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Leeds United appointed Daniel Farke as their new head coach over the summer and backed their new man throughout the transfer window.

The board allowed him to sign Glen Kamara, Ethan Ampadu, Karl Darlow, Ilia Gruev, Sam Byram, Joel Piroe, Joe Rodon, Jaidon Anthony, and Djed Spence permanently or on loan in order to bolster his playing squad.

Farke's biggest signing was his swoop to sign Piroe from Championship rivals Swansea City for a fee that has been reported to be in excess of £10m.

There has, however, been some discourse over the German head coach's use of the attacker as he has been deployed in a number ten role behind Georginio Rutter, despite being a prolific scorer as a striker for the Swans.

The former Norwich City boss expertly explained his reasoning by stating that his strikers need to excel at pressing and using their movement to stretch defences due to the number of teams who are 'parking the bus' against them.

With this in mind, Farke could secure an excellent January signing by revisiting his reported interest in Aberdeen dynamo Duk, who would be perfect for the number nine role in his current system and allow him to finally ditch Patrick Bamford.

Where Leeds interested in Duk?

Journalist Darren Witcoop reported, in the middle of August, that Leeds had sent scouts to watch the exciting marksman in action against Celtic and that rivals Southampton were also showing an interest in him.

He added that this was with a view to them launching a bid for his services before the summer transfer window slammed shut but a move never materalised and the talented gem remained with the Dons for the first half of this season.

His former coach, Joao Tralhao, once hailed him as a "powerful" striker who works hard to "press" the opposition with his aggressive style of play.

This, perhaps, shines a light on why Leeds and Farke were interested in the Scottish Premiership ace over the summer as he has the physical attributes to thrive and be perfect for the central striker in the German tactician's fluid attacking system.

Where did Duk start his career?

Duk started his professional career in Portugal with Benfica and caught the eye for their reserve side to earn himself a move to Aberdeen last year.

The Cape Verde international scored 11 goals and produced one assist in 42 matches for their B team after a prolific spell at U23 level.

He racked up 18 goals and five assists in 41 outings for the Portuguese giants' U23 outfit, which included 17 strikes in 34 league games throughout the 2019/20 campaign, to earn himself a step up to the B side.

This impressive form from the young gem convinced Aberdeen to take a gamble on him in the summer of 2022 and that move paid off for the Scottish team last term.

How many goals did Duk score last season?

The 23-year-old ace scored 16 goals in 29 Scottish Premiership starts for the Dons throughout the 2022/23 season and proved himself to be a reliable scorer at that level.

Duk contributed with 16 goals and six assists in 33 league outings in total, to go along with two goals in five appearances in the League Cup, as he hit the ground running in Scotland.

The dynamic attacker, who missed seven 'big chances', also showcased his ability to drive his team forward with 1.6 completed dribbles per game.

Albeit at a different level, no Leeds player scored more than 13 goals or completed more than 1.3 dribbles per match during the Premier League season last term.

How many goals did Bamford score last season?

Bamford, in particular, endured a frustrating season in front of goal as the former England international scored four goals in 28 top-flight appearances.

The ex-Chelsea prospect started 18 league matches and could not blame his lack of goals on the quality of services that his teammates were providing as the dud missed a whopping 13 'big chances' and had an xG of 8.61, as per Sofascore.

Bamford, who Farke named alongside Rutter for his pressing qualities, has not been a reliable player, in terms of performances or availability, since the start of the 2021/22 campaign.

The 30-year-old marksman has missed a staggering 40 competitive matches through injury since the summer of 2021 and has contributed with six goals in four league outings during that period.

He has made three appearances as a substitute so far this season in the Championship and is yet to get off the mark with a goal or an assist for Farke's side.

Should Leeds swoop for Duk?

Therefore, the Leeds head coach should reignite his interest in the 5 foot 11 Aberdeen star as it would allow the German boss to finally ditch Bamford, who has been a liability in recent seasons.

There is no immediate need for the Whites to sign a player who will immediately hit the ground running as the starting number nine, as Rutter has enjoyed a strong start to the season, and this means that Duk could come in to replace the English forward and compete for a starting spot.

Rutter has scored two goals and created a staggering ten 'big chances' for his teammates in ten Championship appearances so far this term. This does not suggest that Farke needs to sign a player who will come in as an upgrade on the former Hoffenheim man.

However, Duk's pressing qualities alongside his impressive form in front of goal for Aberdeen last term suggest that he would offer more than Bamford and provide the French gem with more competition for his place in the side.

Scottish Premiership	Duk (2023/24 via Sofascore)
Appearances	Eight
Sofascore rating	6.99
Goals	One
Assists	Two

At the age of 23, Leeds would also be signing a player with potential who could be a long-term addition, which is another reason why he would be perfect for Farke, who has stated his desire to work with and develop young prospects.

His market value could grow during his time at Elland Road and they could benefit from his talent on the pitch for many years to come and then go on to cash in on him for a significant profit in the future.

The January transfer window, however, is still a couple of months away from opening and it remains to be seen how Duk and Bamford's respective form will go between now and then.

It's not too often that Arsene Wenger's judgement at Arsenal can be brought into question. However, as was the case with a certain Zlatan Ibrahimovic – on the odd occasion when he does have a gaff, it tends to be monumental.

Real Madrid's Federico Valverde is a name revered now, but in north London he'll likely be an activation word for nightmares of what could've been as a move to the Gunners failed to materialise back in 2016.

Why didn't Arsenal sign Federico Valverde in 2016?

Seven years ago, a teenage Valverde was a superb prospect for many European clubs looking to unearth a talent from South America's bread basket. In his home country of Uruguay, the then-youngster had traversed the ranks of his boyhood team Penarol and with just a meager 13 games under his belt for the senior team, the big boys came sniffing around.

When a player's mentored by Diego Forlan and receives his senior debut just a day after his 17th birthday – you know that he's likely to be special and indeed, Valverde was. Known as Pajarito (baby bird), Valverde was just a fledgling midfielder ready to spread his wings. Before other suitors came in for him, the exciting Uruguayan – who would soon win the Silver Ball at 2017's U-20 World Cup as La Celeste finished fourth – tested the skies in which he was set to soar.

How good is Federico Valverde?

One of Valverde's first brief stop-offs offs route to success was worth London. In a week-long trial at Arsenal, Valverde went from Forlan student, to Alexis Sanchez' understudy. Via TalkSport, Valverde was quoted as praising the Chilean:

"When I went to train at Arsenal, Alexis was there and he was one of the few who came up to help me. I will always be grateful to him because, being a nobody, I was well-received by him. He was there to help me when I was a kid. As a footballer, he is an incredible player."

While training no doubt reflected the youngster's capabilities, Wenger wasn't quite sure, and chose not to sign Valverde. Almost comically, it would transpire that instead, Granit Xhaka was the preferred target as Federico returned to his homeland. Likely disheartened, things wouldn't look bleak for long as a club renowned for their Galacticos decided to point Parajito's flight path to the stars.

Where is Valverde now?

As if you didn't already know, (and the tiring metaphors didn't do the trick) Valverde is of course one of Madrid's key men. Arriving in July 2016, he was initially placed in the Castilla youth set up. The 2016/17 season was enough time to show he was above that level and in the subsequent term he joined Deportivo La Coruna on loan.

Again, the 'baby bird' was taking flight and proving his growing worth. Since his 2018 debut in the Champions League against Viktoria Plzen at 20, Valverde has evolved into a mainstay at the Bernabeu. In an era where Madridistas boast European supremacy with more success in the pipeline likely coming soon, Valverde is a key figure in a side transitioning from one era to another.

Where once there was Benzema and Modric – there's now Valverde and Jude Bellingham among others. After Madrid's demolition job on Celtic last year, pundit and ex-pro Joe Cole lit up at the (soon-to-be) tandem of talent driving Los Blancos onwards.

"He's standing right at the top of the tree with Bellingham in the young players, and he's on the verge of becoming the best. (…) We talk a lot about Bellingham in this country, but this kid is every bit as good as Bellingham."

Not only is transition key for Carlo Ancelotti's team, but for Valverde himself. He finds his nickname reflects the tenacity and growth of his career. As he was once known as Parajito, he now takes the course of the mighty Halcon (Falcon) – an £86 million worth midfielder on the hunt for more trophies to add to his collection that already encompasses two La Ligas, two Supercopa de Espanas, two FIFA Club World Cups and one each of the Copa del Rey, UEFA Supercup and UEFA Champions League.

Of course, at present it is Bellingham receiving the acclaim at the Bernabeu in the midfield ranks with 11 goals and three assists from just his first 12 appearances for the club, yet last term Valverde was just as impressive in Ancelotti's setup, with 12 goals and seven assists in all competitions.

Also dubbed the "unsung hero" of the 2022 Champions League final – in the words of Cole – the 25-year-old has certainly left those back at the Emirates ruing their prior error.

Kylian Mbappe broke a barren run by scoring the winning goal as PSG held off Rennes with a 1-0 win in the Coupe de France semi-final.

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• Mbappe opened scoring in first half after missed penalty
• Played all 90 minutes after controversial substitution at the weekend
• Parisians will play Lyon in Coupe de France final

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  TELL ME MORE

  Mbappe missed a penalty shortly before half time, but quickly made up for his mistake, providing the opener with a dart down the wing and heavily deflected strike that crept into the bottom corner. Rennes showed some attacking promise after the break, and forced Gianluigi Donnarumma into a few stops, but couldn't find the net. The Parisians will feel they could have put the game beyond doubt, with Marco Asensio and Mbappe both missing good chances. Still, they looked admittedly comfortable and seem well-equipped to play for Luis Enrique's first trophy at the helm.

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• THE MVP

  It's been a difficult few weeks for Mbappe. The forward, marred by transfer talk, has been well-short of his dominant best, and has been benched a number of times by his often combative manager. Still, here, in a semi-final, he showed just how important he can be. The missed penalty will sting, but Mbappe ultimately grabbed the winning goal, and a couple of neat stops prevented him from bagging two or three. PSG are going to be playing for a trophy soon, and they have Mbappe to thank.

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  THE BIG LOSER

  It was another puzzling night for Ousmane Dembele, who hasn't quite found a groove in a PSG shirt. The Frenchman did a lot of pretty things – clever turns and deceptive bursts of pace – but he was wasteful when it came to the key moments. Too often, he played the wrong pass, or made an ill-advised decision. For all of his quality, there will always be a nagging feeling that he should be more impactful. Lyon, too, will perhaps be rueing the result. They would have been eager to face Rennes in the final – who will surely present a more beatable opponent for a side enduring a miserable season.

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• WHAT COMES NEXT?

  The Parisians will continue their campaign with a Ligue 1 clash against Clermont Foot on Saturday. After that, they will host Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie.

Manchester United are monitoring Thiago Motta's progress as Bologna manager as pressure ramps up on beleaguered Erik ten Hag.

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• United tracking Motta ahead of summer
• Ten Hag under significant pressure
• Bologna flying high in Serie A

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  According to journalist , the Red Devils could move for Bologna manager Thiago Motta in the summer as they are said to be considering making a managerial change at Old Trafford at the end of the current season.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  After a successful playing career that saw Motta win multiple trophies at Barcelona, Inter and Paris Saint-Germain, he formally took up a senior coaching role in 2019 when he took charge of Genoa. He later went to Spezia before joining Bologna in 2022. Under the former Brazil and Italy international's tutelage this season, the Serie A club find themselves fourth in the league, just a point behind third-placed Juventus.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Ten Hag has been under immense pressure of late as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group are reportedly eyeing a change in leadership at the club. Unless United seal a Champions League berth or win the FA Cup – where they have reached the semi-final stage – the Dutchman's stint could end after just two seasons.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED?

  After an exciting 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday, Ten Hag's men will next face Bournemouth in the Premier League on April 13.

Newcastle United just keep on going. Injuries, suspensions, and early-season disgruntlement concerning squad cohesion have all come into play on Tyneside this season, but Eddie Howe's side have hurtled through the gears and now stand a good shot of significant success both domestically and in the Champions League.

Having defied expectations to finish fourth in the Premier League last season, Newcastle have rebounded from a wobble in the 2023/24 term's early phase, losing three straight, to climb into European contention, though having dropped points across two of their past three matches there will be an increased weight on the forthcoming fixture against Arsenal.

Indeed, Mikel Arteta's title-chasing side travel to St. James' Park this evening to continue their fight for a first Premier League trophy in two decades, but will be met by one of Europe's most unified forces.

Newcastle's ascendancy over the past few years has been a product of Howe's ability to instill his system into the squad, and the fact that it has suffused every corner means that injuries, of which there are many, do not necessarily prove to be detrimental.

Newcastle team news

Matt Targett is the latest player to pick up an injury after tweaking his hamstring in the opening phase at the Theatre of Dreams, though United are emboldened by the goalscoring return of Joe Willock in midweek.

Club record talisman Alexander Isak is not expected to be back until after the international break later this month, though the Toon boast a worthy replacement in the prolific Callum Wilson.

Elsewhere, both members of Howe's starring defensive axis – Sven Botman and Fabian Schar – are doubts, while Harvey Barnes, Jacob Murphy, and Elliot Anderson remain on the sidelines.

Tino Livramento's season by numbers

Howe will have to continue to contend with a mountain of injury issues against the Gunners, though Newcastle evidenced their strength in depth when dispatching dreary Manchester United at Old Trafford on Wednesday evening.

When the line-ups were announced on Wednesday, few thought that this makeshift Magpies side would stand a chance against a purportedly superior Red Devils side.

Doubters were emphatically corrected, and the 3-0 scoreline showcased this remarkable squad's credentials, with none more impressive than summer signing Tino Livramento.

The 6 foot Livramento joined from Southampton for an initial fee of £32m, having spent the majority of the 2022/23 campaign injured, with Saints plummeting into the Championship.

Despite his scant match action over the past year, the dynamo has taken to life on Tyneside with aplomb, earning four substitute appearances in the English top-flight so far but playing the full 90 across both Carabao Cup matches thus far, against the two Manchester sides, and excelling on each occasion.

Against Manchester City in the third round, Livramento made eight tackles – including a "match-winning" late lunge on Matheus Nunes, as said by reporter Craig Hope – and won 11 of his 18 contested duels, as per Sofascore, superlative against one of football's most frightening attacking threats.

Howe would have hoped for him to emulate his previous showing this week against Erik ten Hag's Old Trafford side, but he did take his opportunity, earning a stunning assist after an unstoppable cross-pitch dribble and producing an all-encompassing display that Phillip Lahm would have waxed approval over.

Complementing that assist with five tackles, two clearances, success with both of his dribble attempts, also coming out on top in nine of his 12 duels (a 75% success rate), Livramento has announced himself as one of the Premier League's most exciting young talents.

Newcastle's Best Victories: 23/24
Opponent	Result	Competition
vs Aston Villa (H)	5-1	Premier League
vs Manchester City (H)	1-0	Carabao Cup
vs Sheffield United (A)	8-0	Premier League
vs Paris Saint-Germain (H)	4-0	Champions League
vs Manchester United (A)	3-0	Carabao Cup
*Results provided by Sky Sports

Newcastle have collected quite the list of victories already this season, and there will now be confidence that Arsenal could be the latest to fall on Tyneside, especially with Livramento unleashed from the outset.

Why Tino Livramento should start vs Arsenal

The mere fact that the youngster has provided the perfect performance against the Manchester giants suggests that he would be a custom-made option against Arsenal tonight, who boast an almighty, multi-functional strike force.

Hailed as "unbelievable” by analyst EBL, Livramento's pace and athleticism are exactly what is needed to stifle the threat of players such as Bukayo Saka, who has been integral to Arsenal's rise under Arteta's wing and has undoubtedly cemented himself as one of Europe's most fearsome forwards.

Should Livramento earn a starting spot, then Dan Burn should be moved to the bench; Burn has been a superb member of Howe's Newcastle team over the past few years, but he is not without his frailties and Saka might relish the opportunity to drag him around the byline, as well as threatening consistently down the channel.

The Emirates side's star man has been in stunning form so far this season and has posted five goals and six assists from 14 appearances, praised as "elite" by his international manager, Gareth Southgate.

To illustrate his all-action attacking threat, the £195k-per-week machine ranks among the top 21% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for goals, the top 14% for assists, the top 18% for shot-creating actions, the top 8% for progressive carries, the top 3% for touches in the attacking box and the top 9% for tackles per 90.

Quite the list of metrics, and a mere illumination of exactly what makes the 22-year-old such a staggering talent; robust and tenacious, he will drive into the danger area and wreak havoc, bursting into the box and deciding which tool he wishes to wield.

Burn is no joke, of course, but he might not be well suited to the task, especially when Livramento has demonstrated his ability against both Manchester sides this season.

It speaks volumes of his potential, and while it may be strange to eject Kieran Trippier on the defensive right flank, the 32-year-old has been deployed at left-back for England of late and could assume the role, with Livramento unleashed down the alternate channel.

The one-time Chelsea Academy Player of the Season is capable across both sides of the backline too, but the balance may be preserved by switching Trippier, allowing the less experienced member to perform in his favoured position.

This could either allow the England international to lock up his teammate, Saka, or Livramento could line up on the left and use his aforementioned defensive attributes to keep the exciting attacker quiet.

The evidence suggests that Arsenal can be defeated, and while it will be a tall order against Arteta's hungry side, Howe will know that his match plan could have the Magpies flying high come the final whistle.

The French attackers helped lead the Ligue 1 giants to a huge victory and send their team into the Champions League semi-finals

Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappe broke Barcelona hearts on Tuesday as they helped inspire Paris Saint-Germain to an awesome comeback victory to send the French giants into the semi-finals of the Champions League. Ex-Barca winger Dembele scored once and won a penalty on his return to Catalunya, while Mbappe struck twice as PSG won 4-1 in the second leg of their quarter-final tie.

Dembele overcame relentless jeers from the home crowd and a disappointing start that saw his side go a goal behind when Lamine Yamal jinked past Nuno Mendes and whipped the ball in for Raphinha to divert home.

The match took a huge turn in PSG's favour, though, when Ronald Araujo was sent off for bringing down Bradley Barcola just outside the box after half an hour. A little over 10 minutes later, the French side were level and it was, surprise, surprise, Dembele who blasted in the equaliser amid the constant boos that came his way throughout the half.

It was in the second half that Barca seemed to unravel, though, as PSG's dominance grew. Less than 10 minutes into the half, the hosts gave Vitinha all the time in the world to line up a shot and blast into the bottom corner from outside the box. Then, within a few minutes, Barcelona coach Xavi was sent off and Kylian Mbappe had made it 3-1 by sending a penalty kick high into the net after Joao Cancelo had fouled Dembele in the box.

Oddly, Barca showed some proper fight later in the half as Robert Lewandowski forced Gianluigi Donnarumma into an excellent save and Raphinha had a couple of good efforts, but their misery was compounded by Mbappem who finished at the second time of asking after a late counter-attack.

In the end, Luis Enrique was on the right end of a great comeback as PSG ran out 6-4 aggregate winners, exorcising the ghosts of that famous Remontada he oversaw as Barca coach in 2017.

GOAL rates Luis Enrique's players from Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys…

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  Goalkeeper & Defence

  Gianluigi Donnarumma (7/10):

  Pulled off a great save to keep Lewandowski out deep in the second half and denied Raphinha too.

  Achraf Hakimi (7/10):

  Looked restricted as he was rather toothless in attack in the first half, but came to life a bit more in the second and had a deadly shot saved before teeing up Vitinha.

  Marquinhos (7/10):

  Swept up at the back with some key clearances and was comfortable on the ball when they built from the back.

  Lucas Hernandez (6/10):

  Made a couple of important tackles to keep Lewandowski quiet.

  Nuno Mendes (5/10):

  Destroyed by Yamal for the first goal in Barca's first proper attack.

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  Midfield

  Warren Zaire-Emery (5/10):

  Ineffective despite seeing plenty of the ball.

  Vitinha (7/10):

  Smart with his passes as he looked to carve out a chance while Barca restricted the space up-field. Lashed home a beauty

  Fabian Ruiz (6/10):

  Saw a dangerous shot go agonisingly wide and dug in with some important challenges.

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  Attack

  Ousmane Dembele (8/10):

  Was having a woeful evening in front of his former fans until he blasted in the equalising goal and came close to getting a second shortly afterwards. Inflicted further damage by winning the penalty, too.

  Kylian Mbappe (8/10):

  Forced Ter Stegen into a first-half save and did well to convert the penalty before adding to the misery with his team's fourth.

  Bradley Barcola (8/10):

  Had an excellent game. Zoomed ahead of Araujo to force the defender into a sending off and then whipped in a deadly ball to set up Dembele.

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  Subs & Manager

  Lee Kang-in (5/10):

  On for little over 10 minutes but had little influence.

  Marco Asensio (6/10):

  Had a good shot saved and the rebound fell to Mbappe for the 4-1 goal.

  Manuel Ugarte (5/10):

  A quiet game after replacing Zaire-Emery in midfield.

  Randal Kolo Muani (N/A):

  A late replacement for Dembele.

  Luis Enrique (7/10):

  His team started fairly strong but fell behind early on. Still, they did well to fight back and capitalise on their numerical advantage. Ensured Lewandowski was kept quiet while Dembele, Barcola and Mbappe overpowered their hosts.

After suffering play-off heartbreak last season, it's no surprise that Sunderland are once again on course to secure their shot at a place at Wembley, even if it is early days. Tony Mowbray's side currently sit inside the play-off spots on goal difference. Given how tight things are in the Championship so far this season, the January transfer window could make or break Sunderland's season.

The Wearside club weren't the busiest during the summer, with their most exciting deal coming in the form of Jobe Bellingham, who has since enjoyed success at The Stadium of Light. Further reinforcements could come through the door during January and that may include one specific target.

Sunderland transfer news

Since the end of Amad Diallo's loan spell last season, whilst Sunderland haven't been incredibly short on goals, they have missed the spark that the Manchester United youngster provided. Another attacking addition could be made a priority in the New Year, and that's where Luciano Rodriguez comes in.

According to reliable reporter Alan Nixon on his Patreon, relayed by The 72, Sunderland are eyeing a move for Rodriguez, who has continued to impress for Uruguay top flight side Liverpool. The forward can play in any of the front three roles, which could hand Mowbray a major boost when it comes to positional depth. Though considered an ambitious deal, Sunderland will reportedly have the funds available following the sale of Ross Stewart during the summer transfer window.

It remains to be seen whether the Black Cats can secure a deal, but the fact that they've scouted Rodriguez suggests that they're certainly keen on the Liverpool forward.

"Incredible" Rodriguez would boost Sunderland's promotion chances

At just 20-years-old, Rodriguez's stats show that he is seemingly a player full of potential and someone that Sunderland should be desperate to sign. At Liverpool this season, the forward has been involved in 10 goals in 27 appearances to attract the interest of Mowbray and co. The Uruguay U20 may only get better with time too, and could even look to follow in the footsteps of his compatriots, Luis Suarez and Darwin Nunez, by enjoying success in English football, potentially starting with promotion at Sunderland.

January looks set to be an important month for Rodriguez's career, especially if the Black Cats make their move. In the Championship, he'd likely gain even more attention and even more praise after already impressing the likes of Football Talent Scout's Jacek Kulig, who said:

"Luciano Rodríguez is absolutely incredible at Sudamericano U-20. Already one of the biggest individual winners of the tournament without a doubt."

As Sunderland look to finally replace the spark of Diallo, who played a pivotal part in their play-off push last season, Rodriguez could be the player to turn to and feature alongside star man Jack Clarke. Throughout his career so far, the versatile forward has shown several signs that he's only just getting started when it comes to goals.

Everton have formally filed an appeal against their second points deduction for violating the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.

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• Everton hit with two-point deduction
• Officially lodge appeal against deduction
• Hearing to be concluded by May 24

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Toffees received a second punishment last week after admitting a £16.6 million violation for the three-year cycle till the 2022–23 season. Earlier this season, they were punished with a ten-point deduction, which was later reduced to a six-point deduction for violating PSR regulations during the evaluation period before the 2021–22 season. The news of the official appeal being lodged by Everton was announced by the BBC.

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• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  According to an independent panel, Everton violated the profit and sustainability regulations (PSR) by £16.6 million during the three years leading up to 2022–2023 — a limit that allows teams to lose up to £105 million over three years, which was the reason why they have been handed the second deduction. They currently sit in 16th place in the Premier League, just two points clear of the relegation zone.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  The Merseyside team may still lose points due to interest expenses incurred in the construction of their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, although it is unlikely that this matter will be settled before the end of the season.

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• WHAT NEXT FOR EVERTON?

  The hearing for the second appeal will have to be concluded by May 24 at the latest, which will be five days after the end of the Premier League. Everton will be in action later tonight when they travel to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea.

The Premier League is perhaps the most entertaining league in the world, showcasing a perfect blend of tribalism, rivalry and high-octane action.

Throughout its 31-year existence, the division has become the most-watched across the globe as fans cherish its unpredictable nature.

Indeed, be it through polarising VAR decisions, referee mistakes or reckless challenges, the top-flight is arguably at its best when things get a little heated.

With that in mind, Football FanCast take a look back through the history books at the most controversial Premier League games of all time.

13

Man United given penalty after the full-time whistle

26th September 2020: Brighton & Hove Albion 2-3 Manchester United

Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s Manchester United side secured a last-gasp victory at the Amex Stadium as Bruno Fernandes converted from the spot in stoppage time.

Referee Chris Kavanagh had actually blown for full-time seconds prior, but VAR recommended him to the screen after spotting Neal Maupay’s handball.

After a brief look at the monitor, Kavanagh pointed to the spot, leaving Brighton players incensed – nothing like this had ever happened before in the Premier League.

And if that wasn’t frustrating enough for the Seagulls, they hit the woodwork five times and had two goals chalked off in the incident-packed affair.

Fernandes’ 20/21 stats	Appearances	Goals	Assists
Premier League	37	18	11
Europa League	9	5	4
Champions League	6	4	1
FA Cup	3	1	0
EFL Cup	3	0	1

12

Sparks fly at the Battle of Old Trafford

21st September 2003: Manchester United 0-0 Arsenal

Perhaps the most iconic game in Premier League history, although funnily enough, it was a pretty dull affair for much of it until the blue touchpaper was lit with 10 minutes remaining.

Patrick Vieira’s petulant kick-out at Ruud van Nistelrooy saw the towering French midfielder sent off for a second bookable offence which sparked a mass squabble between the two sets of players as several Gunners felt the Dutchman’s over-the-top reaction played a part.

Tempers were still flared when Martin Keown hauled down Diego Forlan in the penalty area, prompting referee Steve Bennett to controversially point to the spot.

Already unpopular among the travelling Arsenal supporters, van Nistelrooy stepped up to rub salt in the wounds of the Gunners and secure victory in the dying embers of the intense encounter to put his side top of the table.

But incredibly, the prolific Dutch forward lashed his effort onto the bar and Keown was quick to let him know about it…

The referee’s full-time whistle sounded swiftly after and the Arsenal players began to gloat in front of the dejected van Nistelrooy, provoking another row between the two sides.

2003/04 Premier League top goalscorers
Player	Team	Goals
Thierry Henry	Arsenal	30
Alan Shearer	Newcastle United	22
Louis Saha	Fulham/Manchester United	20
Ruud van Nistelrooy	Manchester United	20
Nicolas Anelka	Manchester City	17

11

Chelsea defeat nine-man Spurs in chaotic tie

6th November 2023: Tottenham Hotspur 1-4 Chelsea

One of the craziest games of football you will ever see. Littered with controversial decisions throughout, the London derby certainly delivered for the neutrals – not so much for Spurs fans, though.

Here are the timeline of events that unfolded at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium:

Minute	Event
6	Kulusevski: GOAL
14	Son goal disallowed
18	Udogie booked (VAR check for possible red)
21	Sterling goal disallowed
21	Romero VAR check for red card
33	Caicedo goal disallowed
34	Romero red card & penalty
35	Palmer: GOAL
38	Jackson goal disallowed
41	Postecoglou booked
45+1	Maddison & van de Ven forced off through injury
45+10	Sarr, Jackson & Colwill all booked
55	Udogie second yellow card and red
74	Jackson: GOAL
78	Dier goal disallowed
90+4	Jackson: GOAL
90+7	Jackson: GOAL

So it was quite the evening in north London, to say the least, with shades of the ‘Battle of the Bridge’ – the game that crowned Leicester City Premier League champions in 2016.

Perhaps most controversially, however, was VAR’s decision not to award Destiny Udogie a red card for his challenge on Raheem Sterling in the 18th minute and then just a few minutes later, Cristian Romero’s kick out at Levi Colwill which went unpunished.

Ranking the Premier League’s worst VAR decisions

10

Pickford's horror tackle on Van Dijk mars Merseyside derby

17th October 2020: Everton 2-2 Liverpool

The Toffees came from behind twice to remain at the summit of the Premier League table, three points above their second-placed opposition.

But the electrifying Merseyside derby was overshadowed by a horrible lunging challenge by Jordan Pickford on Virgil van Dijk, which left the towering Dutch defender in agony.

Scans later found that he sustained serious ACL damage in his right knee that required surgery, keeping him sidelined for nine months.

Incredibly, Pickford’s horror tackle inside the penalty area went unpunished. Whilst van Dijk was offside, VAR still should have intervened and red-carded the England No. 1.

The Premier League table, as it stood:

#	Team	P	GD	Points
1	Everton	5	7	13
2	Liverpool	5	0	10
3	Aston Villa	3	9	9
4	Leicester City	4	5	9

9

Feisty 'Battle of the Bridge' sees Leicester crowned as champions

2nd May 2016: Chelsea 2-2 Tottenham Hotspur

The visitors raced away into a two-goal lead after prolific duo Harry Kane and Son Heung-min both netted to stun Stamford Bridge heading into the half-time interval.

Gary Cahill pulled one back shortly after the break before Eden Hazard curled home a marvellous leveller in the 83rd minute to send the home support into raptures.

Leicester City fans, too, would’ve celebrated Hazard’s goal like their own, as the Foxes inched closer to a truly extraordinary title triumph.

As referee Mark Clattenberg blew for full time, with Leicester crowned champions, tempers began to spill over on the touchline.

The game was later labelled ‘Battle of the Bridge’, due to the tough tackles, yellow cards and touchline melees.

Spurs received nine yellow cards – the most by a single team in Premier League history – and if the game had VAR, Moussa Dembele would’ve likely seen red for his eye gauge on Diego Costa and Erik Lamela for his lunging challenge and stamp on Cesc Fàbregas.

2015/16 Premier League table, the top 10:

#	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	Points
1	Leicester City	38	23	12	3	32	81
2	Arsenal	38	20	11	7	29	71
3	Tottenham Hotspur	38	19	13	6	34	70
4	Manchester City	38	19	9	10	30	66
5	Manchester United	38	19	9	10	14	66
6	Southampton	38	18	9	11	18	63
7	West Ham United	38	16	14	8	14	62
8	Liverpool	38	16	12	10	13	60
9	Stoke City	38	14	9	15	-14	51
10	Chelsea	38	12	14	12	6	50

8

Invincibles' unbeaten run ended by Mike Riley and Pizzagate

24th October 2004: Manchester United 2-0 Arsenal

United ended Arsenal’s 49-game unbeaten run in the Premier League as van Nistelrooy and Wayne Rooney both netted in the tough-tackling encounter.

The game was pre-VAR of course but had it not been, the hosts may well have had van Nistelrooy sent off for his raking challenge on Ashley Cole.

Gary Neville was also fortunate to escape a red card after his two mistimed tackles on José Antonio Reyes, while Fredrik Ljungberg was taken out by Rio Ferdinand when bearing down on the United goal.

Typically, Van Nistelrooy went on to net the opener from the penalty spot – something he failed to do 13 months earlier in the fixture – after a hugely contentious decision, as Sol Campbell was harshly adjudged to have felled Wayne Rooney.

Rooney then stroked home Alan Smith’s cross to make sure of the victory on his 19th birthday, and the full-time whistle sounded shortly after.

But it didn’t end there, as a bust-up ensued in the tunnel before Fàbregas launched a pizza slice which struck Sir Alex Ferguson in the face, prompting the fierce game to be remembered as ‘Pizzagate’.

Read more: 10 memorable Cesc Fabregas moments

“This slice of pizza came flying over my head and hit Fergie straight in the mush. The slap echoed down the tunnel and everything stopped, the fighting, the yelling, everything. All eyes turned…to see this pizza slip off that famous puce face and roll down his nice black suit,” Cole recalled in his autobiography.

2004/05 Premier League top scorers:

Player	Team	Goals
Thierry Henry	Arsenal	25
Andy Johnson	Crystal Palace	21
Robert Pirès	Arsenal	14
Frank Lampard	Chelsea	13
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink	Middlesbrough	13

7

Mistaken identity sees Kieran Gibbs wrongly dismissed

22nd March 2014: Chelsea 6-0 Arsenal

Arsene Wenger’s 1,000th game in charge of the Gunners was a day to forget, as the 10-man visitors were hit for six.

José Mourinho’s side found themselves 2-0 up inside seven minutes, and matters were only made worse when Kieran Gibbs was sent off. However, it was Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain who should’ve walked following his goal-line handball, which resulted in a penalty.

Referee Andre Marriner later apologised for the mistake and Gibbs’ red card was rescinded, whilst the guilty Oxlade-Chamberlain was also cleared as an independent regulatory commission found that Eden Hazard’s shot was going wide before being handled by the former Southampton midfielder.

The fact neither should’ve been sent off made matters worse for Marriner, who compounded Arsenal’s miseries as they shipped a further three goals after the subsequent penalty was converted.

The Premier League table, as it stood:

#	Team	P	GD	Points
1	Chelsea	31	39	69
2	Liverpool	30	44	65
3	Manchester City	28	49	63
4	Arsenal	30	19	62

6

Liverpool beaten by beach ball goal at Sunderland

17th October 2009: Sunderland 1-0 Liverpool

Sunderland leapfrogged above the visitors into seventh with victory, though the 1-0 affair produced perhaps the most bizarre goal ever scored in the Premier League.

Darren Bent opened the scoring in the fifth minute after his right-footed shot struck a beach ball and deflected in past Pepe Reina, who looked bewildered.

Even Bent appeared to glance at the referee – fearing that his effort may be chalked off – as he began to wheel away in celebration.

The goal was awarded by referee Mike Jones despite the laws of the game noting that he should have instead opted for a drop ball.

The starting lineups, that afternoon:

Sunderland	Liverpool
Craig Gordon	Pepe Reina
Phil Bardsley	Glen Johnson
George McCartney	Daniel Agger
Michael Turner	Jamie Carragher
Anton Ferdinand	Martin Škrtel
Steed Malbranque	Fábio Aurélio
Lorik Cana	Yossi Benayoun
Andy Reid	Ryan Babel
Lee Cattermole	Lucas Leiva
Darren Bent	Jay Spearing
Kenwyne Jones	Dirk Kuyt

5

Full-time whistle goes as Everton score

21st April 2000: Everton 0-0 Liverpool

Goodison Park staged the rainy Merseyside derby as Everton and Liverpool couldn’t be separated, with the game ending goalless. However, perhaps it shouldn’t have…

In the dying embers of the affair, Liverpool keeper Sander Westerveld struck the back of Don Hutchison from a goal kick and the ball deflected back into his own net.

But the referee had already blown his full-time whistle and Everton players began to fiercely remonstrate the decision. Toffees boss Walter Smith suggested that Graham Poll blew early before the scheduled two minutes of added time had been played.

Poll denied the suggestions: “I looked at my watch and saw that it was the last kick of the game. We had had the correct amount of time for stoppages so I blew. I blew for time as he kicked the ball but some of the Everton players got excited as happens in derby games. But I was very clear in my own mind.”

4

Drogba's offside goal swings title race

3rd April 2010: Manchester United 1-2 Chelsea

United were dealt a major late blow in the title decider when substitute Didier Drogba netted a winner with just 11 minutes of normal time remaining.

However, replays showed that Drogba was in an offside position when Salomon Kalou put him through on goal, but the linesman adjudged him to be onside.

The Blues leapfrogged the reigning champions to move top with five games remaining, and they would go on to win the title for the first time since 2006.

United finished second, a point behind the west Londoners.

The final Premier League table:

#	Team	P	GD	Points
1	Chelsea	38	71	86
2	Manchester United	38	58	85
3	Arsenal	38	42	75
4	Tottenham Hotspur	38	26	70

Leeds United were left frustrated as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Rotherham United away from Elland Road in the Championship last Friday night.

Crysencio Summerville provided the Whites with the opening goal as the Dutch winger curled the ball into the far corner after being played in by Georginio Rutter.

However, an equaliser before half time after some sloppy defending inside the box allowed the hosts to level the scores and Daniel Farke's side were unable to find a second goal to secure all three points.

Wilfried Gnonto was one of the players brought on to make an impact and failed to contribute to a winning performance with his cameo off the bench.

The Italy international managed zero shots on target, zero dribbles completed, and zero key passes in 20 minutes on the pitch in the 1-1 draw.

It has been a difficult start to the season for the former Zurich forward and it remains to be seen whether or not he will still be a Leeds player by the end of the upcoming January transfer window.

Leeds transfer news – Wilfried Gnonto and Ryan Kent

It was reported by Football Insider earlier this month that the Yorkshire-based outfit are prepared to cash in on the winger at the start of next year.

However, they will only opt to part ways with the 20-year-old prospect if their valuation is met and they are willing to keep hold of him beyond January if no acceptable offers arrive at their doorstep.

Last month, TEAMtalk claimed that Everton, Roma, and Lazio are all eyeing up a potential swoop to sign the Italian youngster in 2024.

The outlet claimed that there is a £25m price tag on his head and that sources close to the player view a transfer in January as being possible.

This comes after the attacker handed in a transfer request and failed to secure a switch to Goodison Park to join the Toffees during the summer transfer window, as the top-flight team had offers rejected for him and were unable to convince the recently-relegated club to do a deal.

If Leeds do move him on, Farke could land a dream replacement for Gnonto in a move to sign Fenerbahce winger Ryan Kent, who is a reported target for the club.

TEAMtalk have stated that the Whites, along with Premier League side Bournemouth and Scottish giants Rangers, are monitoring his situation ahead of January.

The Turkish outfit are prepared to send him out on loan for the second half of the 2023/24 campaign after a poor start to life in the Super Lig. He has not adjusted to his new surroundings and teammates and all parties appear ready to resolve the situation with an exit.

It was also stated that Fenerbahce would be open to including an option-to-buy at the end of any loan deal for a fee within the region of £6m. This means that Leeds could bring him in on loan with a view to signing him permanently if they are promoted to the Premier League.

Gnonto's season in numbers

Kent could come in as a dream replacement for Gnonto as the winger could provide more quality in the immediate future than the young ace, who has struggled to deliver so far.

The former Inter prospect has been given plenty of opportunities to impress by Farke in the Championship this season but has been unable to make an impact at the top end of the pitch on a regular basis.

His cameo against Rotherham was not a flash in the pan for the talented forward as it was a familiar showing from him – with a distinct lack of involvement in front of goal.

So far this season, Gnonto has played 11 league matches – including six starts – and contributed with one goal and one assist in total.

He has averaged 0.3 shots on target and 0.5 key passes per game across those 11 appearances, which shows that the £25m-rated gem rarely troubles the goalkeeper or provides his teammates with an opportunity to find the back of the net.

Therefore, the 20-year-old dynamo does not offer a regular goal threat or a source of consistent creativity, despite playing in a wide or central attacking position.

Three dream replacements if Leeds sell Gnonto for £25m in January

The Italy international has been linked with a possible move away from Elland Road this year.

By
Dan Emery

Nov 16, 2023

Whereas, Kent's form for Rangers in recent seasons suggests that the potential is there for him to come in and provide goals and assists as a winger.

The statistics that show why Kent could be a dream Gnonto replacement

The English wizard has not produced a single goal or assist in the Super Lig for Fenerbahce this season but he has only started one match.

His previous performances for Rangers, having left the Scottish side over the summer, suggest that he can score and assist goals more frequently than Gnonto has this term.

Kent produced three goals and eight assists in 29 Premiership matches for the Light Blues throughout the 2022/23 campaign. He also created nine 'big chances' and made 2.2 key passes per game to provide his teammates with a host of presentable opportunities in front of goal.

That came after the 27-year-old whiz plundered two goals and eight assists in 27 league outings for the Gers during the 2021/22 season. In that time, the former Liverpool prospect created ten 'big chances' and made 1.7 key passes per clash.

Former Rangers boss Steven Gerrard once described him as being "very dangerous" and his statistics over his last two seasons with the Scottish side back that up.

The £33k-per-week magician produced five goals and 17 assists in 56 league matches during that time, which is an average of one goal contribution every 2.43 outings.

Whereas, Gnonto has averaged a goal or an assist every 5.5 Championship appearances for Leeds during the current campaign, which is a considerably worse return in front of goal.

These statistics suggest that the English gem, if he can replicate his form at Rangers, could be a dream addition to Farke's squad to replace the Italy international if he moves on in January.

Even if he does not arrive as a regular starter out wide, their respective statistics indicate that Kent is more likely to come off the bench against Rotherham – or any other side in a similar situation – to make an impact in the final third.