Newcastle United’s depth in attack is certainly different to what it was at the end of last season. It’s been all change in the last few months, losing Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson, and replacing them with Nick Woltemade, who has really hit the ground running, and Yoane Wissa, who has been out injured.

They also added Anthony Elanga to their depth out wide. He’s been providing competition for Jacob Murphy on the right wing, with Anthony Gordon still the first choice on the opposite flank.

The England international has been on fire in the Champions League in particular.

Another man who has shone in that competition is Harvey Barnes.

How Barnes’ Champions League numbers compare to Gordon

It has been a fast start to Barnes’ European campaign in 2025/26. He hasn’t been a regular starter under Eddie Howe this term across all competitions, but has made a great impact off the bench.

In particular, his impact on the European stage has been a real standout. Barnes has three goals in as many games, having played just 106 minutes across that trio of appearances. He’s averaging one goal every 35 minutes this season.

Those numbers stack up well against his Magpies teammate Gordon. Their number 10 does have two more goal involvements in the Champions League this season, with five to his name. However, they have come in 265 minutes, and on average, he contributes to a goal every 53 minutes, which is more than Barnes.

The former Leicester City man had a strong impact on the game against Benfica on Tuesday night. Newcastle’s number 11 struck twice off the bench to secure all three points for his side.

His second goal was teed up by Gordon and included some lovely, sharp passing before an incisive finish from Barnes.

The winger has been excellent off the bench this season, although Newcastle have a player coming through who could soon displace him.

The Newcastle sensation who can displace Barnes

Over the last few seasons, there have certainly been some exciting talents come through the academy at St James’ Park. Elliot Anderson is someone who springs to mind, and Lewis Miley is thriving in their first team today.

However, even more exciting than the homegrown pair could be South Korean under-20 international Seung-soo Park. The 18-year-old attacker has already played first-team football for Suwon Samsung Bluewings, and is now on the fringes of the Magpies’ first team after a summer move.

The youngster drummed up a lot of interest when he first moved to St James’ Park. Newcastle’s Academy Director Steve Harper said he is an “exciting” young forward, and Seoul-based writer Seung-mo Lee once explained he is “similar to [Kylian] Mbappe,” which is high praise indeed.

Well, it has been a productive start to the season for the man compared to France’s captain. He’s actually yet to get a goal or assist in eight games for the academy, but has shown plenty of promise.

The 18-year-old has been pulling off passes like this against Mansfield in the EFL Trophy, which highlights his talent.

Some of the numbers he’s been putting up have been excellent, too.

In the game against Mansfield, he completed three out of three dribbles, and in a 45-minute cameo against Union Saint Gilloise in the UEFA Youth League, he created three chances.

Park vs Mansfield & USG

Stat

Mansfield

USG

Touches

49

33

Pass accuracy

82%

75%

Ground duels won

7/12

5/7

Dribbles completed

3/3

4/6

Chances created

2

3

Stats from Sofascore

Howe seems to rate the 18-year-old, having already put him on the bench in the Premier League.

Park was an unused substitute in the season opener against Aston Villa. He also got minutes in preseason with the first team.

The South Korean talent seems to be someone whom the Magpies can get excited about. He certainly has a lot about him, with the ability to beat defenders one-vs-one and create chances in the final third.

With the likes of Barnes, Newcastle have great depth out wide, but Park will be one to keep an eye on for the future.

Related Fewer touches than Pope: Howe must bin Newcastle star who won just 3 duels

Newcastle won 3-0 against Benfica, but there were still frustrating signs for Eddie Howe and co

Posts ByJoe Nuttall Oct 22, 2025

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.

AdvertisementAFPSlot not putting pressure on record signing

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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Reds face fellow title outsiders at Etihad Stadium

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.

Newcastle United had midfield star Bruno Guimaraes to thank yet again on Saturday as the dependable Brazilian bailed his inconsistent Premier League team out once more.

Without the South American popping up with a last-ditch effort, the Magpies would have likely had to make do with a disappointing share of the points versus Fulham.

In the right place, at the right time, to sneak an effort home after a William Osula shot nearly caught Bernd Leno out, Guimaraes has only further cemented his reputation as a Newcastle “talisman” with his heroic moment, as Match of the Day pundit Michael Carrick glowingly labelled him when assessing the dramatic 2-1 win.

Away from the beloved Toon captain, though, it isn’t entirely rosy in the Newcastle midfield ranks at the moment, with Joelinton showing visible signs of rust.

Joelinton's decline at Newcastle

When looking over some of Newcastle’s recent, modern greats, Guimaraes’ fellow compatriot is surely right at the top of the list as one of the Toon’s most loved talents.

Indeed, the £40m battler has now tallied up a mammoth 232 games for Howe’s men, with 31 goals and 21 assists also coming his way, per Transfermarkt. Still, Newcastle won’t want to be bogged down by living in the past too much, with the number seven looking to be “nowhere near his best” so far this campaign, according to Magpies-based reporter Mark Douglas.

It has been a sad decline for the 29-year-old so far this campaign, with both Sandro Tonali and the aforementioned Guimaraes remaining at the very peak of their powers. In stark contrast, Joelinton doesn’t even have a single goal or assist next to his name so far this season in the Premier League, after collecting a weighty seven goal contributions last campaign.

Eddie Howe is clearly frustrated with his stalwart’s drop-off in form, having hooked Joelinton off at the half-time mark against Brighton and Hove Albion in the middle of October. Moreover, while Guimaraes stole the limelight versus Marco Silva’s men, his waning counterpart only managed to muster up one weak effort on Leno’s net.

He did win ten duels, in all fairness, but with Joelinton edging towards being 30 years of age next year, it could soon be an apt time for Newcastle to be on the hunt for some more midfield reinforcements, with the likes of Joe Willock, too, in reserve no longer cut out for the bright lights of the top-flight.

Rumours are circulating that Howe and Co. have their eye on one particular EFL star to boost their midfield options, as a dream Joelinton heir is potentially in the works.

Newcastle plot move for special star

Ross Wilson will view January as the perfect time to try and tie down some of the Toon’s best assets, as well, with talk now centring on the new Newcastle sporting director attempting to iron out an extended contract for Guimaraes.

Reports also suggest that Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney is on the agenda, with TBR Football recently revealing that the Premier League outfit is monitoring the tenacious Boro ace ahead of a potential January move, alongside top-flight rivals Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Crystal Palace.

If Newcastle are searching for fresh blood to eventually replace Joelinton, they would strike gold in landing Hackney, with the “special” 23-year-old – as he was once labelled by analyst Ben Mattinson – very much capable of a fierce strike like the relentless Brazilian, as seen in this superb effort being rifled home last season.

With 111 Championship appearances now under his belt, and with two goals and two assists heading his way this season for Rob Edwards’ men, it really does feel as if Hackney might be the revamp Howe and Co. need centrally, so they don’t have to depend on a diminishing Joelinton as much.

Games played

12

Goals scored

2

Assists

2

Touches*

80.4

Accurate passes*

52.0 (87%)

Key passes*

1.7

Ball recoveries*

5.3

Total duels won*

4.1

Staring at the above table in great detail further shows off Hackney’s obvious similarities to those of Joelinton, with 5.3 ball recoveries averaged per Championship clash definitely backing up Edwards’ claims that his number seven is a talent with “loads of energy”.

At his Toon prime, that was what Joelinton was very much known for. Yet, he pales in comparison here right now, with only 3.9 ball recoveries averaged on his end in the league above.

Of course, it’s a risk to assume that Hackney will immediately be as forceful in the Premier League. But, it could be a gamble worth exploring, rather than holding out hope on Joelinton returning to his intimidating peak.

Newcastle star who's in “form of his life” is as undroppable as Guimaraes

This Newcastle United star has now made himself as undroppable as Bruno Guimaraes after another fine display on Saturday.

ByKelan Sarson Oct 26, 2025

Paul Merson slammed a Chelsea star after the bitterly disappointing 2-1 defeat against Sunderland in the Premier League on Saturday.

Blues suffer setback against newly-promoted Sunderland

Sunderland have surpassed expectations so far this season, but the Blues would’ve been expecting to take all three points against a newly-promoted side, and the 2-1 defeat is a setback, especially after winning their previous four games on the bounce in all competitions.

Alejandro Garnacho opened the scoring for Enzo Maresca’s side after just four minutes, with the winger netting his first goal since arriving at Stamford Bridge, but Wilson Isidor’s equaliser and a stoppage-time winner from Chemsdine Talbi turned the game on its head.

A number of the home side’s players struggled, with Marc Guiu failing to make any impact on the match, and there have since been calls for Maresca to drop the striker, who touched the ball just ten times prior to being withdrawn on the 75-minute mark.

Guiu was given the nod at centre-forward, in order to accommodate Joao Pedro in an attacking midfield role, despite the Brazilian starting almost exclusively at striker so far this season.

Maresca would’ve been hoping the position change would allow the 24-year-old to rediscover his top form, but it wasn’t to be, with Merson left very unimpressed by his performance.

Speaking on Sky Sports (via Metro), the former Arsenal man said: “They need Delap back badly, they need a focal point.

“Guiu played up front and I think he touched the ball nine, ten times. You can’t do that in a team that are supposed to be dominating the ball.

“Chelsea ran out of ideas. They had winger after winger but half of them don’t go past anyone. Joao Pedro looked lost as a number ten. They struggled and were pretty poor.”

Injury may have impacted Pedro's performance

The Blues have been forced to deal with a number of injury issues in the early stages of the campaign, and Maresca revealed the former Brighton & Hove Albion man is one of many players not at full fitness.

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The Italian said: “Joao is not training every day because he is managing an injury problem. Moi is the same, Enzo is the same,

“We have four or five players that have some problems and cannot work every day. They try to make the effort and play the game. Joao struggled a little bit today but all of the players did today, so it’s not just Joao.”

That said, there will rightfully be concerns about the display, with the forward losing possession nine times and failing to get a single shot away throughout the match.

Pedro’s performance levels have been going downhill for some time now, having failed to register a Premier League goal or assist since September, and Maresca will be hoping the £125k-a-week forward can turn the corner soon.

MatériaMais Notícias

A entrevista coletiva que Leila Pereira concedeu na Academia de Futebol na última quarta-feira (11), ainda está dando muito o que falar na política do Palmeiras.

continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasPalmeirasSaiba quanto o Palmeiras ainda tem a receber de bônus por EndrickPalmeiras13/10/2023PalmeirasPaulo Nobre escreve carta aberta para Leila Pereira: ‘Descobriu o Palmeiras há dez anos’Palmeiras12/10/2023PalmeirasCom desfalques, Palmeiras se reapresenta para semana de treinos durante a Data FifaPalmeiras12/10/2023

+ Veja tabela e classificação do Brasileirão-2023 clicando aqui

Nesta sexta-feira (13), o grupo formado por 26 conselheiros de oposição divulgou uma carta respondendo aos ataques de Leila, que os chamou de ‘destruidores’, quando foi questionada pelo assunto na coletiva.

Segundo o grupo de oposição, ainda que a tenham tratado de forma totalmente respeitosa, Leila os respondeu de maneira intimidatória, os segregando dos demais membros do Conselho Deliberativo.

continua após a publicidade

A guerra entre Leila Pereira e os 26 conselheiros de oposição se dá pelo fato de o grupo exigir mais transparência da atual presidente, em relação aos contratos de patrocínio do Verdão com a Crefisa/FAM e também com a Placar Linhas Aéreas. Afinal, Leila é presidente, também, das empresas que possuem grandes negócios com o clube, hoje.

Ao final da carta, o grupo reafirma o compromisso com todos associados que confiaram os seus votos neles e que estão tentando representar todos aqueles que amam a Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras.

continua após a publicidade

+ OLHAR DO PORCO: Leila Pereira precisa aprender a respeitar a história do Palmeiras

– Por fim, não nos curvaremos aos caprichos, vontades, ameaças e ofensas daquela que tem o dever de prestar contas. Contem conosco! – diz a mensagem final da carta.

Confira a carta na íntegra:

Nós, os 26 CONSELHEIROS DA SOCIEDADE ESPORTIVA PALMEIRAS, “retaliados”, tolhidos de exercer com autonomia o mandato para representar o associado, defendendo os interesses da instituição, vimos, por meio desta, nos manifestar:

O simples ato de questionar é um direito inalienável do cidadão. Quando este exerce mandato outorgado por uma coletividade, esse direito se transforma em dever. No cumprimento desse direito/dever, nós, CONSELHEIROS DA SOCIEDADE ESPORTIVA PALMEIRAS, fizemos indagações à PRESIDÊNCIA EXECUTIVA sobre os contratos de patrocínio da Crefisa/FAM e o transporte aéreo da Placar Linhas Aéreas, haja vista, fato excepcional e relevante, onde a presidente da INSTITUIÇÃO

figura como representante da contratante e sócia-proprietária das contratadas.

Ainda que os questionamentos tenham sido colocados de maneira respeitosa, a presidente nos respondeu de maneira INTIMIDATÓRIA, nos SEGREGANDO dos demais membros do CONSELHO DELIBERATIVO, tangenciando as questões. Essa mesma intimidação se escalonou com a entrevista coletiva convocada pela própria mandatária, na qual deveria esclarecer o funcionamento da relação contratual entre as empresas nas quais possui participação societária e a Sociedade Esportiva que preside.

Quando perguntada sobre o tema, se apressou em responder que não havia qualquer conflito de interesses e, de maneira grosseira, chamou os Conselheiros que ousaram questioná-la de “DESTRUIDORES”.

Esse episódio, assim como os anteriores, demonstram uma dificuldade no entendimento das atribuições estatutárias por parte de quem exerce a presidência, que administra, por tempo determinado, uma SOCIEDADE que não lhe pertence. Devendo, portanto, acrescentar em seu vocabulário termos como: CONTRADITÓRIO, RESPEITO e TRANSPARÊNCIA.

Reafirmamos o compromisso com aqueles que confiaram a nós o mandato de CONSELHEIROS e, representaremos também a todos que amam a Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras.

Por fim, não nos curvaremos aos caprichos, vontades, ameaças e ofensas daquela que tem o dever de prestar contas. Contem conosco!

Adriano Tadeu Lívani Reale, Emerson da Rosa, Felipe Giocondo Cristovão, Francisco Vituzzo Neto, Genaro Marino Neto, Gerson Clemente Guarino, Guilherme Gomes Pereira, Guilherme Romero, João Carlos Minello, José Antonio Aparecido Junior, José Carlos Tomaselli, José Corsini Filho, Juan Manuel Berrospi Carreno, Luis Henrique Monteiro Fronterotta, Luciana Santilli, Luiz Fernando Marrey Moncau, Luiz Roberto Cassab Mousinho, Marcos Antonio Gama, Mauricio Pegoraro, Mauricio Vituzzo, Pedro José Vilar Godoy Horta, Ricardo Alberto Galassi, Ricardo Spinelli Poppi, Valdomiro Otero Sordili Filho, Victor Fruges e Vinicius Feres Zucca.

حقق فريق الأهلي، فوزًا صعبًا وغاليًا على نظيره الاتحاد، بهدف نظيف، في المباراة التي جمعتهما اليوم السبت، ضمن منافسات الدوري السعودي.

واستضاف الاتحاد نظيره الأهلي، ملعب الملك عبد الله الدولي، ضمن منافسات الجولة الثامنة من مسابقة الدوري السعودي للمحترفين.

طالع.. فيديو | رونالدو يقود النصر لفوز قاتل على الفيحاء ومواصلة الصدارة في الدوري السعودي

وسجل الجزائري الدولي رياض محرز، هدف الأهلي الوحيد في الدقيقة 55 ليحصد فريقه ثلاث نقاط غالية.

ورفع الأهلي رصيده إلى 16 نقطة في المركز الخامس من جدول ترتيب الدوري السعودي جمعها من 4 فوز وهزيمتين وتعادلين.

وتجمد رصيد الاتحاد عند 11 نقطة جمعها من 3 فوز وتعادلين و3 خسائر. هدف فوز الأهلي على الاتحاد

هدف رياض محرز 🇩🇿⚽️
الوحيد «حتى الآن» في اللقاء 🔥

⁧#الاتحاد_الأهلي | #دوري_روشن_السعودي pic.twitter.com/U2vx5Eb6xF — رياضة ثمانية (@thmanyahsports) November 8, 2025

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has heaped praise on an “important” member of the squad following his return from injury.

Chelsea face Premier League title rivals Liverpool amid selection crisis

The Blues have endured a pretty underwhelming start to the 2025/2026 campaign, and it doesn’t get any easier as Maresca’s side prepare to host Premier League champions Liverpool this afternoon.

Maresca, after winning the Conference League, Club World Cup and qualifying for the Champions League last season, has been tasked with building upon 2024/2025’s feats with over £280 million spent on new recruits in the summer window.

Liverpool

£415,000,000

£187,000,000

£228,000,000

Chelsea

£285,000,000

£288,000,000

-£3,000,000

Arsenal

£255,000,000

£9,000,000

£246,000,000

Newcastle

£250,000,000

£152,000,000

£98,000,000

Man Utd

£216,000,000

£68,000,000

£148,000,000

Nottm Forest

£205,000,000

£107,000,000

£98,000,000

Tottenham

£181,000,000

£36,000,000

£145,000,000

Sunderland

£162,000,000

£44,000,000

£118,000,000

Man City

£152,000,000

£53,000,000

£99,000,000

West Ham

£124,000,000

£55,000,000

£69,000,000

via BBC

However, he is also forced to lean on a roster full of youth and a starting eleven boasting an average age of just 24.1 (BBC), with injuries crippling the tactician so far.

As October arrives, Chelsea’s absentee list includes Liam Delap, Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Dario Essugo, Andrey Santos, Trevoh Chalobah and star forward Cole Palmer — who are all set to miss today’s clash with Arne Slot’s side at Stamford Bridge.

Fofana and Tosin are not expected to return until after the international break, with the former undergoing concussion protocol, while Chalobah is serving a one-match suspension after his red card against Brighton last weekend.

Colwill is set to miss the majority of this season after rupturing his ACL in pre-season too — leaving Maresca absolutely bereft of centre-backs to choose from against Liverpool — with it being most likely that Benoit Badiashile and Jorrel Hato are given the starting nod.

Badiashile has only just returned from injury himself, starting his first game of the season in a 1-0 Champions League win over José Mourinho’s Benfica on Tuesday, and the Frenchman impressed.

Reports suggest that Chelsea insiders have pushed Badiashile’s case behind-the-scenes as a capable deputy to come in and play a significant role, despite being linked with a move away last summer.

The 24-year-old’s presence, amid Chelsea’s serious defensive shortage, now looks more imperative than ever, with Badiashile refusing a move away in the last window and declaring his love for the West Londoners.

The former Monaco star’s loyalty is being repaid by Maresca, who piled praise on Badiashile in his pre-Liverpool press conference.

Enzo Maresca praises Benoit Badiashile return as "good news" for Chelsea

Speaking to reporters, Chelsea’s boss confirmed that Badiashile is in fact an “important” player for them, and his return to the fold is “good news” ahead of their challenging face-off against England’s champions.

Unfortunately for Badiashile, his place in the starting eleven is under threat long-term.

According to reports, Chelsea and Maresca are in agreement that the signing of a star centre-back takes “priority” for January.

Meanwhile, it is also believed that Chelsea have reached out to Marc Guehi’s camp this week and could attempt to re-sign the Crystal Palace star for a cut-price fee in the winter.

Tottenham Hotspur winger Mohammed Kudus has made an impressive start to life at the club since his move to North London from West Ham United in the summer transfer window.

The Ghana international has delivered one goal and four assists in seven appearances in the Premier League, per Sofascore, this season, which included a goal and an assist against Leeds United last weekend.

It remains to be seen whether or not he will provide consistent quality, though, as the forward ended last season with a return of just five goals and three assists for West Ham in the Premier League.

Whilst there are question marks over whether or not Kudus will produce consistent performances, it is worth thinking back to possibly one of the most consistent midfielders in the club’s modern history, Mousa Dembele.

What made Mousa Dembele a key player for Spurs

The Belgian midfielder, now 38, racked up 249 appearances in all competitions for the Lilywhites, per Transfermarkt, after his move from Fulham in the summer of 2012.

Dembele was never a central midfielder who was going to score and assist goals on a regular basis, as evidenced by his return of 10 goals and 11 assists, but he was an incredibly mobile talent who could get across the pitch to break up attacks defensively and keep play ticking on the ball.

Per WhoScored, he averaged 3.2 tackles and interceptions per game throughout his career and only lost the ball through a miscontrol once per average, which speaks to both his combativeness and his ability to retain possession under pressure.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

He was so reliable and consistent defensively and on the ball under pressure from opposition players, which is why he was such a key player for Spurs for so many years in the engine room.

Whilst there is a question mark over Kudus’ consistency, there is another summer signing for Spurs who may be one of the club’s best signings since Dembele in the midfield, Joao Palhinha.

Why Joao Palhinha is one of Tottenham's best signings

The Portugal international arrived from Bayern Munich on an initial loan deal in the summer and already looks to be the best midfield signing made by the club since Dembele left in the summer of 2018.

Palhinha, whose work rate was dubbed “incredible” by reporter Kyle Bonn, has caught the eye with three goals in 11 appearances for Spurs this season, but it is his work off the ball that has been even more impressive.

The 30-year-old star, who previously excelled in the Premier League with Fulham, has been an enforcer at the base of the midfield for Thomas Frank this season, showcasing his immense tackling ability.

Tottenham’s best Premier League tacklers since Mousa Dembele left
Season	Most tackles per game
24/25	Joao Palhinha – 3.6
23/24	Destiny Udogie – 3.0
22/23	Yves Bissouma – 2.9
21/22	Cristian Romero – 2.8
20/21	Serge Aurier – 2.9
19/20	Japhet Tanganga
Stats via WhoScored

As you can see in the table above, he currently has the highest average of tackles made per game in the Premier League since the start of the 2018/19 season for Spurs, which was the club’s first year without Dembele in midfield.

This speaks to his ability to read the game, his desire to win the ball back, and his strength to complete the tackles successfully and consistently.

Palhinha averaged 5.0 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per 90 in his last full season for Fulham, per Sofascore, in the Premier League, which shows that he is a consistent defensive force in the middle of the park, and that he may have even higher levels to hit at Spurs.

Therefore, it is fair to suggest that the Portuguese star may be one of the club’s best midfield signings since Dembele because of the reliability and consistency that he brings to the team defensively.

Better signing than Kudus: Levy hit gold on Spurs star who's "like Modric"

Tottenham Hotspur have hit the jackpot with the signing of one talent in recent years.

By
Ethan Lamb

Oct 5, 2025

Renshaw gets a chance against Sri Lanka A in three 50-over matches to press for inclusion in Australia’s new-look ODI team

Alex Malcolm04-Jul-2025Matt Renshaw looms as a potential middle-order candidate in Australia’s ODI rebuild after being elevated to the captaincy of the Australia A 50-over team, while Jason Sangha’s stocks continue to rise after being named the four-day skipper for the upcoming matches against Sri Lanka A in Darwin.Australia A host Sri Lanka A in three 50-over matches, beginning on Friday at Marrara Oval, before the two teams play two four-day red-ball games starting on July 13 and July 20 to complete the series.Despite perennial Australia A captain and South Australia Sheffield Shield-winning captain Nathan McSweeney being in the squad, Australia’s selectors opted to give leadership opportunities to Renshaw and Sangha for this series. Chairman of selectors George Bailey said the decision was in line with recent Australia A series where the selectors have used matches to give players opportunities that they might not get in domestic cricket.Related

McSweeney, Renshaw and Peake star in big Australia A win

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“Selectors’ acknowledged Nathan McSweeney’s excellent leadership qualities, noting he’s a natural leader who’s demonstrated this skill with Australia A, South Australia, and the Prime Minister’s XI,” Bailey said. “The Australia A programme is often used to provide development opportunities for players who haven’t had as much leadership experience. Nathan will continue to provide leadership within the series through his experience and assistance to Matt and Jason.”Renshaw, 29, has never captained Queensland and has only captained twice in 277 professional matches across all formats, leading Somerset in two matches in the Royal London Cup (one-day) competition in England in 2022. Sangha, 25, has quite a bit more captaincy experience by comparison, having led New South Wales in two Shield games and Sydney Thunder in six BBL games. He also led Australia at an Under-19 World Cup.Renshaw has often been thought of as a red-ball specialist having already played 14 Tests for Australia, after debuting aged 20, without ever being considered to play limited overs cricket at international level. But his white-ball domestic record is exceptional, particularly in the very challenging position of No. 4.He has scored six List A centuries, two at No. 3 and four at No. 4, and averages 40.04 striking at 93.10 overall. At No. 4, his average improves to 45.07 and strike rate lifts to 97.50. In his last ten List A matches for Queensland, he is striking at 112.69, including scores of 102 off 68 against Victoria and 122 off 99 against Tasmania.Australia are set to rebuild their ODI line-up over the next two years ahead of the 2027 World Cup following the retirements of Steven Smith and Glenn Maxwell. Renshaw’s 360-degree game against pace and spin, as well as providing another left-hand option, makes him a strong candidate to get an opportunity in the near future, with Australia’s squad for a three-match ODI series against South Africa in August to be announced soon.Jason Sangha will captain Australia A’s red-ball team against Sri Lanka A•Getty ImagesSangha gets the chance to build on his phenomenal Shield season for South Australia, where he made 704 runs at 78.22 with three centuries, including a match-winning 126 not out in the final against Queensland.Australia’s selectors are desperately searching for quality top three options in their Test XI, particularly in Sangha’s age bracket. Sangha did score one of his Shield centuries last summer at No. 3 but only averages 36.78 in that position across 33 innings at the first-class level. Like so many of Australia’s batting options, his record is far superior at No. 4, where he averages 45.25 from 36 innings with five centuries and seven half-centuries.There are several other players that have a chance to impress across the Australia A series including McSweeney. Two-Test batter Kurtis Patterson and domestic veteran Jake Weatherald have both been rewarded for outstanding Shield summers and have the chance to build a case for a top-three spot in the Test team given their experience in those positions.Victorian youngsters Campbell Kellaway, 22, and Oliver Peake, 18, will also get a chance to impress across the series with former Australia captain Tim Paine coaching Australia A for the first time.Australia A one-day squad: Sam Elliott, Matt Gilkes, Bryce Jackson, Zanden Jeh, Campbell Kellaway, Nathan McSweeney, Ollie Peake, Josh Philippe, Jack Nisbet, Matt Renshaw (capt), Jason Sangha, Liam Scott, Billy Stanlake, Henry ThorntonSri Lanka A one-day squad: Kamil Mishara, Lahiru Udara (capt), Lasith Croospulle, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Nuwanidu Fernando, Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Sonal Dinusha, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Shiran Fernando, Isitha Wijesundara, Pramod Madushan, Mohamed Shiraz, Dushan Hemantha, Wanuja Sahan

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has backed Lamine Yamal to find his best form despite an ongoing groin problem. The German also looked to diffuse any further disagreement between La Blaugrana and the Spanish national setup, sharing his belief that Luis de la Fuente's coaching staff will "take care" of the 18-year-old superstar when he hooks up with La Roja for their upcoming World Cup Qualifiers.

• Yamal's niggling groin injury a cause for debate

  The wonderkid has missed seven games this season due to pubalgia; a chronic injury that comes from a tear to the small tissue in the groin or lower abdomen. While he has returned to the starting lineup in the past few weeks, Barcelona were without their young superstar for the majority of September, with Yamal also missing a La Liga tie against Sevilla in early October due to a recurrence of the injury. Flick's comments would suggest his young star is close to being back to his scintillating best. 

  Yamal's selection for Spain's upcoming fixtures against Georgia and Turkey set up a fractious exchange between club and country, with Flick previously suggesting the Spanish federation (RFEF) had previously failed to look after young stars. 

  De La Fuente bristled at that idea, pointing out that the winger has started his previous six games for the Catalonian club,  saying the winger is in "perfect condition." 

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  Flick calls on RFEF to protect Yamal

  Speaking ahead of Barcelona's Sunday night fixture against Celta Vigo, Flick said: "I ask the same of the national team we're making here: that they take care of him. He's changed, he's much better, he's training very well, he does daily treatment in the gym.

  "He can return to his best level, he's not at one hundred percent yet. We have to take care of him, here and with the national team. And I think they're doing that too."

• Yamal still performing at a high level despite injuries

  A recurring soft tissue injury is obviously a cause for concern, but not necessarily a surprise for a young player that has played an extraordinary number of games before his 19th birthday. Yamal has been able to rack up 116 games for La Blaugrana without any real injury concerns. 

  Despite his problems this term, he has continued to perform at a high level, scoring five goals and logging six assists in 10 performances for Barcelona this season. He was instrumental in saving his side's blushes in midweek, setting up a goal and bagging one of his own in the Catalonian club's disappointing 3-3 draw away to Club Brugge in the Champions League. 

  Reports in Spain also hinted at the Ballon d'Or runner up being unhappy at Camp Nou due to his injury issues, but he dismissed such fears after the midweek match, saying: "There has been a lot of talk about my groin injury, about me being sad, and it was all lies. I was the same as always, I was very happy, I was focused on my work, trying to get back to work and be able to play at this level, which is how I feel best and how I enjoy myself most."

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  International duty beckons for Yamal

  As De La Fuente has pointed out, Yamal has had a consistent run in the starting lineup of Flick's side of late. He will almost certainly be included from the off against Celta Vigo this weekend, before heading off for international duty. 

  Spain currently sit top of their group, winning all four of their games without conceding a goal. They can all but secure qualification to next summer's World Cup in North America with a win away against Turkey on November 15. That would require Turkiye to overturn a mammoth goal difference on November 18, provided they can beat Bulgaria. 

  Should Spain beat Georgia, it will be interesting to see if De La Fuente will play the 18-year-old, or try to smooth out relations with Barcelona by resting Yamal.