 90.73 xG in his time in the Serie A with Fiorentina and Juventus.

This suggests that Vlahovic would provide a level of clinical finishing and goalscoring prowess that Frank does not currently have at his disposal in North London this season.

Therefore, Paratici needs to do all he can to convince the Serbian marksman to turn down potential moves to Manchester United and Chelsea to join the Lilywhites in the upcoming January transfer window, as he would improve the current first-team squad.

Related Watch out Gray & Bergvall: Spurs gem with "Modric vibe" is thriving on loan

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Posts ByEthan Lamb Oct 24, 2025

Middlesex 159 for 4 (Eskinazi 72, Walter 2-34) beat Essex 156 for 9 (Harmer 41, Helm 4-32) by six wicketsStephen Eskinazi put pointless Essex to the sword as his 72 gave Middlesex their first Men’s Vitality Blast victory of the season.The hosts had lost six wickets in 29 balls to hinder their batting effort, although Simon Harmer’s T20 best for Essex – a brisk 41 – helped his side to a semi-respectable 156.Eskinazi hammered his 23rd T20 fifty in style, but Ben Geddes’ six-fuelled 30 off 11 took the visitors to victory with 15 balls to spare, and kept Essex winless in the competition.After being asked to bat, Adam Rossington gave the Eagles a flyer with 31 off 17 balls, built around five powerfully struck fours and a less convincing six down the ground.With three balls left of the powerplay, Essex were on 60 and cruising but by the end of the fielding restrictions, they were two down and 29 balls later, another four batters had been and gone.The wickets were shared around during the collapse. Tom Helm had Rossington splicing to cover and two balls later, Michael Pepper had feathered behind down the legside. The fast bowler would also see off Shane Snater and Harmer in the final over to return four for 32, an upgrade on his back-to-back three-fors.Josh Little brilliantly bounced out Dean Elgar, while Jack Davies added the stumpings of Paul Walter and Charlie Allison to his two catches, before Matt Critchley reversed to short fine leg.But Harmer rallied the innings and got Essex in the vicinity of par – but still under. The skipper took no risks but quickly accumulated much-needed runs, as he found Luc Benkenstein to stick around for 43 runs.His six over Noah Cornwall’s head was extremely clean, while his final over pull over the ropes couldn’t have been middled better. He fell to the last ball of the innings but his 41 off 28 was invaluable to Essex reaching 156.Eskinazi and Kane Williamson put the chase on control with the former providing the explosives and the New Zealander the anchor in a 97-run salvo for the first wicket. Essex continued their run of not taking a powerplay wicket.Everything looked in hand with Eskinazi’s middle of the bat constantly vibrating as he passed a 35-ball half-century, but a mini-wobble, which included three wickets falling in nine balls, gave Essex hope.Williamson top-edged a sweep to the 45, Eskinazi mistimed a pull to the deep, Leus du Plooy was bowled by a Harmer beauty in a wicket maiden, and Davies picked out midwicket.But that dream of a turnaround evaporated when Ben Geddes deposited Walter in or over the Felsted Stand three balls in a row to take Middlesex within nine runs.Ryan Higgins continued the runs of sixes at the start of the following over before a four two balls later secured the victory.

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has teased international team-mate William Saliba about Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes, with two French defenders locking horns again in a bid to establish domestic dominance in the English top-flight. That crown currently resides at Anfield, but a thrilling start to the 2025-26 campaign suggests that north London heavyweights are ready to compete for major honours once again.

• Liverpool have stumbled after flying start to the season

  Liverpool burst out of the blocks again this term, with a flurry of late goals seeing them rewrite the history books while collecting five successive wins in Premier League competition. Said success came on the back of an elaborate spending spree in the summer transfer window that saw deals for the likes of Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak smash records.

  The wheels have come off slightly since then, with Liverpool suffering three straight defeats in all competitions. Those setbacks have come against Crystal Palace, Galatasaray and Chelsea across domestic and Champions League action. Arne Slot’s side have been knocked from the loftiest of perches as a result.

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• Arsenal have moved ahead of defending champions

  Arsenal, who have finished as Premier League runners-up in each of the last three seasons, have moved to the summit. They are only one point clear of the chasing pack, having picked up 16 through seven matches, but are daring to dream of securing a first title since the fabled ‘Invincibles’ of 2003-24.

  Saliba will have an important role to play for the Gunners if they are to sustain a bid for ultimate glory, with the classy centre-half integral to Mikel Arteta’s plans. He is, however, happy to play down expectations for now – especially when indulging in playful banter with an international team-mate.

  When signing autographs for fans at France’s international squad base at Clairefontaine, Konate was handed a picture of him holding the Premier League trophy. With Saliba by his side, the Liverpool defender quipped: “Hey Wilo, it's you, right?” Saliba responded with: “No, no, it's you for this year. Konate added: “It's for you this year.” Saliba hit back again with: “No, it's Liverpool again! We have to put pressure on them.”

• Konate nursing a knock on World Cup qualifying duty

  It remains to be seen whether Konate will be fit enough to line up for France in their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Iceland. He was replaced during the second half of Liverpool’s dramatic 2-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge.

  Reds boss Slot told reporters afterwards: “I don't know if it's a big injury, but I do know that he limped. And I asked him, and he said, 'I feel my quad a little bit'. But, for me, all alarm bells go off because in another sprint, then you never know if that is going to go good, so it was already a substitution I had in mind for maybe a little bit later, because the right centre-back has a lot of ball possession, and we all know that Ryan (Gravenberch) is good in there. So it might be okay and he went off early enough, but it was clear that I had to take him off because he was limping.”

  France boss Didier Deschamps said when waiting for his squad to report for national team duty: “There are still injuries. I don't have any additional information. We'll have an update when the players arrive. The observation is that for the vast majority, they arrive tired. They arrive from one week to three matches. I will have to spread out the playing time more than in September. They are all fit to play.”

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  Next up: Premier League tests for Liverpool & Arsenal

  France have no need to take fitness gambles as they are fast closing in on qualification for next summer’s World Cup. Club bosses will also be eager to ensure that no risks are taken on players that will be required to slot straight back into the fold when returning to their domestic bases.

  Liverpool have a crunch clash against old adversaries Manchester United to come on October 19, with Konate required for that contest, while Arsenal will return to Premier League action after the international break with a short trip to London neighbours Fulham.

Crystal Palace stunned Liverpool by cancelling Marc Guehi’s £35 million ($47m) deadline day move to Anfield, with Palace chairman Steve Parish revealing his side's maiden European campaign was the key factor. Parish stressed that keeping the England captain was crucial for the Eagles’ season, despite the allure of a big-money transfer, highlighting the unique circumstances behind the dramatic last-minute U-turn.

• Guehi's dramatic Liverpool transfer collapse

  Liverpool had agreed terms with Crystal Palace on a £35m fee plus a sell-on clause to sign Guehi, with the England international even starting his medical in London on September 1. However, the Eagles failed to secure a suitable replacement, with Brighton’s Igor Julio choosing a loan move to West Ham instead. Palace manager Oliver Glasner, determined to retain his talisman, reportedly threatened to resign if Guehi was sold without a replacement, pushing the board to pull the plug mere hours before the 7pm deadline day cut-off. Additionally, Palace were preparing for their first-ever European campaign in the Conference League, which heightened the stakes of retaining their captain.

  The collapse left Liverpool disappointed but planning to return next summer when Guehi will be a free agent, as his Crystal Palace contract expires in June 2026. Guehi had been willing to make the move, and personal terms on a five-year contract were reportedly agreed.

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• Getty Images Entertainment
  

  Parish explains why Crystal Palace pulled Guehi move

  “It’s a difficult decision,” Parish told . “It’s as simple as that these things are never black and white. I decided in the end that, based on the advice that I got and with what I think, that we would have a better season if we kept Marc.”

  He added: “We don’t guess about these things. If you look at it rationally, if you look at what is worth the place in the Premier League, the fact that we’re in the Conference League for the first time in our history, this is a fairly unusual set of circumstances in which to keep a player. If we were fighting between the difference of 10th and 14th, if that was going to be the difference between keeping Marc and letting Marc go, then probably we would have said: ‘Right, we should take the money."

  Prioritising Conference League and Premier League stability, Crystal Palace chose to retain leadership on the pitch rather than gamble on a last-minute replacement. The chairman's statements also show that the board considered long-term planning and squad cohesion critical in making such a significant decision in the dying embers of the transfer window.

• Guehi tracked by Liverpool and other clubs

  Guehi’s contract situation has put him in high demand even before next summer’s transfer window, with multiple elite clubs reportedly interested. Liverpool are expected to remain key contenders, particularly with uncertainty around Ibrahima Konate's contract, who will also become a free agent in 2026. Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich are all tracking Guehi as a potential free transfer target, giving them an advantage since they can open pre-contract negotiations from January 2026.

  The centre-back’s importance at Selhurst Park was emphasised by the failed attempts to replace him, showing the scarcity of experienced defensive options on the market. Crystal Palace’s decision also demonstrates how managerial influence – Glasner’s opposition in this case – can directly impact transfer dealings. Despite the collapse, Guehi remains a highly-coveted defender, with his leadership and Premier League experience making him a priority for Europe’s top clubs.

  Even with Liverpool having missed out this time, the Reds are highly likely to return next summer and will hope the chance to continue in the Premier League will convince the England international to move to Anfield. Meanwhile, foreign clubs have a potential edge, as Guehi can legally begin discussions with them mid-season. This situation sets up a high-stakes race for the 25-year-old centre-back, with implications for both domestic and continental competition.

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  Guehi crucial to Crystal Palace's 2025-26 ambitions

  Crystal Palace will focus on navigating their first European campaign while ensuring Guehi remains fit and motivated. Liverpool are likely to monitor the player’s contract situation closely, aiming to secure him in the summer transfer window without paying a fee. Meanwhile, the broader European landscape, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, will continue evaluating Guehi’s availability, preparing for the January 2026 pre-contract period that could reshape defensive plans across multiple top clubs.

  The Eagles' board must also plan for future transfer windows, ensuring they have contingency options in case other key players attract late interest. Success in the Conference League and the Premier League will partially depend on keeping leadership stable, a decision now exemplified by retaining Guehi. The dramatic deadline day twist serves as a reminder of how quickly football plans can change, with both short-term results and long-term strategy influencing transfer choices.

Ange Postecoglou has confirmed that he will be holding talks with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis after seeing his winless start as Reds boss extended to seven games. Sack calls have been mounting at the City Ground, but the former Tottenham manager insists he has never been one to back down from a fight and believes that he can deliver a reversal in fortune.

Postecoglou still waiting on first win as Forest boss

That decision to continue may be taken out of his hands, with the Australian enduring a historically disastrous start to his reign on Trentside. After being appointed as successor to Nuno Espirito Santo on September 9, Postecoglou is yet to oversee a morale-boosting victory. Just one point has been picked up across four Premier League fixtures – with Forest’s latest top-flight setback coming at the hands of Newcastle.

Postecoglou also saw his side surrender a two-goal lead to crash out of the Carabao Cup in dramatic fashion at the hands of Championship side Swansea, while also going down 3-2 to Danish side Midtjylland in Forest’s first European game on home soil in 29 years. He was subjected to chants of “You’re getting sacked in the morning” from his own fans during that continental fixture.

AdvertisementGettyPostecoglou to meet with Forest owner Marinakis

There was little sign of improvement at St James’ Park, despite the hosts taking 58 minutes to break the deadlock, with Postecoglou left cutting a frustrated figure on the sidelines. Despite spending just a month in his current role, it is becoming increasingly difficult to see how he can turn things around.

Forest owner Marinakis is a demanding character, with the Greek shipping magnate having invested heavily in a bid to make the Reds competitive at home and abroad. He will be aware of what supporters are saying, with another face-to-face meeting with Postecoglou being lined up.

Quizzed on whether those talks will be taking place, Postecoglou told reporters: “I expect to have a discussion with the owner and everyone else at the club about what we’ve embarked on here, where we’re at and what we need to do, for sure. If people want to make an assessment of me after three-and-a-half weeks and seven games, there’s nothing I can do about that.

“At the same time, there’s nothing wrong with things being tough. That’s OK. I did have an option. I could have been sitting on the couch watching the game today and not being in the middle of it. I’d rather be here; much rather be here. I love a fight. So it’s a fight, it’s a struggle? So what? That’s OK.

"If people outside, or even internally, don’t think I’m the right person, it makes no difference to me. I took this role on knowing it would be a massive challenge with what we are trying to do in terms of changing the direction of the club. Nothing I have seen has changed my view on that. I love the challenge of taking this club to where it needs to be. I’m very confident we’ll get there.”

Postecoglou happy to fight for Forest future

Postecoglou bit back with when being pressed again on the supposed threat to his position at the City Ground: “Seriously, what’s wrong with something being hard? What’s wrong with that? Why do we want everything delivered nicely packaged? I’m sure your parents had a struggle in their life and they didn’t give up. You might even have been a lost cause at some point, but they didn’t give up on you.

“It seems these days as soon as something goes wrong, it’s right, that’s it, it’s wrong, we’ll change it. Everything that needs something fixed is invariably going to go through a tough time. I see it being an exciting opportunity. That’s why I took the role. I still believe that now, more so than ever before. At the same time, you’ve got to embrace there’s going to be a fight and a struggle for it.

“I’m here in the Premier League at the age of 60, you reckon I lack self-belief or don’t like a fight? I didn’t get here because of my connections. In fact, I’ve picked fights. I have. In the schoolyard, I’ve picked fights with people I knew would beat me up. That’s the kind of person I am. I totally understand it’s part of the fanfare around the Premier League that there needs to be a manager under the spotlight. It’s my turn at the moment. But like most managers, we enjoy having a challenge on our hands.”

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(C)Getty ImagesNottingham Forest fixtures: Tough run approaching

Things are not about to get any easier for Forest, who sit 17th in the Premier League table, with the Reds set to return to action after the latest international break with a run of games against Chelsea, Porto, Bournemouth and Manchester United.

The home side raced to what appeared a tough target inside 15 overs amid heady scenes in Hobart

Tristan Lavalette27-Jan-2025Mitchell Owen had a rollicking Bellerive Oval crowd in the palm of his hands and capped a breakout season with the equal-fastest BBL century as Hobart Hurricanes powered to their first title in style.Hurricanes needed a seemingly tricky 183 runs, but they achieved the highest chase in a BBL final with ease after Owen produced an innings for the ages. He reached his century off 39 balls – within 10 overs – and finished with 108 off 42 including 11 sixes.Related

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From 74 all out to the BBL final: Hurricanes a win away from history

Ben McDermott and Matthew Wade finished the job as Hurricanes rolled to a seven-wicket victory with 35 balls to spare.It was a disappointment for Thunder, who started brightly after being sent it with a 97-run opening partnership between captain David Warner and Jason Sangha before they were pegged back by quicks Nathan Ellis and Riley Meredith.Warner fell short of being a winning captain less than six months after having his lifetime leadership ban overturned.Owen decimates ThunderAs Hurricanes started their chase, ESPNcricinfo’s predictor had Thunder at a 61% chance of winning. It wasn’t long for Hurricanes to surge into heavy favourites after Owen’s whirlwind. After four overs, Hurricanes were 74 for 0 with Owen 58 off 18 balls having smashed six monstrous sixes and five boundaries.The promotion of seam bowling allrounder Owen from the middle-lower order to opener has been a masterstroke. Owen saved his best for last as he backed his successful formula of swinging hard and muscling the ball over hapless fielders.Mitchell Owen celebrates a stunning century•Getty ImagesThere was no stage fright for Owen as he got rolling by launching quick Nathan McAndrew over deep midwicket for six then hitting consecutive boundaries in an opening over yielding 23 runs.Warner reverted to the reliable option of left-arm spinner Tom Andrews, but Owen was undaunted and smashed a huge six over deep midwicket. He then continually thumped quick Wes Agar as he soon motored to his half-century off 16 balls – the third fastest in tournament history.There was no let up even with the fielding restrictions eased as he continued his assault. With giddy fans chanting his name, Owen eyed the fastest BBL century – a record set by Craig Simmons in 2014. He couldn’t break it, but he matched the long-standing mark to earn a standing ovation as he lapped up the applause. Owen finally fell in the 11th over but the damage was done.His heroics will certainly gain attention far and wide – from the national selectors to other franchise leagues.Thunder’s attack have no answers, Sangha tries his bestTo be fair, few attacks could probably have stopped Owen in that zone. But Thunder started sloppily and continually bowled right in his favoured hitting arc.They slumped in the field too with Matthew Gilkes at cover dropping opener Caleb Jewell on 5 and Warner in the same sequence missing a chance to run out Owen at the bowler’s end.The only bright spot was legspinner Tanveer Sangha, who finished the season strongly having bowled well since returning to the side after injury. He claimed Jewell and Nikhil Chaudhary in the eighth over to give Thunder hope before he succumbed to the Owen show.Ellis hauls Hurricanes back with superb slower deliveriesOvershadowed by their belligerent batting order, Hurricanes’ versatile attack has been just as important but nothing worked in Thunder’s opening 10 overs. Meredith was counterattacked with the new ball, while spinners Peter Hatzoglou and Chaudhary, both so miserly this season, were under an avalanche from Warner and Sangha.The drinks break came at an opportune time for Hurricanes and Ellis put the onus on himself to get his team back in the contest. He did exactly that by nicking off Warner before on the next ball completely deceiving Gilkes with a trademark slower delivery.Nathan Ellis struck twice in one over to change the game•Getty ImagesEllis came close to securing a hat-trick when Sam Billings nervously drove just short of mid-off, but he continued to have an impact. He made the right move in the 15th over and deployed Meredith, who justified the decision with a cracking yorker to clean bowl Billings.Ellis proved why he is right on the fringes of Australia’s white-ball teams with superb execution in the latter overs, dismissing Sangha with another slower delivery at a crucial time before the power surge. He then conceded just six runs in the second over of the power surge to finish a stellar season in style with 3 for 23 from 4 oversSangha and Warner silence crowd initiallyAll eyes were on Warner, but he was initially overshadowed by Jason Sangha who was playing just his third BBL game of the season. He made an impact at the top of the order in his return against Sydney Sixers in the Challenger, bolstering a thin Thunder batting order.After a cautious start, Sangha went after Meredith in the third over. Meredith had shaken up Sixers’ top-order in the qualifying final, but Sangha decided to meet fire with fire. He rocked on the back foot and hammered a six over deep square before smashing a boundary through backward point.Thunder got through the powerplay wicketless for just the second time this season. Sangha scored 30 of 40 runs before Warner got in on the act after the fielding restrictions were eased. He was inventive and reversed lapped Hatzoglou before reverse sweeping seamer Chris Jordan over gully. A feature was Warner’s running, racing between the wickets with such speed to belie his advancing age.Warner and Sangha continued to mix power with placement as they got through to drinks with Thunder well paced at 97 for 0. But Thunder could not capitalise on their platform and their lack of batting depth was exposed. Chris Green added a couple of vital boundaries in the last over, but it proved ultimately nowhere near enough.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has insisted that the the board remains “clear” in its view that any decision on the hosting of the Champions Trophy should be made “on the basis of equality”. With the ICC virtually meeting and potentially voting on the issue on November 29, Naqvi said he had been in touch with ICC chairman Greg Barclay and that “his team” at the PCB was in contact with the ICC.”Our stance is very clear,” Naqvi said during a press conference held at the Gaddafi Stadium at 1am on Thursday morning. “I promise we’ll do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I’m constantly in touch with the ICC chairman and my team is talking to them constantly. We’re still clear in our stance that it’s not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don’t play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen on the basis of equality. We’ve told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we’ll let you know.”The Champions Trophy is scheduled to be hosted across three venues in Pakistan over February and March next year. But India, who have not toured Pakistan since 2008, told the ICC their government had not given them permission to travel to Pakistan for the event earlier this month.Related

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• Decision on Champions Trophy venue expected over the weekend

• Where will the Champions Trophy be played? ICC to take final call after November 29 meeting

• Champions Trophy saga: Blame lies with ICC leadership

• India will not travel to Pakistan for 2025 Champions Trophy

Previously, Naqvi has categorically stated a “hybrid model” where Pakistan hosts most of the games, but any games India play be held elsewhere, was unacceptable. “Our stance is clear: they need to give us in writing any objections they may have,” he said earlier this month. “Until now, no discussion of the hybrid model has happened, nor are we prepared to accept one.”Naqvi confirmed India had not provided Pakistan any written objections and he didn’t say whether, in his communications, the ICC had answered questions the PCB had asked about India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan for the event.But he did not directly answer repeated questions about whether a hybrid model remained just as unacceptable to the PCB. “Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved,” Naqvi said multiple times. “But I repeat, and I am sure you know what I mean, it’s not possible that Pakistan play in India, and they don’t come here.”Naqvi’s comments are a reference to Pakistan considering the terms of its involvement in future events hosted by India. India are hosts of the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, as well as co-hosts of the 2026 T20I World Cup alongside Sri Lanka.Naqvi did say any decision taken at the ICC meeting would then be taken to the Pakistan government by the PCB for final approval. He also urged Jay Shah, who leaves his post as BCCI secretary to take over as ICC chairman on Sunday, to show concern for the ICC’s benefit in his handling of the organisation.”[Jay Shah] takes charge in December, and I’m sure once he moves from the BCCI to the ICC, he will think about the ICC’s benefit, and that’s what he should do. Whenever anyone assumes such a role, he should only consider the interests of that organisation.”Naqvi also said that the PCB’s goals going into the meeting were not financial. “I promise you that we’ll not just sell our rights out just for more money. This will never happen. But we’ll do whatever is best for Pakistan.”

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri heaped praise on midfield maestro Luka Modric after his decisive goal secured the win over Bologna. Allegri believes Modric’s exceptional game intelligence keeps him a step ahead of both opponents and teammates, making him an "extraordinary" player.

Modric's game winning goal

In a match where Milan kept a perfect defensive record by not allowing Bologna a single shot on target, Modric’s solitary goal made all the difference. Starting a counterattack from deep inside Milan’s half in the 60th minute, Modric surged into Bologna’s penalty area to meet Alexis Saelemaekers's perfectly-timed pass with a calm finish to the goalkeeper’s right.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportWhat Allegri said about Modric and Milan's performance yesterday

Allegri was pleased with Modric's performance and heaped praise on him afterwards, telling reporters: "Luka is an extraordinary player, it's a pleasure to watch him play, and above all, he's a truly humble guy, just like the champion he is. He's wonderful, he knows where the ball is going one minute before, and then he's extraordinary."

Allegri was also pleased with the team effort from the players, saying: "It was important to win at home without conceding a goal. In difficult moments, the team remained united: in those moments, it's important not to disintegrate and let them pass."

The controversial penatly decision and Allegri's red card

In a controversial moment late in the game, on-field referee Matteo Marcenaro initially awarded a penalty after Bologna midfielder Remo Freuler was judged to have fouled Christian Nkunku in the box. However, the decision was overturned due to insufficient contact following a VAR review. The decision sparked the ire of Allegri, who was sent off for dissent.

Allegri downplayed the incident later, adding: "Nothing special, there was the penalty incident and at that moment I had something to say to the fourth official and luckily the jacket saved me."

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Getty Images SportMilan and Allegri's challenges up ahead

Despite starting the campaign with a loss to Cremonese at home, Allegri will be happy to have two wins in two games. He will hope that Modric will be able to reproduce his form from Bologna when Milan will travel next to Stadio Friuli to take on Udinese.

Whilst their striker search develops following news that Alexander Isak wants to leave, Newcastle United and PIF have reportedly been offered the chance to sign a Premier League rival instead of Benjamin Sesko.

Newcastle "working" on Sesko deal

The Magpies have sprung into action following Isak’s bombshell and have instantly turned their focus towards Sesko. The RB Leipzig ace has attracted the interest of Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool this summer, but now Newcastle have emerged in search of a blockbuster move of their own.

According to transfer reporter Ben Jacobs, those at St James’ Park are now “working” on personal terms with the talented striker and are set to submit an opening bid to Leipzig, who are open to a summer sale.

Although reports have suggested that Leipzig will demand as much as £67m to sell the 22-year-old ahead of next season, money will be no issue for Newcastle if Isak departs for a deal which could be a staggering worth £150m.

It certainly makes sense that Newcastle have turned straight towards Sesko too. The Serbian has been on the rise for a couple of seasons now and once again showed plenty of his potential in the Bundesliga last time out.

Minutes

2,380

2,756

Goals

13

23

Assists

5

6

Expected Goals

10

20.3

There will be concerns that Sesko managed just 13 Bundesliga goals last time out, but it’s key to point out that both he and Isak outperformed their expected total by three goals. Based on that figure, the Serbian certainly has the potential to improve his numbers if chance creation around him is improved.

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Alas, with how this summer has gone for the Magpies, having alternative options lined up certainly wouldn’t be a bad idea and one Premier League rival may find himself on that shortlist.

PIF offered chance to sign Jackson

According to Graeme Bailey for The Boot Room, PIF have now been offered the chance to sign Nicolas Jackson for Newcastle this summer. The forward’s agent has offered his signature around the Premier League to the likes of Manchester United, Aston Villa and now Newcastle as he looks to ensure that his client receives his desired game time.

After Chelsea signed both Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, that game time is unlikely to arrive at Stamford Bridge – allowing Newcastle to come swooping in should they please this summer.

Dubbed “fantastic” by Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, Newcastle’s backline paid witness to Jackson’s ability first-hand last season when he scored in a 2-1 victory over the Magpies.

It goes without saying that Jackson must work on his consistency after scoring 13 goals in all competitions last season, but he could yet find that by swapping Chelsea for Newcastle this summer.

Manchester United are desperate to restore themselves as a European superpower next season. Too long has it been since the Red Devils stood atop the Premier League pile and were feared across the continent.

But despite the woes of the 2024/25 campaign, Ruben Amorim is determined to piece together a team capable of challenging at the highest level.

Despite the slow start, this can be found through the £62.5m signing of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Matheus Cunha.

Cunha isn’t quite a focal frontman; the Brazil forward is mobile and destructive and will enhance every facet of Man United’s attacking play.

However, the search for forwards doesn’t stop there.

The latest on Man Utd's search for forwards

Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo remains INEOS’s focus in the summer transfer window, but it’s been revealed that Rasmus Hojlund might not be quite so close to leaving as had previously been expected.

If Hojlund is to stay put, United’s need for an out-and-out frontman will be lessened. But more depth is needed all the same, and could arrive in the form of a Premier League star desperate for a resurgence to match.

Well, according to Spanish reports, United have settled their focus on Chelsea outcast Christopher Nkunku, having entered negotiations with the Blues for the transfer of the versatile forward, who has been valued at £35m.

With Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Antony all touted for exits in the coming weeks, this might be a shrewd signing for a player who hasn’t enjoyed their finest form at Stamford Bridge but is undoubtedly talented enough to succeed under Amorim’s wing.

Why Man Utd want Christopher Nkunku

Nkunku’s stint at Chelsea has not gone to plan. Having signed for the Blues from RB Leipzig for £52m in June 2023, the Les Bleus star has only started 11 matches in the Premier League, with injuries and issues finding fluency hampering him.

Given that he would be arriving from a Premier League rival and, indeed, considering the type of player he is, Nkunku might even prove to be Amorim’s next version of Cunha, only a month after reeling the Wolves sensation over to Old Trafford.

Journalist Zach Lowy had remarked that the Frenchman was “unstoppable” during his time with RB Leipzig, and while his time at Stamford Bridge has left plenty to be desired, we can see from the player’s skill set his underlying dynamic ability, which remains intact.

Goals

0.29

0.52

Assists

0.20

0.21

Touches

43.78

54.10

Pass completion

89.5%

71.6%

Progressive passes

2.44

4.99

Shot-creating actions

3.32

4.57

Progressive carries

1.66

3.88

Successful take-ons

0.98

2.11

Ball recoveries

2.83

4.33

Tackles + interceptions

1.86

1.91

While Cunha clearly outstrips Nkunku, there’s enough on show through the data to illustrate his roundedness. All that’s still required is a return to the goalscoring form that saw 58 goals and 29 assists harvested across his final two campaigns with Leipzig.

He was, and still could be, one of the best in the Premier League, endowed with the wide scope Cunha so remarkably possesses.

Indeed, just take a look at Nkunku’s Bundesliga highlight reel to understand the level of a forward who may yet realise his potential in the Premier League.

Cunha has been singled out for his “absolutely sensational” intelligence and technical quality by pundit Micah Richards in the past, and while his arrival will elevate Amorim’s outfit, adding some further depth and electricity by the way of Nkunku could freshen up the ranks just enough to finally turn the page.

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