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Will Celtic appoint a new manager during this international break?

Following Sunday’s 4-0 Premiership victory over Kilmarnock, interim manager Martin O’Neill honestly admitted that he does not know whether or not he will still be in charge when the Hoops are next in action against St Mirren in Paisley a week on Saturday.

Reports this week suggest the board are intensifying their search for Brendan Rodgers’ long-term replacement, currently in London holding talks with candidates, with a leading target having now emerged.

Whoever takes charge, considering Celtic will play 11 matches, including a League Cup Final, before the transfer window opens, will need to get the best out of the Hoops’ current squad, so could landing their dream target be good news for the club’s best attacker?

The 'frontrunner' to become Celtic manager

As has been widely reported, Kieran McKenna, Wilfried Nancy, Craig Bellamy and Robbie Keane are among the candidates to become Celtic manager.

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However, their dream candidate all along has been Bodø/Glimt boss Kjetil Knutsen, who, according to a report by TEAMtalk, ‘remains a frontrunner’.

They claim that a move to Glasgow is viewed as the ‘perfect next step’ for the 57-year-old, who is out of contract in the Arctic Circle later this year, having worked miracles with Bodø/Glimt since being appointed in 2018.

His team demolished Ange Postecoglou’s Celtic 5-1 on aggregate in a Conference League tie back in February 2022, so could he soon be returning to Parkhead, only this time in the home dugout?

And would his arrival help to get the best out of Daizen Maeda?

Why a change of manager could revive Maeda

Earlier this season, Maeda revealed that he had asked to leave Celtic this summer to take the next step in his career, but was not allowed to do so, following the sales of Nicolas Kühn and Adam Idah, while no replacements for them were even brought in until the final hours of the window.

Well, after scoring 33 goals last season, the Japanese forward has not been at his scintillating best this time round, scoring only four goals so far, most notably nodding home the stoppage time winner against Motherwell, also on target against Killie last weekend.

Overall, most of Maeda’s statistics have decreased this season, as the table below highlights.

Goals

0.6

0.5

Assists

0.4

0.3

Shots

1.8

2

Conversion rate %

32.65%

21.43%

Big chances missed

0.6

0.83

Chances created

1.5

1.2

Big chances created

0.35

0.28

Forward passes

3.6

2.1

Touches

43.2

44.8

Touches in the box

6.6

6.6

Average rating

7.31

6.87

As the table documents, the majority of Maeda’s numbers have endured a downturn this season, including goals, shooting accuracy and chance creation, missing more big chances on a per-90 basis too.

When the Japanese international is at his best, he is able to ferociously close down defenders and burst into space, as this goal in last season’s League Cup Final highlights, something he has not been allowed to do very often this season, hindered by the Celts’ stodgy style of play.

However, could that all be about to change, allowing Maeda to rediscover his best form?

The reason Knutsen is the outstanding candidate is that he has completely transformed Bodø/Glimt.

When he was appointed manager in 2018, the Yellow Horde were still in the Norwegian second tier, but they have now won four of the last five Eliteserien titles, chasing another with two games to go of this campaign.

Having said that, Bodø/Glimt have really made a name for themselves in Europe, reaching the Conference League quarter-finals in 2022 and last season’s Europa League semi-finals, qualifying for the Champions League group stages for the very first time earlier this year.

Michael Stewart believes Knutsen has done an “incredible” job in the Arctic Circle, while Jan Åge Fjørtoft praised Knutsen’s “clear philosophy” and “attractive” style of play.

Across his 351 matches in charge, Bodø/Glimt have always used a fluid 4-3-3 formation which, as outlined by Total Football Analysis, features attacking full-backs, thereby allowing the wide-attackers to drift inside and score goals.

Meantime, as documented by the Coaches’ Voice, Knutsen’s team consistently rank highly in terms of ‘most dribbles and 1v1 moments’, favouring quick interplay and direct attacks.

Well, all of this sounds like it would suit Maeda’s skillset, whether the Japanese forward was to be deployed centrally or out wide.

Concerningly, Maeda may still harbour hopes of a move away in January, with a World Cup on the horizon, but Knutsen, should he arrive, surely would not sanction the sale of Celtic’s best attacker, while his appointment may represent such a coup that the forward is convinced that the Celts are heading in the right direction once again.

Better than Nancy: Celtic shortlist "attractive" Rodgers replacement

With Wilfried Nancy among the favourites to become the new Celtic manager, should the Hoops instead appoint a 4-3-3 boss with an “attractive” style?

ByBen Gray Nov 12, 2025

A Champions League club have made an approach for Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier, with the Frenchman’s time at Elland Road likely to come to an end sooner rather than later.

The Whites have done well back in the Premier League so far this season, steering clear of the relegation zone and more than holding their own.

New signings have settled in well and last season’s Championship players have largely handled the step up to the top flight impressively, but one figure who hasn’t featured at all is Meslier.

The 25-year-old was once a highly-rated young goalkeeper of whom big things were expected, with some even predicting that he would be Hugo Lloris’ long-term replacement for France, but he has become an error-prone figure at Elland Road, leading to him being dropped last season.

It feels like a case of when Meslier departs Leeds rather than if, with Daniel Farke making it clear he isn’t an important figure, and it now looks as though his exit may not be too far away.

Champions League club make approach for Leeds ace Meslier

According to an update from Voetbal Krant [via Sport Witness], Club Brugge have made an approach for Leeds ‘keeper Meslier, as well as rivals Anderlecht.

They are hoping to strike a deal in the January transfer window, even though it is “not an easy proposition”, but his time with the Whites is still thought to be “coming to an end”.

It feels right for all parties for Meslier’s time at Leeds to reach its conclusion, with his current situation not helping anyone, in terms of having an out-of-favour player not featuring at all at the club.

The £30,000-a-week stopper will surely want to be starting games regularly at this point in his career, and that won’t happen with the Whites, with Farke brutally honest about his shortcomings last season.

“It’s fair to say he had a poor game against Hull and his mistake for the second goal was decisive. There were a few games where he could have and should have done better. There were perhaps one or two strikes where you would expect a player of his calibre could save it when he is on the top of his game. I spoke with Illan about this and although he has had many clean sheets and many good saves he could show this with more consistency. It’s important to be honest and open.”

Leeds now lining up January approach for Carvalho, could be ideal for Farke

The Whites are looking to strengthen their squad this winter, amid concerns about a lack of attacking firepower.

ByDominic Lund Oct 29, 2025

At 25 years of age, time is still on Meslier’s side, and he is a naturally gifted goalkeeper, but once the errors started creeping in at a more regular rate at Leeds, it became clear that he had no future at the club.

Leeds man was once the 'best in the league', now Farke needs to sell him

“As a cricketing board, for me as the head coach, I want justice for everyone,” Daren Sammy said

Andrew McGlashan02-Jul-2025West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has said that “justice must be served” in relation to allegations of sexual assault made against a West Indies player, but that “the right process” should be followed.Last week, a report in the Guyana-based said that multiple women had come forward to make claims of alleged offences by the cricketer, whom ESPNcricinfo is currently not naming. It has been claimed that some offences date back to 2023. No charges have been laid.”We’re all aware of what’s been going on in the media,” Sammy told reporters in Grenada ahead of the second Test against Australia. “I’m very close to my players. I’ve had conversations with them, making sure their mental space is good.”One thing I could say is that we believe in justice. We are a community that believes justice must be served. However, there’s a process. We will continue to support in whatever way we can to make sure that due process and the right system is followed. As a cricketing board, for me as the head coach, I want justice for everyone.

“Cricket West Indies has not received any communication or official information and is therefore unable to comment at this time”CWI spokesperson

“But, as of now, it’s all allegations. And we know the justice system. You’ve got to wait for things to process the right way.”When asked about some allegations dating back two years, Sammy, who has been West Indies’ white-ball coach since May 2023 and was also given the Test job earlier this year, said: “I’m not aware of that part of it.”He would not be drawn into whether Cricket West Indies (CWI) should launch its own investigation. “I can’t answer to that,” he said. “I’m pretty sure they are doing all what they can to make sure, like I said, the right process is followed.”A CWI spokesperson said: “Cricket West Indies has not received any communication or official information and is therefore unable to comment at this time.”

Leeds United will be hoping they can win successive Premier League games following their 3-1 away win over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux last weekend.

Daniel Farke’s side picked up their second win of the campaign, thanks to goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Anton Stach, and Noah Okafor.

On Saturday afternoon, they host Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth at Elland Road, in what will be a tough clash. It presents a good opportunity for the Whites to pick up another three points against a side flying high this season; the Cherries are already up to fourth in the Premier League.

It remains to be seen if Farke plays the same team that beat Wolves. Brenden Aaronson is one player who could be dropped from the side.

Aaronson’s start to the season

Based on Farke’s team selections over the last few weeks, it might come as something of a surprise if Aaronson were to lose his place in the side. The United States international has started three of the six games he’s played in this season.

In the last couple of games, the forward, who was born in Medford, New Jersey, has started twice for Leeds, operating on the right-hand side. He even played 90 minutes in their win in the West Midlands last weekend.

Yet, despite featuring for the full game, the 24-year-old did struggle at times. Leeds Live journalist Isaac Johnson gave the attacker a 6/10 for his efforts at Molineux, and said he was “chastised by teammates or his manager of being either too erratic or too cautious” in possession.

This season, Aaronson has yet to score or assist for Farke’s side. In the Premier League, he’s only played three key passes and created two big chances. It certainly feels as though his slow start to the season needs to pick up soon, to both help the team and cement his place in the side.

If Farke does decide to drop Aaronson from the starting lineup this week, it could be perfect timing with one possible replacement back from injury.

The Leeds star who could replace Aaronson

In the last few weeks, the Whites have had to deal with a couple of injuries. Farke confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Wilfried Gnonto and Lucas Perri would both remain sidelined, but there is more to come at Elland Road.

One of those is full-back Jayden Bogle, who picked up a slight knock. The other is winger Daniel James, the man who could step in for Aaronson. Farke confirmed the Welshman “has a chance to be involved” at the weekend, but it “will take a late decision” to determine how ready he is.

It could well be the case that James is ready to play from the start. The 27-year-old would certainly add a different dynamic to the Leeds attack, thanks to his “unstoppable” direct threat, as Statman Dave once described him.

Although the former Manchester United star is yet to score this season, his form in the Championship last term was impressive. He scored and assisted 21 times in just 36 games, 10 more than Aaronson’s tally in 46 games.

The Leeds number seven also edged out Aaronson in key stats from last season. For example, the Welshman averaged 1.3 crosses completed and 8.7 forward passes per 90 minutes, compared to the USA star’s 0.4 completed crosses and 8.4 forward passes each game.

Goals

0.5

0.3

Assists

0.4

0.1

Chances created

1.5

1.9

Crosses completed

1.3

0.4

Forward passes

8.7

8.4

James’ pace on the counterattack could play into Leeds’ hands against Bournemouth. According to Sofascore, the Cherries average 48.8% possession this season compared to 43.8% for the Whites.

If they have less of the ball, James’ pace and direct dribbling would surely be more potent in transitional situations. Elland Road could see a lot of that if Bournemouth dominate the ball, as the stats suggest they will.

On top of that, the 27-year-old’s superior crossing ability would suit Calvert-Lewin far better. The Englishman has already scored a header this season, and with James’ proficiency from those areas, a similar opportunity could well arise.

If James is fit to start against the Cherries this weekend, it might well be the case that Farke chooses to start him over Aaronson.

He can steal #9 from DCL: Leeds star looks like the best since Archie Gray

Leeds might have another gem on their hands to rival Dominic Calvert-Lewin…

ByJoe Nuttall Sep 26, 2025

Thibaut Courtois has offered an unusual piece of advice to Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens ahead of his daunting Anfield test against Premier League champions Liverpool. With Anfield remaining one of the most intimidating venues in world football, the 23-year-old faces a true baptism of fire as Ruben Amorim's struggling side face Arne Slot's free-scoring Reds.

• Lammens and Man Utd to face Liverpool at Anfield

  Manchester United’s young goalkeeper Lammens is set for his biggest challenge yet as Amorim’s side travel to Anfield to face champions Liverpool on Sunday. The 23-year-old, who joined United from Royal Antwerp for £18.2 million this summer, impressed with a clean sheet on his debut in a 2-0 win over Sunderland before the international break. Having been called up by Belgium alongside Thibaut Courtois and Matz Sels, he now returns to club duty with expectations high.

  However, Liverpool have lost just three of their last 83 Premier League home games, making Anfield one of the most hostile environments in the world for visiting goalkeepers. For Lammens, who has only one full top-flight season under his belt, this fixture represents both a challenge and an opportunity to prove he belongs at United’s elite level. Amorim is expected to persist with the Belgian ahead of Altay Bayindir, whose inconsistent form has raised questions in recent weeks.

  The trip to Merseyside also comes at a critical juncture in United’s season, with Amorim’s project still taking shape. A strong performance from Lammens would not only strengthen his case to become United’s long-term No.1 but also help stabilise a back line still finding rhythm. Courtois believes that Lammens could impress at United and offered him some 'advice' for the Liverpool clash.

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  Courtois sends 'advice' to Lammens

  Courtois, who has earned 107 caps for Belgium and won two Champions League titles with Real Madrid, offered light-hearted but telling advice to his compatriot. “It’s a hard stadium,” he told Belgian media. “Maybe I should tell him to clap the home fans when he arrives at the Kop!”

  While the comment was made in jest, Courtois acknowledged just how difficult a test Anfield presents for any visiting goalkeeper. “His first game was a flavour of what United will get,” he said. “He’s a tall guy, he is not afraid to come on crosses, and he’s a kid with personality. I’m sure he can do a good job. He has a tough game this weekend, so I hope if he plays, it will go well for him. All the best to him.”

  Courtois also reflected on his own experience at the famous stadium, where he will return next month for Real Madrid’s Champions League group stage clash. “I will go there myself in a few weeks. It’s always a tough game there, and I guess Liverpool also have to bounce back after losing a few games.” His insight underscores both the unique pressure that comes with facing the Reds on home turf.

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Lammens' unconventional move to Man Utd

  Lammens’ journey to this point has been rapid and unconventional. Standing at 6ft 4in, the Belgian was signed as part of Amorim’s long-term vision to modernise United’s goalkeeping setup, favouring ball-playing stoppers capable of initiating attacks. He spent only one full season as a starter in Belgium before making the leap to Old Trafford, a move that raised eyebrows but has quickly begun to look inspired.

  In training, Lammens has been mentored by United’s goalkeeping coaches and inspired by role models such as Courtois, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Manuel Neuer. He has earned praise for his calmness under pressure and his ability to play confidently off both feet, particularly his left. Former United players, however, have questioned whether he can handle the expectations that come with following in the footsteps of legends like Peter Schmeichel, Edwin van der Sar, and David de Gea.

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• Man Utd face wounded Liverpool at Anfield

  Manchester United will look to build on their recent momentum as they face Slot’s Liverpool, who are desperate to respond after a run of three defeats across all competitions. Liverpool’s firepower, boasting 185 goals at Anfield in the Premier League since the start of the 2023/24 season, will provide a stern test. Amorim will rely on his backline and Lammens’ reflexes to keep the champions at bay in what promises to be an electric atmosphere. For the young Belgian, the clash represents more than just a league match — it’s a statement opportunity.

Inter Miami left back Jordi Alba announced that he will walk away from professional soccer at the end of the 2025 season. The former Spain international, who won 25 trophies over the duration of his career, will go down as one of the best fullbacks of all-time and a stalwart on numerous teams alongside Lionel Messi. The Spainard will turn 37 next year.

Walking away from the game

Alba announced via social media that he plans to hang up his boots at the end of this campaign. He is widely regarded as one of the best left backs to ever play the game, enjoying a decade at Barcelona, and forming a devastating attacking understanding with Messi.

Alba has been a success in Miami, too, making 63 appearances – and counting – for the Herons. 

"The moment has come to close a truly meaningful chapter in my life. I've decided to bring my professional football career to an end at the conclusion of this season," Alba said. "I do so with complete conviction, peace and happiness. Because I feel I've walked this path with every ounce of passion I had and now it's the right time to open a new chapter and close the previous one with the best possible feeling.

"Football has given me absolutely everything. Thank you to my teammates, coaches, staff, club workers and rivals who pushed me to give my very best. I want to specially thank the clubs that have shaped my life.”

AdvertisementAFPA glittering career

Alba has enjoyed an interesting career arc. For a long time, the Barcelona native was regarded as a left winger, mostly due to his stature – he is 5-7. However, he was converted to a left back during the 2009-10 season. There, he flourished, impressing for Valencia before securing a Barca move. 

His performances were enough for him to secure a consistent spot for the Spanish national team. He made 93 appearances for his country, and scored in the Euro 2012 final as Spain beat Italy. 

Getty Images SportChange in Miami

His retirement comes amid a slew of changes in Miami as the 2025 campaign comes to a close. Last week, long-time Barca teammate and current Miami star Sergio Busquets also announced that he plans on leaving the club after the season. It leaves Miami with at least one Designated Player (DP) spot open heading into next year.

Messi has not officially announced a contract extension, but multiple outlets have reported that the Argentine is expected to sign a new deal.

“Jordi has been an exceptional addition to Inter Miami and one of the standout players in Major League Soccer over these two seasons," Miami owner Jorge Mas said. "His experience, consistency, and attacking contribution have been very important to the Club’s success. Beyond the goals and assists, he has been a great asset within the team and an exemplary professional.

"Those that know me know that family is the most important part of my life, and Jordi will forever be part of our Inter Miami family. We wish Jordi all the happiness in this new stage of his life.”

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Getty Images SportStill work to be done

The season is not over, of course. Miami stand in good stead ahead of the MLS playoffs, with a late-season run pushing them into the top half of the Eastern Conference playoff spots.

They could finish as high as second if they win their remaining two games, which could be vital in securing home field advantage throughout the playoffs. 

Leeds United head coach Daniel Farke wants the club to do more business at the top end of the pitch before the summer transfer window closes next week.

Speaking ahead of the clash with Arsenal on Saturday, the German head coach outlined how he would like the rest of the window to look over the next seven or eight days.

Farke said: “Let’s see if we do even more offensive signings. One maybe two would be beneficial. I’m not too strong about numbers. I think it’s necessary to do something in the full-back position.

“Noah and Dominic are two really good options but to have two or more signings for the offensive it would be beneficial but while not doing anything silly.”

Leeds were put to the sword by Arsenal, losing 5-0 at The Emirates, after those comments from Farke, and the front three showed that they may not be up to the task of starting week-in-week-out in the Premier League.

Wilfried Gnonto, for example, was not a guaranteed starter in the Championship for the German boss last season, yet has found himself starting both games in the top-flight this term.

Why Leeds may need an upgrade on Wilfried Gnonto

The Italy U21 international only started 26 of his 43 appearances in the second tier last term, per Sofascore, as Dan James and Manor Solomon were the preferred wing pairing when fit.

Solomon’s return to Tottenham Hotspur at the end of his loan spell left a vacant position on the left flank, though, which has been occupied by Gnonto so far.

It remains to be seen where new signing Noah Okafor will fit in, as the former AC Milan man has played on both wings and as a central striker in his career.

This means that one of the forwards that Farke wants to add to the squad before the end of the window could be a left-sided attacker to fill that spot that Solomon vacated, as Gnonto has yet to prove that he can be a regular starter in the Premier League.

The Italian forward scored nine goals and provided six assists in the Championship last term, which was a solid return, but he has had a less-than-impressive start to the top-flight campaign.

Minutes

67

66

Shots

3

0

Shots on target

0

0

Key passes

0

0

Big chances created

0

0

Dribbles completed

0/2

0/2

Duels won

4/10

4/8

As you can see in the table above, Gnonto did not register a shot on target, create any chances, or complete any of his attempted dribbles in over two hours of football in the first two matches.

The 21-year-old attacker, who scored two goals in 24 games in the Premier League in the 2022/23 campaign, may not have what it takes to deliver quality on a regular basis at that level, which is why the club may need an upgrade on him.

Leeds ready to pay £30m to sign new forward

According to journalist Sacha Tavolieiri, Leeds United are keen on a deal to sign Strasbourg winger Dilane Bakwa before the end of the summer transfer window, and he could be an upgrade on Gnonto.

The reporter claims that the Whites are ‘leading’ the race to bring the French forward over to England, with Nottingham Forest also said to be interested in snapping him up.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Tavolieri adds that Leeds are ready to pay the £30m asking price that Strasbourg have placed over Bakwa’s head, which is why they are now at the front of the queue of suitors.

However, the journalist does not reveal whether or not the Whites are in active talks with the Ligue 1 side or if they have already made an offer for the 22-year-old star.

It is now down to the Championship champions to agree a deal with Strasbourg and convince the player to make the move to West Yorkshire, before Forest have a chance to swoop in.

Why Leeds should sign Dilane Bakwa

The Whites should push to bring Bakwa to Elland Road before the end of the summer transfer window because he could arrive as a big upgrade on Gnonto, as a player who can play on the right or the left flank.

Whilst the Italian gem is only 21 and has room to develop into a Premier League-grade starter, the Strasbourg star’s performances in Ligue 1 suggest that he is ready to hit the ground running with goals and assists.

Bakwa created one ‘big chance’ and registered an assist in his team’s 1-0 win over Metz in Ligue 1 on the opening day of the current season, before he came off the bench to provide another assist against Nantes on Sunday.

The 22-year-old star’s performances in Ligue 1 in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 campaigns also suggest that he has the quality at the top end of the pitch to make a real impact for Leeds in the Premier League on the left wing.

Appearances

31

30

xG

3.17

4.36

Goals

3

6

Big chances created

13

12

Key passes per game

1.6

1.6

Assists

6

8

As you can see in the table above, Bakwa has created an eye-catching 25 ‘big chances’ for his teammates in 61 games in Ligue 1 in the last two seasons.

This shows that the French star, who was described as “menacing” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, could provide more than Gnonto as both a scorer and a creator of goals, given what he has shown in one of Europe’s major leagues in comparison to the Italian’s exploits in the Premier League.

Bakwa’s ability to play on either the left or the right flank also provides Farke with flexibility in how he can set his side up. He could play Bakwa on the right, as a left-footed player, with Okafor on the left, or the French star on the left with Dan James on the right, or even vice versa.

Not just Gruev: Farke must drop 4/10 Leeds star who lost 100% duels

Daniel Farke should ruthlessly drop this Leeds flop as well as Ilia Gruev for the next Premier League game.

ByDan Emery Aug 24, 2025

The signing of the £30m-rated star would, therefore, open up a lot of interesting possiblities for the manager, tactically, whilst also providing him with an upgrade on Gnonto, on both flanks.

Managing director believes similarities with Test cricket could mean ODI leadership would make sense

Vithushan Ehantharajah06-Mar-2025

Ben Stokes hasn’t been involved in England’s ODI set-up since the 2023 World Cup•AFP/Getty Images

Ben Stokes could be one of the candidates to replace Jos Buttler as England’s limited-overs captain, with Rob Key stating it would be “stupid” not to consider the Test skipper as an option to rejuvenate a struggling white-ball set-up.The move, one of many Key is considering as men’s managing director following Buttler’s resignation after a dire Champions Trophy campaign, would see Stokes become ODI captain. In that scenario, the T20I job would likely go to current vice-captain Harry Brook.Stokes has not played ODI cricket since the 2023 World Cup, a tournament that required him to U-turn on his decision to retire from 50-over cricket, during his first summer as Test captain in 2022. He had kept his options open for a potential return for the Champions Trophy, before that decision was taken out of his hands after a second hamstring tear in six months sustained during third Test against New Zealand at the end of last year.Stokes is currently stepping up his recovery in Abu Dhabi with an England Lions training group and is expected to be fully fit to start the summer with Durham. Key was also out in the UAE, and sees no reason why the 33-year-old cannot do as he has done with the Test side and re-energise an ODI team who have lost their way.”I think nothing’s off the table really,” Key said. “You look at every single option and you think, right, what is the best thing to do? How is that going to impact on other things?”Ben Stokes is one of the best captains I’ve ever seen. So it would be stupid not to look at him. It’s just the knock-on effect of what that means.”He’s an unbelievably good tactician, which we’ve seen in Test cricket, but he’s a leader of men. He’s someone who gets the best out of people. He’s someone that, when the pressure is really on, he’s able to throw a blanket around the players and actually say, ‘no, no, this is the way forward. Keep going with it’.”They’re the qualities that you need in leadership. Ben’s, as we know, an outstanding player, an outstanding leader. It’s more about, what would that then mean to him? What would that then mean to his workload?”We don’t want to risk other things as well. But there’s always a way in England, I think, where you start looking at, ‘what if it goes wrong?’ You’ve also got to think, ‘what if it goes right?’. They’re the decisions that I have to make.”Related

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Jos Buttler quits as England's white-ball captain after Champions Trophy exit

Buttler goes down with the ship as England journey comes full circle

That Stokes has a strong pre-existing relationship with Brendon McCullum, now in charge of England across all-formats, lends extra credence to this plan. McCullum has overseen 10 defeats out of 11 since taking over the white-ball set-up at the start of the year – a stark contrast to his work overturning their red-ball fortunes in cahoots with Stokes. England have won 22 out of their 35 Tests since the pair were brought together by Key at the start of the 2022 season.There is no doubt McCullum would be open to having Stokes on board. He stated last week that he would be open to a different captain for each of the three international formats because of their contrasting strategies. Key, however, sees a synergy between Tests and ODIs that would allow Stokes to succeed with the latter.”When you start looking at it, I believe that Test cricket and 50-over cricket are probably closer than T20s, which is the outlier now. So then that makes different things.”We look at India and the way they play T20 cricket, and they’ve got all these young players coming through, but it’s their Test players that are making the difference in 50-over cricket.”The issue, as Stokes has previously outlined himself, is the schedule. This year sees England face India and Australia in legacy-defining Test series as far as Stokes’ captaincy and the Bazball project are concerned. Should the ODI job be assumed, three-match series against West Indies (May into June), South Africa, Ireland (both in September) and New Zealand (ahead of the Ashes) will be shoe-horned into his itinerary.Brook will have a similar issue, albeit one he already has to contend with as a multi-format batter. Key has no reservations about Brook assuming a leadership role given how he captained against Australia at the end of last summer in Buttler’s absence. And with Stokes on hand to guide him – as well as halve his limited-overs captaincy duties – Key sees no reason why the Yorkshire batter cannot step up another level.”I think Harry Brook would be an outstanding captain actually. I was cautious about Ben Stokes doing it and having too much, and look how that’s gone.”I think he (Stokes) might bring out the best in Harry Brook. Being able to go out there and feel like the extra responsibility sometimes ,for people, is the best thing that can happen for them. Sometimes it’s not. They’re the decisions you have to work out.”

Crystal Palace are making progress in the transfer market and have now put forward an approach to a two-time Premier League winner in the final days of the window, according to reports.

Crystal Palace look to retain Marc Guehi amid potential incomings

Marc Guehi is the man in focus at Selhurst Park after Eberechi Eze’s exit, and it remains to be seen if the England international will stay or join his compatriot by completing a move away before the window closes.

With his contract expiring next year, Liverpool are in the frame to land Guehi and Manchester City are also reportedly eyeing a late swoop to tempt the former Chelsea man north amid a backdrop of uncertainty surrounding his future.

Nevertheless, there is some positive news for Crystal Palace fans to sink their teeth into, courtesy of Fabrizio Romano, who confirmed on X that the Eagles are closing in on Villarreal star Yeremy Pino for a club record fee.

He stated on X: “Crystal Palace are in advanced talks to sign Yeremy Pino from Villarreal, exclusive story from last week confirmed. Negotiations underway between clubs to get the deal done asap, #CPFC pushing. Fee could be close to €50m.”

Leicester City playmaker Bilal El Khannouss has been a long-term Eagles target, but it remains to be seen if Oliver Glasner decides to bite before the close of play in the market, where more players will begin to become available over the coming days.

Related Crystal Palace want to complete £40m double deal to replace Eberechi Eze

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Either way, there is an inevitability that supporters will see incomings at Selhurst Park, and recent developments indicate that Crystal Palace have got the ball rolling over a late swoop for a defender who has led a distinguished career path.

Crystal Palace make approach for Manchester City's Manuel Akanji

Per Sky Sports News on X, Crystal Palace have made an approach to land Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji, who they believe could be an ideal replacement if Guehi were to move on this summer.

Defensive reinforcements will be paramount should that sequence of events occur, and the Switzerland international could be available for a cut-price fee due to his contract at the Etihad Stadium being set to expire in 2027.

Labelled “perfect” by Pep Guardiola, Akanji made 40 appearances last campaign for the Citizens, registering two assists, though he is yet to feature under the Catalan boss this term and has fallen down the pecking order.

The 30-year-old may now be set for a new challenge after three years in Manchester and Crystal Palace could be the ideal environment for regular minutes in the prime of his career, especially if Guehi is to depart by next Monday.

Pep Guardiola has claimed he would not swap his Manchester City striker Erling Haaland for any other player in the world.

Coach believes Norwegian 'above' Liverpool hitmanHaaland scored six times during international windowFoden returns for derby against Man UtdFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has hailed his new signing and Premier League record transfer Alexander Isak as "maybe the best striker in the world" but Guardiola believes his own forward Haaland is better than the Sweden hitman and every other striker on the planet.

AdvertisementWHAT GUARDIOLA SAID

Guardiola told a press conference: "Erling is a little bit above. Isak is an exceptional player. But you asked me about Erling and he is top. Isak must be a top player because of what they paid. It's a game of opinions. Another one would say [Kylian] Mbappe, [Lionel] Messi, Cristiano [Ronaldo]… I wouldn’t change Erling for anyone. I know him. I like him."

Getty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Haaland has scored three goals already this season although he missed several big chances in City's last outing against Brighton as Guardiola's side slid to their second defeat in three matches. The striker, however, is in frightening form ahead of the derby against Manchester United on Sunday, having scored five times in one match for Norway against Moldova and getting the only goal – from the penalty spot – against Finland.

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City will be without striker Omar Marmoush against United after he picked up a knee injury in action for Egypt, while Rayan Cherki and Rayan Ait-Nouri are also out and John Stones is doubtful. Phil Foden, however, has recovered in time for the derby.