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Wolves have endured a tough start to the campaign, losing five of their opening six Premier League games.

A 1-1 draw with Spurs on Saturday offered some encouragement, though it was bittersweet given they led until a 94th-minute equaliser from Joao Palhinha.

The result still leaves them bottom of the table with a goal difference of -9. Cup competitions have provided some relief.

They beat Everton in the Carabao Cup third round and now face Chelsea at home for a chance to reach the quarter-finals.

But the domestic reality is clear: Wolves desperately need to rediscover consistency and firepower. Their attack has been blunt, generating the fourth-worst xG in the division – ahead of only Newcastle, Aston Villa and Burnley.

This summer also brought significant upheaval. Wolves sold Matheus Cunha to Arsenal for £62.5m and their dynamic left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri to Manchester City for £36m.

While those exits weakened the squad, they managed to keep Jørgen Strand Larsen, responsible for 22% of Wolves’ goals last season.

Newcastle had multiple bids rejected, including one worth £55m, before the Norwegian signed a new deal until 2030.

Alongside Larsen, Wolves added Tolu Arokodare, Ladislav Krejci, and John Arias.

Yet one of their most important figures this season could be found at left-back – a position vacated by Ait-Nouri.

The blow of losing Rayan Ait-Nouri

Ait-Nouri had become a fan favourite at Molineux since his arrival from Angers in 2021.

Over three seasons, he made 157 appearances, contributing 12 goals and 19 assists.

Renowned for his energy and ability to carry the ball upfield, he was as dangerous in attack as he was valuable in defence.

At just 24 years old, Ait-Nouri had already developed into one of the most exciting left-backs in the Premier League.

His progress earned him a £36m move to Manchester City in the summer, though an ankle injury has sidelined him until mid-October.

Internationally, he represented France at youth level before committing to Algeria, making 18 senior appearances since 2023.

Statistically, Ait-Nouri offered a strong all-round package.

Last season, he averaged 2.58 tackles per 90, 1.22 blocks per 90, and 2.63 shot-creating actions per 90.

Those numbers highlighted his mix of defensive solidity and attacking thrust.

Wolves’ challenge was always going to be finding someone capable of stepping into his shoes – a daunting task given his influence at both ends of the pitch.

How Wolves have found the new Ait-Nouri

Enter Hugo Bueno.

Signed from a Spanish youth side for just £3k, he now finds himself valued at £7m, as per Transfermarkt —a staggering rise of around 233,000%.

At 23 years old, Bueno has been gradually integrated into the Wolves first team, making 57 appearances to date, including six Premier League starts this season and two Carabao Cup outings.

A Spanish youth international, Bueno made his U21 debut in September 2023.

He also gained valuable experience on loan at Feyenoord, where he featured in the Champions League.

His rapid development has been crucial for Wolves this season, especially after Ait-Nouri’s departure.

On the pitch, this “exciting” talent, as described by Matt Hobbs, has shown he is more than capable of filling the void, with the pair noted as statistically similar players among those in their position in Europe, as per FBref.

The stats underline his progress.

Matches Played

20

Minutes

1,197

Tackles

9

Blocks

11

Interceptions

11

Last campaign, Bueno registered three goal involvements compared to Ait-Nouri’s 11.

Where he really stands out is in ball progression: he averages 4.59 progressive carries per 90 (to Ait-Nouri’s 2.58) and 3.61 progressive passes per 90 (versus 3.13).

His 85.7% pass completion rate also edges Ait-Nouri’s 84.2%. Defensively, Bueno is still finding his feet.

He averages 1.35 tackles per 90 compared to Ait-Nouri’s 2.58, and his 0.83 blocks per 90 are also slightly lower. But his attacking profile makes him a dynamic presence.

He creates 2.56 shot-creating actions per 90, almost on par with Ait-Nouri’s 2.63, showing his ability to contribute in the final third.

Wolves’ season will depend on more than just their left-back, but the emergence of Bueno has softened the blow of losing Ait-Nouri.

For a player signed for a nominal fee, he represents one of the best bargains in the Premier League – a reminder that sometimes the best solutions can come from within.

If Wolves are to climb off the bottom and restore their competitive edge, Hugo Bueno may just be the man to help lead them forward.

Pereira may have found the new Cunha in Wolves' "tremendous ball-carrier"

Has the new Matheus Cunha arrived at Wolves?

ByWill Miller Sep 30, 2025

Unbroken stand of 249 with Chris Benjamin lifts visitors from trouble at 137 for 6

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay16-May-2025Grant Stewart posted a brilliant swashbuckling hundred to inspire a notable Kent fightback on the opening day of the Rothesay County Championship match against Gloucestershire at the Seat Unique Stadium in Bristol.Their backs firmly against the wall after being reduced to 137 for 6, the visitors were indebted to the seventh-wicket pair of Stewart and Chris Benjamin, who staged a revitalising unbeaten stand of 249 in 56 overs to rescue a parlous situation. Stewart registered a career-best score of 173 not out from 174 balls with 19 fours and five sixes, while Benjamin contributed a cautious yet chanceless 82 not out, hewn from 212 deliveries with five fours, as Kent reached the close on 386 for 6.Stewart and Benjamin made history in the Bristol sunshine, establishing a record seventh-wicket stand in all matches for Kent, eclipsing the 248 scored by Arthur Day and Punter Humphreys against Somerset at Taunton in 1908. It was a remarkable turnaround in fortunes after Gloucestershire’s bowlers had dominated the first few hours, Ajeet Singh Dale claiming 4 for 97 and Tom Price and Josh Shaw weighing in with a wicket apiece to justify captain Cameron Bancroft’s decision to bowl first.If Kent mindsets were fragile following defeat by an innings and 161 runs at the hands of Glamorgan last time out, Gloucestershire’s bowlers certainly took full advantage. But the visitors will now feel they have the upper hand after Stewart and Benjamin turned the tables in such comprehensive fashion, banking three batting bonus points which had appeared beyond them earlier in the day.Requiring a solid start, Kent achieved exactly the opposite, Harry Finch pursuing Shaw’s second delivery of the day outside leg stump, offering a tame catch to James Bracey behind the stumps and departing for 1. That set the tone, Tom Price sending down four maidens in five overs that yielded just one run as Ben Compton and Daniel Bell-Drummond fought to see off the new ball.Their resistance quickly crumbled in the face of a fiery spell from Singh Dale, who generated impressive pace to remove both in the space of seven balls from the Ashley Down Road end. Bell-Drummond miscued an attempted drive and spooned a catch to mid-on, while Compton, having taken 19 balls to get off the mark and demonstrated no little application in moving his score to 19, drove loosely at a delivery that pitched outside off stump and was pouched by the diving Bracey as Kent slipped to 36 for 3.Jack Leaning never looked comfortable, was squared up by Singh Dale and sent a looping catch to Bancroft at second slip, at which point Singh Dale boasted figures of 3 for 22 from five overs. The only one of Kent’s top-order batters to play with any authority, Tawanda Muyeye raised 25 from 37 deliveries with four fours before edging a ball that nipped off the seam to the reliable Bancroft at second slip, affording Tom Price the wicket his accuracy deserved. In urgent need of a stabilising influence, the visitors were grateful to Benjamin and Jaydn Denly, who ensured they reached lunch without further loss on 85 for 5.Looking to play positively, England Under-19 batsman Denly helped himself to a sumptuous cover-driven four at the expense of Tom Price to signal a change in momentum as Kent’s first innings realised three figures in the 33rd over. Failing to maintain the tight lines that had characterised their work in the morning, Gloucestershire’s seamers were powerless to prevent the sixth wicket pair adding 63 in 15.3 overs.Singh Dale returned to break the partnership, beating Denly for pace with a ball that ricocheted off bat and pad and hit the top of off stump. Denly had mustered 39 from 51 balls and accrued six fours and was just two runs adrift of his highest first-class score when he departed with the board on 137 for 6.Surviving Singh Dale’s second spell, Benjamin and Stewart found the going easier thereafter as the pitch flattened out and the shine disappeared off the ball. Adopting a forthright approach from the outset, Stewart was prepared to take risks and looked to get on the front foot and drive whenever possible. He was first to 50, attaining that landmark via 51 balls as Kent passed 200. The Italy international pulled Graeme van Buuren for six to add to his half dozen fours as the visitors reached the tea interval on a relatively healthy 225 for 6 at the end of a session that had yielded 140 runs for the loss of just one wicket.Adopting a more circumspect approach, the assured Benjamin raised a half century of his own, carefully crafted from 129 balls, as the seventh-wicket alliance continued to prosper into the final session. The hundred partnership occupied 177 balls, at which point Bancroft recalled the talismanic Singh Dale. Although he went past the bat on several occasions, the 24-year-old paceman was unable to provide the breakthrough Gloucestershire coveted.Strong off his legs, Stewart positively rushed to the second first-class hundred of his career, edging Zaman Akhter to the fine leg boundary to raise three figures via 120 balls with his twelfth four. He hooked the next ball to deep midwicket and was caught by Tom Price, only for the unbalanced fielder to step over the rope and concede a six, an act which saw Stewart improve upon his previous highest score of 103 made against Middlesex at Canterbury in 2018.Gloucestershire took the new ball as soon as it became available, but were unable to curtail Stewart’s lusty hitting, the 31-year-old by now scoring at better than a run a ball to progress to his maiden 150 from 152 deliveries as Kent reached the close resurgent. Stewart and Benjamin had already set a new record seventh wicket partnership for Kent in matches against Gloucestershire, surpassing the unbeaten 151 posted by Derek Ufton and Alan Dixon at the Mount in 1960.

Antonio Cassano has jumped to the defence of Juventus boss Igor Tudor after their 1-0 Champions League defeat to Real Madrid, insisting the Croatian shouldn’t be blamed for the team’s poor run. The outspoken former striker instead called out the Bianconeri’s squad quality, warning the club that sacking Tudor would be a huge mistake.

Cassano backs Tudor after Real Madrid defeat

Juventus’ winless run stretched to seven games after a 1-0 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League, leaving boss Tudor under growing scrutiny. Despite the result, the Italian giants showed flashes of promise at the Bernabeu, pushing Madrid for large spells before English starlet Jude Bellingham’s close-range finish decided the game.

Former Italy striker Cassano has, however, leapt to Tudor’s defence, claiming the problem lies with Juventus’ underwhelming squad rather than the manager. Speaking to , Cassano praised the Croatian’s tactical organisation and mentality, arguing that the 46-year-old is doing his best with limited resources.

“Igor Tudor is great: a great person, a great coach, a great communicator, he has a great personality, and I'm on his side,” Cassano said. “At the Bernabeu, he showed that he played a great match, in a world-class stadium. He could have scored a couple of goals, he could have conceded, he played the game brilliantly. But then, guys… what kind of players does Juve play with?”

AdvertisementAFP‘Tudor is not the problem’ – Cassano's verdict

Cassano continued his defence by stressing that Juve’ tactical discipline and effort under Tudor were clear to see in Madrid. Despite missing several chances, including Dusan Vlahovic’s late opportunity denied by Thibaut Courtois, the Bianconeri competed toe-to-toe with Xabi Alonso’s side for much of the contest.

“Juve played a great 65 minutes, they attacked, they had space to attack, but then when they finished… guys, they don't have Juve-caliber players,” Cassano said. “And it's not the coach's fault, he's trying to get what he can out of them. And Juve played a great match. Real Madrid didn't steal anything because they had their chances, but if you have 3-4 players of a certain level at your disposal in that team, this time you'll score three or four goals against Real Madrid. Maybe you concede four, but if you score three, you scare them.”

His comments reflect growing frustration among pundits who believe Juve have been weakened by years of poor recruitment and short-term planning. Tudor, who took over amid a turbulent period, has been credited with bringing back intensity and structure, but Cassano warned that without better players, results will remain inconsistent. “With a team like that… Tudor is the best coach right now, the one who can keep the ship afloat,” Cassano concluded.

Juventus improving under Tudor but still lacking bite

Tudor’s Juventus have shown signs of tactical evolution, especially in defensive structure and pressing organisation. The Croatian deployed a 5-4-1 system against Real Madrid, ensuring defensive solidity while allowing width through wing-backs Andrea Cambiaso and Pierre Kalulu. Players like Teun Koopmeiners and Khephren Thuram brought physicality in midfield, while Vlahovic led the line alone.

The plan initially worked, and Juventus frustrated Real for long spells, creating several chances before Bellingham’s decisive strike. However, the lack of a clinical edge and creative spark continues to haunt the Turin side. Key absences, including Federico Chiesa and Nicolo Fagioli, have also limited their attacking variety.

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Getty ImagesLazio clash offers chance for reset

Juventus now turn their focus back to Serie A with a crucial away fixture against Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday, October 26. The Bianconeri have not won in seven matches across all competitions, piling pressure on Tudor to deliver a turnaround.

Statistically, Juve remain one of Serie A’s most active attacking teams, ranking third for total shots behind Inter and Napoli. However, their conversion rate and decision-making in the final third continue to undermine their efforts.

Juventus have historically dominated this fixture, winning 87 of their Serie A meetings with the Biancocelesti. Yet Lazio, backed by their home crowd, will be eager to exploit Juve’s fragile confidence.

For Tudor, the message from Cassano is clear, Juventus must hold their nerve, but Cassano’s warning could prove timely if Juventus are to avoid yet another managerial reset.

Leeds United head coach Daniel Farke will surely be pleased with how his side has adapted to Premier League football after their promotion from the Championship.

The last six teams to have come up from the second tier have all been relegated at the first time of asking, and the Whites, Sunderland, and Burnley are hoping to avoid making it nine from nine.

Leeds have racked up eight points in seven matches in the Premier League so far this season, lifting them above the relegation zone, in what has been an impressive start to the campaign.

They lost 2-1 to Tottenham Hotspur last time out in the top-flight at Elland Road, but they had a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth and a 3-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, which included a stunning goal from Anton Stach, prior to that.

The German central midfielder smashed his free-kick right into the top corner for his first goal for the club after his move from Hoffenheim in the summer window.

Another signing from the summer transfer window who has impressed since his arrival at Elland Road is exciting wide attacker Noah Okafor.

Where Noah Okafor ranks among Leeds United's attackers

It may not be unfair to suggest that the Switzerland international is the best and most effective attacker within Farke’s first-team squad in the Premier League this season.

Okafor, who was signed from AC Milan, has hit the ground running in English football with two goals in four starts in the Premier League, per Sofascore, which is twice as many goals as any other player in the team has managed.

He is the only Leeds player who has scored more than one goal this season in the top-flight, with his strikes against Wolves and Spurs, and that suggests that the forward is, at the very least, the most effective goalscorer in the attacking ranks.

Sofascore rating

7.06

1st

xG

1.16

2nd

Goals

2

1st

Minutes per goal

153

2nd

Big chances created

1

2nd

Dribbles completed per game

2.2

1st

Key passes per game

0.8

2nd

As you can see in the table above, Okafor ranks either first or second in a host of key attacking metrics for the Whites in the Premier League, which speaks to how influential he has been at the top end of the pitch in the early stages of the campaign.

The Swiss speedster, who scored in the 2-1 defeat to Spurs last time out, is an electric dribbler who can score goals and create chances for his teammates, which makes him an invaluable part of Farke’s attack.

Despite that, Transfermarkt have Okafor as the 13th-most valuable member of the squad, at £11m, and the seventh-most valuable winger or striker, even below Jack Harrison at £12m.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

Another player who is worth even more than the Switzerland international, despite his impressive form in the Premier League, is central defender Pascal Struijk, whom the Whites have hit the jackpot with since his move to the club from Ajax.

Leeds have hit the jackpot with Pascal Struijk

The Dutch central defender joined the club at U21 level on a free transfer at the start of 2018, as his contract with Ajax was due to expire, and he was able to rise through the ranks at Thorp Arch.

Struijk made seven appearances for the U21 team before he emerged as a regular first-team squad member in the 2020/21 Premier League season under Marcelo Bielsa, playing 27 times, per Transfermarkt.

The left-footed star has since racked up 166 appearances for the first-team in all competitions for the West Yorkshire outfit, and has started all seven of the club’s league matches this season.

Struijk was particularly important to the club’s promotion to the Premier League last season, scoring five goals in 35 appearances, as he formed a reliable partnership with Joe Rodon.

The 26-year-old titan, who scored two late goals in a dramatic comeback against Sunderland, kept 14 clean sheets in 31 starts in the second tier last term, per Sofascore, which speaks to how defensively solid the team were with him in it.

Farke has kept his faith in both Rodon and Struijk, despite the signings of Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw, in the Premier League so far this season.

The German boss described him as a “crucial” player back in 2023, and he still relies on the Dutchman, even if his performances this term have not quite been up to scratch.

Tackles

6

Bottom 34%

Duels won

19

Bottom 40%

Duel success rate

43.2%

Bottom 3%

Aerial duel success rate

46.4%

Bottom 13%

Interceptions

2

Bottom 9%

Blocked shots

2

Bottom 34%

As you can see in the table above, Struijk currently ranks among the worst centre-backs in the division in a host of defensive statistics, which suggests that he needs to improve his performances if he wants to remain in the side.

Despite his slightly concerning form at this moment in time, the Dutch star is valued at a whopping £15.6m by Transfermarkt, which means that he is worth more than Okafor (£11m). He is also the joint-fourth most valuable player at the club, per Transfermarkt.

Considering that the Whites picked him up from Ajax’s academy and he started his career in England at U21 level, it is fair to say that Leeds hit the jackpot when they signed Struijk back in 2018.

He has developed into, at the very least, a Championship promotion-winning central defender, and one of the most valuable players in the squad at £15.6m.

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At the age of 26, Struijk also has plenty of time left ahead of him to increase in value, but he must first turn his Premier League form around and show that he is good enough to start week-in-week-out in a top-flight side that can avoid relegation.

Leeds-born allrounder turned down contract extension and will move at end of season

Matt Roller17-Jun-2025Jordan Thompson, the combative Yorkshire allrounder, will make a shock move to Warwickshire at the end of the 2025 season after turning down a contract extension at his boyhood club.Thompson, 28, was born and bred in Leeds and has played for Yorkshire since Under-13s level, graduating from their academy and into the first team. But he has signed an all-format contract with Warwickshire for the next three seasons and said the move will represent a “new chapter” after making the “tough decision” to leave Yorkshire.”I’m incredibly excited to be joining Warwickshire and starting this new chapter,” Thompson said. “While it was a really tough decision to leave my home county of Yorkshire, the clear vision for the club and the opportunity to play alongside a number of familiar faces make this a truly exciting move for me.”Related

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Thompson took 32 wickets as Yorkshire won promotion to Division One of the County Championship last summer but his finest moments for them came in T20 cricket. In the Blast in 2022, he held his nerve with a brilliant 20th over to sneak past Surrey in the quarter-finals at The Oval, then hit an 18-ball 50 in defeat to rivals Lancashire at Finals Day.”The club would have loved to have kept him, but were unable to agree contract terms,” Gavin Hamilton, Yorkshire’s general manager, said. “Whilst it’s obviously disappointing to lose Jordan, we understand his reasons and would like to take this opportunity to wish him all of the best for the future.”Ian Westwood, Warwickshire’s coach, said: “Jordan is a three-dimensional, multi-format player who will be a great addition to our squad both on and off the field. He’s a quality performer who I believe still has his best days in front of him. He’s known for his competitiveness and thrives on being involved in big moments on the field. We can’t wait to welcome him to the Bears.”Yorkshire have struggled in the first half of this season: they are second-bottom in Division One after winning one of their first seven Championship matches and are propping up the North Group in the T20 Blast. Thompson has only featured once in their T20 season due to a side strain but returned in their defeat to Durham on Sunday.Warwickshire also recently announced that Danny Briggs, their left-arm spinner, will rejoin Sussex at the end of the season on a white-ball contract that will see him involved in coaching the club’s young spinners.

Wednesday, June 26 is a massive sports day with the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft, but there is also plenty of afternoon baseball to dive into, starting with the Seattle Mariners and Tampa Bay Rays at 12:10 p.m. EST. 

Every day at SI Betting, we break down our favorite props, best bets, straight up picks and home run picks in Major League Baseball. 

With a loaded Wednesday slate, I’ve narrowed down two plays – one prop and one side – for June 26. 

MLB Best Bets TodayNew York Yankees Moneyline (-148) vs. New York MetsBrady Singer UNDER 2.5 Earned Runs Allowed (-160)

New York Yankees Moneyline (-148) vs. New York Mets

The New York Yankees have been struggling as of late, losing Tuesday’s matchup with the New York Mets to fall to just 3-7 in their last 10 games. 

However, New York is in a prime bounce-back spot with rookie Luis Gil on the mound on Wednesday. 

Gil has a 2.77 ERA on the season, and while he was rocked in his last outing against the Baltimore Orioles, he has led the Yanks to a 12-3 record in 15 starts. Plus, the youngster has allowed three or fewer earned runs in 13 of his 15 outings.

The Mets are countering with Sean Manaea (4-3, 4.16 ERA), but I’m concerned about him as of late. The lefty has a 6.75 ERA in June, with the Mets going just 1-3 in his four starts. His season-long ERA has jumped from 3.63 to 4.16 in the process.

The Yankees are still one of the better offensive teams in baseball, and they scored seven runs in Tuesday’s loss. Don’t be shocked if they ride a Gil start to a win on Wednesday. 

Brady Singer UNDER 2.5 Earned Runs Allowed (-160)

Kansas City Royals righty Brady Singer has pitched well in 2024, posting a 3.29 ERA across 15 starts. 

He’s in a prime spot to build on that on Wednesday, as the Royals take on the Miami Marlins, who rank 29th in the league in OPS and runs scored this season. 

Singer has just four starts all season where he’s allowed more than two earned runs, and since a rough outing on June 11 against the Yankees, he’s rebounded to allow just four runs over 11 innings of work against the Los Angeles Dodgers and Texas Rangers.

Miami is easily the best matchup Singer has had this month, and I expect him to find his early season form where he posted a 2.63 ERA through the first two months.

Andre Onana was labelled as "The Wall" by Trabzonspor as the exiled Manchester United goalkeeper kept a clean sheet to inspire his side to a 2-0 victory over Eyupsor in the Turkish Super Lig. The once heavily criticised goalkeeper, whose time at Old Trafford crumbled under the weight of mistakes, has suddenly become the heartbeat of Trabzonspor after a string of impressive performances between the sticks.

Redemption for Onana in Turkey

Onana has swapped the bright lights of Manchester for the serene backdrop of Turkey’s northern coast. His move to Trabzonspor came as a surprise to many, especially considering the club’s modest finish in seventh place last season and absence from European competition. But with transfer windows closed across Europe and options dwindling fast, Onana needed a fresh start. Since arriving last month, the former Ajax man has made an instant impact. Against Eyupsor, he was unbeatable as he registered four crucial saves and a passing accuracy of 86%. Trabzonspor fans roared his name throughout the game, while the club’s official account later shared a striking graphic hailing him as “The Wall.”  

AdvertisementGOALA chance to rise again for Onana

After being pushed aside at United, first by Altay Bayindir and then by the signing of Senne Lammens, his confidence appeared in tatters. However, away from the harsh glare of English football, he has rediscovered his swagger. A reported pay boost, including lucrative performance bonuses, sweetened the deal, but those close to Onana insist it’s the opportunity for redemption that truly drives him. It’s not just his shot-stopping that has caught attention. In a previous match against Gaziantep, Onana produced one of the most audacious assists of the Turkish season. Charging out of his box, he launched a pinpoint long pass that sliced through the opposition defence, allowing striker Paul Onuachu to score and snatch a dramatic 1-1 draw. Reports in Turkey suggest he’s become a key dressing-room leader, helping to motivate younger teammates. 

Onana to stay permanently in Turkey?

Trabzonspor have already hinted they’d love to keep him beyond his current loan deal, which runs until June 2026. However, any permanent move will require tough negotiations, as United did not include an option-to-buy clause in the agreement. With Trabzonspor’s transfer record barely reaching €7 million, any deal for a permanent switch would demand breaking that threshold. If Onana continues his resurgence, his price tag could soar beyond the Turkish club’s financial reach. But if his form dips, United might struggle to attract serious bidders and sell him at a throwaway price to the Turkish side. 

After sealing his move to Turkey, Onana said: "I am very happy. I can say that I am very happy. I am starting a new project, a new adventure for me, I am very happy to be here. This is a feeling that makes me so happy. I've never felt so much love from people around me. It's a wonderful feeling to be made to feel at home from the very first moment. I want to start working as soon as possible and reciprocate that love by making them happy on the field. I'm always ready. Every player wants to play and take part in these kinds of matches. Of course, we'll be playing against an important and strong opponent. But we're also aware of our strength."

However, United legend, Peter Schmeichel, took aim at Onana for his error-laden stint at United and said: "You think about the goalkeepers that we’ve had over these last couple of years and how many goals we’ve conceded from errors – nine already this season – it’s too much. My instruction when I played was to save the team 10 points a season, not give them away."

He went on to lavish praise on Senne Lammens and added, "This young lad [Lammens didn’t have much to do for a long time, but he did well when called upon. You could see his confidence grow after that first save, and the defenders reacted well. It’s far too early to judge him, though; he’s young, hardly played any competitive football, and the pressure at Manchester United can be relentless. He did well, it was clean and positive, things we haven’t been used to. But we’ll really see what kind of goalkeeper he is when he makes mistakes and has to respond to them. That’s when we’ll know how good he can be.”

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AFPOnana set to face his biggest test yet

Onana’s newfound fame, however, will face its sternest test this weekend when Trabzonspor travel to Istanbul to face reigning champions Galatasaray. A win would close the gap at the top to just two points, but a defeat could halt their growing momentum. 

With Ibrahima Konate yet to sign a new contract, Liverpool are reportedly prioritising a move to sign the Frenchman’s replacement for Arne Slot in 2026.

Update on Konate's Liverpool contract

If there was ever a time for Liverpool to sort Konate’s contract it is now. The Reds have just lost three games on the bounce under Slot, who faces the toughest task of his Anfield career so far after the international break. And in that run, Konate’s form has been one of several problems.

Carragher tells Slot to copy Real Madrid amid current Liverpool "problem"

The Liverpool legend has delivered his verdict.

ByTom Cunningham Oct 7, 2025

His situation mirrors Trent Alexander-Arnold’s last season, before the right-back decided to join Real Madrid as a free agent. As the Spanish giants arrived, the defender’s form dropped and uncomfortable questions came to the fore. Whether or not the Madrid factor did play a part is hard to truly say, but that won’t stop those same questions from coming the way of Konate.

As things stand, no new contract has been signed, but negotiations are reportedly ongoing. As far as Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes are concerned, they’ll want things wrapped up before January, when Konate can start negotiating a pre-contract agreement with other clubs.

Whilst his deal continues to tick down, Liverpool will no doubt be on the hunt for Konate replacements ahead of 2026. The main name on that front seems to still be Marc Guehi, who came within hours of signing for the club in the summer.

Given that other clubs are now chasing the England international’s signature on a free deal next summer, however, the Reds have reportedly turned towards alternative options.

Liverpool prioritising Diomande deal

According to reports in Spain, Liverpool now see Ousmane Diomande as a key target ahead of 2026 and will target the Sporting Club defender to replace Konate. Represented by the same agency as Virgil van Dijk, the 21-year-old is one of the most promising defenders that European football has to offer. And now, a move to Merseyside could be on the horizon.

Described as a “hybrid” between Arsenal’s Gabriel and William Saliba by analyst Ben Mattinson, Diomande is certainly one to watch. Although he is yet to make his mark on the current Sporting campaign due to injury, his return should see him return to their strongest line-up as they attempt to secure a third-consecutive Liga Portugal title.

The Sri Lanka captain is likely to take the vacant No. 4 slot following Angelo Mathews’ retirement

Andrew Fidel Fernando24-Jun-2025Sri Lanka might be facing an 11-month Test hiatus after the second match against Bangladesh, but that won’t stop Dhananjaya de Silva from putting his mark on this team. This is the first World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for which Dhananjaya has the reins from the outset, and he’s doubling down on some of his strategies.Through the last two years, he’s been insistent that Sri Lanka have to blood seamers at home, so they are prepared for overseas assignments. In the second Test, they may even play three seamers.Related

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“We’ve got 12 in the squad, and we’ve got options, because our weather is changing from time to time as well,” he said on the eve of the Test. “We were hoping to go with three seamers, but it’s hard to tell exactly – the pitch also looks flat.”Part of Sri Lanka’s thinking seems to be that Bangladesh are more likely to lose wickets to their seam bowlers than spinners. In the last series these two teams played, for example, their top three seamers (Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Kasun Rajitha) took 29 wickets between them, placing first, second and third on the series wicket-takers’ list.For this match, Asitha Fernando is almost certain to play, while Rajitha and Vishwa may also enter the XI. Isitha Wijesundara, an uncapped right-armer, is in the squad as well.”Not just in the last series in Bangladesh, even in the previous one it was pace that got a lot of wickets,” Dhananjaya said. “We talked a lot about how the seamers got about 70% of their wickets. But it’s not easy to play seamers on these pitches, but we’re trying to play three. Let’s see what the pitch is like tomorrow morning.”Dhananjaya de Silva averages 43.95 from No. 6 but 20.33 from No. 4•AFP/Getty ImagesThere is also the question of who will play in place of the retired Angelo Mathews at the newly-vacant No. 4 position. Dhananjaya himself will leap up the order to second drop. Though he’s clearly been effective at No. 6, averaging 43.95 in that position, a move up the order is something of a risk. In six innings at No. 4, Dhananjaya averages 20.33 so far.”If you think I’m good enough, I’m ready to bat at four,” Dhananjaya joked when asked who’d fill the gap. “I’m set to bat there.” He had also batted at No. 3 between 2017 and 2018 with mixed results. He played an impressive match-saving, second-innings hundred against India from that position, but over 18 innings there, he averaged 32.88 with two hundreds and two fifties.He’s been an improved batter in the last several years, however. Since 2020, Dhananjaya has averaged 43.85, compared with a pre-2020 average of 34.47. Which leaves the question of who replaces him at No. 6?Another of Dhananjaya’s hallmarks has been to blood young players, with both Lahiru Udara and Tharindu Ratnayake having made their debuts in the first Test. In this game, Sonal Dinusha, the left-arm spin allrounder with 99 first-class wickets and seven first-class tons, seems set to play his first match.”With the wicket the way it is and if we need a spinner, I think Sonal is the best option,” Dhananjaya said. “For now there’s a big chance he will play.”

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has urged patience with Alexander Isak as the striker returns to full training ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Manchester City. The £125 million record signing has missed four games with a groin injury, but Slot insists the Swedish forward needs "time" to regain match sharpness after a frustrating stop-start beginning to life at Anfield.

Isak could be available for Man City clash

Isak is set to return to Liverpool training after three weeks on the sidelines as Slot’s side prepare for a crucial trip to Manchester City this weekend. The Swedish forward, who sustained an adductor injury during last month’s 5-1 Champions League victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, has not featured since and has spent the past fortnight undergoing a personalised rehabilitation programme. Liverpool’s medical team confirmed that Isak is now back in full training, though his availability for the City game will depend on how he responds over the next 48 hours.

The 26-year-old’s return is a timely boost for Slot during a demanding stretch of fixtures. Isak’s absence has coincided with a dip in Liverpool’s attacking efficiency, forcing the Reds to rely on wide Hugo Ekitike, Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo to shoulder the goalscoring burden.

However, Isak’s fitness woes have become a recurring theme since his blockbuster summer move from Newcastle United. After missing most of pre-season due to transfer complications, he has struggled to find rhythm or consistency in Slot’s system. The Liverpool manager has therefore stressed the importance of easing his record signing back carefully, with no desire to risk a relapse ahead of a congested winter schedule.

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Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Slot confirmed Isak’s return to team training and cautioned against expecting an immediate impact. "He will train for the first time today with the team again, after being three weeks out," Slot said. "I know that I said three weeks ago that his pre-season has ended, so now it’s time for us to see where he is. But I have to come back to those words, because if you are only three weeks with the rehab, that doesn’t bring you back to the levels he was three weeks ago."

Praising Liverpool’s medical staff for their work behind the scenes, Slot continued: "Although our rehab team is doing an incredible job, you cannot compare rehab with games of football or training sessions with the team. As much as we try to replicate it, that’s simply not possible. So, again I have to say, give him some time."

(C)Getty ImagesMassive fee on Isak's mind?

Isak’s return comes amid mounting scrutiny over his early struggles since completing a £125 million ($164m) switch from Newcastle in the summer, a move that made him the most expensive player in British football history. The transfer saga dominated headlines throughout pre-season, with reports claiming the forward pushed to force through the deal, leading to tension with his former club. As a result, Isak began his Liverpool career behind schedule, lacking match fitness and sharpness during his first few weeks under Slot.

That slow start has been compounded by injuries. The striker has missed multiple fixtures due to persistent muscle problems, preventing him from developing chemistry with key teammates like Salah, Gakpo, and Ekitike. His current record – one goal and one assist in eight appearances – stands in stark contrast to his prolific spell at Newcastle, where he scored 54 goals in 86 league games.

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Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Manchester City will provide the first major test of Slot’s injury management approach. While Isak is expected to be included in the travelling squad, the likelihood is that he will begin on the bench with Ekitike starting instead. Slot and his medical staff will make a late decision after assessing Isak’s reaction to full training, but the emphasis remains on caution rather than risk.