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Lots of Everton fans have been left in awe of Ben Godfrey after his comments ahead of their away trip to Chelsea in the Premier League on Monday.

As per the official website of the Goodison Park faithful, the former Norwich City man said: “The character we have is unbelievable – we’ve got a great dressing room. Long may that continue. Especially in these final stages of the season, we’re going to go to some tough places – that character and bond we’ve got has to be there.”

The comments made are encouraging to hear from a player that only joined the Merseyside club in the summer transfer window, as he has clearly gelled in very well with new teammates and has the determination to finish the 2020/21 term strongly.

The central defender has been nothing short of a revelation since he signed for the Toffees, winning no fewer than 4.4 of his duels a game in the Premier League as well as averaging 3.2 clearances, 1.6 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per match, helping his team on the way to six clean sheets in the process (Sofascore).

A win against Chelsea would turn the Toffees into serious candidates for a top four finish come the end of the campaign, and that will no doubt be thanks in part to the former Norwich youngster.

Everton fan reaction to Godfrey comments

These Blues hailed Godfrey on Twitter after reading his comments, with one EFC supporter even going as far to claim that the 23-year-old Englishman is a ‘future captain’:

“Future Captain”

Credit: @davemc45

“God Benfrey. Absolute steal of a signing!”

Credit: @Gillsta1878

“Okay. I’m officially in love.”

Credit: @jvas1878

“Announce new 10 year contract.”

Credit: @Kian0201

“Music to my ears.. especially him saying “our” about us…”

Credit: @Earlofbootle

“Next on my kid’s shirt this lad”

Credit: @paulwallace1efc

In other news, find out whose display against West Brom was blasted here!

Glasgow Rangers could be denied the chance to go the whole Premiership season unbeaten amidst suggestions the campaign could be brought to a premature end.

Rangers season could end early

The Gers’ status as champions was confirmed on Sunday after Celtic could only manage a 0-0 draw with Dundee United. In the aftermath, thousands of the Ibrox outfit’s supporters took to the streets of Glasgow, disregarding lockdown regulations in the process (Sky News).

The Gers are set to face their fierce city rivals Celtic on March 21, and there are fears that similar scenes could unfold. As such, Ian Maxwell and Neil Doncaster, of the SFA and SPFL respectively, have been ordered to talk to the Scottish government, and a premature end to the campaign has not been ruled out (Daily Record).

Disappointing

What should have been a wonderful weekend for the 55-time Scottish champions has had the shine taken off it ever so slightly. Given we are in a global pandemic, it is worrying to see so many people on the streets, even if it is to celebrate an important achievement for the Gers. Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon brandished the public scenes of celebration as “disgraceful”.

However, it is wrong to suggest that this will now become a huge issue for the rest of the season. Yes, the Old Firm derby is a huge occasion in Scottish football, but the Premiership has already been won at this point by Steven Gerrard’s side. Even if they were to prevail in that match, what would be the point of the supporters taking to the streets?  Hopefully, the worst is now over.

In other news, many Rangers fans laud key Ibrox figure.

According to 90min, Manchester United have been dealt a blow in their reported pursuit of Aston Villa star Jack Grealish.

What’s the word?

The Villa captain has been in sensational form for his boyhood club so far this season, having made 21 Premier League appearances with six goals and 12 assists to show from his 21 starts.

Naturally, other sides have begun to take notice a lot more, and FourFourTwo claim that he has been linked with both sides of Manchester in recent weeks.

However, it appears that they may face a bit of a problem, as the 90min report adds that Villa intend to offer him a new contract that would see him become one of the highest-paid players in the Premier League in an attempt to ward off any potential suitors in the summer.

Ed Woodward can redeem himself

Having failed in their efforts to sign Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho last year, a move for Grealish has presented itself as an opportunity for Ed Woodward to redeem himself and atone for his mistakes by signing a player of a similar calibre.

Like Sancho, Grealish is a class operator who has earned rave reviews for his performances from fans and pundits alike, including current Middlesbrough manager Neil Warnock, who likened him to United great Eric Cantona.

Even England manager Gareth Southgate praised his “outstanding” performance in the Nations League defeat to Belgium last year.

The 25-year-old, who predominantly plays as a left-winger, made no secret of his desire to move to Old Trafford in the past, although a move failed to materialise and he went on to pen a new deal at Villa Park.

But the bottom line is that  Woodward simply has to put his money where his mouth is if he is legitimately interested in turning United into genuine title contenders. He could do this by making Villa an offer they can’t refuse.

AND in other news, Manchester United transfer target Raphael Varane was superb in Real Madrid win…

West Brom have a rather talented academy system having earned elite category one status nearly a decade ago.

Over the years, plenty of names have made their senior debuts, namely Nathan Ferguson, Kyle Edwards, Rekeem Harper and Dara O’Shea in recent seasons.

Soon another emerging Baggies hopeful could join the long list of players to make it from the youth set-up to the senior fold – Finn Azaz.

The 20-year-old midfield starlet has continued to impress during a loan spell at League Two outfit Cheltenham Town this season and he’s starting to develop as a potential long-term heir in a key position.

At 6 foot 1 inches in stature, the young gem doesn’t appear to be the most mobile option in the engine room. However, that’s far from the case as he not only displayed a creative side this term but shown an ability to dazzle with the ball at his feet.

Indeed, according to GloucesterLive journalist Jonathan Palmer, Azaz has been operating as a ‘no.10’ for the high-flying Robins.

Speaking to the Express & Star, he said:

“Finn Azaz is operating in a ‘number 10’ role supporting two centre forwards and has excelled so far,” before adding: “He has plenty of tricks and flicks in his locker but has already shown progress regarding when to try things and when to keep it simple. His ability has shone through since pre-season and he looks a real talent based on his early competitive appearances.”

Of those to make 16 or more appearances, the Albion loanee ranks among the best for chances created as he’s provided 1.1 key passes per 90, whilst he’s not afraid of having a pop at goal either, averaging 1.7 shots per 90, via WhoScored.

Given the dubious future of West Brom right now, both financially and in terms of player turnover, Azaz could become a ready-made option, especially if the Midlands side are relegated straight back to the Championship.

Matheus Pereira has been above and beyond their best player this term, averaging the second-highest WhoScored rating in the team. He’s both their top goalscorer and top provider, and has delivered more shots and key passes than any other Baggies star too.

Which only emphasises why Azaz could be his heir at some point later down the line, given his ability to create and left fly with an effort or two.

The Hawthorns prodigy could be the next big thing to make it at the Baggies.

AND in other news, West Brom dodged a massive £14m bullet with failed January swoop…

Transfer Tavern Verdict

This is great news for Liverpool. While Shaqiri tends to be overlooked, Diogo Jota’s injury could be his way back into the team.

The Swiss attacker has been unfortunate since his move from Stoke City in 2018, with several calf injuries hampering his progress under Jurgen Klopp.

That being said, if he can stay fit from now until the end of the season, Shaqiri could become a vital asset for Liverpool in their hunt for a second Premier League title.

In other news, Chris Sutton makes huge claim about Jurgen Klopp’s attitude after Liverpool draw with West Brom.

MatériaMais Notícias

Assim como Everton, Luan e Pedro Rocha, os outros autores dos gols do Grêmio diante do Brasil de Pelotas, também valorizaram o triunfo conquistado em Caxias do Sul, válido pela primeira rodada do Campeonato Gaúcho.

Artilheiro do Grêmio em 2015 com 17 gols, Luan, em um primeiro momento, exaltou a presença da torcida gremista no Centenário.

– Queria agradecer ao torcedor que compareceu em um dia de chuva para nos apoiar. Estamos no caminho certo. Começamos bem o campeonato e sair vencendo é muito importante para dar sequência – disse o atacante, antes de falar sobre seu primeiro gol no ano:

– Fui feliz de poder roubar a bolar, o que o professor Roger sempre pede. O Maicon fez a jogada também e pude empatar a partida.

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Já Pedro Rocha, que ingressou no jogo duranta etapa final e marcou o terceiro gol contra o Xavante também citou a participação de Maicon, outro destaque tricolor no jogo.

– Foi um jogo muito importante. É importante começar o ano, começar o Gauchão com vitória. Fico feliz pelo gol que fiz também. Foi uma grande jogada do Maicon, ele me deu o passe e pude concluir para o gol.

O Grêmio voltará a atuar no Gauchão na próxima quinta, quando receberá o Aimoré no Estádio do Vale, em Novo Hamburgo, às 19h30. O Tricolor cumpre punição imposta pelo TJD-RS por conta de quebra de cadeiras no Beira-Rio durante a final do último Gauchão.

تحدث باتريس كارتيرون المدير الفني لفريق الزمالك، عن الهزيمة أمام الأهلي بخماسية مقابل ثلاثة أهداف، وإعارة مروان حمدي وملف التجديد لأشرف بن شرقي، وحقيقة تلقيه عروضًا للرحيل.

وقال كارتيرون في تصريحات تلفزيونية لفضائية “المحور” عبر برنامج “ريمونتادا”: “لمدة 25 مباراة لم نخسر، ولكن ظروف القمة كانت صعبة ومختلفة وارتكبنا أخطاء كثيرة ولم يحالفنا التوفيق”.

قائمة الزمالك لمباراة الإسماعيلي في الدوري.. انضمام أيمن حفني

وأضاف: “نحتاج إلى العمل لكي نفوز بالمباريات الأصعب، استقبلنا 5 أهداف أمام الأهلي وهناك أخطاء لا أستطيع الإفصاح عنها، وهناك أشياء كثيرة تحتاج الى إعادة التفكير”.

وأردف: “مباراة الإسماعيلي صعبة وعالجنا أخطاء القمة، الدراويش يمتلك فريقا جيدا وجهازا فنيا جيدا فمن الوارد أن نخوض اللقاء بطريقة لعب مختلفة”.

واستطرد: “لم نندم على إعارة مروان حمدي واللاعب يريد أن يشارك والنادي استفاد ماديًا”.

واستكمل: “أشرف بن شرقي سيعود من السفر غدًا ورئيس الزمالك أدى كل ما عليه، طبيعي أن يكون هناك تفكير في موضوع التجديد لأن اللاعب عمره 27 سنة، وطبيعي يفكر في عروض الاحتراف، ولبيب يسعى لإقناع اللاعب بالتجديد خاصة بعد فترة توقف الدولي”.

واختتم: “أتلقى عروضًا ولكن حاليًا متواجد في الزمالك وتفكيري وتركيزي مع الفريق، وأشكر حازم إمام وأحمد حسام ميدو على دعمهما للاعبين وللنادي”.

Leeds United seem to still be in the market for one more signing.

Todd Cantwell has been the name that has consistently cropped up over the past two weeks, and with Louie Sibley also being mentioned, it is quite clear that Leeds think they need a new attacking midfielder.

However, Leeds may want to reconsider their transfer stance, especially after the eye-watering fee Norwich want for Cantwell was revealed.

The Canaries apparently want £25m for their talisman, and although he is probably one of the best attacking midfield options available to Leeds at the moment due to the fact they can only buy players from the EFL, they shouldn’t be spending that much on a man who has just one Premier League season under his belt.

Fortunately, Leeds do have another option.

The pause in the football calendar earlier this year has led to the 2020/21 season starting later than anyone ever anticipated, and there are only 77 days between the end of this domestic window and the start of the January window, and that 11-week spell could be a huge blessing for Leeds.

United have a squad strong enough to tide them over until January, after all, they have seven points from their first four games this term, and rather than splashing out on Cantwell, they should take stock and use the 77-day gap between the transfer windows to sniff out a bargain in the same position who could prove to be even better than Cantwell for a cheaper fee.

January isn’t far away and if Leeds get to winter and feel that they still need a new attacking midfielder their options will be a lot more varied than they are right now as they will once again be able to operate in the international market, while also having the option of taking players from other Premier League sides.

Victor Orta would be better off saving Andrea Radrizzani £25m and re-assessing the situation in January.

Sunderland must allay Phil Parkinson’s fears of stunting Josh Hawkes’ development and strive to field the talented Under 23s forward in Saturday’s FA Cup First Round clash with Mansfield Town.

Hawkes has been lighting up the youth scene this season but is yet to be offered a chance at a higher level, with Parkinson thus far opting to overlook the 21-year-old for each Black Cats squad in League One, the EFL Cup and EFL Trophy.

Elliott Dickman was without Hawkes for Friday’s U23s win over Wolverhampton Wanders, though the expectation is that Parkinson will wait until Tuesday’s Papa John’s Trophy showdown with Fleetwood Town before utilising his rising star.

Sunderland have already secured their place in the next round of the EFL Trophy, allowing for Parkinson to rest some senior players away to the Fisherman, and the Black Cats boss confirmed that his thinking is currently not on Saturday’s FA Cup clash.

“Realistically, that Tuesday game, our thoughts at the moment are that because we’ve already qualified, and because a lot of the lads have done well in the U23s, we need to see if they can make that next step up,” he said, via quotes by the Sunderland Echo.

Parkinson has been reluctant to trust Hawkes so far this season, despite the forward striking 13 goals in 63 appearances for Hartlepool United before joining Sunderland this summer against rival interest from Sporting Braga, Burnley and Sheffield United among an array of sides.

The Black Cats boss has noted that his fears are based in stinting Hawkes’ progress by taking him away from the U23s to train with the first-team, adding: “He’s played at National League level, done well, got goals. The downside, of course, is that we sometimes take players away from that U23 team when they play.

“The most important thing is that transition for these players, between the U23s and senior football.”

But Sunderland must be ready to offer Hawkes his chance to impress and quell Parkinson’s fears, as an impressive showing at home to Mansfield on Saturday afternoon will offer the Black Cats a far better assessment of whether the 21-year-old is ready for League One football.

Sunderland Echo journalist Phil Smith also noted earlier in the summer during a Q&A that Hawkes’ signing represented a change in approach for Sunderland, by targeting players that can make the step up from U23s to the first-team. Though Parkinson may have missed that memo if he continues to ignore the forward’s potential.

“Josh Hawkes has been signed primarily as an U23 player,” Smith said. “So, he will to have impress in that side before he gets an opportunity with the senior group.

“He very much represents the change in approach, though, in that he’s a player who they think can bridge the gap between the U23 and senior groups, over time.”

Hawkes’ efforts in the National League suggested he is ready for the next step up, otherwise top-flight sides would not have shown an interest. It only remains to be seen how true to Sunderland’s intentions Parkinson remains in the coming days.

AND in other news, Sunderland botched the chase of an “aggressive” £1.5m gem now winning nine duels a game.

Liverpool are set to loan goalkeeper Loris Karius out to Bundesliga side Union Berlin, according to German outlet Kicker.

What’s the word?

The goalkeeper has spent the last two seasons out on loan with Besiktas, where he made a total of 67 appearances, conceding 95 goals and keeping 14 clean sheets in all competitions.

It now seems set in stone that he will be moving back to his homeland for the season, as he has already agreed to the idea of joining up with Union Berlin.

The 27-year-old will compete with Andreas Luthe to be the club’s number one goalkeeper – after he impressed during the 1-1 draw against Borussia Monchengladbach.

Can you spot your Xabi Alonso from your Bruno Cheyrou? This Liverpool quiz will have you questioning your knowledge…

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Delaying the inevitable

It feels like all this deal is doing for Liverpool is delaying Karius’ inevitable permanent departure from Anfield, some four years after making a £4.7m switch to Merseyside.

There is surely no chance of him ever playing for Liverpool again, after the Champions League final against Real Madrid, where he rolled the ball onto Karim Benzema’s foot, then let Gareth Bale’s strike from range slip through his fingers.

In addition, Jurgen Klopp has got a trustworthy player in that position now, in the form of Alisson, while Adrian has the back-up spot nailed down.

It could even be argued that 21-year-old Caoimhin Kelleher would be in with a chance of getting ahead of the German in the pecking order.

Therefore, it feels quite silly to be loaning Karius out. Surely it would make much more sense to hold out for a club that is willing to sign him on a permanent basis.

Not only would this allow Liverpool to get a fee, but it would also allow Karius to put his nightmare at the club firmly behind him.