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Real Valladolid 0-1 Real Madrid: Player ratings as Los Blancos narrow deficit in La Liga title race

The Indian FA has selected Jharkhand as the venue to conduct camp for the Indian team ahead of the 2021 U17 Women's World Cup...

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is all set to host the India U17 women's team camp ahead of the 2021 U-17 Women's World Cup in Jharkhand from October 15.

The Indian FA had shortlisted Goa and Jharkhand as two possible venues for the training camp and were planning to conduct it by the end of August but due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the plans had to be postponed.

Later it was decided that the camp would start by October first week but the FA has now decided to further postpone it by another two weeks.

"We were planning to start the U-17 World Cup camp in the first week of October but now it will be done by 15th October," AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das told PTI.

The U17 World Cup was initially supposed to be held in November 2020 in India but due to the ongoing pandemic, FIFA came up with a revised schedule and the tournament being postponed to February 2021. The World Cup will not happen between February 17 to March 7 in six venues in India.

This is the seventh edition of the competition and the first to be hosted by India. A total of 16 nations will take part in the global event. 

Other than hosts India, five teams have already booked their places in the final round. England, Spain and Germany have qualified from the UEFA zone while Japan and North Korea will be joining from the AFC zone. New Zealand will be the sole representative from the OFC Zone. 

Original author: Ritabrata Banerjee
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MLS Cup Playoffs preview: Orlando City

The Red Devils have been linked with the Aston Villa captain but appear to be more focused on attempting to bring in the Dortmund winger

Darren Bent is surprised that Aston Villa star Jack Grealish isn't attracting more transfer interest and suggests that he would want to be in Jadon Sancho's position and have Manchester United pushing hard to sign him.

The Red Devils have been keen to bring in the 20-year-old Dortmund winger although the Bundesliga side are reluctant to see the England international leave them in the summer.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have also been linked with Villa captain Grealish, who made his Three Lions debut in the 0-0 draw with Denmark, although he doesn't appear to be high on the club's wishlist as things stand.

And Bent is surprised that one of the top clubs haven't swooped to sign the midfielder, believing that Villa would allow the 24-year-old to leave if their valuation of the player is met.

"Do I think he will leave Villa? Yes, but no one has come in and given £50 million, which has really surprised me," Bent told Goal ahead of the return of the EFL on Quest highlights show this Saturday. "I thought straight away that it would be between three or four clubs.

"Arguably, he could get into any squad in the Premier League but no one has gone in and said 'here we go, we will take him'. It is good for Villa, we know how much he is loved there, but for Jack, is it what he wants to do?

"It is all well and good saying he has to leave to go to the next level but no one is taking him. Maybe he is best off staying, be the main man, play every week and develop. He doesn’t want to be a bit-part player.

"It is an important time for him but if he continues [progressing], then I think he will be in the England squad. Jack could go to Spurs and get right in the team, make them better but he will have seen his name linked to United for some time.

"He will want that to be his next step but it is hard to get into those clubs. You need luck, ability and you need someone to really fancy signing you. Man United are battering down the door to sign Sancho and I am sure that Grealish would want it to be him.

"If a big bid came in, then I don’t think Villa would stand in his way after he has been so loyal to them."

Bent, who was at Villa when Grealish first started to break through at the club, believes the playmaker deserves to be cut some slack despite him receiving criticism for breaking UK lockdown restrictions earlier in the summer.

"We knew Jack had all the attributes," he added. "At first, he was quite quiet, laid back and shy when he came to train with us. But when he got the ball, you could see in certain movements that he was going to become a different level.

"He was brilliant in the Premier League and Championship in the last two years. It is a testament to himself because he has had a lot to deal with on and off the field. I think he is better for it. Listen, he is not the only one who has let people down.

"In the last couple of days, a couple of youngsters (Phil Foden and Mason Greenwood) have done things they shouldn’t have done so now people can’t throw it at Jack saying he can’t be trusted because he isn’t the only one.

"He has transformed from being a player from the youth system to Villa’s best player. I think it was a masterstroke from Dean Smith to give him the armband. I think ever since that Birmingham fan ran on the pitch and clocked Grealish, he has really changed and the perception of him has really changed.

"The way he dealt with that situation was superb. He could have reacted another way but he was calm, kept focused and he scored the winner in that game. He is a top player, one of England’s most creative players alongside Foden, Mason Mount and James Maddison.

"As far as his own personality, he has that bit of edge that you need to succeed at the top level. No one wants a team of quiet boys and you need a bit extra, which Jack has got.

"He needs to get his head down and not make too many more mistakes because he is on his way to the very top. Footballing-wise, he has got the lot."

EFL on Quest returns this Saturday at 9pm and throughout the season on Wednesdays at 10.30pm for midweek fixtures. Stream live and catch-up on dplay  

Original author: Nizaar Kinsella
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Liverpool still an elite side but UCL final loss will test mental toughness

The Red Devils were one of several top European clubs linked with the former Lille forward before he opted for a switch to Stadio San Paolo

Manchester United wanted to sign Victor Osimhen earlier this summer but he didn't want to compete with Odion Ighalo, the Napoli star's brother has claimed.

Osimhen quickly established himself as one of the most deadly strikers in Ligue 1 after joining Lille from Charleroi in the summer of 2019.

The 21-year-old hit 18 goals in his first 38 appearances for Christophe Galtier's side, helping them finish fourth in the French top-flight and make a mark in the Champions League group stages.

He impressed enough to attract attention from some of the biggest clubs on the continent, including Arsenal and Liverpool, with Napoli eventually winning the race for his signature after striking a €50 million (£46m/$59m) deal with Lille on July 31.

United were also heavily linked with Osimhen before he made his way to Italy, and his brother has now confirmed that the talented young forward was contacted over a possible move to Old Trafford.

However, Andrew Osimhen says the Nigeria international ruled out the possibility of joining Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's ranks due to the presence of fellow countryman Ighalo, who arrived at the club on loan from Shanghai Shenhua in January.

“It is very true that Manchester United wanted Victor but he told me something like he had too much respect for Odion Ighalo to be competing for shirts with his senior colleague,” Osimhen's older brother told Complete Sports.

“My brother holds Ighalo in high esteem and he just didn’t see himself going to Old Trafford to battle for a striking role with the highest goal-scorer at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt.”

Osimhen scored three goals in eight minutes on his debut for Napoli in a comprehensive 11-0 pre-season friendly win over L’Aquila last month, but head coach Gennaro Gattuso warned supporters to be patient with their newest signing in his post-match interview.

“It’s too easy to get excited now, we’ve got to give him time and let him work, not put pressure on," said Gattuso.

“He is an important player and we paid a lot for him, but there were no doubts he would give us something different that we haven’t had in my time here. There’s a long way to go.”

Osimhen's first competitive outing for Napoli could come when they open their latest Serie A campaign away at Parma on September 20.

 

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‘Van de Beek out of the blue but great for Man Utd’ – Brown excited by potential of Solskjaer’s side

The Red Devils have added another creative midfielder to their ranks and are being challenged to burst out of the blocks in 2020-21

Manchester United’s capture of Donny van de Beek “came out of the blue”, says Wes Brown, but the Dutch midfielder is considered to be an “excellent” addition to a squad generating plenty of excitement ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has snapped up another creative playmaker in a £35 million ($46m) deal with Ajax.

Other targets had appeared to be figuring more prominently on the recruitment radar at Old Trafford – such as Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho – but a notable capture has been completed.

Van de Beek is being backed to slot seamlessly into the fold at United, with Brown confident that a side that surged to a top-four finish in 2019-20 can burst out of the blocks in the new campaign.

The former Red Devils defender told the club’s official website: “I’m really excited. It’s a new start for us.

“We’ve brought in Donny, which is excellent, out of the blue as well. He’s a good age and it looks like he’ll fit in well with what Ole is trying to do with the players we already have. Hopefully, we'll get a couple more players in too.”

Brown added on the momentum that United established over the second half of last season: “After lockdown, we came back excellently, we were very strong in most departments. There were a lot of games to jam in and people got tired but the lads did well.

“I want us to have a good start, the lads have had a little bit of a rest, but we have to start strongly and throw down benchmarks early on.”

United wrapped up a third-place finish in the Premier League under Solskjaer’s guidance, but did come unstuck at the semi-final stage of Carabao Cup, FA Cup and Europa League competition.

And Brown believes those setbacks will serve as added incentive to go even better in the upcoming campaign.

A man who collected 11 major honours during his time at Old Trafford – including five Premier League titles and two Champions League crowns – said: “The end of the season was disappointing, in the fact that we got to two semis and didn’t get through, but I still think we’re moving forward. And the experiences from those two semis will help the players this season.

“Those defeats gave you a bit of a boost because, when you come to play those teams again and you’re walking out for the warm-up, you remember that maybe you got beat 2-0 the season before and how much they celebrated and that gives you a little bit more determination.

“The lads will remember those defeats and they’ll be trying to make it right this season.”

Original author: Chris Burton
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Alaba says reports of €125m deal demands are 'false' and defender is 'frustrated' with Bayern after contract withdrawal

The former Blues defender believes Premier League glory will be savoured at the Etihad in 2020-21, with Phil Foden among those leading the charge

Pep Guardiola has delivered “majestic” football at Manchester City and will be “desperate” to reclaim the Premier League title in 2020-21, says Micah Richards.

The Blues have been a dominant force under a Catalan coach, with two English top-flight crowns secured alongside FA Cup and Carabao Cup triumphs.

Guardiola’s debut campaign at the Etihad Stadium delivered no major silverware, but the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss soon got to grips with an entirely different challenge.

He was, however, knocked from a lofty perch again in 2019-20, with Liverpool sweeping to a record-setting title triumph.

City were uncharacteristically inconsistent at times last season, with further forays into the transfer market during the current window intended to address those faults.

Richards expects the Blues to be firing on all cylinders again in the upcoming campaign, with fresh bids for domestic and continental trophies about to be opened.

“City's football under him has been majestic and it's puzzling how a squad packed full of world-class stars lost nine league games and ended up 18 points behind Liverpool,” Richards told the Daily Mail of Guardiola’s charges.

“Guardiola will be desperate to wrestle the title back. The title race will be tighter this season.”

Richards believes City will wrestle the Premier League crown back from Liverpool and expects highly-rated midfielder Phil Foden to help lead that charge.

The 20-year-old has been making headlines for all of the wrong reasons during the recent round of international fixtures, but he is about to fill the boots of a legend at the Etihad as an opportunity to unlock his full potential at club level is presented.

Richards said of the creative playmaker: “Let's stop the talk about Foden being one for the future. This is his time, this is his season.

“He is not here to replace the departed David Silva, he's here to write his own story. 

“Foden will be playing regularly for England in 12 months. We know about his special ability and already have seen enough glimpses of it.

“I have no doubt he is ready to shine — for Pep Guardiola and Gareth Southgate.”

City are due to open their 2020-21 campaign away at Wolves on September 21.

Original author: Chris Burton
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Mbappe an injury doubt for Champions League as PSG star sits out training with thigh problem

The German head coach insists a prized duo will continue to factor into his preparations for the new season despite ongoing transfer rumours

Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick says Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba are still in his plans ahead of the 2020-21 campaign, but has confirmed that Ivan Perisic is heading back to Inter.

Thiago has been heavily linked with a move away from Allianz Arena in recent months, having turned down the chance to extend his current contract beyond its expiration date next summer.

Liverpool are thought to be leading the race for the Spain international's signature, with Bayern reportedly ready to sanction his departure if their €30 million (£27m/$35m) asking price is met.

The 29-year-old publically stated that he hasn't told anyone he is planning to leave the club before starring in La Roja's 4-0 win over Ukraine in the UEFA Nation's League on Sunday.

However, Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has expressed his belief that Thiago will move onto pastures new before the transfer window closes, having helped Flick's men storm to Bundesliga, DFB Cup and Champions League glory last term.

Alaba is also being tipped to depart, with Chelsea and Manchester City among those being credited with an interest in a defender who has yet to commit to fresh terms with the German champions.

Like Thiago, the Austrian is set to become a free agent in 2021, and it has been suggested that Bayern may look to cash in on a prized asset in order to avoid losing him for nothing.

Flick acknowledges the uncertainty of the pair's current situation, but insists he will continue to prepare for a Bundesliga opener against Schalke next Friday with both players in mind.

“The situation is not that easy. As long as they are in the squad, I plan with both of them," The Bayern head coach told reporters at the club's treble presentation on Wednesday.

Flick went on to reveal that the Bavarians have decided against bringing Inter loanee Perisic onto their books permanently, and that he will look to bring in replacements for the Croatian, Philippe Coutinho and Alvaro Odriozola in the coming weeks.

"It has been decided that we will no longer use those three," the German head coach said of Perisic and two stars who have been sent back to Barcelona and Real Madrid after respective loan spells at the Allianz.

"We are working so that we can bring quality back into those positions."

After Bayern play host to Schalke, they will look ahead to a UEFA Super Cup final meeting with Europa League winners Sevilla on September 24, three days before they take in a trip to Hoffenheim.

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Simba SC dream to bring home Caf Champions League trophy – Onyango

Domenico Tedesco worked with the highly-rated midfielder in Germany and says the 22-year-old’s ambition has guided him to this point

Weston McKennie’s former coach at Schalke, Domenico Tedesco, admits the American’s rise to Juventus was “impossible to predict” but he is not surprised to see an ambitious performer turning out for “one of the best teams in the world”.

The 22-year-old midfielder has become a shock summer addition for the Serie A champions.

A season-long loan deal that includes an option to buy has seen the United States international become the first player from his country to represent the Bianconeri.

McKennie admits to living the dream as he prepares to take on a new challenge in Italy, with his stock having risen rapidly since leaving Dallas for Germany in 2016.

Tedesco claims to have never had any doubt that the versatile operator was capable of reaching the very top, but concedes that few could have predicted that a move to Juve would materialise so soon.

A man now working at Spartak Moscow told Tuttosport of McKennie: “Weston is a very ambitious boy. 

“When I coached him at Schalke, in 2017-18, he had a clear goal in mind: to play for the best possible club. Juventus is one of the best teams in the world. 

“However, a leap of this kind was impossible to predict a year or two ago because everything changes so quickly in football. I am really happy for Weston, I wish him the best for his adventure in Turin.”

McKennie will face fierce competition for places at Juventus, but Tedesco believes the youngster’s ability to cover a number of different positions could work in his favour.

The Italian added: “Weston is very flexible. He can play as a number six or eight. And, if needed, he can also act as a right-back or central defender. 

“But I think the best from him is guaranteed by playing at eight, as an all-out midfielder. 

“Weston is fast, has good technique and is very good at pressing. He also has great heading ability. But first of all, he has another quality: he never gives up. He is someone who gives 100 per cent in every situation.”

Juventus are due to open their 2020-21 Serie A campaign, under the guidance of new boss Andrea Pirlo, at home to Sampdoria on September 19.

Original author: Chris Burton
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Laporta: I'd hoped Messi would stay for free

The Shinyanga-based side is aiming at defeating their hosts after the opening day heartbreak

Biashara Mara United coach Francis Baraza is expecting Mwadui FC to come with all guns blazing when they meet in the Tanzania Mainland League match scheduled for Sunday.

While Biashara started their league campaign with an encouraging 1-0 win over newbies Gwambina FC, the Shinyanga-based Mwadui FC, coincidentally, fell to another promoted side Dodoma Jiji FC by the same margin.

"It is not going to be an easy game at all, it will be tough for either side," Baraza told Azam TV.

"Mwadui are coming, full of fury after losing their opening game away; they are desperate for three points. 

"However, they are not going to find it easy on our side because we are equally prepared. Our win in the last game gave us much-needed motivation and another win at home is what we are going for. It will be satisfying to get another three points on Sunday.

The Kenyan tactician has, however, insisted he is not, in any way, underrating the visitors.

"Mwadui are a good team, with a good coach as well and they are not going to make it easy for us. However, we have a good record at home and we want to maintain it," Baraza continued.

"We will push for another win on Sunday, and I am optimistic we will get it."

Team captain Abdumajid Mangalo was impressed with the support the team received on their season opener, and hopes for more or less this weekend.

"As players, we appreciate the fans for coming in large numbers to support us in our last game [against Gwambina] and we won by a solitary goal," the skipper said.

"I am requesting them once again to turn up this Sunday and cheer us because we need their support. We promise to give our best and always give them three points."

On Friday, Gwambina FC will host Kagera Sugar while Azam will be at home to entertain Coastal Union.

Three matches will be played on Saturday; leaders KMC will play Tanzania Prisons with the defending champions Simba SC away to Mtibwa Sugar. JKT will host Dodoma Jiji FC.

On Sunday, Yanga SC will be at home against Mbeya City while newbies Ihefu FC will play Ruvu Shooting. Namungo is scheduled to host Polisi Tanzania. 

Original author: Seth Willis
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Erling Haaland vows to use Liverpool miss as 'motivation' in Man City career

Video: James Rodriguez - Everton's Galactico | Goal.com

Premier League

10:57 BST 09/09/2020

GFX James Rodriguez Everton

Check out the stats behind Everton's new star signing James Rodriguez who has joined from Real Madrid for £22m

Original author: Goal
  70 Hits

Conor Coady & Idrissa Gueye undergoing Everton medicals

Although the German head coach is certain that a prized asset will stay put for the upcoming campaign, he is not so sure about his long-term future

Manchester United-linked defender Dayot Upamecano will be staying with RB Leipzig for now, but he could leave the club next season, says Julian Nagelsmann.

Upamecano was one of the standout players in both the Bundesliga and Champions League last term, as he helped Leipzig finish third in the German top flight and reach the semi-finals of Europe's elite competition.

The 21-year-old was rewarded for his performances with a bumper new contract in July, which saw him commit his future to the club through to 2023.

However, the centre-back has now emerged on the radar of a number of high-profile potential suitors, including Premier League giants United and Arsenal.

The Red Devils are reportedly considering a summer swoop for Upamecano, who refused to rule out a possible move away from Red Bull Arena when quizzed on his future before the international break.

"I am targeted by several clubs, I speak with clubs, but I have time. We will see what happens in the future," he said.

Nagelsmann insists that the France international will continue to form a crucial part of his plans throughout the 2020-21 season, but concedes that the influential figure could move onto a new challenge next summer if he maintains his current trajectory.

"He [Upamecano] will be here for the season. I'm sure about that," the Leipzig manager told ESPN. "As for the future, I'm not sure as he is very talented.

"Lots of clubs will want to buy - next season it could be real that he leaves the club. But this season he will stay."

Leipzig have already seen one talismanic performer leave the club this year, with Germany international Timo Werner making a £47.5 million ($62m) switch to Chelsea back in June.

Nagelsmann expects the biggest clubs on the continent to continue targeting his best players, but he is also confident that Leipzig will be prepared to dip into the market for new talent to ensure that the squad keeps progressing in the coming years.

"It is normal when you work with young guys that clubs will try and find young talented guys in the transfer market," he added. "It is normal that bigger clubs will try and buy these players.

"You have to deal with that, you've got to be one step forward when you buy new players or find new players.

"Our scouting should be good and we have made a lot of good decisions in the transfer market."

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PSG star Di Maria handed four-match ban for spitting incident during Ligue 1 loss to Marseille

Even though FIFA 21 has not hit shelves, you can already start collecting players and packs for the new season of Ultimate Team

FIFA 21 does not launch worldwide until October 9, but that doesn't mean you can't start preparing for your FIFA 21 Ultimate Team right now.

Millions of gamers are still playing FIFA 20 and some of those are even using the current version of the game to start building their FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) for the new season.

There are a number of ways to start collecting players and packs ahead of the launch of the game and the FIFA 21 Web App, including playing matches in FIFA 20, pre-ordering the new game and even signing up to the EA Sports newsletter.

This is how you can start building your FUT 21 team today.

How to get FIFA 21 players from FIFA 20

In order to ensure gamers keep playing FIFA 20 right up until the launch of FIFA 21, EA Sports has unveiled a promotional campaign known as Pre-Season.

This gives people rewards for both FIFA 20 and FIFA 21, meaning they can start building their FIFA 21 Ultimate Team right now.

Free kits, packs and players are available through completing Squad Building Challenges (SBCs) and Objectives in FUT.

The objectives require the user to complete certain requirements, such as scoring with Team of the Season So Far (TOTSSF) players or assisting with players of a certain nationality.

Completing the objectives provides packs in FIFA 20 as well as extra packs or rewards that will be added to your account when you start FIFA 21.

How to get FIFA 21 packs from pre-ordering

Each version of FIFA has a number of different editions which offer extra in-game content if you pre-order the game.

The Ultimate Edition is the most expensive version of FIFA 21 and gave users a special untradeable Ones to Watch player if they pre-ordered before August 14.

The Champions Edition and Ultimate Edition also provide free rare gold packs each week for the first few weeks and months following the game's release, which will help you improve your Ultimate Team.

Additionally, pre-ordering the Champions Edition or Ultimate Edition will allow you to play the game three days earlier than the official launch in October.

How to get FIFA 21 players from signing up to EA

Another way to earn free rewards for FIFA 21 Ultimate Team is to subscribe to the EA Sports Newsletter.

Signing up to the newsletter via the EA Sports website will get you a free loan Icon player when FIFA 21 launches in October.

You will receive one of three ICON players on a three-game loan, allowing you to road test these legendary figures of football for three matches.

The players available are Eric Cantona, Ronaldo or Zinedine Zidane. You can only claim one of these players, so do not bother trying to sign up to the newsletter multiple times!

You can register for the newsletter here.

Original author: Ronan Murphy
  67 Hits

Ukraine 0-1 Austria: Player ratings as Franco Foda's men reach last 16 of Euro 2020

The defender has been named PFA Young Player of the Year on the back of a Premier League title triumph but he sees much more to come

Trent Alexander-Arnold, the newly-crowned PFA Young Player of the Year, has warned Liverpool’s domestic and continental rivals that the “sky is the limit” for both him and the Reds.

A memorable 2019-20 campaign saw those at Anfield add a Premier League title to the Champions League crown they had claimed a year earlier.

Jurgen Klopp has brought the best out of those at his disposal, with a number of key men performing at the peak of their powers.

Alexander-Arnold, who is still just 21 years of age, falls into that category, with plaudits continuing to rain down on the buccaneering full-back.

His efforts have been recognised by his peers in the awarding of a PFA prize, but he says there is still “so much potential” in his game that can be unlocked as he hits even greater heights.

Alexander-Arnold told Liverpool’s official website: “There’s so much hunger. There are certain mentalities that are instilled in you from habits all the time, from the people around you that make you think like that, the manager, the staff and the way the club is run.

“There’s just always something more you can achieve, you can never settle on what you’ve achieved so far.

“For me, there’s a lot more to achieve and I know there’s still so much potential to reach. For me, really, the sky is the limit. That’s what I’ve got to aim for. I’ve just got to keep working hard and hopefully I’ll be able to achieve more moments like this.”

While Alexander-Arnold is targeting continuous improvement as an individual, he also believes that Liverpool can continue to thrive as a collective and add even more honours to their ever-growing collection.

The England international added: “It’s all I’ve ever known, so to be able to play for this club and to represent them on a day-to-day basis is a dream come true.

“I’m living the dream every day, and to have special days like this when I’m able to just smile at winning trophies means as a club and as a team we’ve done the right thing and we are on the right track to achieving the things we want to achieve.

“Over the last two seasons we’ve done amazing things and I think we’ve still got a lot of potential to give.

“We know we can still achieve more things. That’s the exciting part and I think it’s an exciting time to be a Liverpool player.”

Klopp’s side will open the defence of their Premier League title on Saturday when taking in a home date with top-flight new boys Leeds.

Original author: Chris Burton
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Barcelona 2-1 Real Sociedad: Alba inspires comeback for Koeman

Leeds United dominate the XI, with the African trio making the cut as well as West Brom’s Romaine Sawyers

Former Queens Park Rangers forward Eberechi Eze, Brice Samba, Said Benrahma are the only Africans in PFA Championship Team of the Year dominated by Leeds United.

Eze was named in a three-man midfield that parades Leeds United's Kalvin Phillips and West Bromwich Albion's Romaine Sawyers.

Although the Superhoops finished in distant 13th in the log having accrued 58 points from 46 encounters, the Anglo-Nigerian put up notable performances that saw him account for 13 goals and eight assists.

That saw three awards tumbled for the 22-year-old during QPR’s end-of-season awards. He scooped the Ray Jones Players' Player of the Year, Junior Hoops Player of the Year, as well as QPR's Supporters' Player of the Year.

Ultimately, that earned him a five-year-deal with Premier League giants Crystal Palace plus a call-up to England’s U21 squad.

Brentford winger Benrahma joins teammate Olli Watkins and Fulham Aleksandar Mitrovic. The Algeria international was one of the best performing players for the Bees as they reached the final of the play-off last season.

The 25-year-old bagged 17 goals with nine assists in 43 league games – which included two hat-tricks against Hull City and Wigan Athletic. He was also crowned Brentford Supporters' Player of the Year and has also been linked with a move to Arsenal and Chelsea.

Samba is the only Nottingham Forest player in the selection. Aside playing in all 40 league games, Republic of Congo goalkeeper who joined City Ground from Caen in 2019 put up several strong displays, nevertheless, the Reds stuttered in their ambition to earn a Premier League berth.

He took to social media to express his delight following his selection by the Professional Footballers' Association.

“Very honored to be part of this team for my very first season in England we go for more,” the 26-year-old tweeted.

Original author: Shina Oludare
  61 Hits

Transfer Talk: Chelsea, Man United, Arsenal, Man City want Lavia

The Kenyan champions have maintained they have not fired their coach and are getting ready for the new season

Gor Mahia have come out to deny reports they are in the market for a new coach to replace Steven Polack.

A week ago, a source within the club confirmed to Goal Gor Mahia are in the market for a new coach to replace Polack, who joined the club at the start of last season to fill the void left by Hassan Oktay.

“Yes, they [Gor Mahia] are looking for another coach but for now I cannot confirm whether he has resigned or he has been sacked,” a source told Goal on Friday.

Gor Mahia have now denied the reports with the club’s new treasurer Dolfina Odhiambo stating they have not fired Polack and they are ready for the new season with the British coach.

“The office has no intention to hire a new coach,” Odhiambo is quoted by The Star. “Polack has not tendered a letter indicating he has resigned neither has the management laid him off his duties.

“He and his assistant were fully involved in the player transfer and we are looking forward to the new season. If at all the management will need a new coach, we may not advertise the job since there were a host of applications last year.”

Polack has already responded to the exit reports revealing to Goal he does not respond to rumours and maintained the reports will remain rumours.

“Rumours are just rumours”, Polack told Goal when asked about his future at the club. “I don't comment on rumours.”

Polack took charge of K’Ogalo when they faced huge financial constraints as they operated without a sponsor. His time was characterised by reported go-slows by members of the playing unit but he managed to register solid results on the pitch nonetheless.

They fought and topped the league table consistently, especially after they had been eliminated in the Caf Confederation Cup by Daring Club Motema Pembe.

The team also managed to win the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) after Football Kenya Federation (FKF) moved to declare them champions after ending the 2019-20 campaign owing to the effects caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Gor Mahia who were sitting at the top of the table were awarded the title, beating Kakamega Homeboyz who were sitting third whereas Nairobi City Stars and Bidco United were promoted to the top-flight from the National Super League.

Gor Mahia are in the process of restructuring the playing unit in anticipation of a better campaign in the 2020/21 Caf Champions League.

They, alongside Wazito FC, are the KPL clubs who have been busier in the transfer market. They have moved with speed to cover the gaping holes that were left by Joash Onyango, Boniface Omondi, David Mapigano, Fredrick Odhiambo, and Dickson Ambundo.

Original author: Dennis Mabuka
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The Portuguese superstar was not interested in stopping at a century of international goals – as he proved against Sweden

Cristiano Ronaldo revealed his delight at his 100th and 101st Portugal goals on social media on Tuesday.

Ronaldo scored a brace against Sweden in a 2-0 away Nations League win.

At the same Stockholm stadium where the forward scored a hat-trick in 2014 World Cup qualifying, his first was a stunning free-kick to bring up a century in international football.

Ronaldo was not done there, though, and curled in a fine second, with Ali Daei's record tally of 109 goals for Iran within his sights.

The Portugal captain posted on Instagram: "Huge pride in this historical goal for our national team!

"When they tell me I can reach 100, I say it's not enough...101 goals for Portugal."

Ronaldo's Portugal team-mate and Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes was full of praise for the 35-year-old after Tuesday's game, saying that the veteran can still make the difference in any match.

"We know that [with Ronaldo] it is easier to reach the goal," Fernandes said. "He has a nose for goal and can solve a game at any time.

"That was what happened before half-time, in a free-kick situation. Just yesterday he had six or seven like that in training and today he did the same.

"It's great to have Cristiano. He makes any team stronger."

Portugal's Nations League campaign has got off to a flying start as they attempt to defend the title they won in the inaugural competition in 2019.

They are sitting top of Group 3 in League A, with the Sweden victory and a thumping 4-1 win over Croatia on Friday earning the maximum of six points on offer.

France have also won both their matches against Sweden and Croatia but are ranked behind Portugal with two-less goal difference.

The two European powerhouses will meet in a top-of-the-table clash on October 11 in Paris.

France have won 10 of the last 11 meetings between the two nations - dating back to 1975 - but Portugal won the last battle 1-0 in extra-time at the 2016 European Championships.

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The Italian talent uploaded a picture of himself as a child, wearing a Rossoneri shirt via Instagram, ahead of his proposed move to San Siro

Brescia and Italy sensation Sandro Tonali appeared to confirm his transfer to Serie A giants AC Milan via social media.

Tonali is reportedly set to undergo his Milan medical on Wednesday ahead of his €35 million (£32m/$41m) switch from Brescia.

The 20-year-old midfielder, compared to Italian great Andrea Pirlo, had been tipped to join city rivals Inter following his exploits for Brescia.

But Tonali - a Milan fan as a child - seemingly announced his move to the Rossoneri before any official announcement.

Tonali uploaded a picture of himself as a child to his Instagram stories, wearing an AC Milan shirt via Instagram, with the caption: "Blame the fairytales".

A technically gifted midfielder renowned for his dribbling and passing abilities, Tonali scored once and registered seven assists for Brescia as they were relegated from Serie A in 2019-20.

Tonali – who ignored offers from Barcelona and Manchester United – had played a key role in Brescia's promotion to Italy's top tier in 2018-19.

Brescia chief Massimo Cellino confirmed on Sunday that Tonali wanted to join AC Milan, however he preferred the talented midfielder to move to Roma because of his personal connection with the capital club.

Speaking to Il Messaggero, Cellino said: "Sandro has supported Milan since he was a child.

"The negotiation with them made me doubly happy – I also respect a club that gives value to money.

"[Milan technical director, Paolo] Maldini has Milan DNA and has all the prerequisites for becoming a great manager.

"I would have seen Sandro more at Roma. It's a beautiful team, a hot city. [Roma vice-president, Mauro] Baldissoni told me some time ago that he was their dream, but now I don't know who is in charge of their transfers.

"I had an excellent relationship with [former president, Franco] Sensi and I know [former director of football, Walter] Sabatini very well.

"I feel very attached to Roma. For this reason, when I sold Cagliari, I had the dream of buying Roma and rehabilitating it, enhancing its potential through my work and my experience. It remained just a dream."

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Some of the continent’s top players have committed their futures to European nations during the international break
Original author: Ed Dove
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In his first national team start since March 2018, the Man Utd star assisted a goal and played a key role in another as Les Bleus got a victory

Anthony Martial was pleased to have made an impact for France upon his return to the squad after two and a half years in the wilderness as the world champions defeated Croatia 4-2 in the Nations League.

France head coach Didier Deschamps called up Martial to the national team for the first time since March 2018 following a stellar season at club level for Manchester United.

The 24-year-old came on as a substitute in the 1-0 victory over Sweden on Saturday and won a penalty that Antoine Griezmann fired over.

With Kylian Mbappe ruled out of Tuesday's Nations League clash against Croatia after testing positive for coronavirus, Martial was handed a start and set up Griezmann to restore parity after Dejan Lovren's opener in Paris.

Martial then saw his effort from Wissam Ben Yedder's cross hit the post and go in off the back off goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, putting France ahead before half-time.

Josip Brekalo equalised 10 minutes after the restart but Dayot Upamecano's header and a penalty from Olivier Giroud gave Les Bleus victory in the replay of the 2018 World Cup final, which they won by the same scoreline.

"It's been a long time since I played for France and it was important to me to have a good match," Martial told TF1. "I managed to score and provide an assist. We won and I'm very happy.

"It was a bit complicated in the front three at the start because we didn't have the ball, but as soon as we managed to combine, we knew how to put them in danger.

"The victory was great. We scored points and that's important."

France laboured to victory over Sweden and Deschamps persisted with the same 3-4-3 formation against Croatia, though he changed seven players in his line-up.

Deschamps hopes to iron out the kinks in the system ahead of the delayed Euro 2020 next year.

"It's a good thing we had difficulties. The formation is new and we don't have all the automatisms. I changed seven players between the two matches, but I'm not looking for excuses," he told TF1.

"We need to be having difficulties now. June 2021 will not be the time for that.

"Everyone can analyse as they please. This system has advantages and disadvantages, but it will be necessary to repeat this system to develop the automatisms."

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The Black Starlets are set to resume preparation for the upcoming sub-regional tournament

A group of 40 players have been called up for Ghana camping ahead of the 2020 Wafu Cup Cup of Nations in Benin.

The team will assemble at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Technical Centre on September 15, according to a publication on the governing body's official website on Tuesday.

They will become the fourth Ghana national side to commence camping despite a standing ban on all contact sports, including football, due to the coronavirus pandemic. The male U20 team and the female U17 and U20 outfits are already in camp.

With the sub-regional championship set to serve as qualifiers for the 2021 Africa U17 Cup of Nations in Morocco, Ghana coach Ben Fokuo is hoping to leave no stone unturned in their preparations.

The African championship will, in turn, be used as qualifiers for the U17 World Cup later next year

The Black Starlets are eyeing a return to Afcon after missing out on the last gathering in Tanzania.

They last appeared at the World Cup at India 2017 when they exited the tournament at the quarter-final stage.

Full Squad:

Sylvester Antwi (Shooting Stars), Jonathan Nettey (Mighty Victory), Sylvester Amoako (Rences FC), Eugene Amankwa (Benab FC), Anastatius Satuh (Mboma FC), Shabu Yakubu (BYF), Zaidan Alhassan (New Edubiase), Kelven Afram (Banana FC), Philip Yankson (Medeama FC), Osei Asibey Emm (Benab FC), Ebo Rubben (Cheetah FC), Emmanuel Adjetey (Wolf FC), Abdul Fataw Isshaku (Steadfast FC), Shaibu Abdullah (Siano SC), Benjamin Eshun (Liberty FC), Collins Boah (In God We Trust), Rafig Maffaw (Rences FC), Akuffo Daniel (Still Believe), Attah Amosh (Anokye Stars), Bright Tabi (Aboagya FC), David Gyamfi (Tema Youth), Samuel Obeng (Deportivo FC), Helbert Frimpong Addo (Young Kotoko), Muhideen Ibrahim (Samartex), Christopher Bonsu (Shooting Stars), Kelven Appiah  (Asokwa Royals), Joshuah Fuseini (JMG Academy), Nurudeen Mohammed - Unistar Academy, Samuel Boakye (Cedar Stars), Alhassan Alhassan (Republicans FC), Gideon Majambe (Medeama SC), Abdul Salam (New Edubiase), Benard Boateng (Phonices FC), Robert Mensah (Semper F1 Academy), Benjamin Nyarko (Mountaineers FC), Emmanuel Nii Abbey (Banana FC), John Batigi (Red Lions), Majeed Maswod Abdul (Mighty Jets), Kenneth Mensah (Semper F1 Academy), Nick Adu Yeboah (Charity Stars FC)

Original author: Prince Narkortu Teye
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Simeone addresses Suarez anger after substitution as barren Champions League away run continues

Roberto Martinez's men were at their brilliant best as Belgium hammered Iceland to take control of their Nations League group.

Belgium moved two points clear at the top of their Nations League group as they came from behind to thump Iceland 5-1.

Roberto Martinez's men fell behind in bizarre fashion through Holmbert Fridjonsson's deflected effort that marked the first of three goals in seven minutes.

Axel Witsel promptly levelled and Michy Batshuayi made it 2-1 to hosts Belgium, who spurned further first-half chances to extend the lead.

But Dries Mertens put Belgium firmly in command early in the second half before Batshuayi doubled his tally and Jeremy Doku bent home a brilliant first senior international goal.

It is a win that gives them breathing room from England in Group A2 after Gareth Southgate's men were held to a goalless draw by Denmark.

The flurry of goals started in remarkable fashion in the 10th minute when Fridjonsson's effort from the edge of the area deflected off Jason Denayer and over the head of a helpless Koen Casteels.

Iceland's lead lasted just three minutes when Witsel's effort crossed the line before being cleared, the Borussia Dortmund man pouncing after Ogmundur Kristinsson tipped Mertens' free-kick onto the crossbar.

And Witsel was heavily involved when the turnaround was completed in the 17th minute as Kristinsson could only parry his low effort as far as Batshuayi, who tucked home from point-blank range.

Belgium then could have put daylight between themselves and the visitors but Mertens fired over the bar.

Kristinsson denied Mertens shortly before half-time but five minutes into the second half, after Kevin De Bruyne's shot narrowly deflected wide, the Napoli forward atoned for his earlier miss.

De Bruyne was typically to the fore as, following the resulting corner, he slid a neat pass into Mertens, who cut inside off his left foot to fire into the bottom-left corner.

Casteels was forced off and replaced by Simon Mignolet following a collision with Jon Fjoluson but that was a minor blemish on a triumph that became more emphatic in the 69th minute.

Witsel was twice denied before De Bruyne played in substitute Yari Verschaeren, whose cutback was flicked home by Batshuayi.

Doku applied the finishing touches, collecting a wonderful pass from De Bruyne before coming in from the left and curling a sublime finish into the top-right corner.

What does it mean? - Red Devils set pulses racing

With De Bruyne, Mertens and Witsel standout performers, Belgium produced a typically scintillating attacking display. They dominated the play - completing 90.4 per cent of their 784 passes - and finished with 20 shots and 11 on target. The margin of victory could have been much greater.

De Bruyne shows his class

De Bruyne delivered yet another demonstration of his PFA Footballer of the Year quality with an instrumental showing that saw him produce three key passes including assists for Mertens and Doku.

Hermannsson's horror show

Plenty of Iceland players endured evenings to forget, but right-back Hjortur Hermannsson will be particularly keen to put this one behind him as Belgium found joy down the left time and again. 

Hermannsson completed just 59.1 per cent of his passes, won only a third of his 12 duels and conceded two fouls, including one that led to Belgium's opener.

What's next?

These two sides will play the return fixture in Iceland on October 14. Before that, however, Belgium have a friendly with New Zealand and a trip to Wembley to face to England.

Of much larger importance to Iceland will be their Euro 2020 play-off with Romania on October 8. They then return to Nations League action against Denmark before welcoming Belgium to Reykjavik.

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