Looking for Soccer News?

Twente right-back Tyronne Ebuehi is eager to return to the Nigeria national team after recovering from a career-threatening injury.

The 24-year-old signed for Portuguese giants Benfica following his showings for the Super Eagles at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The defender was one of the standout performers for Nigeria as they were eliminated in the group stage of the global tournament.

Ebuehi, however, ruptured his cruciate knee ligaments in July 2018 and subsequently missed the whole of 2018-19 season.  

The former ADO Den Haag right-back was also not part of the Super Eagles team that finished third at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

Ebuehi, who recently joined Twente on loan to reignite his career, has appreciated the support he received during his difficult period and now looks forward to rejoining his Super Eagles teammates.

"I saw every game. It wasn't easy for me. I always wanted to be with the team and play in my first Nations Cup," Ebuehi BBC Sport. 

"For me, international breaks is always special, the friendships I've made and formed with the coaching and backroom staff, teammates and everyone in Nigeria.

"I was very proud. I miss that a lot but life is life. I was happy to see them play the way they did, unfortunately, we didn't win but I know better days will come for us and more success. I cannot wait to be a part of the team again.

"Of course teammates, the coach, the staff and even the fans were in touch. I spoke with a lot of my teammates.

"William Troost-Ekong is like a big brother who never stopped giving me the necessary support. They've all been incredibly nice to me and I appreciate that.

"I can't thank the Nigerian fans enough. I don't check my social media messages every day but once in a while I do and I see some amazing and incredible messages.

"So many people praying and wishing me well despite being away for two years. I will continue to be grateful for the support I get."

Ebuehi explains he is now fully fit, raring to return to action and prove his worth for Twente in the Eredivisie.

"The last two years have shown me that everything happens for a reason in life," he continued.

"This big injury and difficulty with my rehab - I think it's a big test and God wanted to show how strong I am. I think I've passed that test.

"I have never invested so much of myself in training like I have done this past five months. I was always the one who wanted to do more than others. Honestly, this year I've done everything I could to be as much as I can.

"I'm thankful for the opportunity and the chance with Twente to show myself again and the player I am now. I believe I am a stronger, more physical and better player than I was before the injury.

"I don't like to talk too much, I want my feet to do the talking. This year is an opportunity to show that the last two years was just bad luck and no more injury will come. I know all the other things will follow and come naturally with hard work."

Ebuehi will hope to deliver convincing performances at Twente to boost his chances of returning to the Super Eagles. 

Manchester United midfielder Dylan Levitt has agreed to join Charlton Athletic on a season-long loan deal, while James Garner is in talks with Huddersfield Town.

Nineteen-year-old Levitt will spend the season at the League One side to gain more first-team experience, with him having made his senior debut for Wales in their 1-0 win over Finland last week.

He has since been in London sorting out his move for the 2020-21 campaign and he will become the fourth United player to be sent out on loan ahead of the new season. 

Winger Tahith Chong has already been impressing at Werder Bremen, while midfielder Aliou Traore has moved to French side Caen. Goalkeepers Joel Pereira and Matej Kovar, meanwhile, have moved to Huddersfield and Swindon Town respectively.

And Pereira might not be the only United player at Huddersfield next season as midfielder Garner continues talks with the Championship side.

Garner, who made three starts for the first team in the Europa League last season, played in the Under-23s' friendly against the Terriers on August 29 and chatted with head coach Carlos Corberan ahead of the game.

It is understood that talks are continuing and the 19-year-old is edging closer to a season-long loan move away. Blackburn and Millwall have also shown an interest in the highly-rated England youth international who needs a test higher than Premier League 2 this season.

Under-23s manager Neil Wood is expecting to have a very young side in the 2020-21 season and while the majority of loan deals have now been agreed, it’s possible that another couple could go through before the October 16 deadline, with there being interest in Ethan Laird and Di’Shon Bernard.

Teden Mengi has impressed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and pushed into the first-team set-up over lockdown, and it is understood the centre-back will be staying at Old Trafford for another season to continue his development there.

"I think if they’re not going to be around the first team and involved in that then the natural next step is to go out on loan and go and show how good they are," Wood told Goal.

"It wouldn’t be right to keep them in the 23s for another season just to bolster the squad or because we’ve gone up a league and we’ll be playing tougher opposition, that wouldn’t make sense to hold them back in their career."

Dean Henderson is prepared to do “whatever it takes” to come out on top in a goalkeeping battle with David de Gea and nail down Manchester United’s No.1 spot, says the 23-year-old’s agent.

After taking in two productive loan spells at Sheffield United, a promising shot-stopper has been absorbed back into the fold at his parent club.

A new contract has been signed at Old Trafford, while further senior international recognition has been received in the latest England squad.

Henderson’s star is definitely on the rise, but his progress may be stunted in 2020-21 if he fails to secure regular game time.

Spain international De Gea – a four-time Player of the Year at United – is blocking the path of an ambitious performer, but David Lee says said challenge is about to be embraced.

Henderson’s representative told Sports Mole when quizzed on whether a breakthrough can be made with the Red Devils: “I don't think they're offering him a five-year deal without thinking that he can.

“Obviously you've got a world-class goalkeeper as number one for Manchester United. He's made a few mistakes, let's be fair, but he's still a top, top goalkeeper, still a world-class goalkeeper.

“Maybe Henderson coming in might make De Gea raise his game and there are two ways to look at it for Man United, but he's got the potential to be Man United goalkeeper for sure.

“He's another player who believes he should be playing for Man United right now, so it's not going to faze him, he'll just rise to that.

“There are some players that, when you think of them playing for a big club you worry about them - can they take that pressure every week? But Dean would have no problem with that, he's a confident boy.

“He's ready, he wants to push people. I'm sure they're good friends in training and have a good working relationship but Dean will be focused on getting that number one spot that's for sure and he'll do whatever it takes to get it.”

Henderson, who kept 13 clean sheets in 36 Premier League outings for Sheffield United last season, has made no secret of the fact that he intends to become the first-choice shot-stopper for club and country at some stage in the near future.

Chidozie Awaziem has revealed his excitement on joining Portuguese side Boavista from FC Porto and looks forward to the new challenge.

The defender has been with the Blue and Whites since 2014 when he teamed up with the youth team after leaving Nigeria club El-Kanemi Warriors.

The centre-back has only made 10 league appearances for the Estadio do Dragao outfit, having spent most of his time on loan.

The Nigeria international featured for Spanish side Leganes last season on loan and was a consistent performer for the club.

Awaziem made 26 La Liga appearances for the Cucumber Growers but his efforts were not enough to save the club from relegation.

The versatile defender subsequently returned to his parent club Porto and sealed a temporary move to rivals Boavista in August.

Awaziem is hoping to enjoy his time with the Estadio do Bessa outfit and hopes to contribute his quota to the success of the club.

“I feel happy and excited to join Boavista; it’s a new challenge and I hope to have a wonderful season,” Awaziem told AOI.

The defender could make his debut for his new club when they take on Nacional in their next league game on September 19.

Besides playing on loan at Leganes, the Super Eagles player has also had spells at French side Nantes and Turkish club Caykur Rizespor.

Awaziem has been a key member of the Nigeria national team since he made his debut against Togo in a friendly in 2017.

The centre-back was part of Gernot Rohr’s side at the 2018 World Cup in Russia and featured prominently as the Super Eagles finished third at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

Awaziem has 17 caps for the West Africans and will be expected to make a significant contribution in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Experienced coach Bobby Williamson has revealed he is ready to work for any team in the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) even without a contract.

The Scot has been out of work since getting fired by Harambee Stars in 2016 but is now ready for a touchline return to any team that will show interest in his services. 

"I am available to talk to anyone," Williamson who resides in Kenya told Goal on Tuesday.

"I am prepared to speak to any club who are without a coach with inventions of helping them achieve their goals."

The former Gor Mahia coach has also stated he is ready to work without a contract which will allow either of the two parties to leave without restrictions if an opportunity arises. However, he is also ready to be tied with a binding contract.

"I would be prepared to work without a contract," the 59-year-old revealed.

"I want to be paid; but if there is no contract, the club can let me go at any time without cost, and on the other hand, if someone else wants me I can walk away at no cost.

"If the club insists on a contract, that is fine," he concluded.  

Williamson is remembered for helping K'Ogalo win their first title in 18 years back in 2013. He went on to explain to Goal what he told the management after achieving what other coaches had failed to achieve after almost two decades.

"It is all about the mentality they have; that winning mentality," the former striker explained.

"Before I arrived, they were close to winning the title, they then got over the line. I said after we had won the league, that they would never wait 18 long years again and that has been proven. The recruitment is important and they have brought coaches on board that have kept that momentum going."

In 2014, the coach left his post at the club to serve the Kenya national team in the same capacity.

"My time at Gor Mahia was good, I made a lot of friends and was privileged to help the team get their first league title after almost two decades," Williamson told Goal.

"I had an agreement with the chairman [Ambrose Rachier] that if the national team comes calling I will leave and it is what happened about a year later."

Chelsea are “the next logical step” for Kai Havertz but moves to La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona will still appeal to the highly-rated playmaker in the future, says former Bayer Leverkusen coach Wolfgang Holzhauser.

After much speculation regarding his next career call, the talented 21-year-old has decided to form part of an elaborate freshening up of the ranks at Stamford Bridge.

Frank Lampard has splashed out £70 million ($91m) on another Germany international, with Havertz expected to thrive in new surroundings despite being a Premier League rookie.

Holzhauser, who was in charge of Leverkusen when they brought the promising youngster onto their books in 2010, told Goal and SPOX: “I would have preferred to see him at a team which plays more ‘Pep Guardiola football’, a team which is more known for huge ball possession. That is his game.

“But because of the signings Chelsea have made in this transfer window, I expect manager Frank Lampard to put more value on ball possession in the future than he and the other Chelsea managers did in recent years. That's why I am confident that Kai will quickly adapt and be successful there. He has unique skills for his age. That move can't go wrong.”

Holzhauser believes Havertz has made the right decision at this stage of his development, with there little point in him waiting around for Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich to make a move.

“One year would not have been enough,” added Holzhauser.

“Considering the current shape of Thomas Muller, a spot in attacking midfield would probably only become available in two or three years.

“I always say it is much more difficult to succeed in a top team like Bayern than in a team like Chelsea, which wants to become a top team and fill positions that were not so well filled before.

“Apart from that, it always hurts to lose a player to a direct competitor from the same league. So it was certainly also in Bayer Leverkusen's interest to transfer Kai Havertz abroad.”

It was suggested that Real and Barca were sniffing around Havertz, having monitored his progress for several years, and Holzhauser believes a switch to Spain could still happen at some stage.

He said of Clasico foes: “They cannot make big signings due to the corona crisis.

“I also fully understand that Leverkusen chiefs Fernando Carro and Rudi Voller never backed away from their demands. 80 million euros is of course a lot of money, but compared to other transfers it is more than justified.

“And it does not mean that clubs like Real and Barca will not be of interest to Kai Havertz in the future. He is only 21 years old. For now, it was important for Havertz to take the next logical step in his development after three years as a regular in Leverkusen.”

Having shown himself to be one of the hottest prospects in world football, Holzhauser expects the versatile performer to take his game to even greater heights now that he has been handed a more prominent stage on which to perform.

He added: “He can play in nearly every position in midfield. Playing as a number eight would be no problem for him, but I can imagine him on the wings as well, if Chelsea plays with a system without a classic number 10.

“His advantage is he is a tall guy, two-footed and strong with his head. If he works on his physical presence, he would also certainly be well placed in centre-forward position. He already knows how to score goals.”

Uganda international Farouk Miya has revealed some of the targets he wants to achieve with his club Konyaspor in Turkey.

Miya had a good season, managing 24 appearances in Turkey’s top-flight where he scored eight goals to help Konyaspor retain their Premier League status.

The attacking midfielder has now revealed what he plans to achieve next season, including winning top honours with the club when the season kicks off with the Turkish Super Lig starts on September 11, but Miya and Konyaspor launch their season on September 19 against Genclerbirligi.

“I want to keep working hard and try to win some honours,” Miya is quoted by New Vision. “I believe with hard work and determination; we'll be able to achieve success. We want to please our fans and take a higher position in the league table.”

On why he had an impressive time last season, Miya said: “I always put God first in everything I did. Then, I kept working harder every day to improve on different aspects of my game.”

On scoring two goals against the league leaders Istanbul Basaksehir, Miya explained: “It felt really good because we had put in so much work in the build-up to that match.”

On his experience in the Turkish Super Lig, Miya said: “I have had a wonderful experience so far here. But my best feeling has been playing for a coach [Bilent Korkmaz] who believes in my abilities.”

Miya also admitted he had gathered enough experience having played for Standard Liege, Royal Excel, Sebail, Gorica, and now Konyaspor.

“I have learnt so much. I have learnt that you just have to keep working hard to achieve your dreams even though other people don't believe you,” Miya continued.

On being a product of Kampala Junior Team, Miya said: “KJT is a good football project. It has not only helped football develop in the country but it has also exposed the talent around the world.

“The academy competes in so many tournaments [including the World Youth Gothia Cup tournament in China] and this has exposed so many players.

“I always tell them that ‘Always believe in yourself'. I encourage them to consider God first and then keep working hard to be able to achieve your dreams.”

Luis Suarez has Juventus “DNA” and would have no problem slotting in alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at the Serie A champions, says former Barcelona director Ariedo Braida.

A move to Italy is being mooted for the Uruguayan frontman amid efforts at Camp Nou to freshen up the squad.

Ronald Koeman is said to have informed Suarez that he does not figure in his long-term plans, paving the way for a prolific 33-year-old striker to head elsewhere.

Juve are not about to let that opportunity pass them by, with the Bianconeri moving quickly to make their interest known in a proven performer.

It could be that Suarez is taken to Turin to partner 35-year-old Ronaldo, with the Italian giants leaning heavily on experience.

Braida believes that could be a positive for Andrea Pirlo’s side, with there every reason to believe that Suarez – who has previously starred for Ajax and Liverpool – will be a success story in new surroundings.

A man who worked at Camp Nou until August 2019 and previously spent several years in Serie A as general manager at AC Milan, told Tuttosport of the Suarez speculation: “I'm not surprised about his Barcelona exit because football is about cycles.

“Even Cristiano Ronaldo left Real Madrid because he felt his time there was over.

“Suarez is a fighter and his battling spirit infects the rest of his teams. He has character and the DNA to play for Juventus and other big clubs.

“If he is motivated, he'll be a strong signing even at 33 years of age.”

Quizzed on whether the South American can thrive alongside a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, Braida added: “He won't have problems playing with Ronaldo.

“They'll understand each other perfectly because they're two natural winners.”

Suarez has spent the last six years on the books at Barcelona, registering 198 goals through 283 appearances.

He has struck up a formidable partnership with Lionel Messi down the years, but could soon be paired with the Argentine’s eternal rival in Turin - with Juve looking to move Gonzalo Higuain out as they clear the path for another frontman to be acquired.

Zesco United have sealed the signing of midfielder Kelvin Kampamba from Nkana FC.

“Zesco United is delighted to announce the signing of Kelvin Kampamba from Nkana,” the club revealed on their official website.

“The Zambian international midfielder has signed a two-year pre-contract agreement with the eight-times Super League Champions subject to completing medicals.”

Zesco United technical chairman Peter Mutale confirmed the arrival of the player by stating: “Kampamba has signed a pre-contract agreement with Zesco after agreeing on personal terms with the club. Kampamba’s contract with us will come into effect on 1st January 2021 after seeing off the remaining four months of his contract with Nkana.”

Mutale has also described Kampamba as an exciting player who will bring creativity and depth to the midfield of Team ya Ziko.

“Kelvin will bring a new dimension in the midfield, especially creativity. A combination of Ching’andu, Tafadzwa, Kamusoko, and now Kampamba will be a lethal attacking system for the club.

“Our aim is to sign quality players because its only quality that will bring success to the club. We have brought in these players to send a big statement of intent to return in Caf and to reclaim the league title.”

On signing for Zesco, Kampamba said: “It’s not an easy thing to move from Nkana to Zesco but I know that I am joining a big football club. It is unfortunate that we are not going to represent Zambia in the Caf competitions.

“I am here to help the team reclaim the title and qualify for Caf competitions. I am very excited to join Zesco because this is a team that I have admired for some time.

“Our fans should expect more goals and assists from me. My mission here is to see this club win more titles. As such I will be working tirelessly to ensure that this is achieved.”

The 23-year-olf started his career at Miseshi Blue Stars Soccer Academy in Kitwe. In 2012, Kapamba spent six-months at Kitwe United before joining Lime Hotspurs, whom he helped to win promotion to the Super League.

Kampamba finally burst onto the domestic scene in 2013 after signing for Nkana. In 2015, the young midfielder made a switch to Nkana’s cross-town rivals, Power Dynamos where he spent three years before returning to the Wusakile boys in 2018.

He becomes the third signing for the club after Lazarus Phiri from Green Eagles and Bruce Musakanya from Red Arrows.

Zesco United is also the home of three Kenyan players - goalkeeper Ian Otieno, striker Jesse Were and defender David Owino.

Lucy Bronze has returned to Manchester City, signing from Lyon on a two-year deal.

The England full-back left City back in 2017 to join the French giants, going on to win nine trophies in her three years there. This season, Bronze helped the club achieve yet another European treble, starring in the 3-1 win over Wolfsburg in the Women's Champions League final.

Now, the 28-year-old is back in Manchester and back at the club where she won the Women's Super League, the Continental Cup and the FA Women's Cup between 2014 and 2017.

“I’m really happy to be back here at City – I always had it in my mind that I would return one day, and it just feels like the perfect time and opportunity right now," she said.

“I really enjoyed my time in France, but there were so many things that I missed and it’s great to be back.

“I feel like I’m returning as a better leader and person, who is capable of bringing similar success to the table here in England – both domestically with City and internationally too.

“Having already experienced everything that City have to offer as a club, it was a no-brainer for me when the offer came in and there isn’t another team in England that I would have looked at.

“There’s nowhere I’d rather be right now than with Manchester City and I’m really excited to see what the future holds with the exciting squad we have here.”

Bronze is City's fourth summer signing, following Chloe Kelly , Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle through the door. Her arrival underlines again just what a fantastic transfer window it has been so far for new head coach Gareth Taylor.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to see Lucy return to Manchester City and I’m sure I speak on behalf of everyone when I say that we’re delighted to have her back at the club," Taylor said.

“She is an unrivalled talent and her endless individual and team awards only scratch the surface of what a superb player she is, not only at club level, but also internationally with England.

“She joins us off the back of a hugely successful few years in France and being able to add a player of her quality to our already ambitious squad is incredibly exciting."

Bronze will wear the No.20 shirt for City and is in line to make her first appearance for the club in three years this weekend, at home to Brighton, subject to international clearance.

Alisson is the “perfect” goalkeeper for Liverpool as he “has this aura around him” and “no weak points”, says former Reds player Sander Westerveld.

A Brazil international was taken to Anfield as part of a record-setting £65 million ($85m) deal with Roma in the summer of 2018.

Jurgen Klopp was crying out for a reliable No.1 at that stage, with Simon Mignolet and Loris Karius having failed to convince between the posts.

Alisson slotted seamlessly into the fold, winning the Champions League crown and Premier League Golden Glove in his debut campaign.

A domestic title triumph followed in 2019-20, with a South American shot-stopper proving to be a final piece in a trophy-winning puzzle for Liverpool.

The 27-year-old is now firmly established as one of the finest exponents of his chosen position in the global game, with Westerveld among those to have hailed the many qualities he brings to the fold for club and country.

A man who once provided Liverpool’s last line of defence told Planet Football of a star turn in the present: “Alisson is one of the best in the world.

“To do that you have to be good at everything and have no weak points. You have to dominate your box and have great reflexes.

“He’s big and he has this aura around him. He has confidence and the way he plays out with his feet is just amazing to watch. There are only a few goalkeepers at the moment who are so complete.

“Great goalkeepers make saves in decisive moments, not when you’re losing 4-0. He makes saves when you’re winning 1-0 and that wins you the game.

“I think he’s the perfect goalkeeper for Liverpool right now.”

Alisson forms part of a new breed that are redefining the art of goalkeeping.

Westerveld admits as much, with the Dutchman conceding that the demands of the role have changed “dramatically” since he first donned a pair of gloves.

A man who spent two-and-half years at Anfield between the summer of 1999 and December 2001 added: “When I started in 1992, they changed the back-pass rule.

“That changed things dramatically because you had to be better with your feet. I was alright because I was a striker when I was younger, which gave me an advantage with that rule. I was well-known for my kicking.

“Goalkeepers are fitter, more powerful and can jump higher. You have to play like an outfield player, so your team always have an extra man. If you do that well, it gives your team so much confidence.

“They play more on the ground and you don’t see goalkeepers kicking the ball long to the strikers like we used to.”

National Pension Scheme Authority Stars Football Club (Napsa FC) have officially confirmed the arrival of striker Timothy Otieno from Tusker FC.

Goal had exclusively reported the Harambee Stars forward, who was in a fine form for the Brewers in the abandoned 2019/20 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) season, scoring 14 goals to finish top of the goalscorer's chart, had travelled to Zambia to negotiate a transfer with the club.

Though Tusker became the first club to confirm the exit of the player on their social media pages, Napsa Stars were yet to confirm whether they had signed the player.

However, the Zambian club has now confirmed on their social media pages the signing of the striker, who has penned a three-year contract.

“It is a done deal and Timothy Otieno is a now a Pensioner,” the club wrote. “The striker has signed a three-year permanent deal from Kenyan Premier League side Tusker FC.

“Otieno was a top scorer in the just-concluded KPL season with 14 goals. Welcome to Napsa Stars.”

The striker joined the 11-time KPL champions in 2018 from Gor Mahia, a team he helped win the league title.

At Napsa, Otieno will now link up with another Kenyan, former Gor Mahia goalkeeper Shaban Odhoji, who signed for the club a season ago.

While in Zambia, Otieno will join a list of other Kenyan players who play in the league including Ian Otieno, Jesse Were and David Owino of Zesco United and Musa Mohammed, Duke Abuya, and Harun Shakuva, both helped Nkana FC win the league title in the 2019-20 campaign.

The exit of Otieno now means Tusker have lost two players in this transfer window, including goalkeeper Emery Mvuyekure, whose contract with the club expired and he opted against extending his stay. He revealed he is on his way to South African giants Orlando Pirates.

The 30-year-old disclosed he is among three goalkeepers on Pirates radar after impressing in the preliminary round of selection.  

Mvuyekure will be hoping to emulate Olivier Kwizera, who played for Free State Stars in the PSL, between 2016 and 2019.

Meanwhile, Tusker have confirmed the signing of defender Christopher Oruchum from AFC Leopards on a two-year contract.

Manchester United still haven't replaced Roy Keane, according to Alan Smith, who says the Red Devils are "crying out" for a leader in the dressing room.

Keane earned a place in United's hall of fame after a trophy-laden 12-year spell at Old Trafford which saw him emerge as one of the best midfielders in Premier League history.

The ex-Republic of Ireland international won 17 major trophies in Manchester, including seven Premier League titles and the Champions League, racking up 460 appearances for the club in the process.

He eventually ended up leaving the club in November 2005 before undertaking a new challenge at Celtic, and hung up his boots a year later after struggling with injury.

Keane captained United for much of his time at the club, with Gary Neville inhering the armband after his departure as Sir Alex Ferguson ushered in a new era.

The Red Devils continued to enjoy great success across all competitions without a talismanic figure, but the glory days came screeching to a halt when Ferguson stepped down from his post in the Old Trafford dugout in 2013.

By that stage, Neville had already hung up his boots, with Nemanja Vidic subsequently inheriting captaincy duties, and Wayne Rooney, Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young all went on to take on leadership duties before Harry Maguire stepped up to the plate earlier this year.

However, former Red Devils striker Smith claims his old club have never been able to find someone capable of filling Keane's boots, which he sees as one of the main reasons for their struggles during a frustrating traditional period.

"Roy Keane is probably impossible to replace as a player and as a character, especially at Manchester United," Smith told United's official podcast.

"I still don’t think it’s been done now, and it’s been crying out for someone like Roy Keane to be in the dressing room and on the field as Roy was.

"No-one could ever replicate it, so it was [about me] trying to do as good a job in a similar position. It wasn’t like, 'you’re going to be a Roy Keane'. I could never do that job."

Smith went onto dismiss any suggestion that Keane was overrated during his heyday, insisting all of his former team-mates would happily attest to his qualities both on and off the pitch.

"You could ask any player that’s played with him or against him and I’d say 99 per cent of them would all have the same answer for you," he added.

"For me, it’s not just a case of Roy being a leader. That’s so disrespectful to him as a footballer as well. You don’t play for Manchester United and captain them based on just being a leader.

"That’s such an unfair criticism of someone who’s probably been one of the Premier League’s greatest central midfield players."

Tusker have confirmed their first signing in this transfer window after unveiling defender Christopher Oruchum.

The Brewers were yet to hit the transfer market which opened on August 10 but have now raided rivals AFC Leopards for the defender, who has also featured for Thika United in the Kenyan Premier League (KPL).

Tusker confirmed the arrival of the player on their social media pages, confirming he has signed a two-year contract.

“Christopher Oruchum is now a Brewer,” the club wrote on their Twitter handle.

“Joining us for two years from AFC Leopards, welcome home,”

Oruchum has also revealed the reason why he signed for Tusker, a club he says he has wanted to play for since he was at Thika United.

“One of the things that motivated me to sign for Tusker is that Tusker is one of the biggest clubs in Kenya whereby we stand a chance to be exposed to big teams in Africa and outside the country,” Oruchum said after penning the deal.

Asked of his targets with the club, Oruchum said: “Having joined a team that was high-flying the previous season, I hope and pray that I will also add something and also help the team to achieve more than they achieved last season.

“It has not been a smooth path, it has been ups and downs like any normal life, and for the fans, I tell them they should be eager and wait for some good stuff.”

Asked whether he has wanted to play for Tusker before, Oruchum revealed: “There was a time I was really close to signing for Tusker when I was at Thika United but the deal did not materialize then I ended up going to AFC Leopards, then from there I have the chance again of joining this great club, which I have longed to play for.

“I am eager and can’t wait to start working at Tusker FC.”

The Brewers have also extended the contract of keeper Robert Mboya for another season.

Mboya had joined the club from Mathare United.

Kenyan Premier League (KPL) side Western Stima will retain their name for the new campaign.

Many expected the Kisumu-based charges to change their name after the exit of their main sponsors Kenya Power and Lighting Company a couple of months ago. The company has been sponsoring the team since 2000 but the change of structure led to their exit from sponsoring sports.

"We will retain the name Western Stima, it is not going to change, at least not now," club chairman Laban Jobita told Goal.

"Reports have it that our former sponsors [Kenya Power and Lighting Company] are contemplating making a comeback and we want to maintain our structures and name to make it easier for them. We are hopeful they will come back and help us continue growing."

The outgoing Football Kenya Federation (FKF) office announced the arrival of betting firm BetKing as the top tier's main sponsors effective next season. The Federation announced clubs will receive about Ksh 8 million annually to help them in their activities.

"It is a positive step and if indeed it happens, then it will help us a bit," Jobita continued.

"We need about Ksh 40 million annually to help me in running the club. If we will get the Ksh 8 million, it means we have a deficit of Ksh 32 million. As a club, we are working around the clock to see if we can get another sponsor."

The Powermen have lost many key players to rivals Wazito FC and Gor Mahia. Among those who have left the team is teenage sensation Benson Omalla, Fidel Origa, Maurice Ojwang' Steven Odhiambo, Kelvin Wesonga, Kennedy Owino, and Samuel Njau, among others.

"I am a proud chairman because it shows we have good players, their quality is so good that they can play for the big teams," Jobita said in an earlier interview. 

"Season in, season out, we have been nurturing players and they end up leaving us; it has become a norm and we are not worried. We have many talented players here and we will continue developing them. I wish all those who have left the best.

"I am not worried about the exodus, we will get better players before the new season begins; Western Stima will continue existing."

French side Rennes have confirmed Hamari Traore has signed a contract extension which will keep him at the club until 2023.

The right-back teamed up with the Roazhon Park outfit in 2017 from Reims and has become a key member of the Red and Blacks.

The defender has featured in 119 matches since his arrival and last season he made 37 appearances, scoring one goal and provided five assists to help Julien Stephan’s men finish third in Ligue 1.

The Mali international has now been rewarded for his consistent performances with a new contract and hopes to continue his development at the club.

"This extension is part of the continuity of my adventure here. It was well-thought-of, everyone was eager for it,” Traore told the club website.

“I thought about it well and chose to stay in Rennes. I hope to continue to grow with the club. There are great things to do. It is up to me and my partners to continue to work to develop the club."

President of Rennes Nicolas Holveck also expressed his delight with the success of the extension, revealing the defender has also been courted by a number of clubs.  

“It's a great joy for the club. It's a long-awaited extension, which shows that the players want to stay at Rennes,” Holveck said.

“Hamari was in demand, but he preferred to stay with us. The club is delighted to still have the player with us."

Traore started his career with the Paris FC youth team and was soon promoted to the senior side in 2012, where he played 26 times for the club.

The right-back then teamed up with Lierse in 2013 and spent two years with the side before leaving for Reims.

Traore has been a key member of the Mali national team since he made his debut against Burkina Faso in 2015.

The 28-year-old defender has made 24 appearances for the Eagles and will be expected to make a key contribution during their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Uganda Cranes defender Joseph Ochaya has signed a contract extension with Tout Puissant Mazembe.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) giants confirmed on their official website the development of tying down the 26-year-old defender.

“Mazembe is pleased to announce the extension of Joseph Benson Ochaya’s contract for two more seasons, until September 2022,” the statement revealed.

“Ochaya and management agreed on the new deal on Sunday, September 6.”

Ochaya joined Mazembe in 2018 from Lusaka Dynamos of Zambia having also featured for Ugandan Premier League (UPL) giants Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA FC).

The statement continued: “Ochaya had signed a two-and-a-half-year contract. At 26, the Ugandan international [49 caps for 2 goals] remains loyal to the champions of the Congo. He is now linked for the next two seasons with Mazembe, whose jersey he has already worn 32 times [with two goals and four assists].

“Mazembe is delighted with the engagement on the left side [of the field with] Ochaya for the next two seasons.”

In a recent interview, Ochaya explained why most of his countrymen do not do well in foreign leagues.

Ochaya is one of such Ugandan stars who have had a number of unsuccessful stints with clubs abroad and revealed there are many reasons that have seen his compatriots fail to leave their mark at various clubs.

“I don’t agree with people who say players leave when they aren’t ready and well prepared,” Ochaya said in an interview with Sanyuka TV as quoted by Football256. 

“There are many reasons that fail us out there that are beyond football on the pitch, for example when the coach and fans don’t like you it’s hard for you to last longer in a given club because in most cases the fans have a big say and have influence in decision making.

“The other burning issue is money because it’s the reason why we leave home so when you're not paid for quite long, you're left with no choice apart from leaving.” 

The full-back absolved football agents from blame, who at times have been accused of misadvising their players thus contributing to their failures.

“Agents are important people. Our lawyers help us understand and interpret the contracts well and even in case of anything like a breach in contract, they come in to advise,” Ochaya added.

Ochaya has played for Naivibank Saigon of Vietnam, Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko, and Lusaka Dynamos in Zambia's Super League.

Erling Haaland addressed the possibility of a Premier League move after inspiring Norway's win over Northern Ireland on Monday night.

Haaland hit a brace to help Norway seal a comprehensive 5-1 win over Northern Ireland at Windsor Park, taking his tally for club and country in 2020 to 18 goals in 20 appearances.

Lars Lagerback, who serves as Norway's head coach, drew comparisons between the Borussia Dortmund striker and Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo prior to the match, and he did his best to live up to that billing on the UEFA Nations League stage.

One year ago, Haaland was a relatively unknown forward plying his trade in Austria with Red Bull Salzburg, but he is now widely revered as one of the best young players in Europe.

The 20-year-old has thrived since completing a €20 million (£18m/$24m) move to Dortmund in the winter transfer window, having reportedly turned down the opportunity to link up with fellow countryman Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Manchester United.

The ex-Salzburg star has also been linked with a switch to Leeds United, the club his father Alf-Inge Haaland played for at the height of his career, and he opened the door to a future transfer to England after his latest match-winning display.

Asked if he sees himself in the Premier League one day, Haaland told Sky Sports: "First of all I'm very happy in the Bundesliga but you never know what will happen in the future."

The Dortmund star added on Lagerback's praise and his long-term career ambitions: "I appreciate these words. I want to be the best I can and work hard every day. I try to enjoy my life as much as possible and you saw tonight that I enjoyed the game. That's why I play football." 

Haaland will now make his way back to Westfalenstadion following a productive international break which also saw him find the net during Norway's 2-1 defeat to Austria last Friday.

The talented frontman will be available for selection when Lucien Favre's side open their 2020-21 campaign with a trip to Duisburg in the first round of the DFB Pokal next Monday.

Dortmund are due to open their Bundesliga schedule with a home clash against Borussia Monchengladbach five days later, as they bid to dethrone perennial champions Bayern Munich for the first time since 2012.

Former Southampton centre-back and current manager of Hartford Athletic, Radhi Jaidi, has opened up about his desire to manage in the Premier League in future.

The 45-year-old Tunisian, bar the Saints, also had playing stints with Bolton Wanderers and Birmingham City.

Since his retirement in 2012, Jaidi has managed the Southampton Under-23s between 2017 and 2019, leading them to promotion to Division 1 of the Premier League 2 for the 2019-20 season.

He moved to the United States in November 2019 to manage Hartford, and though things are going well for him on the pitch in the United Soccer League Championship, Jaidi wants to go back to where he was most associated with as a player.

“My dream is to go back to England,” Jaidi told The Athletic.

“I’ve been a Premier League player and it’s so amazing. I always left the pitch smiling and enjoying the vibes and energy in the stadium.

“I aspire to be a Premier League manager in the future, whether that’s at Southampton or somewhere else. I want to be a manager on that level. I think I have the attributes to do that.

“I know how players and people around me think. I still need to work on some aspects but this experience in America has already taught me a lot. I feel like there is an opportunity for me to experience a higher level and make an impact in the football world.”

Hartford are having a good run of form in the USL, sitting second in Group F behind Pittsburgh Riverhounds with six wins from nine games. In spite of all these, Jaidi says it has been challenging for him, citing the coronavirus pandemic - which has hit the United States the most in the world, as the biggest factor.

“It’s been really challenging because I was used to being in a very organised, structured environment, which was Southampton’s training ground, but now it’s been challenging in all aspects,” Jaidi continued.

“I think the biggest difference is me being involved with financial challenges. Anything you want to put your hand or finger on, you have to find a way to influence the directors and the board. That’s been a major challenge for me as a coach.

“Covid-19 made it more difficult for ourselves and we had to lose some members of staff, which will make it harder. We all have to wear different hats and do different jobs but you have to make sure the different jobs you are doing are on point.

“It’s not an eye-opener but it gets to the heart of the challenges and you have to go with it. You aren’t allowed to step back or give away.”