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Jose Mourinho has refused to rule out handing Gareth Bale his second Tottenham debut against West Ham this weekend, but says any decision taken will be for the good of the team.

Though he re-joined the club nearly a month ago, Bale has yet to make an appearance for Spurs because he has been working his way back from a knee injury picked up over the summer.

The 31-year-old withdrew from the Wales squad in order to build up his fitness and has spent the past few weeks working hard at Tottenham’s training ground.

Mourinho was understandably coy about his team selection when asked whether Bale had done enough to earning a starting spot this weekend, but he did not rule it out either.

"The team is the most important thing and Gareth is here to help the team, but at the same time we care about about him,” he told Sky Sports.

“So the decision we are going make is going to be for the good of the team, but also for him.

"It is very important he has a happy season with us at this moment in his career."

Mourinho will be hoping his side can pick off where they left off against the Hammers on Sunday, having thrashed Manchester United 6-1 at Old Trafford immediately prior to the international break.

That made it seven games unbeaten in all competitions for the north London side, with their only defeat coming against early pacesetters Everton on the opening weekend of the campaign.

They have played more games than any other team in the Premier League so far because of their involvement in the Europa League qualifying rounds.

“We coped well with that busy period just because the squad is very good and the boys were fantastic,” added Mourinho.

“It is a big match on Sunday against a team that is playing well and getting very good results, and it is a London derby too.

“So let’s forget what we did well these in the past couple of weeks where we got results. The new period starts Sunday.”

Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama has taken legal action against the 19-year-old socialite known as Shakilla, as well as the other social media user on her video, Arthur Mandela after they allegedly 'scandalized his good name and reputation'.

"Take notice that the application dated 6th October 2020 has been fixed for hearing on 10th November 2020 at Milimani Law Courts at 9.00 am in the forenoon or soon thereafter in the High Court at Nairobi," read an order from Milimani High Court to Shakilla and Mandela.

"Take further notice that if no appearance is made by yourself or your appointed advocate or someone authorized by law, the matter will proceed and orders issued your absence notwithstanding."

Recently, Wanyama had released a statement denying Shakilla's allegations. 

"My attention has been drawn to a video circulating online containing false, fabricated, and insulting allegations aimed at scandalising my good name and reputation," read the statement.  

"I have never met any party in the video.  

"I strongly condemn the actions of both the woman in the video and the publisher of the video Arthur Mandela via his Instagram account @Xtiandela for encouraging the disparagement of the character of individuals based on false accusatory statements."   

The 29-year-old Montreal Impact player went on to state that he will be taking legal action.  

"The allegations made are manifestly fictitious and clearly meant to boost the online audience of both the maker and of the insulting allegations and publisher of the video," Wanyama continued.   

"I have worked long and hard to build my character and standing in society.  

"Such malicious, scandalising, and false assertions about my name and character are unacceptable to me, my family, and institutions who have placed great trust in me.  

"Consequently, and with the blessing of my management team, I have instructed my legal team to pursue all legal remedies available to me and to which I have the unreserved right to seek."  

Gifty Acheampong admitted the ambitions of Rivers Angels swayed her into signing for the Nigerian Women's Premier League side from Ghanaian club Immigration Ladies FC.

Immigration resigned the 20-year-old permanently from Turkish outfit Antalyaspor in 2018 following her maiden professional campaign in Europe, where she scored twice in 14 appearances.

Before her 2017 move to Turkey, she starred for Ghana at the 2016 U17 Women's World Cup in Jordan, where she scored twice and provided an assist.

On Wednesday, the Ghana youth international agreed on personal terms with Edwin Okon's team and will feature in the coming Nigerian league season.

Acheampong explains the desire of the Port Harcourt outfit to compete for domestic titles and a place in Caf Women's Champions League and convinced her to sign for the Nigerian club. 

“I’ve been hearing so much about this team and have seen how consistent they’ve been every season," Acheampong told the club's media.

“Their winning mentality is one of the reasons I decided to join them because I equally love winning.

“I’ve equally seen most of their players get bigger deals in the European scene which is the prayer of most players plying their trade in the domestic league.

"I’m certain my stay here will give me more opportunities. I also intend to win a title or even more while I’m here with them.”

Acheampong will unite with her new mates at Rivers Angels in the coming days along with compatriots Patricia Mantey from Immigration Ladies and Mary Essiful from Soccer Intellectuals Ladies.

On the morning of Deadline Day, it would have been interesting to be a fly on the wall anywhere Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was situated.

From the outside looking in, you’d have to believe one of the Gabon star’s requests before penning his three-year extension in mid-September was to have the squad strengthened to challenge the big guns in the Premier League.

“Signing for this special club was never in doubt," Auba said after accepting the long-term contract. "It’s thanks to our fans, my teammates, my family and everybody at this club that I feel like I belong here.

“I believe in Arsenal. We can achieve big things together. We have something exciting here and I believe the best is to come for Arsenal.”

However, almost a month after putting pen to paper, the North London giants still couldn’t get significant business done. Of course, Willian had joined on a free soon after 2019/20 ended while the return of Dani Ceballos for another year-long loan added much-needed numbers in midfield.

Regardless, despite the tactical nous of Mikel Arteta, the three-time Premier League champions were still outsiders for a top four finish.

Many Gooners still bemoaned the lack of creativity in the side — which eventually led to the Houssem Aouar or Thomas Partey debates — even though the side had won three of their four opening league games.

When it seemed like Arsenal wouldn’t be adding either on the eve of the window closing, there was a feeling that an opportunity had been lost to strengthen the side to close the gap on Liverpool and Manchester City.

With clubs like Everton seemingly in the mix for an automatic Champions League spot and Tottenham Hotspur’s ostensibly resurgent, the Gunners were in danger of falling short in their quest to return to Europe’s premier club competition.

Then came hope on D-Day, as it was revealed that the red half of North London had made serious moves to get the Ghanaian’s deal done before the deadline.

Despite the acceptance that bringing in Aouar to solve the side’s creativity issues was more pressing, Partey’s arrival was embraced and endorsed.

After all, before the Aouar rumours gathered momentum, the West African was said to be Arteta’s primary transfer target. So, getting the 27-year-old in gave the side the desired experience in central and defensive midfield.

Given Partey’s education under Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid, the midfielder is already astute in his own defensive third and has combined that with his strengths in possession to become one of the rare rounded players in that position.

With someone of the Black Star’s profile, Arteta now has the option of sticking to the 3-4-3 he’s utilised post-lockdown, reverting to the 4-2-3-1 he actually started with as Arsenal boss without being concerned about his team’s pivot pairing or even playing the 4-3-3 many believe is the Spaniard’s eventual target.

The 2018 Europa League winner isn’t only adept at sitting at the base of the midfield, fulfilling a dual role of protecting the defence and spraying forward passes to the attackers, he’s equally skilled at carrying out a more creative and goalscoring role in the side.

While the former shone in Partey’s time with Los Colchoneros, the inventive side of his game usually shines through in a Ghana shirt. There’s a feeling, however, that Arteta has brought him into the Arsenal team to replicate something close to what he produced in an Atletico shirt.

Bringing in the West African midfielder enhances the Gunners’ play in midfield and progressive play while it similarly adds a bit of steel in the middle of the park.

He may not be as creative as the Olympique Lyonnais attacking midfielder Gooners preferred but Partey — who’s already liked — is no slouch and solidifies Arsenal’s spine in their push to immediately compete again domestically and subsequently on the continent.

Having had their short and medium-term ambition questioned by fans in the last few years and especially Aubameyang more recently, the club recent targets and consequent acquisition of one of Europe’s top midfielders is restoring faith in the club’s higher-ups.

They’ve signed Gabriel this summer, brought in Partey, handed the hugely talented Bukayo Saka an extended contract and convinced their talismanic skipper his future lay at the club despite reported overtures from clubs on the continent, thus adding to and strengthening their spine.

Arsenal are not where they want to be just yet, however, they look to be on track and it’s hard to not get on board with the optimism surrounding the club seeking to challenge the heavy-hitters at home and abroad.

Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville is seeking a comprehensive overhaul of the way English football is run, laying out plans for a Manifesto for Change that looks to introduce more independent regulation in the game. 

Neville is part of a group that includes former FA chairman David Bernstein, ex-FA executive director David Davies and Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham which is unhappy with the way football is structured and administered. 

The woes of lower league clubs and huge financial power of the Premier League is one of the biggest concerns, with Bury going out of business and Wigan entering administration. 

The Manifesto for Change proposes the creation of a new regulatory body as well as greater equality across the football pyramid, with other demands including more interaction with supporters' groups and reforms in the Football Association. 

And Neville believes that the problems suffered by the game during the coronavirus pandemic show that it is time for a change. 

"The principle is that we don't trust that football can govern itself and create the fairest deal for all, whether that's the Premier League, EFL clubs, non-League clubs or the fans," he explained to Sky Sports.

"It has been proven over this past six months that football has struggled to bring everyone together and proven to be incapable over a 25-30 year period of transforming the money in the game into something that works for everybody.

"I want the best Premier League in the world, but I want sustainable football clubs.

"There is enough money in the game to be able to have an elite Premier League, a sustainable and competitive EFL, money passed down to non-League and grassroots and where fans can get a fair deal.

"That's where an independent regulator, with that spirit at the heart of it, can come in and say 'that's not fair'.

"I know we've got a big task in front of us, but we've got a group of people who love football and want the best for football."

Responding to the manifesto, an FA spokesman told Sky Sports:  "The Football Association plays a vital role in governing and regulating English football and our league structure and ecosystem is the envy of the world. We work hard to maintain this system, with a clear focus on the wider game; not just serving the elite level, but the whole football pyramid and throughout the grassroots game.

"As English football's governing body, it is our responsibility to work together to determine what is best for our game as a whole, with full dialogue between all key stakeholders.

"As we have said this week, any changes have to be done in the right way and with a long-term perspective in mind. We are not interested in any changes that are designed to serve one area of the game, nor will we entertain ideas that are primarily in the interests of the few.

"If the Government would want to amend and increase our responsibilities and powers to further improve the system, then would be happy to discuss that with them, and of course we would consult with the leagues in the process. But most importantly, any changes must benefit clubs, fans and players across the English game.

"The FA has a clear direction and ambitious targets to ensure English football continues to be a force for good across every level of the game."

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has insisted that 'Project Big Picture' wouldn't have damaged the top clubs' relationship with the rest of Premier League.

Liverpool and Manchester United proposed a major shake-up of English football earlier this month in order to address the potential long-term economic imbalance caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The initiative moved to reduce the number of teams in the Premier League from 20 to 18, while giving the nine oldest clubs in the top-flight "special voting" rights on any important issues.

The League Cup and Community Sheild would also have been scrapped had 'Project Big Picture' been approved, while a £250 million ($323m) rescue package was to be made available to lower league clubs along with 25 per cent of all future broadcasting deals.

However, Premier League clubs voted unanimously against the plans on Wednesday, before agreeing to come up with a new strategy to ensure that English football is financed effectively through to the end of the coronavirus crisis.

The 20 clubs also announced the delivery of a £50 million ($65m) fund for Football League clubs, with Arteta fully behind the final decision.

"I think it was a very clear statement from the Premier League about what is going to happen," the Gunners head coach told a press conference on Thursday. 

"We all have to review the actual context and how we can help each other to make football more sustainable, but I think it has to be agreed on by everybody and yesterday's statement was very clear regarding that."

Asked whether 'Project Big Picture' could have had a detrimental impact on the elite club's relations with the rest of the top-flight, Arteta responded: "I don't think so. I think it's very special the way that the Premier League has conducted itself over the years.

"I think that's a massive strength so as much as we can, we can maintain that unity and sustain our way of doing things. I think that's very valuable and the image that we project to the outside world is really, really strong. I hope that we can maintain that."

Arteta added on the continuation of the time-honoured one club, one vote principle in the Premier League and the need for some kind of reform: "I don't know [how important it is]. If you ask all the clubs individually, they probably have different opinions.

"We have to find a way that works for everybody, that can make this game sustainable and allows us to still evolve in the context we're in at the moment, which is important as well.

"It's completely different to what it was 20 years ago, so we have to move, we have to share a vision in order to achieve that because at the end of the day, it's for the benefit of every club.

"I think we have to protect the lower leagues as well, this is our obligation. We want to produce grassroots and opportunities for everybody in this industry. I think it's fair to assess the situation and find the best possible way to achieve that. This is our responsibility as well."

Tunisia international and Zamalek midfielder Ferjani Sassi has tested negative for Covid-19 and could be available for Sunday’s Caf Champions League first-leg semi-final against Wydad Casablanca.

President of Egyptian Premier League side Mortada Mansour disclosed on Sunday evening the 28-year-old had contracted the coronavirus while on international assignment.

However, the former Metz star quashed the news claiming he put himself in isolation after direct contact with someone who had the coronavirus.

“Clarification: Respecting the health protocol in place in my country, I decided on my own to put myself in self-quarantine for five days after I had direct contact with Covid-19. Everything about my health is just a rumour,” he tweeted.

Nevertheless, Goal gathered that the test carried out on the 28-year-old on Wednesday afternoon turned negative, and he is expected to travel to Morocco on Thursday evening at 7:00 pm Tunis time.

Sassi will undergo another test when he lands in Casablanca before joining the rest of Jaime Pacheco’s squad.

Zamalek’s general supervisor Amir Mansour had disclosed that the technical staff and medics would decide if he would feature against Wydad as they were yet to get a medical report from the Tunisian Football Federation.

“The medical and technical staff will decide whether or nor Sassi plays. The player told the team doctor that he has contracted the coronavirus,” Mansour told Zamalek’s official website.

“We contacted the Tunisian Federation demanding a full medical report but we didn’t receive anything yet. We’re still waiting for it to determine the medical aspect.

“The technical aspect is decided by the manager, Jaime Pacheco. He’s the only one to decide whether or not Sassi will be counted for the game.”

The midfielder has been crucial in Zamalek’s march to the competition’s last four – playing all 90 minutes in eight of their nine outings.

Sassi began his professional career at CS Sfaxien before moving to Metz five years later. After one season with the Maroons where he scored one goal in 39 appearances, he returned home to feature for Esperance.

He teamed up with Zamalek after a brief spell at Saudi Pro League outfit Al Nassr. He has helped the Cairo based team win the Caf Confederation Cup, Egyptian Cup, Egyptian Super Cup and the 2020 Caf Super Cup.

On the international scene, he played his first game with the senior national team on June 8, 2013 as the North Africans played to a 2-2 draw with Sierra Leone.

Gareth Southgate clearly has an issue with Jack Grealish, claims Gabriel Agbonlahor, with an Aston Villa star of the past baffled as to why one in the present is being overlooked by England.

Calls for a West Midlands native to be handed a prominent role by the Three Lions have been growing in intensity for some time.

Southgate, though, initially left Grealish out of his squad for the September round of fixtures, only to then draft him in once injuries depleted his plans.

The 25-year-old was called upon from the off in the October international break, and was handed a first start for his country in a friendly date with Wales.

Grealish caught the eye in that contest, earning Man of the Match recognition, but was left on the bench as England battled to a 2-1 win over Belgium and slumped to a 1-0 defeat against Denmark with 10 men.

Southgate has sought to brush off accusations of favouring an overly-defensive mindset and questions regarding the lack of minutes given to his most creative talents.

Agbonlahor feels the England boss needs to start offering better explanations for his decisions, with it baffling how Grealish has not become an integral part of an exciting young squad.

The former Villans and Three Lions forward told Sky Sports: “Forget about the 10 men, I think even if England had 11 men on the field it still wasn’t the right side to be playing.

“You hear everybody on social media, every pundit is calling for a certain player that we all know – which is Jack Grealish.

“He should be starting in this England team because even before the red card, England are missing that player who can take the ball up the field, move defenders and make space for the other attacking players.”

Agbonlahor added: “I feel like he should have started the game. Even when you go down to 10 men, you need someone in that team who can take the ball up the field, who is fresh and it was the perfect scenario to bring Jack on.

“I don’t understand the players that he brought on before Jack. I feel like is there a deeper issue there that we don’t know about?

“Gareth Southgate has to come out and explain because I feel like everyone was in shock. The game against Belgium, you understand that you want to be a bit more cautious if you’re playing two sitters.

“To be playing two holding midfielders, no disrespect to Denmark, with the quality that England have got, we should be playing our attacking players and beating Denmark by three goals.

“You have got the likes of [Jadon] Sancho on the bench, the likes of Grealish on the bench, I don’t understand it and there must be a deeper issue there with Southgate and Grealish. Whenever reporters ask him the question he seems to bring up someone else’s name, which is quite shocking to me.

“It was a not a game where you needed Declan Rice and [Kalvin] Phillips in the team. I would have had Phillips playing as a sitter and [Mason] Mount and Grealish in front as two No.8s with a more attacking feel to the team.

“If you’re not going to play attacking players against a team like Denmark, when are you going to play attacking football?”

Grealish, who helped Villa to stun Liverpool 7-2 in his last outing at club level, will be back in domestic action against Leicester on Sunday looking to build on the impressive return of four goals and three assists that he has already recorded this season.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang “hasn’t been on form” since signing a lucrative new contract at Arsenal, admits Kevin Campbell, but the Gunners captain is expected to rediscover his spark at some stage.

A talismanic figure at Emirates Stadium brought the uncertainty surrounding his future to a close by penning fresh terms in mid-September.

Success in FA Cup and Community Shield competition, along with the ambition being shown by Mikel Arteta, helped to convince a Gabonese frontman that he should stay put.

That decision was welcomed by all concerned at Emirates Stadium, with Aubameyang having become a key part of their plans – with 72 goals recorded through 114 appearances.

Only one of those has come in the Premier League this season, in an opening day victory over Fulham, and Campbell concedes that the 31-year-old has not been at his best in 2020-21.

The former Gunners frontman told GentingBet, with Arsenal preparing to take in a testing visit to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday: “The game against Manchester City is a very important game for Aubameyang for a number of reasons.

“Aubameyang is a form player who hasn’t been on form [since he signed his new contract] but Arsenal haven’t created too many chances for him of late. I’m sure Arteta will recognise that and will be looking at opportunities to get him those chances.

“At the end of the day, winning is the key. Aubameyang is the captain and will know that.

“There is never an easy game at the Etihad so as long as they win, it doesn’t matter who scores but being the main man, Aubameyang will want to be the difference maker.”

If Aubameyang is not firing on all cylinders, then Arteta has plenty of other match-winners in his squad.

Nicolas Pepe falls into that category, despite struggling to justify the club-record £72 million ($93m) splashed out on securing his signature, with Campbell among those who remain convinced that the Ivorian can come good if used correctly.

He added on a forward who has managed just nine goals for the Gunners through 48 appearances: “Nicolas Pepe has been unfortunate at Arsenal – Mikel Arteta is his third manager in just over a year.

“He has shown flashes of his brilliance but Mikel Arteta will be looking for consistency in his game.

“He came off the bench and really made an impact against Sheffield United, scoring a great goal but Arteta will be working on aspects of his game on the training pitch to help keep him consistent.

“He is a dribbler, who sometimes holds on to the ball too long but Arteta won’t coach that out of him, he’ll focus on making him more productive.

“It may take a little bit of time but Arsenal have players who can step in whenever needed. However, if Pepe can perform as he did against Sheffield United, then he needs to start.”

The international break is on the agenda in African Football HQ this week, as the continent’s teams return to action for the first time in 11 months.

Ed Dove is struggling to pick out the positives from a muddled two matches for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, as they were defeated by Algeria and then were held 1-1 by Tunisia.

Admittedly, the West African giants have had to fare without several key players following injuries to the likes of Wilfred Ndidi and Joe Aribo, as well as the absence of Victor Osimhen due to coronavirus reasons.

However, these were two disjointed and uninspiring displays, with a clear absence of authority and control in the midfield.

Similarly, has Gernot Rohr missed an opportunity to assess some of the broader options in the squad? It’s hard to argue that he shouldn’t have given more playing time to Chidera Ejuke and Cyriel Dessers, both of whom had been waiting since March to make their debuts for the Eagles.

Malek Shafei is a little more complimentary about Nigeria’s international break; he was impressed with Alex Iwobi’s contribution against Tunisia, while the end of Kelechi Iheanacho’s goal drought for the national side is also cause for optimism.

For Malek, the big winners of the international break were Algeria, who defeated Nigeria and then held Mexico despite being reduced to 10 men from early in the second half following the dismissal of Adlene Guedioura.

Les Fennecs took the lead in the second half through Riyad Mahrez, and while they weren’t able to hold on—eventually drawing 2-2—the international break has served a reminder as to why they will be considered among the favourites to retain the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2022.

Also on the agenda, we look at Thomas Partey’s glittering performance for Ghana against Qatar, review Gervinho’s return to action with the Ivory Coast following three years away from the Elephants fold, and assess some of those players making their debuts this weekend.

Unfortunately, this wasn’t to be the case for Morocco-hopeful Munir El-Haddadi, who was denied—at the death—the chance to represent the Atlas Lions, while Adama Traore and Bukayo Saka both turned their backs on Africa and made their bows for Spain and England respectively.

Anthony Martial has been told that he must look to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in a bid to become a “world-class” frontman, with former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov saying that the Frenchman is still too inconsistent.

That is an accusation which has been levelled at the 24-year-old forward for some time. His quality remains without question, as Martial boasts a keen eye for goal as showcased by his personal best return of 23 efforts last season.

Questions continue to be asked, though, of his value as a No 9, with Berbatov among those looking for more from a player he says boasts the potential to be a devastating option in a central role.

“I saw some comments from [Paul] Scholes and he was critical of Anthony Martial, and my opinion of Martial is well known now,” ex-United frontman Berbatov tod Betfair. “He may never be the out and out No 9, he prefers to come in from the wing, doing his tricks, and drawing fouls.

“The only criticism is that he isn't as consistent as he could be. He isn't brilliant in every game, and until he is consistent, it is hard to describe him as world class.

“It's what separates the good players from the great ones. You look at Ronaldo and Messi, they scored lots of goals every season for 10 years. When you're at a big club, and you don't perform consistently, you will have critics.

“We must remember, Martial is playing with 10 men around him, so it isn't just him underperforming. It can be difficult for the type of player that Martial is to stand out when he isn't getting the support from around his team, and the poor team performance will make him look worse.”

As eluded to by Berbatov, United legend Scholes is another to have queried Martial’s value to the Red Devils cause as he waits to open his account in the 2020-21 campaign.

“The problem with United's forwards is that none of them is an actual centre-forward,” Scholes told Stadium Astro. “Martial almost conned us into thinking he was one at the end of last season because he scored so many goals and was quite good.

“He's started this season quite poorly again, which makes you think he isn't. It's misleading. That's why I've kept saying we need a top-class No 9.”

Solskjaer has added to his striking crop by bringing in Edison Cavani as a free agent, but the experienced Uruguayan has been ruled out of a trip to Newcastle on Saturday and that could mean that Martial is once again charged with the task of leading the line.

Harambee Stars defender Michael Kibwage has joined Football Kenya Federation Premier League side Sofapaka.

The former AFC Leopards star has left KCB for the 2009 league champions in a two-year deal. The Kibwage acquisition marks another big business transfer made by head coach John Baraza to strengthen his side that struggled in the 2019/20 season unlike in the previous two seasons.

“We are pleased to announce we have secured the signature of Kenya international [Michael] Kibwage. Kibwage has signed a two-year deal to join us ahead of the 2020/21 season,” Sofapaka said as they announced the arrival of the Kenya U23 captain.

“Welcome Kibwage!”

Kibwage said he is aware of the stiff competition at the club but is ready to fight for regular playtime regardless.

“I am excited to be here, Sofapaka are a big club with ambitions to achieve and I am glad to be part of the project,” the former KCB captain said as he was unveiled on Thursday.

“Commanding an automatic starting place won’t be [an easy] walk but I am ready to give my best for the club.”

The Mukumu Boys High School graduand becomes the club’s seventh signing after Isaac Mitima, Michael Karamor, Michael Bodo, Kevin Omondi, Roy Okal and Paul Kiongera were brought on board.

Sofapaka will open the 2020/21 campaign with a match against Kibwage’s immediate former side KCB on November 22.

The next game for Batoto ba Mungu will be an away tie against Kakamega Homeboyz, who have been quite a formidable side in the recent campaigns especially since when Nicholas Muyoti was appointed in February 2019, on November 29.

Baraza’s side will be up against another ambitious rival Wazito FC on December 5 and that will be their second home tie.

The biggest test for the 2008 National Super League champions will be against Gor Mahia on December 9. Sofapaka have always faltered against the Green Army and a dramatic fall was a 2-0 loss in Kisumu where they could have delayed K’Ogalo’s title charge and increased their own chances of lifting a second league trophy in 2019.

The fairly strengthened Sofapaka will tackle Bandari on December 13 for the fifth tie of the season.

The club’s president Elly Kalekwa exuded confidence during a recent interview with Goal stating they are now ready to challenge for titles with the current squad.

“This is a team that has a high chance of winning the league title and get a chance to play in the continental competitions. We have the resources we need to be successful and I am confident we will,” Kalekwa said.

Odion Ighalo has insisted he's "ready" to seize his opportunity to shine at Manchester United as he comes into contention for a place in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's line up against Newcastle.

Ighalo completed a surprise loan move to Old Trafford from Shanghai Shenhua in the winter transfer window as Solskjaer sought to bring in extra firepower upfront amid an injury-ravaged 2019-20 campaign.

The 31-year-old has scored five goals in 22 appearances across all competitions for the Red Devils, earning a contract extension through to January.

He has had to make do with a bit-part role in the squad behind first-choice front three Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood, but has a popular standing among supporters for his love of the club and commitment to their cause.

Solskjaer has only given Ighalo nine minutes of Premier League action at the start of the new season, and he was omitted from the squad completely for fixtures against Brighton and Spurs before the international break.

The Nigerian has fallen even further down the pecking order following the Edinson Cavani's arrival in Manchester, with the ex-Paris Saint-Germain striker joining United on a free transfer on deadline day.

Cavani will not be eligible to feature against Newcastle on Saturday though, as he continues to observe a 14-day self-isolation period in accordance with Covid-19 quarantine rules.

Martial is also unavailable for the trip to St James' Park after being shown a red card in the 6-1 defeat to Spurs on October 4, which means Ighalo could be called up to lead the line.

The Shanghai Shenhua is fully prepared to step in as the Red Devils seek to get back to winning ways, telling the club's official website: “I’m always ready. Whenever the gaffer calls me, my idea is just to give my best in training, work hard and wait for my opportunity – to take it.

“Hopefully, I’ll just keep my head down, keep working hard every day. Come to the training ground every day and give it my best. Whenever the gaffer needs me, I will come and give my best.”

Asked for an insight into the mood in the dressing room ahead of a must-win encounter, Ighalo responded: “We are working hard and looking forward to it. We’ve been training hard. Those of us who did not go to the international teams have been working seriously hard.

“Everyone is in top shape and, when those who have been in the international teams are all back, I think we are in good heart to win the game. I know we didn’t start the season well so we’ll try to start from this weekend and try to win the game to kick the season off.”

In addition to Cavani, United made four signings in total during the summer transfer window, with Donny Van de Beek, Alex Telles and Facundo Pellistri also snapped up on permanent contracts.

Ighalo is embracing the extra competition for places instead of shying away from it, with it his belief that strength in depth is crucial for clubs competing at an elite level.

“It's good for the team, for everybody to be on their toes to work hard,” said Odion. "For a big team, like Manchester United, you have to have competition for players to do well and I welcome the new guys coming in. They will bring more challenges to everyone in the team, to work hard for their positions to play in the team.”

The Merseyside Derby is one of the Premier League’s biggest matches, with Liverpool and Everton being two of England’s most historic clubs.

Everton originally played at Anfield but relocated to Goodison Park in 1892 after Liverpool were formed – but they didn’t move far.

Goodison Park is less than one mile from Anfield, the two stadiums separated by only a short walk across Stanley Park.

Everton are planning to move away from their home of more than 120 years soon. A new riverside stadium is in the works at Bramley-Moore Dock, north of the city’s waterfront.

The new stadium will be around two miles from Goodison Park and Anfield, and is expected to hold just shy of 53,000 fans. That is a significant increase on the capacity of their current home, which seats around 39,500.

Everton were formed in 1878 as St Domingo FC, taking their name from a local chapel. They became Everton the following year and were founder members of the Football League in 1888, winning their first title in 1891 while playing at Anfield.

A year after winning the First Division title, Everton's directors had a disagreement with president John Houlding, who owned Anfield at the time. The club relocated to Goodison Park so Houlding founded Liverpool to play at his then-empty stadium.

Liverpool initially played in the Lancashire League, joining the Football League in 1893-94.

Liverpool have played at Anfield ever since and, while Everton have been planning their new ground, the Reds have been redeveloping their famous home.

Between 2014 and 2017, Anfield's main stand was expanded, adding 8,500 new seats and a towering third tier. New changing rooms, media and corporate facilities were included in this development, with more work expected to follow.

Liverpool had hoped to start work on a £60 million ($75m) redevelopment of the Anfield Road End in 2020, taking the stadium's capacity to 61,000. However, the work was delayed by at least 12 months due to the effects of the coronavirus crisis on the construction industry.

A planning application has not yet been submitted but it is hoped this next phase of Anfield's redevelopment can be completed by the summer of 2023.

Former Bidvest Wits midfielder Phathutshedzo Nange's desire not to relocate to Limpopo has influenced his decision to remain in Johannesburg, where he is trying to earn a contract with Kaizer Chiefs, according to the 28-year-old.

The former Black Leopards, who believes that the rumours linking him with the domestic giants reflect his good form last season, says he has adjusted to life in Gauteng Province and does not wish to return to Limpopo where he first made his name in the PSL.

Thw 28-year-old is currently training with Kaizer Chiefs following the expiry of his Bidvest Wits contract, but the Soweto giants cannot, for now, sign him owing to a Fifa player transfer ban.

“I can’t say much about that [which team I’m joining]. My manager knows much about it, and I will meet him soon, then I will know where I am going,” Nange told Sowetan Live. “To be linked with big teams means that I’m doing well, but I have to do more.

"I have to win something, that's what every player wants. I won't lie to you. I have not won anything, so I have to do more to achieve that, but I’m happy to be linked with the big teams in the country.”

Chiefs could be a familiar environment for Nange who is currently working under Gavin Hunt who coached him at Wits.

He joins defender other former Clever Boys players Sifiso Hlanti and goalkeeper Brandon Peterson, who are also training with Amakhosi currently.

Wits sold their Premier Soccer League status to Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila and have a number of their players potentially joining other teams, including Nange, who is unwilling to relocate to the new home of his former club - Limpopo.

“I’m happy to have got my clearance, there was no issue," he added. "They wanted me to go and play in Venda with their team, but unfortunately, I didn’t want to go there at the moment. There are a lot of things which I need to do around Johannesburg, that’s the reason I stayed. I respect them. They are a team from my home.

“I just started something around Johannesburg, and unfortunately, Wits was sold. I'm looking forward to staying in Gauteng to achieve more.”

Chiefs who are hosting Nange, Hlanti and Peterson, are waiting for the Court of Arbitration for Sport to hear their appeal against the transfer ban.

High-profile players like Thulani Hlatswayo, Deon Hotto, and Terrence Dzvukamanja have already joined Orlando Pirates from Wits.

Thomas Tuchel has bemoaned Paris Saint-Germain's injury crisis ahead of facing Manchester United in Champions League, claiming he may only have 11 players available for the contest.

PSG were drawn alongside United, RB Leipzig and Istanbul Basaksehir in the group stages of this season's competition, having made it all the way to final last time around.

Tuchel's men were beaten 1-0 by Bayern Munich in the showpiece, but are expected to be strong contenders for the trophy again after finally proving their mettle on the continental stage.

The French champions will open their latest Champions League campaign with a home fixture against United on Tuesday, where they will be aiming to exact revenge for a stunning round of 16 defeat to the Premier League giants in 2018-19.

PSG will warm up for that clash with a trip to Nimes in Ligue 1 this weekend, with Tuchel set to welcome several key members of his squad back into the fold following the international break.

However, the German head coach has now expressed fears that he will be unable to field a full-strength line-up in Europe as the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe recover from their exploits with Brazil and France, while Marqinhos, Julian Draxler, Colin Dagba have emerged as major doubts. 

Tuchel also confirmed the absence of Thilo Kehrer, Juan Bernat and Mauro Icardi, telling a press conference on Thursday: "We have to take responsibility for Neymar and Kylian, who played almost 90 minutes yesterday, and the South Americans who have travelled a lot.

"Maybe we will only have 11, 12 or 13 players available.

"We have a bit of bad luck. Draxler and Marquinhos are doubtful for Manchester too. Colin Dagba had a positive [coronavirus test] with the U21s. In the event of a negative test, he can return to the group.

"Kehrer is injured for a few weeks. Bernat and Icardi are injured, Icardi, a week ago. It's the internal ligament in the knee, it's not too serious but he will miss Nimes and Manchester."

The PSG head coach revealed that Danilo Pereira and Marco Verratti could be facing spells on the sidelines too, with the former likely to be forced in self-isolation after coming into contact with Cristiano Ronaldo before his positive Covid-19 test in the Portugal camp, and the latter nursing an injury after starring for Italy.

"Today we have Danilo back, but he has been in contact with Cristiano Ronaldo, so the medical staff wish he did not train with the group," said Tuchel. "Verratti was injured with Italy, and is in contact with our doctor now.

"We are missing too many players. It is the challenge now to find a starting XI able to win [against Nimes], because that is the best preparation for Manchester."

One man who could be in line to feature against both Nimes and United is Moise Kean, who moved to PSG on loan from Everton on deadline day.

Asked if the 20-year-old will be handed his debut at Costieres Stadium on Saturday, Tuchel responded: "Yeah, it's possible, but I haven't seen the guy yet. He's coming in and we're going to try to do at least one training with him and maybe he'll play tomorrow."

Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM) have announced their new signings ahead of the new 2020/21 campaign.

The Limpopo-based side has reinforced their squad with some top players, who were once on the books of PSL giants Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

Gustavo Paez, Augustine Mulenga, and Mogakolodi Ngele were among the players, who have been unveiled by Vhadau Vhadamani on Thursday. 

Venezuelan striker Paez was released by Chiefs towards the end of the 2018/19 season and he returned home where he turned out for Atletico Venezuela and Mineros de Guayana.

Botswana international Ngele has been snapped up by TTM following a spell with Black Leopards and he won two PSL titles with Sundowns.

While Sundowns right-back Nicholus Lukhubeni has also joined Vhadau Vhadamani, who will be campaigning in the elite league after purchasing Bidvest Wits' PSL status.

Meanwhile, Zambia internationals Augustine Mulenga and Justin Shonga have both found a new home at Tshakhuma after being released by Pirates.

However, experienced midfielder Oupa Manyisa was a noticeable absentee from the players, who were unveiled by the club.

Manyisa and his former Pirates teammate Joseph Malongoane were snapped up by TTM on two-year deals in July 2020.

Recent reports have indicated that Vhadau Vhadamani, who are reportedly struggling to pay their players, were considering terminating Manyisa's contract as he is said to be one of the club's high earners.

Tshakhuma have confirmed Joel Masutha as their new head coach and he will be assisted by Lucky Nelukau.

Masutha's first game in charge of TTM will be against SuperSport United in the MTN8 quarter-finals at Thohoyandou Stadium on Saturday.

Tshakhuma FC squad

Goalkeepers - Washington Arubi, Brighton Mhlongo, Simon Mamudzidi

Defenders - Nicholus Lukhubeni, Ayanda Nkili, Tebogo Thangwane, Lehlohonolo Nonyane, Tshepo Makgoga, Brian Onyango, Lebogang Mabotja

Midfielders - Miguel Timm, Philip Ndlondlo, Celimpilo Ngema, Tholang Masegela, Edgar Manaka, Meshack Maphangule, Joseph Molangoane, Thabo Mnyamane, Farai Madhanaga, Mogakolodi Ngele, Brandon Theron, Mondo Mpambaniso

Strikers - Lerato Lamola, Thembisani Nevhulamba, Augustine Mulenga, Gustavo Paez, Justin Shonga, Nedzamba Aluwane

TTM technical team

Head Coach - Joel Masutha
Assistant Coach - Lucky Nelukau
Physio - Wasani Nemurendeni
Goalkeeper Coach - Bosondo Stephane

Denis Suarez has tipped former team-mate Lucas Torreira to be a big hit with Atletico Madrid and says Thomas Partey will provide something Arsenal have been lacking under Mikel Arteta.

Suarez, who spent the second half of the 2018-19 season on loan with the Gunners from Barcelona, could come up against Torreira on Saturday when Celta Vigo host Atletico Madrid in La Liga.

Torreira completed his season-long loan switch to the Spanish capital on deadline day before immediately linking up with the Uruguay squad for their fixtures against Chile and Ecuador, but he has now returned to Madrid and could make his Atletico debut this weekend when Diego Simeone’s side travel to the Estadio de Balaidos.

That will see him come up against Suarez, who joined Celta Vigo in a £14.5 million ($19m) move shortly after returning to Barcelona following what turned out to be an injury-hit loan spell in north London.

The 26-year-old is now rebuilding his career on Spain’s northwest coast, and speaking to Goal ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Madrid he said Torreira has all the attributes needed to be a success in Spain.

“Lucas Torreira is a player with good technique,” said Suarez. “He presses and plays strong, so he is an ideal player for Simeone.”

Torreira will not be the only former team-mate Suarez will meet on Saturday when Celta host Madrid.

Luis Suarez, who has scored two goals in three games since joining Atletico from Barcelona, will also be in action having returned from international duty with Uruguay.

“It’s going to be strange to play against Luis because he has been my colleague,” said the Spain international. “He has started the season really well and has proved that he is a good player who scores a lot of goals, but on Saturday I hope he does not score and we win the match.”

Suarez meanwhile continues to pay close attention to goings on at Arsenal following his short spell in north London.

A pelvic problem limited the attacking midfielder to just six appearances for the Gunners having arrived from Barcelona in January 2019 and it was one he believes stopped him ever showing his full potential in the Premier League.

However he still has some fond memories of his time with Arsenal and believes the deadline day addition of midfielder Partey could be exactly what his former club need to take them to the next level.

“Arsenal lacked a player of that profile," said Suarez. "Thomas, because of his physique, will feel comfortable in England,” 

With the injury he sustained while at Arsenal now behind him, Suarez is back making up for lost time at Celta Vigo, the club he started his career at 10 years ago before moving to Manchester City as a teenager

He made 28 appearances in all competitions last season and has started four of Celta’s five games in La Liga so far in the current campaign. After a period in his career which saw him struggling for game time, Suarez admits he is now feeling settled once again.

“When I was young and at Celta I always thought I would like to play in the top division with Celta,” he said. “It was always something I had in my mind.

“I think I’ve started well this season with no physical problems, which is very important for me after my experiences last year with my injuries.

“I haven’t had a pre-season because I only trained for a week, so the first four matches can be considered to be like a pre-season. I think after match day five or six, I will be a better player for Celta, but I feel good out on the pitch and I want to improve on last season’s performance.”

Celta Vigo vs Atletico Madrid is live on LaLigaTV this Saturday at 3pm. Sign up to watch all of LaLiga all in one place on LaLigaTV from £5.99 per month: premiersports.com/subscribenow