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2024-2025

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2024-2025 Season...
  • Russell Martin: ‘Some people performed well and others show why they’re not in the team yet’

    Saints required a late winner from James Bree to beat Championship outfit Stoke City 3-2 on Tuesday evening after blowing a two-goal lead. Taylor Harwood-Bellis opened the scoring before Adam Armstrong, back in from the start, converted a penalty. Martin made six changes from the team that lost 1-0 at Man City before giving more players a chance to impress from the bench. Asked if anybody gave him food for thought with their showing, Martin admitted the performance reinforced what they already believed. Lesley Ugochukwu was handed a start against Stoke City (Image: Stuart Martin) "It's good to get Yuki through 90 minutes," Martin explained. "He's feeling it a bit now so we'll have to see how he recovers in the next few days. "I don't think we learned anything new today. I think some people performed well in moments and then others show why they're not quite in the team yet. "But they can definitely help us. People like Joe Aribo and Adam Armstrong, it was and that, it was really important to get 90 minutes into or 80 odd minutes." Saints face Everton in a must-win Premier League fixture on Saturday, November 2.

  • Russell Martin admits he didn’t enjoy touchline ban because he prefers to ‘feel things’ near the pitch

    Martin watched on from the top of the Kingsland stand due to serving a one-game touchline ban after receiving his third yellow card of the season against Manchester City on Saturday. He watched on as goals from Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Adam Armstrong gave them a 2-0 lead but missed Stoke's first goal while coming down for half-time. In the end, they required a late winner from defender James Bree to secure their first victory at St Mary's this season. "It was a good view but I didn't really enjoy it," Martin explained. "You want to be there and feel things with your team. Saints assistant Matt Gill took charge in the dugout against Stoke City (Image: Stuart Martin) "(Matt) Gilly's done a good job of communicating onto the pitch and I think he's probably relieved he hasn't got an airpod in with me shouting at him anymore. "I don't want to spend much time there. I just need to behave better. Although I would say one booking was deserved, I'm not convinced about the other two." Asked if he learnt anything new by watching his team from a different vantage point, Martin said: "No, not really. "I think you see things clearer and quicker. I think that helps. But we have a group of guys that are always up there on the mic anyway in games. "Ben Parker has been with me since we were in the dungeon at MK Dons for 10 hours a day five years ago, so he understands and knows everything.  "We really trust them guys anyway. Colin Calderwood sits up there now as well to give us another pair of eyes and ears. I think that works quite well."

  • Pep Guardiola confirms more Man City injury blows as players get injured in league cup loss against Tottenham

    Manager Pep Guardiola has expressed concern over Manchester City’s ongoing injury crisis, which has escalated to leave the team with significantly limited options for training and matches. The situation has […]

  • Every word Enzo Maresca said on Chelsea League cup defeat, Palmer decision, Fernandez, Newcastle performance

    Enzo Maresca faced the media following Chelsea’s exit from the Carabao Cup at the round of 16, defeated 2-0 by Newcastle United at St. James’ Park. The game saw Alexander […]

  • Ashley Young makes honest admission over Everton tactics as Fulham regret revealed

    The veteran full-back set up another goal in the 1-1 draw with Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday11:08, 30 Oct 2024Ashley Young celebrates after setting up the equalising goal during the match between Everton and Fulham at Goodison Park on October 26, 2024(Image:

  • Eddie Howe delighted with league cup win over Chelsea

    Newcastle United manager, Eddie Howe, emphasized that there should be “no illusions” regarding the Magpies’ 2-0 victory over Chelsea. Despite Chelsea making 11 changes and leaving Cole Palmer on the […]

  • Unai Emery defends Aston Villa plan after Carabao Cup exit to Crystal Palace

    Aston Villa manager Unai Emery stood firm on his team selection despite a 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup. The match saw Villa fall behind early when […]

  • Nuno reveals inheriting players without a pre season is difficult at Nottingham Forest

    Hard work undertaken in the summer is paying off for Nottingham Forest amid their flying start to the Premier League campaign. Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has played a pivotal […]

  • Nuno admits Nottingham Forest players should not sit comfortably at their current league position

    Ahead of Saturday’s clash with West Ham United at the City Ground (3pm kick-off), the Reds sit seventh in the table. Most recently, they triumphed 3-1 away to Leicester City […]

  • Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant coach Rene Meulensteen thinks Ruben Amorim can make Manchester United formidable again

    Rene Meulensteen believes Ruben Amorim could be the coach to make Manchester United a force in the Premier League again. The club has now agreed to a deal with the […]

  • Russell Martin encourages players to celebrate win as he watched Brentford struggle against lower opposition in league cup

    The St Mary's side dramatically booked a place in the last eight of the Carabao Cup but it should have been a much simpler task than it became. Saints were two goals ahead against the Championship outfit but required an 88th-minute James Bree wonder strike after giving up the lead. It follows Saints collapsing against Premier League relegation rivals Leicester City to an eventual 3-2 defeat in the last home outing. But Bree's long-range effort means Saints got over the line and will wait to learn about their quarter-final opponents in Wednesday evening's draw. Speaking after the match, manager Martin said: "We spoke before the game about winning it and making sure we get through. "I came back in and also saw Brentford with a really strong team out struggling against their Championship opposition - it's never easy in the cup. "We got through, we made it tougher than it should have been for sure, but we also showed a bit of character to get through a bit of adversity in the game at 2-2. James Bree scored Southampton's winner in emphatic fashion (Image: Stuart Martin) "At 2-0, we conceded a goal which was madness because we were so dominant in the first half, I really enjoyed the performance.  "I think the final decision in the box in the final third wasn't quite there and we should have made more of the dominance we had," added Martin. "At 2-1, the context of the game changes completely, so I was annoyed about that. Then we're trying to be aggressive and get caught on the counter-attack. "Breezy scores and the defenders spent a lot of time in the opposition in the final third tonight because we were aggressive and we dominated territory." Martin insists he has taken some learning from last season when Saints blew a two-goal lead at home to Watford in the Championship. Midfielder Flynn Downes netted in the 99th minute to rescue all three points in a 3-2 win that kept automatic promotion hopes alive for another week. "I want the performance to be better but I made a mistake last year, I went to town on the players after that game," said Martin.  "I think it surprised a lot of them because we managed to win the game. So I think I learned my lesson from that really because we didn't win after that. "I think it affected us a bit and we need to celebrate every victory as a group, whether it's against a Championship team in the cup or a Premier League game. "The guys were a bit annoyed coming in, they didn't look very happy, so I reminded them they're allowed to smile that we won and we're in the quarter-final. "They came in a bit flat and a bit, well, not smiling. And then by the end, they are and the music was on so hopefully we can carry that on Saturday."

  • Every word Enzo Maresca said on Chelsea team news, Newcastle league cup tie, Sancho role and Reece James

    Ahead of Chelsea’s Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, Enzo Maresca addressed the press, offering insights into the team’s preparation and player status. Chelsea faces Newcastle […]

  • Newcastle boss Eddie Howe on youth star Lewis Miley and overusing him

    Lewis Miley, an 18-year-old promising football player, is preparing for a potential return to action in the Carabao Cup match against Chelsea. Since sustaining injuries, Miley has been on the […]

  • Newcastle United complete out of window signing of highly-rated Georgian striker Vakhtang Salia from Dinamo Tbilisi

    Newcastle United have secured the signing of highly-rated Georgian striker Vakhtang Salia from Dinamo Tbilisi. The 17-year-old talent will officially join Newcastle on his 18th birthday in August 2025, but […]

  • Dwight Yorke risks Aston Villa wrath as he agrees with Roy Keane about hiring Unai Emery for Manchester United

    Dwight Yorke, a former Manchester United striker, has stirred controversy among Aston Villa fans by encouraging Manchester United to attempt to hire Unai Emery, Aston Villa’s current manager. Yorke’s comments […]

  • Son Heung-min update as Tottenham suffer injury ‘setback’ ahead of Aston Villa league cup clash

    Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is optimistic about Son Heung-min’s return for the match against Aston Villa on Sunday, scheduled for a 2pm kick-off. Son, who had been sidelined and […]

  • Red hot Chris Wood wants to keep scoring without competing with Haaland and Nottingham Forest insight by Ryan Yates

    Nottingham Forest are capitalizing on successive home games before the upcoming international break. After defeating Leicester City 3-1 last Friday, Nuno Espirito Santo’s Reds find themselves in seventh place in […]

  • Former Arsenal midfielder Sam Greenwood says “I played for Arsenal and now I want beat them” after £1.5m transfer to Preston ( ahead of league cup)

    Former Arsenal midfielder Sam Greenwood has shared his thoughts on the upcoming Carabao Cup tie, warning that it will not be as straightforward as some expect. The Gunners, having advanced […]

  • Arsenal star Declan Rice gives opinion about one day winning Ballon d’Or like Rodri

    Declan Rice has joined Arsenal and is often compared to Rodri of Manchester City. Despite being rivals in the Premier League, Rice himself has acknowledged that Rodri is a superior […]

  • Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta provides update on Gabriel Magalhaes injury amid Martin Odegaard boost (ahead of league cup)

    Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the fitness of Gabriel Magalhaes ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup fourth round clash with Preston North End. Gabriel had initially tried to shake […]

  • Ange Postecoglou reveals Son Heung-min injury latest amid worrying update on Tottenham star

    Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has provided an update on Son Heung-min’s fitness as the team prepares for upcoming fixtures. Son will miss the Carabao Cup tie against Manchester City this […]

  • Ange Postecoglou names two things his team lack as he makes Tottenham project transfer claim

    Ange Postecoglou acknowledges the challenges his Tottenham team faces, highlighting their struggle in critical moments due to a lack of maturity and leadership. While the team aims to improve on […]

  • Manchester United legend Dwight Yorke identifies Unai Emery over Ruben Amorim

    After a disappointing loss to West Ham, Manchester United parted ways with Ten Hag on Monday and are now actively seeking his full-time replacement. In the interim, Ten Hag’s former […]

  • ‘We know how to overcome it’ – Walker-Peters speaks out for first time this season about Southampton position in the league

    Walker-Peters, 27, has given his first interview since a summer full of speculation, amid the potential he could depart the club permanently. The former Tottenham Hotspur man is out of contract at the end of the campaign but hopes to keep Saints in the Premier League first. Walker-Peters issued a calm message amid winning just one point from nine matches - while Saints face relegation rivals in their next two. He told talkSPORT: "I think we really need to look at all the positives and try and build on them, and that's what we're doing. Kyle Walker-Peters has made seven Premier League appearances this season (Image: Stuart Martin) "There are a lot of positives from the last few games, and we hope to take those into Saturday. We knew it was going to be tough. "We knew it wasn't going to be smooth sailing, it wasn't even in the Championship last season. We had tough times last season and we're having a tough time now. "We do know how to overcome it. I know it is important to get that first win and I think once we do it will definitely help us to gain some confidence." Walker-Peters called back to Saints losing four matches in succession last September, before going on a 25-match unbeaten run in all competitions. Under Martin's stewardship, Saints went on to win promotion back to the Premier League via the play-offs, and a 1-0 win over Leeds United.  "We've actually spoken about that period where we went four games beaten and we spoke about how we bounced back from that. "I think that's in everyone's minds, everyone's aware that once we do get that first win, we should be flying." Saints midfielder Adam Lallana has demanded wins in the Carabao Cup against Stoke City and Premier League relegation rivals Everton this week. It's a big week for Southampton. Stoke in the cup tomorrow night before Everton in the league on Saturday.Adam Lallana is targeting back-to-back wins. #SaintsFChttps://t.co/SZBBmZT9K4 — George Rees-Julian (@rees_julian) October 28, 2024 Pressure on manager Martin could build if Saints fail to beat another relegation rival, with 19th-placed Wolves next weekend before the international break. Walker-Peters insists Martin has been consistent with his messaging despite media "narratives" but accepts the importance of these matches. "The manager is the same as always. He is focused on the task ahead and trying to give us the tools to improve and win the next game," said Walker-Peters. "I wouldn't call it lazy narratives as they're entitled to their opinion just as we are as a team and the management - the style of play is how the team wants to play. "It's how the management wants us to play and it's something that we just need to keep building on - then, I think the results will come. "100 per cent (Everton and Wolves are important). They're the teams in and around us so we'll be looking to get six points from those games." Although Walker-Peters could depart the club for free next summer, he says he has been using his experience to help guide the young squad. "I'm 27 now so, I mean it's still young, but I consider myself a senior player. I've played a lot of games in the Premier League," he added.  Walker-Peters was asked about emerging Tyler Dibling and said: "He's got a lot of quality but you don't want to put too much pressure on an 18 year old. "I think he needs to just enjoy playing this football, learn as much as he can, and then I think the world is his oyster."

  • Russell Martin desperate to beat Stoke and will field ‘strongest team available’ in league cup

    Martin insists he will name "the strongest team available in terms of fitness and readiness" with the competition's quarter-final up for grabs. Saints host Championship strugglers Stoke on Tuesday off the back of four consecutive Premier League defeats, leaving Martin's side bottom. The St Mary's outfit reached the semi-final of the Carabao Cup during the 2022/23 season, in which they were eventually relegated out of the top flight. However, Martin knows it is an opportunity for a much-needed win and to create a positive spin ahead of massive fixtures with Everton and Wolves. "I think it's the most important game we've had this season. We need to try and win to get to a quarter-final of a cup," Martin told the Daily Echo. Anything specific for the boss?#SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/pM4HjdVfGJ — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) October 26, 2024 "We'll play the strongest team available to us in terms of fitness and readiness. It's a big, big game for us so there definitely won't be 11 changes. "There will be some, such is the nature of it. We have two big games after but this is the most important one. We'll play the team we feel is most ready to win." Stoke sit 19th in the second tier with 12 points from 12 matches, although they did thump Portsmouth 6-1 at the beginning of October. Yukinari Sugawara was left as an unused substitute for the 1-0 defeat at champions Manchester City on Saturday, having picked up a knock in his last outing. The Japanese will start against Stoke if declared fit, while the likes of Flynn Downes, Adam Lallana and Tyler Dibling are chief candidates for rest. It could mean an opportunity for the likes of Adam Armstrong, whose only start since August came in the previous round of the cup at Everton. Nathan Wood, Ronnie Edwards, Ben Brereton Diaz and Sam Amo-Ameyaw all completed 90 minutes for the under-21s on Friday, while defender Charlie Taylor came off at half-time of the 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace with a niggle. "I think it's going to be big for all of us, not just the players coming into the team," said Martin, reverting focus to the cup match. "We'll show them all the stuff from Manchester City that they did so brilliantly and show them some stuff we need to improve on. "Then we need to put it into practice at home where the expectation is a bit different - because those are the games that are going to be so important to us."

  • Virgil van Dijk thinks draw was the right result as they were missing players like Arsenal

    Virgil van Dijk has spoken after Liverpool's Premier League draw at Arsenal on Sunday and also praised Ibrahima Konate17:25, 28 Oct 2024Updated 17:25, 28 Oct 2024Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool during the Premier League match at Arsenal on October 27 2024(Image:

  • Gary Lineker thinks Man City were the real winners after tense Arsenal vs Liverpool draw

    Gary Lineker has suggested that Manchester City emerged as the true victors after their title rivals, Arsenal and Liverpool, both dropped points on Sunday. Despite being only nine games into […]

  • Rodri’s first words after Man City ace wins Ballon d’Or 2024 and Manchester City club statement on his win

    The Manchester City midfielder Rodri used his acceptance speech to express gratitude to his loved ones and provide an update on his injury after winning the Men’s Ballon d’Or. Rodri […]

  • Newcastle chief speaks out after ‘incredible’ stadium upgrade as Adidas give big PSR ‘jump’ to the club with a new fan shop

    Newcastle United’s new flagship club shop at St James’ Park is set to open on Wednesday, just in time for the Magpies’ significant Carabao Cup match against Chelsea. The club, […]

  • Emi Martinez has revealed next career objective as Aston Villa goalkeeper wins another Yashin Trophy

    Emi Martinez, having recently renewed his contract, has expressed a strong desire for the club to improve and achieve tangible success. Martinez emphasized the necessity of reducing goals conceded as […]

  • What Emi Martinez said about Aston Villa players and club after winning Yashin Trophy for the second consecutive year

    Emi Martinez, the esteemed goalkeeper of Aston Villa, has expressed his gratitude towards his teammates for their support in his winning streak with the Yashin Trophy for the second consecutive […]

  • Erik ten Hag sacked by Manchester United after poor start to the season | Club Statement issued

    Despite securing the FA Cup last season and initially keeping faith in Erik ten Hag, Manchester United has decided to part ways with the manager just five months after their […]

  • Thierry Henry thinks Zinedine Zidane’s next job will be French national team and not Manchester United

    As a player, Zidane was instrumental in leading Les Bleus to victory at consecutive tournaments, including the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. After taking the helm at his former […]

  • Ex Referees Jeff Winter and Mike Dean comment on Anthony Taylor’s controversial decisions in Arsenal vs Liverpool

    Arsenal fans have raised concerns about referee Anthony Taylor’s decisions during their match against Liverpool, which ended in a 2-2 draw. While former Premier League referee Mike Dean acknowledges the […]

  • Jamie Carragher thinks Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is morphing into Jose Mourinho and not Pep Guardiola

    Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has shared his insights on Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, asserting that Arteta is not merely a disciple of Pep Guardiola. Instead, Carragher believes that Arteta […]

  • Guglielmo Vicario and Ange Postecoglou outline disappointment after shock loss for Tottenham against Crystal Palace

    Guglielmo Vicario’s reaction at the full-time whistle summarized the disappointment felt by Tottenham after a 1-0 defeat against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. As the final whistle blew, Vicario, along […]

  • Ange Postecoglou provides Son Heung-min Tottenham injury update for Man City league cup match

    **Tottenham’s Challenge Against Manchester City** Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham side requires a significant boost ahead of their Carabao Cup tie against Manchester City on Wednesday evening. After suffering a 1-0 defeat […]

  • Ange Postecoglou and Daniel Farke feedback on Jamie Donley frustration, Manor Solomon theory, Ashley Phillips boost – Tottenham loan latest

    **Tottenham’s Loan Players Weekly Round-Up** It was a productive week for most of Tottenham’s loan players, thanks to a midweek round of games. Performances varied, with some players making noticeable […]

  • Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund and Manchester United Club Statement after Erik Ten Hag sacking

    ### Context: Player Debuts and Managerial Changes at Manchester United Alejandro Garnacho was initially introduced to Manchester United’s first team by former interim manager Ralf Rangnick. However, it was under […]

  • Bernardo Silva on Saints: ‘I think they deserve a lot more points than what they have got’

    Southampton remain on just one point and now sit bottom of the Premier League table following a narrow 1-0 defeat at Manchester City on Saturday. Portuguese international Silva was quick to praise Saints after the game and admitted their style made it difficult to win the ball back. Silva admitted City wasted chances to kill the game off but also felt Southampton deserved credit for their resolute performance. He told Sky Sports: “We have a lot of respect for all the teams in the Premier League. "Southampton deserve more points than they have, I have a lot of respect for them" 🗣️Bernardo Silva praises Southampton after Man City's victory this afternoon 👏 pic.twitter.com/27sC8jtx3A — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 26, 2024 "I watched some of the games Southampton played up to now and I think they deserve a lot more points than what they have got. “(We have) a lot of respect for the way they play. They press high and build up with the ball. They have a lot of really good patterns which make it very difficult to press them. “If you go man to man then they find the space in the middle. It’s not easy for our defenders and they have fast guys up front. "It was a tough game for us but we are very happy with the three points. We are used to it now a little bit when teams defend deep against us. "They always defend with a line of 5-4-1, more or less. That makes it more difficult and we have to be patient. “We had chances to make it three or four but they also deserve credit for what they did here today."

  • ‘They were really, really good’ – Guardiola claims he loved Southampton way of play under Russell Martin (despite City 1 – 0 win)

    Saints suffered a 1-0 defeat at Man City thanks to Earling Haaland's early goal and were denied an equaliser by the crossbar on the stroke of half-time. Guardiola explained that Southampton's gameplan and philosophy made it difficult for his players to win the ball back. Asked if he will learn from Martin, despite the retired defender being less experienced as a coach, Guardiola insisted: "Absolutely. "I'm a big believer in the process of build-up. I prefer my players get the ball to the feet, not to the teeth. "When this happens, it's because they make an incredible process. We were not sloppy, we were not slack, and we were struggling to win the ball because they were really, really good. "First of all, I'm a spectator, I want to see the opponent doing the things that I like to do with my team, and they're doing really well, and we struggled. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola heaped praise on Southampton and Russell Martin (Image: Martin Rickett/PA) "I just make a compliment, and I'm pretty sure I will learn. Some movement they have done, the reason why they do it, it's not difficult. "They make a movement, create a space to lead to the striker, and they put the forward players on the outside, to bring you there, and it's not easy. "The last two games against Wolves and Southampton proved that right now at the bottom of the league, look how difficult it was. "I think when people say, in the Premier League, every team can beat everyone, yeah, that is the truth. "I don't have any complaints about my team, because when the opponent is good, you have to accept it." He continued: "The people judge results, not judge intentions or what they want to do. The same guys were giving him (Martin) incredible compliments because he was promoted from the Championship. "He's the same guy with the same principles. He's young and I'm pretty sure he will improve. As a spectator, I like what they do. "We ran incredibly today. We don't like that. But it's not because we were bad, it was because they were good."

  • Russell Martin provides update on Tyler Dibling’s substitution and other details during the loss against Manchester City

    Midfielder Downes hobbled off the field during their 1-0 defeat at Manchester City on Saturday while Yukinari Sugawara went unused. Martin avoided risking the Japan international after he was not passed fit to start against the reigning Premier League champions. He instead turned to James Bree, handing the former Luton Town defender his first league appearance of the season. Saints also withdrew Tyler Dibling at half-time, with Martin citing the teenager's fitness as the primary reason.  He told the Daily Echo: "(Bringing) Tyler (off) was tactical. He looked knackered. We spoke about this on Thursday. He's an 18 year old lad. The level of intensity has gone through the roof for him compared to what he's used to. "He's playing against the best team in Europe and it just wasn't quite his day. Defensively, we needed a bit more help with Adam, who knows and understands the game a bit more. "We also felt Adam's runs in behind (would help) because he's one of the best at it. We felt it could really hurt them and it did on a few occasions.  Yukinari Sugawara sustained an injury against Leicester City last week (Image: Stuart Martin) "Yuki, we maybe could have brought him on but chose Breezy just because we've had to monitor him in training. I wanted him in the squad just in case. Hopefully, he'll be fit to start on Tuesday. "Flynn just seems a bit battered and bruised. I thought he was great today. The Flynn that we know and love was really, really back. "So many of them played with a spring in their step and big courage today, which I love. "Taylor Harwood-Bellis was fantastic. Kyle on the right was really brilliant. So, yes, they need to live there now. But hopefully, all three will be fine for Tuesday." Saints will also be without former Stoke City loanee Will Smallbone and Scottish forward Ross Stewart for Tuesday evening's game. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu remains out with a long-term injury while Kamaldeen Sulemana is only fit for up to 20 minutes of action.

  • Erik Ten Hag identifies third instance of Referee error in using VAR as West Ham beat Man United (prior to Erik Ten Hag sacking)

    West Ham United’s 2-1 triumph over Manchester United was marred by debate after the Hammers were awarded a contentious penalty. The action unfolded with West Ham ahead after Crysencio Summerville’s […]

  • Premier League forced to release VAR statements amid Chelsea vs Newcastle drama

    Chelsea and Newcastle engaged in an exciting Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge, ultimately ending in Chelsea’s favor. The match, which featured several VAR interventions, saw Chelsea gain the early […]

  • Chelsea hit with huge fine as Enzo Maresca believes better attack and defense than Newcastle United

    The Blues secured a victory against Newcastle at Stamford Bridge on Sunday with goals from Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson. Despite the win, the game was overshadowed by several clashes […]

  • Every word Enzo Maresca said after Newcastle win, Palmer and Zola comparisons, ‘unbelievable’ Chelsea

    Enzo Maresca said “This is exactly what I was telling to you: I don’t think Cole knows Gianfranco [laughs]. But they are, to be honest, quite similar in terms of […]

  • James Tarkowski shares insight into Beto character after ‘amazing’ Everton moment and draw against Fulham

    James Tarkowski talked Beto after the forward's dramatic equaliser for Everton against Fulham17:00, 27 Oct 2024Updated 20:09, 27 Oct 2024James Tarkowski (second left) watches on as Beto (second right) heads home Everton's equaliser against Fulham(Image:

  • The ‘livid’ Cole Palmer moment as Enzo Maresca appreciates team performance and Cole Palmer shares his insight

    Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was cautious not to take their narrow 2-1 victory over Newcastle United for granted ahead of their Carabao Cup clash on Wednesday. Maresca, originally from Leicester […]

  • Mikel Arteta provides injury update on Martin Odegaard and gets confirmed by player himself

    The Norwegian midfielder Martin Odegaard has been absent from the Arsenal lineup since August due to an ankle injury sustained during the September international break while playing for Norway. Initially, […]

  • Former Premier League referee, Dermot Gallagher, provided insight into the refereeing decisions as VAR continues to get discussed

    Arsenal supporters have once again raised concerns about the consistency of Premier League referees following two controversial on-pitch incidents. During Tottenham’s 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace, Micky van de Ven […]

  • What Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag said about Diogo Dalot’s miss (after loss against West Ham)

    Erik ten Hag declined to single out Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot despite his missed opportunity during their defeat at West Ham. Dalot had a chance to score after running […]

  • Jamie O’Hara thinks the penalty was harsh on Manchester United (leading to defeat against West Ham)

    The decision to award West Ham United a stoppage-time penalty against Manchester United sparked reactions after the match held at the London Stadium on Sunday. West Ham emerged victorious with […]

  • Darren Fletcher’s X-rated and Erik Ten Hag Man United reaction after West Ham VAR penalty controversy

    Manchester United first-team coach Darren Fletcher has reportedly launched an X-rated rant after West Ham’s controversial penalty on Sunday afternoon. Erik ten Hag’s side largely dominated the first half in […]

  • Kieran McKenna on new absences and Omari Hutchinson early morning blow for Ipswich Town (after defeat against Brentford)

    Axel Tuanzebe (thumb), Jacob Greaves, Ben Johnson (thigh) and Massimo Luongo (unstated) were known absentees leading into this game. On top of that, captain Sam Morsy, club record signing Omari Hutchinson and midfielder Jack Taylor were also unavailable at the Gtech Community Stadium, with winger Chiedozie Ogbene stretchered off in the first half. "Samy picked up a hamstring strain in the Everton game that he managed to finish the game with, but wasn't available for this one," revealed McKenna. "The plan was for Jack Taylor to come in for Samy, because Jens (Cajuste) hasn't trained much with the group yet, but he picked up an injury at the back end of the training week, which is disappointing for him and us. "I thought Jens was outstanding, I have to say, having barely trained since the (knee) injury he sustained in the Southampton game. He really pushed through for the team. It was an incredible effort. "Omari was due to start the game, but was sick in the early hours and through the morning. That was another late change. "With Chieo it looks like an Achilles tear. We hope that won't be the case, but I think that's what looks most likely." "There's been a lot of disruption, but that makes me even more proud of the performance and the mentality we showed as a team." Asked how long Taylor and Morsy could be out for, McKenna said: "Jack will be out until at least after the international break. We don't know with Samy. That's not quite as significant, but there's going to be a big, big question mark around next week (home to Leicester)."  

  • Russell Martin: ‘It wasn’t just defensive, I thought we were brilliant on the ball’ (despite 1 -0 loss against Manchester City)

    Erling Haaland's early goal proved to be the difference on Saturday at the Etihad Stadium, although the Norwegian did spurn further chances to kill the game. Cameron Archer did crack the crossbar on the brink of half-time, denying Saints a point, before Saints kept City at bay in the second half. Manchester City's Pep Guardiola and Bernardo Silva heaped praise on Southampton's defensive performance, pointing out the challenges they posed. Martin was also keen to point out what he saw as a positive on-the-ball performance against the reigning Premier League champions.  He told the Daily Echo: "It wasn't just defensive, I thought we were brilliant with the ball. I thought we were fantastic with the ball. Saints boss Russell Martin was frustrated to see yellow against Manchester City (Image: PA) "We defended with the ball as much as we could. The courage to play football was brilliant. "We've done about seven interviews now and we've spoken a lot about the defending, which was brilliant. "The way they defended the box, the guys were stuck at it. But the courage to take the ball and play in the way they wanted to play was amazing, especially after going down 1-0 so early. "This is one of the toughest places to come in the world. I have nothing but pride and gratitude for the players today because if we're going to lose, we need to lose in our way. "It didn't feel like that last week or the week before. So, today I have nothing but pride and positive things to say about the team. "We really hurt them on the ball at times and not many teams do that. If we can take the same mentality and willingness to run and defend in tough moments, then we're going to be fine. "I think it helps that we had Jack and Adam on the pitch today. It really helped. I thought they were both outstanding. It helped the young guys a lot around them. "I think whatever we do tactically with the shape and build-up and all that stuff, just their mentality helps the team."

  • Southampton manager Russell Martin disputes ‘nonsense’ booking after getting a touchline ban during loss against Manchester City

    Martin, 38, was yellow carded for protesting referee Tony Harrington's decision to caution Flynn Downes for what replays showed was a fair challenge. Martin disputes any wrongdoing as he protested the decision and that he would accept a card if he had used insulting language. After bookings against Manchester United and Leicester City, Martin will now sit in the stands for the next game for yellow card accumulation. "I don't really speak out about that, but I'm going to miss next week's game for throwing my arms up in the air," said Martin. Russell Martin rightly annoyed about his booking today. Says he didn't swear or anything like that, and that it was not a foul by Flynn Downes. Adds that the club received acknowledgement of a decision they didn't get last week against Leicester from PGMOL.#SaintsFC — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) October 26, 2024 "It's a bad decision because Flynn takes the ball and gets booked. I didn't swear at the fourth official, I threw my arms up in the air at a bad decision and I got booked. "I'm not happy about that because I miss a game next week. If I'm wrong and I deserve a yellow card, then I hold my hands up.  "But today, I think that's nonsense. I'll probably get fined for that as well, but it is nonsense." Martin also revealed Saints received an acknowledgement from the PGMOL after they did not get a decision they should have in the 3-2 defeat to Leicester City. The Daily Echo understands that the decision was Paul Onuachu being denied a penalty by Anthony Taylor for a shirt pull inside the area.  "We had an apology last week about a decision that we weren't given. I didn't say anything after the game in the press, but today I am," Martin added. 

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  • ‘We were punished’ Fabian Hurzeler disappointed following 2-2 last minute draw at the Amex with Wolves

    The Seagulls played out a 2-2 draw, with Albion taking control after their second goal but failing to secure the win. Despite impressive spells of possession and solid defence, missed opportunities and a lack of ruthlessness late on allowed Wolves to equalise. Albion had a chance to score a decisive third goal but were unable to capitalise, leaving head coach Huerzeler frustrated with the result. "In the end, of course we lost two points, and we failed today in our development," the Albion head coach said. Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler speaking to the media post-match (Image: Newsquest) "We were not mature enough, not professional to in this game. We have to learn quickly from this. "Games like this, if you don't win in the beautiful way, then you have to win in the ugly way. "Until the second goal from us, we controlled the game and we defended quite well, and we became too passive. "But we were not ruthless enough in defending the set-pieces, we had a big chance to go for a third goal that we missed this, and we were punished. "We were not acting professional and we need to learn from this. "This team is very young with a lot of potential but exactly these moments show if you stay now together, if you learn from it, if you show personality, if you show character, and that is what I expect from them." Albion will need to regroup quickly and learn from their mistakes as they aim to get back to winning ways. Let us know your thoughts on the result in the comments.

  • Leicester City coach Steve Cooper admits “Mistakes during the game” led to loss against Nottingham Forest

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  • Pep Guardiola confident Southampton will sooner or later have success ahead of game against them

    Martin's Saints visit Etihad Stadium on Saturday, where the hosts will be looking to make it 52 home matches in a row unbeaten in 90 minutes. Saints sit second-bottom but Guardiola, whose side are one point off Liverpool at the top, warned his players about complacency.  Martin is under pressure externally with only one boss ever picking up fewer points than his one from their first eight matches in the Premier League. Guardiola has urged the 38-year-old to stick with his high-possession principles ahead of their first-ever meeting, amid criticism from pundits. "They will have success, when this happens you always have success sooner or later," said Guardiola, speaking ahead of the clash.  Russell Martin is still hunting his first Premier League win (Image: PA) "If you start to change your ideas or your thoughts, I’m not saying just to adjust something like five or four at the back, the players will notice. "They will know you are not a big believer. Sooner or later, the results are coming. We almost had a bad result at Wolves and look what happened. "We struggled to win. Southampton have had good moments, I saw games against Brentford and against United, the first hour against Leicester. "These starts were really, really good. They have good moments and they have courage to play. And they have a keeper like Ramsdale. "Always after a Champions League game, I prefer to play against teams better in the table because you are focused. The big mistake we can do is watch the table." Above Martin’s desk at Staplewood there is a Guardiola quote which reads: “When we win, the game model seems good and is not questioned. "But bear in mind, we won’t always win. Then doubts will come. That is the moment when we will have to trust the model more than ever because the temptation to move away from it will be very strong.” Guardiola added: "It is our job to convince the players that we are in a good way and that the reason why we didn’t win is this reason or this reason. "We will fix it and then come back. It is impossible to convince the players if you try to show them something you don’t believe in yourself. "Their plan is there and they will try to do it. It is hard to adapt to the Premier League in the beginning but I have a lot of respect for the teams who come out of the Championship. "We complain about the amount of games in the Premier League and the Championship is even worse and if they come up, they are good. "I have seen their games and (Southampton) always have moments. They are brave with the ball, without the ball I don’t know what will happen. "We will have to see if they defend deeper or not. If you make a good process, then they have to defend deep. How long will they stay there, I don’t know." Guardiola confirmed City are likely to be without injured Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku for the meeting with Saints.

  • Southampton Manager Russell Martin clarifies on the playing time given to Tyler Dibling

    The 18 year old has played 444 minutes for Saints since the September international break, in which he also featured twice for England's under-19s. His total Premier League minutes (495) are nearly four times as many as the next most involved under-18, Aston Villa defender Kosta Nedeljković. Saints fans will be wary of burnout when it comes to Dibling, after seeing the long-term injuries suffered by Tino Livramento and Romeo Lavia at St Mary's. Livramento lost a year to a meniscus and cruciate ligament tear while Lavia has only just bounced back from persistent hamstring concerns. "I think whilst he's performing and looks good it will be dictated by him and his performances and how he feels," said Martin when asked about Dibling.  "He's a very good athlete, physically very good so he's robust and has been up until now in his career - and very resilient, so hopefully we won't have those issues. "Hopefully, he can keep performing for us - but there may be a time when he comes out of the team because he gets fatigued." Dibling was handed the October international break as rest, withdrawing from the England youth squad and taking a personal trip to Paris.  The academy graduate had never started a senior league match before this season but has now begun five in succession, ahead of the trip to Man City. Martin reassured supporters of his condition and added: "It's a big difference and a big jump for him but at the minute he seems fine." Dibling looks set to keep his place in the starting lineup for the visit to Etihad Stadium, as winless Saints take on Pep Guardiola's title challenger.

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  • Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna on wait for a win, nervous mistakes and ‘doubling down’ on principles

      On last weekend's 2-0 home defeat to Everton...  “I think it’s fair to say that was our most disappointing result and performance of the season. Up until two games ago, after the Aston Villa game (2-2 home draw), I think everyone inside and outside the club could see the momentum in the performances with four games unbeaten and lots of progression. Now we’ve had two games either side of an international break that haven’t gone our way (losing 4-1 at West Ham previously). Poor moments have cost us and we haven’t managed to muster up a response to get some something from the games.  “Everyone was disappointed after Saturday. When you have a home record like ours it’s extra disappointing. But we know these set-backs are going to come over the course of a the season.  “I don’t think it’s always a linear progression as you’re trying to develop. We’ve taken some good steps forwards and then probably a couple of steps back in the last couple of games. The response has been good this week. The next game is always an opportunity."   On the wait for a Premier League win... “We’ve got a result in half our games and if we’d won just one of them then the narrative would be different. There’s no doubt, however, that as the games go on, getting the first win will be a big boost. I think that’s clear to see and to feel.  “It’s not worth making it any bigger than it is. It’s about following the process and giving everything to the next performance and trusting that the good things will come.   “We had a spell last season in the Championship where we had one win in nine games, then we had nine wins in 10 games immediately after. If you asked me what we changed drastically in that period it was probably not a lot. It’s very fine margins in football. A couple of times the margins go your way, you get players back from injury, some players come into the team and do well and things can change.   “In League One we had a period where we had maybe one win in nine games, then we won 13 out of 14 and smashed almost every EFL record in terms of that run. What did we do differently? Not a whole lot.   “I’m not saying we’re on the cusp of that sort of run in the Premier League, but I believe you have to focus on trying to do the right things, in training and games, and if you do that over a long enough period of time then things will turn in your favour."   On whether the team are playing with nerves...  “Let me use Cameron Burgess as an example, who I think had a very good game last week. Cameron Burgess is landing back from Japan on Thursday morning (following international duty with Australia), he gets one day of preparation to face (Dominic) Calvert-Lewin ahead of fulfilling his dream of becoming a Premier League player after a journey that’s taken him from the National League. If he doesn't have some nerves prior to that then he’s probably some version of a psychopath!   “Pretty much every game we’ve had a player making their Premier League debut. We’ve got an awful lot of players who have climbed a long way to get to this point in their career. So if there is not some nerves and anxiety, then they are probably not competitive sports people.  “Would those nerves be different if we were sitting fifth in the table and pushing for the Champions League? Maybe. But we had a lot of nerves in the team when we were pushing for promotion from League One. It was the same in the Championship last season.  "For sure you can look at a couple of moments in the Everton game and say there were a few mistakes that possibly looked like nervous mistakes, but they're human beings and the step that so many of them are taking means there was always going to be that.   “Handling nerves is something that you have to deal with individually and as a group and use in a positive manner. It’s up to us to make sure support them the best way possible."   On the need to 'trust the process'... “As I said, there have been periods in the past where we haven’t won and we’ve come out of those periods by sticking to our day-to-day processes.  “Going into the season we knew, as a newly-promoted team, it was going to feel very different and we weren’t going to win so many games.  “The team that finishes 17th in the Premier League usually gets between eight and nine wins over the course of a 38-game season. So that’s one win a month, if you want to do some very loose math. It might mean you don’t win for three months, but then win three games in a row and still be on course. Everton last year finished with an almost mid-table points total, but they didn’t win for 11 games at one stage. That’s a team that has over 2,000 Premier League appearances amongst them.  “We knew there would be periods where we didn’t win for a stretch. You pre-frame these things, you speak about it as a group and you try and lay down how you’re going to be in those moments. Then you set your process right and you deal with it. Our way of dealing with it is doubling down on how well we train, how hard we train, how we prepare, how we stick together as a group and how we just focus on the next game. That’s what’s brought us success as a group before and that’s what I think will bring us success this year."   On whether he needs to change system/tactics... “Look, the reality is, as a newly-promoted team, we’re going to lose a lot more games than we have previously. And when you lose games there’s always going to be another opinion on how you could do things. That’s the life of a manager. Your theory gets tested every week and there are a thousand other theories that never get tested, so they’ll never be wrong!   “We’re trying to find the right balance between sticking to our principles and adapting to be as competitive as we have been.  “To say we’re doing exactly the same this season as we did last season would be untrue, if you go into the details. To say we did exactly the same last year as we did in League One the year before would be completely untrue. People probably see some of the same personnel and loose framework and think everything’s the same, but we have always adjusted and adapted with little details game-by-game to give us the best chance to be competitive. We continue to do that every week.  “A lot of those details aren’t always going to be apparent. We’re probably not going to go from A to Z week-by-week in terms of looking like a drastically different football team, but within that there are so many details we go into that we try and adjust to give ourselves the best chance. That’s even more important in a period where we’re challenged by injuries and availability."   On giving cheap goals away... “The two goals we conceded against Everton have nothing to do with system, shape, tactics, philosophy. If you make two big mistakes in your penalty area – one from a set-piece, one from open play – and give one of the wiliest teams in the Premier League those goals then, while it’s not impossible to get something from the game, it’s going to be very, very difficult. "The West Ham game was pretty similar if you look at the goals we conceded. At the moment there have been too many of them. When you have goals like than then a Premier League game is always going to be really difficult. It’s up for us to work through that, identify if there’s any trends and find some solutions. But sometimes it’s just a case of humans making errors when playing sport at a really high level.  “We know that the course of the last two games could have been really different. In the West Ham game we had big chances at 1-1 that could have changed the complexion. We know there were big moments in the Everton game to take the lead and to equalise with the penalty (that wasn’t given). But we give away poor goals.  “It’s two games after a pretty good run when everyone was positive about the progression. It’s two games where, if we’re being honest, we’ve conceded some goals that make it very, very difficult to get anything from a Premier League football match.   “We know underneath that there’s been some good things. They’re never going to be over highlighted when the game doesn’t go your way, and rightly so.  “We know we’re doing some things well. There have been times where we’ve looked like we can be a really effective side. You can look at the chance we created for Jack Clarke (against Everton early on) and our ability to carve a really good defensive system open. We’ve had moments of control in each game and look like we can work the opposition really hard. We’ve had moments where we’ve pressed really aggressively and got lots of high regains. And we’ve had moment where we’ve defended with lots of bodies back behind the ball and looked like we can be resolute defensively. But of course there have been too many moments that have gone in the other direction. It’s about trying to be more consistent.  “It’s hard to keep at your very, very best when you have things going against you, but that’s what we have to do because it’s not the last mistake we’re going to make this season.   “You get set-backs in football, you get set-backs in life, but it’s about how you get back up again."

  • Southampton manager Russell Martin shares his belief that no senior player should be playing under-21s

    The German has previously turned down the opportunity to play for the youth team despite making just one senior appearance this season. Bella-Kotchap, 22, took to social media earlier this season to state "I am just waiting for my chance" while Martin insists there has been no fallout. Martin insisted no player should be forced to play with the under-21s and reaffirmed his belief that the decision ultimately comes down to them. The likes of Joe Lumley, Ronnie Edwards, Jack Stephens, Juan Larios, Ryan Manning, Sam Amo-Ameyaw and Ross Stewart have all featured.  "We've had a few playing already but I never force anyone to play in the under 21s," Martin told the Daily Echo, ahead of facing Man City. Martin previously insisted the door is open for everyone (Image: Stuart Martin) "I think we can have a conversation about it and always make sure they understand why we want them to, but it's also their prerogative to say no. "They're not being brought here to play for the under 21s. Some people think that's right, some people think that's wrong but they're men - they're human beings. "They have a choice. Sometimes I'll tell them I think it's for the best they play to try and get them back in the team, to keep fitness or coming back from injury. "They always have a say in it - so the guys who have played it's always been their choice, they've been given the choice and they've made the choice to play." Four senior players are set to feature for Simon Rusk's side in the Premier League 2 clash with Crystal Palace at Staplewood this evening (7pm). Bella-Kotchap was looking for a permanent move away from the club this summer but saw a transfer to Hoffenheim fall through after a medical. Bella-Kotchap made his only appearance this campaign in the 5-3 Carabao Cup win at Cardiff City (Image: PA) He made his only appearance this campaign in the 5-3 Carabao Cup win at Cardiff City, to put himself into the shop window at the end of August. The Daily Echo suggested it would be harder for frozen-out Bella-Kotchap to force his way into Martin's plans if he is turning down Premier League 2 minutes. "Yeah - but at the minute, it's not even a worry really - people will have the option for it and it'll be down to them," responded Martin.  "We've got four playing tomorrow and also it's dictated to by the rules and the fact we can't have too many guys playing who are over age. "We also have a lot of really good young players who need to play so we don't want to fill it every single week with loads of first-team squad players. "I think there is a lot that comes into it but I also think that it's a process everyone's really comfortable with."

  • Southampton manager Russell Martin admits problems after set piece specialist coach had left 4 months back

    Saints hired specialist coach Andreas Georgson at the start of last season but did not replace him directly after he departed four months into the role. They conceded the fewest goals (seven) from set-pieces in the Championship last campaign while also ranking high on many other key metrics. Yet no team has conceded more from dead balls than their seven in the Premier League - including Saturday's 98th-minute Leicester City winner. Saints have now called on the expertise of a set-piece consultant, the Daily Echo understands, and had been waiting until recent weeks for his work permit.  However, Martin has urged his staff to continue improving their records and pointed to individual errors that are currently proving costly.  "We have fewer attacking set pieces now but we've been good in the last few games. We've hit the woodwork and should score a few more goals," said Martin. Understand Saints have brought someone into a set-piece consultant-style staff role in recent weeks to address that. No detail on who but club had to wait on them gaining work permit. More from Russell Martin on set-pieces in general tonight but not a radical overhaul.#SaintsFC — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) October 24, 2024 "Defending set plays - we can go to Arsenal against the best team and defend amazingly well, for a lot of set plays because we're under pressure. "It's one on Saturday and one against Ipswich that kills us. There were a few second-phase problems early on in the season but we have sorted that out. "The ones against Ipswich and Leicester we have to look at because it's people that come on to the pitch that don't quite do the right job. "Maybe tension takes over and they think they're going to help the team doing something else but you just need to stick to the detail at that point. "We have a look at everything including that in the same way we do with every area of the game so it's frustrating and it's annoying that it's hurt us again. "We will have to take responsibility for that but we have an analyst defensively and an attacking analyst as well and then a consultant that helps out. "Nothing's really changed in terms of the process of it and I'd say we do more work on it now than we ever have done. "I think the two moments we're talking about have really hurt us are down to game management and not detail of the set piece or a lack of work." Ian Wright on set-piece coaches: “Southampton don’t have one and look at what’s happened. If it’s good enough for Pep Guardiola to have one to close the margins then everyone should have one, and Southampton should bloody have one,” via @WeAreTheOverlap.#SaintsFC — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) October 24, 2024 Saints saw fit to hire former Arsenal and Brentford coach Georgson in August 2023 but the Swede departed by Christmas for a management job. Assistants Matt Gill and Colin Calderwood oversaw set-pieces for the rest of the Championship season as Saints were best in class in the division. Meanwhile, Sport Republic co-founder Rasmus Ankersen had been an early pioneer in detailed set-piece analysis with FC Midtjylland and Brentford. Amid new struggles, Martin has not ruled out bringing in a new specialist set-piece coach but played down the suggestion it was essential.  "I think we're always open to it but it needs to be the right person," said Martin. "It needs to be someone good enough to come in and convince the players. I'm really happy with the coaches we have to deliver it. "Andreas left not late into the season and it's the same people that were doing it last season. We did it well so we have to just keep working to try and improve."

  • Arsene Wenger predicts major Premier League U-turn in huge Man City 115 charges verdict

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  • Every word Enzo Maresca said on Chelsea display, Mudryk goal, Felix double, Panathinaikos win in Europa Conference League

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  • Alan Shearer excited about Anthony Gordon deal and calls it great news for Newcastle United

    Alan Shearer, renowned as Newcastle’s and the Premier League’s all-time leading goalscorer, is thrilled at the prospect of the former Everton star, Anthony Gordon, signing a new contract with the […]

  • Newcastle United goal scoring worry as Eddie Howe admits team going through ‘difficult period’

    Newcastle United, who scored 85 Premier League goals last season and secured a seventh-place finish, are experiencing a “difficult” period this season, according to their manager, Eddie Howe. The team […]

  • Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger thinks FFP rules need to change and sides with Manchester City

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  • Erik ten Hag reveals shock position change for Manchester United player Noussair Mazraoui (before Europa League match)

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  • Paul Scholes picks out Manchester United star Rasmus Hojlund as impressive but needs help

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  • Paul Scholes identifies lack of quality forward line is the problem with Manchester United (after draw against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce)

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  • Ipswich chairman Mark Ashton reminds Ipswich Town special story and gap between Championship and PL

    The storied Suffolk club - top flight, FA Cup and UEFA Cup winners in the 60s, 70s and 80s respectively - found itself in the League One doldrums after a death by a thousand cuts decline. Investment from new American owners, the driving force of Ashton and the leadership of bright young first team manager Kieran McKenna combined to produce back-to-back promotions though and end a 22-year absence from the Premier League. Speaking on Men in Blazers - the largest 'soccer' podcast in North America - Ashton was asked why US listeners should pick the Blues as their football team to support. Looking down the lens, he replied: "This is a very special club with an amazing history and tradition. If you want to be part of a family, be part of a football club, be part of a journey that's moving at lightning speed... This is the best story in world football. "I'm telling you, this is the best story in world football. You can take your Wrexhams, you can take your Birmingham Citys (both under American ownership). They've done incredible things and good on them - but this is sanity, this is a house of stone with real professional people who are relentlessly obsessed with rebuilding this amazing football club." Mark Ashton believes Ipswich Town is 'the best story in world football'. (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown) Town find themselves 17th in the Premier League table having taken four points from their opening eight games (D4 L4). Ashton, who oversaw a £100m+ spend on transfer fees over the summer, has already admitted the step up has been 'brutal'. "I think there's actually two gaps," he said. "You've got a gap that is Premier League to the Championship, then you've got a gap that is then Ipswich to the other two newly-promoted clubs (Leicester and Southampton). "Because remember both of those are on parachute payments, so they've got substantially more revenue than us. We are adrift (financially), because this club hasn't been in the top flight for 20+ years. So we are, if you like, double bubble when it comes to making up the gap. "But do you know what? All we can do is be the very best version of ourselves. Focus on ourselves. Don't worry about the riches that everyone else has got. Don't worry about what we haven't got. Focus on what we've got, focus on our culture, focus on what's got us here. Stick to our beliefs and adapt and learn quickly. If we do that, we give ourselves one hell of a fighting chance. "We need to be proud about who we are and focus on us. Ignore the noise. Let the craziness of the Premier League take care of itself. We'll just be the best versions of ourselves and I think that will give us a great fighting chance." Ipswich head to Brentford on Saturday looking to bounce back after successive defeats to West Ham (4-1 away) and Everton (2-0 at home). On the debrief process that comes after games, Ashton explained: "Kieran and I have a rule that we talk before the game, but after the game we leave each other alone. It's too emotional. Win, lose or draw, the conversation's a waste of time. We're too high if we've won, we're too low if we've lost. "We talk on Sunday evening at seven o'clock when we can come back with a cold set of eyes. Kieran's great! He always says to me on a Sunday, 'If you're going to ask me about the game, about anything technical/tactical, you'd better have watched it back! Because what you see with your first sets of eyes, and before you've looked at the data, isn't necessarily true. So he expects me to have done my homework on Sunday morning before we talk!" [embedded content]

  • ‘Really appreciate it’ – Tyler Dibling labels Southampton boss Russell Martin as like his ‘second Dad’

    Dibling, 18, has started each of the last five Premier League fixtures, picking up his first goals and assists of his promising professional career. Martin handed Dibling his first senior appearance in the Carabao Cup defeat at Gillingham in August 2023, when he was 17 years old. Dibling wore his socks high then at the request of former director of football Jason Wilcox, although he has since returned to the Jack Grealish style. He dictates his own game now, insisting he fears no opponent and "has not been nervous" since his first pass on his first start against Manchester United. Dibling says Martin predicted his rise last campaign, explaining: "He did say to me a few times that I would break through next season properly. Saints manager Russell Martin and Tyler Dibling at St Mary's (Image: PA) "He makes sure you're comfortable and that you know you're in his plans for the future. He has been amazing, he's like my second Dad. "He cares a lot and shows me that he does. There's a clip he's telling me off in but he says what you need to hear. "He does it in a loving way and he is getting the best out of me so I really appreciate it. I had only played five minutes in the league last year. "I was thinking should I go on loan or can I show I am ready for the Premier League? The best outcome happened." Martin is not the first boss to introduce Dibling to the senior game after Ralph Hasenhuttl took him to a Premier League match in 2022.  Dibling watched on from the sidelines as Saints were beaten 3-0 at Brentford, with the likes of Newcastle United and Chelsea pursuing him.  "I remember being in the under-16s when I went on the bench with Ralph and it was a bit surreal," said Dibling. "You think 'this is it'. "Once you get older, you then have more focus on becoming a proper pro. Although, I accidentally sat in Stuart Armstrong's seat on the bus - but he let me take it and moved next to James Ward-Prowse."

  • Gary Lineker reveals its not true that referees are conspiring this season to make decisions against Arsenal

    The Gunners faced their first Premier League defeat of the season on Saturday, succumbing to a 2-0 loss at Bournemouth. The game’s pivotal moment occurred when Arsenal defender William Saliba […]

  • Football Governance Bill, to include parachute payments, is set to be reintroduced in the UK Parliament

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  • Arne Slot explains Mohamed Salah substitution ahead of Arsenal game in premier league

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  • What Chelsea sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart have said about young Josh Acheampong amid contract stand-off

    Chelsea sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart have disclosed that the teenager has reneged on a long-term contract extension that the Blues believed had been all but agreed upon. […]

  • Cole Palmer speaks out on missing out from squad for Conference League amid Enzo Maresca decision

    Cole Palmer has addressed Enzo Maresca’s decision to exclude him from Chelsea’s Europa Conference League matches this season. Despite performing well domestically, Palmer, 22, finds himself out of Maresca’s plans […]

  • Long history of former Noblett’s shop, known for selling Everton mints, shuts down at Everton/Liverpool

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  • Aston Villa manager Unai Emery reveals his expectations and potential of young Jhon Duran

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  • Ally McCoist makes exciting claim about John McGinn as Aston Villa go top of the Champions League after win

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  • John McGinn and Tyrone Mings agree that Unai Emery will be remembered as one of Aston Villa’s greatest managers

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  • Paul Merson shares Arsenal fear of loss and missing out on title ahead of Liverpool clash

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  • Premier League clubs face huge protests from supporters to “Stop Exploiting Loyalty”

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  • Bacary Sagna pushes Mikel Arteta to bring Paul Pogba to Arsenal

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  • Tottenham player Micky van de Ven reveals moments of madness with Mohammed Kudus during West Ham win

    Micky van de Ven has shared his perspective on the altercation with Mohammed Kudus during Tottenham’s 4-1 victory over West Ham. The conflict arose when Van de Ven was fouled, […]

  • Jose Mourinho expresses his love for all previous clubs including next Europa League opponent Manchester United but not Tottenham

    Last year, during a press conference while managing AS Roma, José Mourinho stirred controversy among Tottenham Hotspur fans by making candid remarks about his connection with the club. This revelation […]

  • Football Governance Bill INTRODUCED in UK parliament to address parachute payments

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  • ‘One of the best’ – Portuguese club Sporting CP owner breaks silence on manager, Ruben Amorim future amid Man Utd and Man City links

    Sporting CP president Federico Varandas is at ease with the possibility of the Portuguese club’s manager, Ruben Amorim, attracting interest from Manchester United and Manchester City. Varandas expressed his confidence […]

  • Saints legend Matt Le Tissier and manager Russell Martin think Premier League referee Anthony Taylor got it wrong with Onuachu penalty snub

    He says Saints were denied a spot-kick for a "clear foul" on substitute Paul Onuachu during Saturday's 3-2 defeat at home to Leicester City. While leading 2-1 but under pressure from the Foxes, Jordan Ayew sustained a shirt pull on the Nigerian while he attacked a cross in the Leicester box. Onuachu stayed on his feet but neither referee Anthony Taylor nor the VAR officials awarded the foul, which could have seen Saints restore a two-goal lead. Leicester then levelled minutes later through Jamie Vardy, with Ryan Fraser sent off for a shirt pull on the former England international.  Martin said: "I think one's right on the goal line so it's a bit different but I think if Paul goes down it makes a big deal because it's a huge shirt pull. "It's much bigger than Ryan Fraser's. But I don't know if they have looked at it and said no or if they haven't, I don't know what that process is." Gallagher, who refereed in the Premier League for 15 years between 1992-2007, analysed the decision-making in the wake of the match. "I thought it was a penalty. If you hold a player's shirt for five steps, which he does, that's sustained," Gallagher said. "They were of the opinion the goalkeeper would have got the ball anyhow," Gallagher continued, attempting to explain the decision made.  During the match, Saints legend Matt Le Tissier posted on X: "Anthony Taylor has done everything in his powers to get Leicester back in this game." However, he added: "Still not learning to have a man on the edge of the box at corners is shocking. Did we not learn from the Ipswich game?"

  • Banished Chelsea star Josh Acheampong shares his feelings to play with club despite contract stand off

    Despite Chelsea barring young defender Josh Acheampong from playing for the club again until he signs a new contract, the player’s aspirations for a future at Stamford Bridge have already […]

  • Newcastle United release statement about Anthony Gordon contract renewal confirmation

    Newcastle United is focusing on securing key players for the long term as part of their strategy for sustainable success. Following the securing of Anthony Gordon’s future with a new […]

  • Newcastle United announce major contract as £45m man Anthony Gordon ends Liverpool talk and sets trophy target

    Newcastle United have confirmed that Anthony Gordon has signed a long-term contract at St James’ Park, securing the England international player as he enters the peak years of his career. […]

  • Unai Emery explains why he substituted midfielder Amadou Onana amid injury fears

    In a recent match where Aston Villa secured a win over Bologna, Unai Emery explained his decision to substitute midfielder Amadou Onana. Emery cited both tactical reasons and Onana experiencing […]

  • Youri Tielemans shares insight to contributions and brilliance of Jhon Duran

    Youri Tielemans played down Jhon Duran’s reaction to being substituted after scoring in Aston Villa’s 2-0 win over Bologna in the Champions League tonight. The victory was marked by the […]

  • Mikel Arteta delivers Riccardo Calafiori and Bukayo Saka Arsenal injury update in Liverpool crisis

    Mikel Arteta has expressed concern over the mounting injury problems facing his Arsenal squad, emphasizing the challenges they must overcome in the coming weeks. Bukayo Saka appears unlikely to feature […]

  • Jorgen Strand Larsen reveals what ‘kills us’ after Wolves suffer Man City heartbreak in last minute of the game

    Jorgen Strand Larsen has expressed his determination and optimism following a challenging match for Wolves against the Premier League champions. Despite suffering a last-minute defeat, Larsen remains focused on the […]

  • Premier League VAR (Decisions Overturned) table shows Wolves have huge reason to be angry

    Wolverhampton Wanderers have experienced a notable imbalance in Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decisions, with 20 more calls being overturned against them than in their favor since the technology’s introduction to […]

  • ‘Feels like home’ – Ipswich Town defender Leif Davis pens new long-term contract

    The left-back, who first signed back in 2022 from Leeds United, has been a crucial part of the Blues' squad in the last three seasons, helping them secure promotion from League One before his record-breaking campaign in the Championship last term. Davis registered 18 assists - the most for a defender in a single season at the level - as Town finished second to secure their place in the Premier League. SIGN-UP! Get five months of all our Town content for just £5 - or 40% off a whole year! The 24-year-old's previous deal was due to expire at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, with the club holding the option to extend it for another 12 months. However, Davis has since signed a new deal that'll keep him at Portman Road until the summer of 2028. "I am really pleased to have signed a new contract," he said. "I have loved my time at the club so far and have improved so much during my two seasons here working with this group of players and under a manager who has done so much for me.  "This feels like home now and I am excited to continue the journey." Manager Kieran McKenna said: "We are all delighted that Leif has committed his future to the club.  “Leif has made huge strides over the last two-and-a-half seasons and has developed well, both as a player and as a young man.  Davis has played the full 90 minutes in each of the Blues eight Premier League games so far this season (Image: ITFC/Matchday Images) "He has been an important part of the successes of the last two seasons and now has the opportunity to play regularly in the Premier League for the first time in his career.  "We are excited to have the opportunity to work with him for an extended period and are confident he will continue to work hard to improve and develop in all areas." Davis has made eight appearances for Ipswich in the Premier League so far this season, providing an assist for Liam Delap in the 1-1 home draw against Fulham back in August.

  • Taylor Harwood-Bellis: ‘I’m struggling to see a positive. We have got to keep going’

    Saints were 2-0 up on the hour mark and looked good value for their first Premier League win under Russell Martin before they collapsed in the final 35 minutes. Facundo Buonanotte pulled one back before Jamie Vardy crashed a penalty past Aaron Ramsdale after Ryan Fraser was sent off. Harwood-Bellis pinpointed the introduction of Abdul Fatawu, who scored a hat-trick against Saints last season, as the turning point in the game. The England under-21 international insisted Saints failed to deal with the Ghana winger - it was Fatawu who set up Leicester's first, played a role in the second and won the corner for the third.  A despondent Harwood-Bellis said: “I can’t really sum up how I’m feeling. It hurts. In the first 15 minutes of the second half, we were still good. “Conceding three goals in the second half can’t happen. Blaming anyone else is not on the front of my mind. “Their lad comes on and causes us problems. We don’t deal with him well enough and we get punished. "I felt we came out in the second half with the same mentality (as the first). They score and then their tails are up. “Their lad comes on and we concede more. We were defending well but it shouldn’t get to that point. Southampton's Taylor Harwood-Bellis (Image: Stuart Martin) “I’m struggling to see a positive. It can’t get to us having 10 men and our backs against the wall. I’m struggling to figure out how it can end like that. “The set-piece at the end, the organisation is not right. People aren’t in positions and we get punished." Saints face a tough test this weekend when they travel to reigning Premier League champions Manchester City. Pep Guardiola's side secured a late 2-1 win over Wolves on Sunday, preventing Saints from dropping to the bottom of the table. Saturday's game will mark the first time Harwood-Bellis has faced his boyhood club having joined the City academy at the age of six.  “We have got to roll our sleeves up. It will hurt for the next couple of days but we have a big game next," he concluded. “It’s one of the hardest games of the season, away at City. We will prepare for that. We have got to keep going. There are games and points to play for.”

  • Rafa Benitez hails the ‘very difficult’ thing Curtis Jones did in Liverpool’s win over Chelsea

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  • Dan Burn admits ‘sit on bench’ is not easy after Newcastle loss against Brighton

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  • Unai Emery’s press conference before Aston Villa champions league game against Bologna

    Unai Emery sat down with the media at Bodymoor Heath this afternoon ahead of Aston Villa’s Champions League clash against Bologna at Villa Park on Tuesday night (8pm kick-off). Here’s […]

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  • Aston Villa star Matty Cash opens up on the Tyrone Mings effect and yet another Unai Emery meeting

    Matty Cash has expressed the positive impact Tyrone Mings is having in training ahead of his potential return to Aston Villa’s squad for their Champions League clash against Bologna. Mings, […]

  • Mikel Arteta reveals plan to solve Arsenal discipline problem as red cards mount up

    The Gunners have been plagued by disciplinary issues, receiving three red cards in just eight Premier League games this season. All three dismissals have stirred controversy, yet their impact is […]

  • Premier League forced to release VAR statements in Tottenham vs West Ham drama

    During Tottenham Hotspur’s 4-1 victory over West Ham, the Premier League released several statements regarding key decisions made during the match. This victory, which took place at the Tottenham Hotspur […]

  • Premier League in firing line after Wolves Manager Gary O Neil’s damning comments on latest VAR controversy during Wolves v Man City

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  • Wolves boss Gary O’Neil contacted by FA over comments after Manchester City loss

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  • Starting to look a player ‘ – Jamie Carragher picks out Manchester United’s fast-improving star Rasmus Hojlund

    Jamie Carragher discussed Rasmus Hojlund’s outstanding performance on Monday Night Football. The Manchester United striker made a strong comeback after missing the season’s first month due to a hamstring injury. […]

  • ‘Main gripe is we didn’t score more’ – Everton boss Dyche on win over ‘amazing’ Ipswich Town

    The Blues delivered one of their flattest displays of the season as the Toffees made it four unbeaten in the top tier with a comfortable win. READ MORE: Stuart Watson's verdict on defeat Iliman Ndiaye and Michael Keane got the goals for the visitors before the break, with Dyche saying he was pleased that his side - who have shown defensive frailties this season - saw out the game for a second straight clean sheet.  Dyche enthused: “I’m really pleased, a very professional performance. “I thought we delivered a very strong performance defensively today to make sure we looked after the lead. "I thought the shape of the team was good to make sure we saw the game through. READ MORE: Alex Jones' Town player ratings “They (Ipswich) have done amazing and are fighting for everything, which they need to do, of course. "It’s difficult but I thought we showed a bit of authority today all round with our professionalism and the shape of the team.” Everton celebrate going 2-0 up (Image: Steve Waller) Dyche added: "In many different areas we looked a threat, and maybe you could argue the main gripe is that we didn’t score more goals, but our game management was good today. "People have questioned that, but it shows the team are learning – doing the hard bit, the ugly bit, to make sure we looked after ourselves. So there was a lot of pleasing aspects. “I must say our fans have filled the away end again. It’s a long journey after some terrible weather so I thank them for their support as well. "Both our goals are good finishes. We know Keano is a very good finisher and we want goals to come in different ways so I'm pleased with that. "The most pleasing part, though, was how we handled the game. It’s not easy coming to these grounds because they’re full of energy and belief."

  • Russell Martin: ‘You can see that there’s not a lack of belief in what they’re doing’ after defeat against Leicester City

    Martin felt there were positives to take from their defeat to Leicester but admitted there will not be a "false positivity loop" when assessing the game this week. Saints threw away a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 in the dying moment having been reduced to 10 men when Ryan Fraser saw red. The collapse means Saints are still without a Premier League win this season and have earned just one point - only Wolves have made a worse start. Asked if it will be harder to lift his players going into more 'winnable games," Martin said: "I just don't like that term in the Premier League, winnable. "I said it on Thursday in my press conference. There's just no easy game. I don't buy into that. We'll try and go into every game trying to win and there'll be so much good stuff to show the players this week from Saturday. Saints boss Russell Martin (Image: Stuart Martin) "We're just continuing the process of trying to grow the team and trying to grow the players and they're giving everything they've got. "You can see that there's not a lack of belief in what they're doing or a lack of fight. Maybe there's a lack of confidence in big moments because of the results we've had. "We just have to get through it together and if we do, it'll be great. The balance is always honesty.  "There'll be some really good stuff and there'll be some stuff that really hurts. In the build-up to their first goal, there's a pass that goes through us that just shouldn't. It's ridiculous. "It shouldn't. We are always honest with the guys. We are not going to sit there and have this false positivity loop of, 'Oh, you're doing great.' We're not. "There's been some great bits and some great moments of games. Half an hour against United, Newcastle, at Arsenal for periods. "But no one cares and it doesn't matter if you don't win football matches."

  • Arne Slot can’t hide frustration against referee decisions and extra time added in the game

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  • Curtis Jones expresses delight after Liverpool win against Chelsea

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  • Arne Slot makes reacts to VAR penalty overturn decision

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  • Tributes for Newcastle United fan Dave Cartman who died in the Philippines, leaving four-year-old son

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  • Tottenham star Radu Dragusin makes January transfer decision after Ange Postecoglou continues to keep same defence

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  • Martin on Leicester City winner: ‘The concern is that one person (probably Jan-Bednarek ) didn’t do their job’

    Match-winner Jordan Ayew was left free in the box in the 97th minute, allowing Harry Winks to pick him out, before squeezing in past Aaron Ramsdale at the near post. Ayew's winner capped off a three-goal turn around which saw the Foxes come back from 2-0 down to extend Southampton's winless run. Second-half goals from Facundo Buonanotte and Jamie Vardy turned things around after Cameron Archer and Joe Aribo had Southampton ahead at the break. Asked about Leicester's late winner, Martin told the Daily Echo: "We do a lot of work on set pieces and we should have scored one today. "We defended brilliantly against the best set-piece team in Europe last time out against Arsenal. "Today, we are down to 10 men and we have a few subs on but one person had one job to do that would have stopped that goal and they didn't. "The concern is that the person didn't do their job. It's not about detail or a lack of work. It would be a concern if we had a lack of detail. "It's about taking responsibility and doing what you are asked to do." Speaking more generally about the game, Martin said: "We had a man sent off and it changed the context of the game completely. "We started the game brilliantly, we played so well, I didn't enjoy the last 15 minutes of the first half because we turned the ball over too much. "We came out in the second half and started the game really well. We looked like we were going to score a third goal and they scored against the run of play. "We had to make a change with Yuki and we don't defend well enough at that point. It's disrupted the team a little bit. "Even at 2-1, it's ok, it was fine. Ryan gets sent off and it changes everything. We defended really well after Vardy scored his penalty. "The lads defended brilliantly will spirit and togetherness. We brought Kamaldeen on to give us one moment in their box. We had it and he didn't make the most of it. "We concede because someone doesn't do what they are asked to do from a corner again, which was the same against Ipswich."

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  • Russell Martin: ‘People ask me about six-pointers, every game in the Premier League is huge’

    Southampton welcome fellow promoted side Leicester City to St Mary's on Saturday in what many have dubbed a 'must-win game.' Martin's side were twice beaten by the Foxes last season, then coached by current Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca. Now managed by Steve Cooper, Leicester earned their first win of the season last time out while Saints are still waiting for a maiden victory. Previewing the game on Thursday, Martin admitted he expects a difficult game against Leicester but revealed his players are aware of how big the game is.  "I think it'll be two well-coached teams in different styles, but, honestly, the focus has been on us," he explained. "We have an awareness of what they can do because they've put in a really good performance away at Arsenal. Bournemouth at home, they were very good. "I think people keep asking me how big the game is. Is it a six-pointer and all that? Every game in the Premier League is huge. Southampton have earned one point since winning promotion (Image: Stuart Martin) "I think they've still got some brilliant traits from last season where they were asked to play in a really clear way under Enzo. "They were the best team in the league and that proved. Over the course of the season, they were outstanding. "They still have some really brilliant attributes that Steve's obviously put into his team and allowed them to maintain. "The previous results will dictate how other people feel about it externally and the result and all the noise around it. "Every game is huge and the guys know that. Now we have another opposition in our way of three points that want it as much as we do." Argentine Facundo Buonanotte had been linked with Southampton before joining Leicester on loan, but Martin insisted he was never an option at St Mary's. "He was never mentioned here, so I think there were a lot of players linked here. I watched him a lot for Brighton over the last year or so before he got injured. We are aware of their threats."

  • Taylor Harwood-Bellis believes first Premier League win would ‘breed confidence’ for Southampton

    Saints are without a win from their first seven league games this season but host fellow promoted side Leicester City on Saturday. Taylor admitted the Foxes will be a tough test but insisted Saints need to find a way to make the most of home advantage.  Speaking to the Daily Echo, he said: "We've had a couple of weeks now to work on stuff on the training ground. The atmosphere around the place has been really good. "It's been positive. Obviously, the results have not gone as well as we'd have liked. Ideally, we'd like to have had more points than we do at this stage. "But honestly, the feel and the standard of training has been really good. It always is, to be fair. But I think, especially this week, it's been really good and it's definitely a positive. "There's always going to be pressure and outside noise. We've got to deal with it ourselves internally as a team, as a group. "There's always going to be pressure in this league. No matter who you play, never an easy game in any week. "It's going to be tough. There's maybe a bit of added pressure with who we're facing on Saturday. But we have to use that to our advantage. We've got to make it work." Southampton's Charlie Taylor (Image: Southampton FC/Matt Watson) He added: "I think Leicester have a different style now from last season. They've just come off a win, so that's going to have given them confidence. "But we're at home and we know what we can do. We know what we're about. We know the qualities that we've got. We need to go into it feeling confident. "We have to remain as a team and believe in ourselves. That's something the gaffer is drilling into us. Once we get that first win, it will breed confidence." Taylor, who arrived in the summer, is one of several options for Russell Martin at left-back this season. He is competing with Kyle Walker-Peters and Ryan Manning, while James Bree is also capable of switching sides. The 31 year old welcomed the competition for places, admitting it brings the best out of players in training and on matchdays.  "I'm loving it really," he explained. "The south coast is a nice place to live. The lads are really good, as are the management and staff. "I'm just really enjoying it. If we can start to pick up and get them wins and get up the table, it'd be really good. "The competition for places has been really good. There's a lot of competition all over the pitch, but maybe especially in the full-back areas. "We've got Ryan, Kyle, Yuki (Sugawara), Breezy (James Bree), we've got a lot of talent. I think it's down to everyone individually to train well every week and play well when given the chance. "That competition only helps and only improves and pushes you. I don't think anyone's ever guaranteed to play every game unless you're Messi or Ronaldo. Southampton's Charlie Taylor (Image: Stuart Martin) "Competition pushes you. It drives you every day in training to be the best version of yourself and to train well. "The full-back role is massively important in football now. It took me time to adapt and learn stuff. "From one manager to another, you're never going to play the same style. Under Russell, I'm really enjoying it. It is a different style, but I'm learning. "We're a big possession-based side and that plays a key role. I think in any team, you always want to have the ball. "You want to spend more time with it than without it. That's really enjoyable and that's something I'm enjoying."

  • Arne Slot speaks out on Real Madrid interest in Trent Alexander-Arnold and Liverpool contracts

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  • Unai Emery makes feelings clear about John McGinn after Aston Villa dressing down

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  • ‘Full of endeavour’ – Everton boss Seasn Dyche discusses Ipswich Town’s start ahead of Portman Road clash

    The two sides will meet for the first time since February 2002 in what'll be the maiden clash between Dyche and Town boss Kieran McKenna. Both sides currently sit towards the bottom end of the table, with the Toffees currently one point and one place above the Blues in 16th. That being said, Dyche seems optimistic that they'll get better as the season goes on, with disappointing results and performances giving them the platform to learn and improve. SIGN-UP! Get five months of all our Town content for just £5 - or 40% off a whole year! “First of all, I think they did terrific last season," he said in his pre-match press conference. "They bought a lot of different players in, added to it financially, which isn’t an easy choice for a club coming up. “I know the guys there pretty well and I think they’re good operators. They’re learning as they go. “Last time out [v West Ham] was a tough one. That can happen in the Premier League. “It’s hard to get a handle on it. In some games, you think you’ve got a handle on it and it goes away from you. “It’ll be a learning curve for them, every game will be a learning curve. From what I’ve seen so far, they’re full of endeavour and full of belief to take it on. “That’s what we’ve got to be ready for.” Dyche is fully aware of how tough the game could be for them, even if their upcoming run of games against Ipswich, Fulham and Southampton looks to be easier than what they'll face down the line. Dyche argued that the Blues spent a 'recognised fortune' over the summer (Image: Ross Halls) While he agrees that it's an opportunity to get points on the board, he knows that there's no easy games in the Premier League, that Town have spent 'a recognised fortune' in order to fulfil their aims of consolidating at this level, making them a tough opponent. “Every game is an opportunity," he explained. "The league doesn’t lie, it’s there for a reason. “It can have its anomalies, but at the moment, we feel that we are an anomaly because we’ve been in the driving seat a couple of times and let those situations change. That’s been down to us and me. “We’re somewhat correcting that at the moment and we need to correct it further, but you can’t take teams for granted. “Ipswich are full of endeavour, especially when they’ve spent a recognised fortune at this level of football for a club that’s just come up. They’re obviously intent on being in the division.”

  • Russell Martin provides update on Ross Stewart fitness after latest ‘frustrating setback’

    The Scottish forward was forced off in the first half of Southampton's 3-1 defeat at Arsenal having gone down off the ball. Stewart was later seen walking around the Emirates without any support having suffered what Martin described as a "muscle injury." Speaking ahead of Southampton's home fixture against Leicester on Saturday, Martin insisted Stewart will "bounce back" from this latest spell on the sidelines.  He said: "Ross came off (at Arsenal) and won’t be available but it's not a long-term injury. It's a frustrating setback for Ross and is disappointing for him and us. "I think it's natural for him to be really disappointed after his first Premier League start to get injured and for it to be cut short. "I think we just have to support him in the best way we possibly can, as we always do. I think there's no one more upset and hurt than Ross. Southampton's Ross Stewart (Image: Stuart Martin) "Then we feel all of that with him and for him. We just have to support him and bring him back in the best way we possibly can. "It's not going to be a long-term injury. I think the international break has come at a good time for him which means he won't miss a huge amount of games. "We just need to support him mentally and psychologically more than anything physical because he's had one setback after the other. We'll do that.  "We have a brilliant group of people here, players and staff, to support him and he knows that. He knows he's loved and cared for. "I think he'll get through it at some point. These setbacks will maybe still happen, but hopefully fewer and far between. He'll be supported in the best way possible." Stewart only managed 42 minutes for Southampton, across four appearances, in his first season having joined from Sunderland last summer. Saints were patient with his fitness this summer, avoiding any opportunity to exacerbate a small niggle.  That had allowed him to double his total minutes played this season and saw him earn a first start at the Emirates.

  • Russell Martin reveals Dibling ‘in a good place’ after withdrawing from England squad

    The 18 year old pulled out of Will Antwi's Young Lions camp with what the FA described as an 'injury.' Martin revealed Saints gave Dibling a week off his feet in order to get some much-needed rest following a breakout spell in the Premier League. The academy graduate also received some treatment having picked up a few knocks during the early stages of the season. Speaking to the Daily Echo, Martin pointed out the importance of protecting the teenager following a life-altering couple of months. He explained: "Tyler stayed because he had a few knocks. He was nursing something before the Arsenal game. It keeps him fresh for us.  "He's fine. He had a week off his feet, had treatment and was rested. We also have to respect and appreciate that Tyler's life has changed quite dramatically in the last few weeks. Tyler Dibling celebrates scoring against Ipswich at St Mary's  "Not just physically but mentally, the spotlight he is under, the praise he's getting and all the interest. "We have to take in the mental fatigue as much as the physical load. He was carrying one or two things physically because the intensity stepped up for him. "He's in a good place. He's had a good bit of rest and some treatment. He's dipped in and out of training this week. He will be ready." Dibling has already scored his first Premier League goal - doing so in the early stages of a 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town. The winger has started each of the last four Premier League fixtures for Southampton, having never started a senior league match in his career prior to this campaign. He ranks highest in the Premier League for shots created from successful take-ons with six - tied with Liverpool's Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah. 

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  • ‘A really good role model’ – McKenna on Jack Taylor’s sub displays for Ipswich club and country

    Following a £1.5m switch from Peterborough, Taylor was restricted to a supporting role in the Blues’ Championship promotion campaign and then saw midfield duo Kalvin Phillips and Jens Cajuste both brought in on loan. The 26-year-old has made the most of his five Premier League cameos so far though, so much so that he was handed his international debut for the Republic of Ireland last Sunday.  "I think everyone in the building is buzzing for Jack to be called up to the Ireland squad,” said McKenna, Taylor having looked lively during his half hour cameo in a 2-0 defeat in Greece. “When I first spoke to Jack a couple of years ago, his career goals were to play for Ireland and play in the Premier League. "We are really, really happy that he has reached those milestones and now it will be about setting new milestones and pushing on from there.  Jack Taylor has impressed Kieran McKenna (Image: Ross Halls) SIGN-UP! Access ALL of our ITFC coverage by subscribing now for the discounted price of £5 for five months or £31 for one year “I think he has made a good impact. It is now five appearances he has made in the Premier League so far and I think he is a really good role model for the group at the moment.  “He didn’t play in the Fulham game or against AFC Wimbledon in the cup as we were integrating some new players. It would have been easy at that stage to drop his head.  “But his training over the few weeks after that was excellent. He worked in a really positive manner, got his opportunity coming off the bench against Southampton, did really well and took the game by the scruff of the neck. Again, he was a big positive coming off the bench against Aston Villa. “He has shown good attitude and good qualities and taken some good steps in his career in terms of making his Premier League and international debut.  “We are happy he is here and we know he is going to keep working hard to have as strong a season as he can.”  Taylor was one of four Town players in the Republic of Ireland squad alongside Dara O’Shea, Chiedozie Ogbene and Sammie Szmodics. With Massimo Luongo and Cajuste injured, Taylor is the only other central midfielder in the squad currently competing with Sam Morsy (one booking away from a ban) and Phillips. McKenna's men return to action when they face Everton, at Portman Road, on Saturday (3pm).

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  • RussellnMartin: ‘It was great being on the pitch but I prefer being on the sidelines now’

    The retired defender pulled together a Russell Martin XI to face a Saints Legends side to raise funds for various charities on Sunday. Martin's side were victorious thanks to a penalty shootout after a 4-4 draw in regular time - Matt Le Tissier scoring from the spot in the final minutes to send the game to penalties. “I really enjoyed it," Martin told the Daily Echo. "I’m feeling knackered now. It was great being on the pitch with so many old teammates.  “It was great to be back in the dressing room, it was like you’ve never been away. It was great to play against so many Saints legends. “I’m really grateful for how many people turned up. It was a pleasure to be on the pitch. It was Martin's responsibility to pull together his former teammates from the various clubs he turned out for during his playing career. Russell Martin almost completes 60 minutes and gets his applause off.#SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/DQEcdiAbOJ — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) October 13, 2024 “It didn’t take much roping up,” Martin quipped. “I set up a massive group chat and asked who wanted to play. “I had to try and trim the numbers to 16. There was a few left out who are not happy today so I apologise to them. All of them wanted to be here and I’m really grateful to them for that.” Martin does not shy away from getting involved with Saints training sessions but this was a chance for him to get back on the pitch in a game environment. “I’m really fulfilled in my job," he continued. "I don’t miss playing too much. There has only been a few occasions since becoming a manager where I felt I would love to play on that night. “It’s lovely (to be back on the pitch). When you’ve dreamt of doing it, playing is the ultimate thing but managing, or coaching, is the next best thing. Russell Martin (Image: Southampton FC) “I prefer being on the sideline now, probably because of my physical condition these days, but it was great being back out there and doing what you’ve done since being a kid.” Martin received pantomime boos from the supporters every time he touched the ball in the early minutes. However, he was met with a different reaction when he left the field as a large group of youngsters immediately swarmed around the bench. “I hope it was banter,” Martin smiled. “The lads were telling me to stay on the ball for as long as possible to see the reaction. “But once I came off I was met with all the kids who wanted us to sign stuff. I’m really grateful for the support I’ve received since we’ve been here. “I will never lose perspective of that because I’ve been there as a kid. I will always try and do as many as I can. Apologies if I missed anyone. 🙂👈 @theowalcottHe's still got it 👏 — Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) October 13, 2024 “The fans are always the most important part of a club. We try to keep them pleased as much as possible. “Sometimes, if it isn’t with results, it’s about being as open and inviting as you can be.  Even now in the tough times, the support has been brilliant." Martin's shining moment was scoring a penalty past former Saints stopper Bartosz Bialkowski to kickstart his side's penalty shootout win. Asked if he was nervous stepping up to the spot, Martin said: “No, I told Bart which way I was going as well. "I was only nervous that I might pull my calf because I’d been off the pitch for some time by then.”

  • New Iliman Ndiaye injury update shared after ‘concern’ raised over Senegal and Everton star

    The interim Senegal manager has shared an update on the fitness of the Everton forward after an injury scare16:20, 14 Oct 2024Ndiaye has been a standout performer for Everton this season (Photo by Copa/Getty Images)Iliman Ndiaye is back in individual training after an injury scare. The Everton forward was substituted during Senegal's 4-0 win over Malawi last week.The 24-year-old has been one of the Toffees' standout players this year after joining from Marseille. So Evertonian hearts were in mouths on Friday when pictures appeared of Ndiaye in discomfort as he left the field after 65 minutes.‌It was reported by Wiw Sports (h/t Sport Witness), the Everton star had not trained over the weekend due to an ankle issue and that his condition was being monitored ahead of the team's second game with Malawi on Tuesday.READ MORE:

  • Tyrone Mings reveals ‘amazing’ Unai Emery quality at Aston Villa

    Tyrone Mings has expressed admiration for Unai Emery’s adeptness in shifting dynamics to Aston Villa’s advantage, often during matches. Observing from the sidelines, Mings witnessed the ascent of the Lions […]

  • Tyrone Mings has ‘no doubt’ about one thing while on brink of Aston Villa return

    Centre half Tyrone Mings has not played for Aston Villa’s first team since August 2023. A knee injury, sustained on the opening day of the season at Newcastle, sidelined him, […]

  • Thomas Frank gives glowing praise of Bryan Mbeumo and importance to Brentford

    Bryan Mbeumo has shown remarkable performance since joining Brentford from Troyes in 2019. His notable form has attracted interest from top clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle, and potentially Tottenham. A […]

  • Tottenham dealt Lucas Bergvall injury worry amid Sweden decision

    Tottenham have encountered a setback with Lucas Bergvall. The midfielder has sustained an injury while on international duty with the Swedish national team. The promising 18-year-old joined Spurs in the […]

  • ‘Such a good striker’ – England U21 boss praises ‘absolute handful’ Delap

    Delap caught the eye as England qualified for next summer's U21 EURO finals with a 2-1 victory thanks to two late goals from James McAtee in Bournemouth. SIGN-UP! Get five months of ALL our Town content for just £5 - or 40% off a year! Speaking about Delap - who's already bagged four Premier League goals in seven games - to football journalist Henry Winter after the game, interim boss Futcher said: “He’s given their centre-halves a real rough night. "Liam was an absolute handful. If you want to go and fight him, he'll match you. If you want to race him, he’ll win the race. “He’s very difficult to deal with, he’s quick, he’s powerful, he’s in good form in the Premier League. Liam’s a top number nine and he’s going to keep developing.” Liam Delap has already bagged four Premier League goals (Image: PA) Futcher added: “Ipswich are very fortunate to have such a good striker on their hands.” Delap, who played alongside Town team-mate Omari Hutchinson - who also impressed - was booked for dissent in Friday's game, meaning he'll miss England's final qualifying match with Azerbaijan on Tuesday. And Futcher said Delap needs to learn to control his aggression - but he doesn't want him to lose that edge. “It’s a good aggression," Futcher explained. "I wouldn’t be trying to take any aggression out of him because that’s one of his major strengths. "But he needs to learn to control it. He’s suspended for the next game now.” Omari Hutchinson also impressed for England U21s (Image: PA)

  • ‘It’s the Republic of Ipswich’ – O’Shea on Town’s Irish contingent and Liam Delap

    His move to Portman Road - the Blues' penultimate signing of the transfer window - took the number of Irish internationals at the club up to two at the time. Now, it's not just him and Sammie Szmodics, but also Chiedozie Ogbene, who joined from Luton Town at the end of August, and Jack Taylor, who earned his first call-up at senior level earlier this month. “It’s quite funny actually. I signed, then Chieo [Ogbene] signed a couple of days after me. It started to look like it was becoming the Republic of Ipswich, which is funny," O'Shea laughed. SIGN-UP! Get five months of all our Town content for just £5 - or 40% off a whole year! “Obviously Jack Taylor’s got the call-up too now, which is amazing. “It’s nice to have the Irish contingent around me, obviously with the likes of Reg [Rene Gilmartin] in the coaching staff as well. It’s good.” O'Shea's experience of international football hasn't been perfect. Handed his senior debut by Stephen Kenny in 2020, he found himself playing under John O'Shea a few years later. Now, he's playing for Icelandic boss Heimir Hallgrímsson, who claimed his first win as manager on Thursday evening when the Boys in Green beat Finland 2-1 in the Nations League in Helsinki. O'Shea played at right-back in Thursday's 2-1 win against Finland (Image: Steve Waller) O'Shea is hoping that everything will begin to click for them on the pitch, especially with the plethora of young talent in the squad. “It’s obviously a new manager that we’ve had coming into the international set-up," he explained. "It’s quite hard, international football, to know what the manager wants and try to implement his way because you’ve got such a short window. “It’s one of those things that’s going to take a bit of time. We haven’t had the best success in international football over the last couple of years – that’s something that we’re looking to change. “We’ve got a really good group, a young group, that I think will go on to do great things. It’s about trying to buy into what the manager wants us to do there, get results and try to qualify for tournaments.” There's been a lot of talk about in-form striker Liam Delap in the last few weeks, and O'Shea is well aware that his Ipswich team-mate is eligible to play for Ireland. “I’d love him to play for Ireland," the 25-year-old admitted. "But that’s down to him at the end of the day. “I don’t want to fill him with any more stuff in his head. As long as he’s scoring goals for Ipswich and doing well here, I’m happy. “Whatever he feels as a person, he’ll make that call. There’s nothing worse than trying to force a player into something that his heart and head isn’t set on, so he’ll make the right decision, I’m sure of that. England Under-21 international Liam Delap is eligible to play for the Republic of Ireland (Image: Steve Waller) “That’s down to him and his family.” Asked about how tough it is to face the powerful striker in training, O'Shea said:   "It’s not easy. He’s a big boy as well, as you can see. “He’s got it all. Physically, he’s got that turn of pace, the strength. “Obviously, he’s scoring goals, he knows where the back of the net is. As a striker, that’s the most important thing. “As long as he can keep that consistency going in his game and keep the confidence alive in him, I think he’s going to have a great career. “I’m really excited to be playing with someone like him, someone that I know will be putting the ball in the back of the net and take his chances like that. “It’s great for the team and the club.”

  • Academy star Dire Mebude reveals turning down first team football at a big club for Man City – I would do it again

    Despite standing out in the academy until turning 16 and being assured of first-team opportunities if he remained at Ibrox, Mebude was convinced that joining Manchester City’s academy was the […]

  • What Jack Grealish has learnt training with Angel Gomes amid Man United transfer hope

    Since leaving Manchester United in 2020, the 24-year-old Gomes has established himself as a key player for his French club. Recently, he earned just his second start for the England […]

  • Ex-Newcastle man Chris Wood outlines six-year ambition and Nottingham Forest hope

    Speculation is rife that Nottingham Forest may offer Chris Wood a new deal. Wood has been in top form, netting 15 goals last season and already scoring four in seven […]

  • Premier League rivals could face fresh battle after Man City arbitration ruling

    While the Premier League has suggested that only future loans will be considered for Profit and Sustainability purposes, some believe that applying the rules retroactively is necessary. This stance could […]

  • Roy Keane names ‘the best’ manager Pep Guardiola, that England should appoint

    England national team is under the interim management of Lee Carsley. Carsley disclosed during this international break that he has been asked to manage the team until November, when a […]

  • Landmark moment for Tottenham wonderkid George Abbott getting plenty of praise on loan

    The international break may have paused the action for Tottenham’s main squad, but not for some of their young loan stars who continued playing over the weekend. With World Cup […]

  • Will Angel Gomes return to Man United? Lille ‘stance’, January negotiations and buy-back clause

    Manchester United’s academy graduate, Angel Gomes, has been making waves on the international stage. Gomes recently made his second start for England, impressing against Finland. Former Reds captain, Roy Keane, […]

  • Richard Masters breaks silence in letter to premier league clubs after Manchester City bombshell

    The Premier League, under the leadership of chief executive Richard Masters, is currently deliberating on amendments to key sponsorship rules. This process comes amidst a backdrop of concerns raised by […]

  • Virgil van Dijk explains leaving early during international break to return to Liverpool

    Liverpool have been given a huge boost ahead of their clash against Chelsea after the international break21:59, 12 Oct 2024Mohamed Salah prior to Egypt's clash against Mauritania(Image:

  • William Gallas thinks it will be hard to see Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving Liverpool – but Real Madrid injury changes things

    Spanish side Real Madrid continue to be linked strongly with an interest in Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold01:00, 13 Oct 2024Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool looks on during the Premier League match at Crystal Palace on October 5 2024(Image:

  • Richard Masters makes emergency Premier League vow after Man City spat

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters has addressed the current situation regarding the associated party transaction (APT) rules. Despite the ongoing legal battle with Manchester City, which has brought to […]

  • Enzo Maresca has already identified new Cole Palmer role to complete major Chelsea U-turn

    The Blues’ talisman is often afforded the freedom to move across the pitch as he sees fit but is frequently found in the central attacking position. Despite the numerous attacking […]

  • Upcoming star striker Samu Omorodion reveals “I agreed £35m Chelsea transfer – What happened next made me cry at night”

    After a promising start at FC Porto, Samu Omorodion has revealed the challenges he faced during a tumultuous summer that nearly saw him sign with Chelsea. Initially appearing destined for […]

  • I got into a social media spiral in search for ‘gratification’ but that’s changed at Newcastle

    Dan Burn, a defender for Newcastle United, has found a new perspective away from the pressures of social media. Once searching for ‘gratification’ online, Burn now prioritizes the opinions of […]

  • Premier League chief breaks silence on constructive and informative feedback from premier league clubs

    Richard Masters, involved with the Premier League, has addressed recent issues concerning sponsorship rules, hinting at potential delays in related meetings. In particular, Aston Villa and other member clubs have […]

  • Richard Masters breaks silence in letter to premier league clubs after Manchester City bombshell

    The Premier League, led by Richard Masters, is in the process of developing amendments to sponsorship rules. This is being undertaken with considerable consultation and feedback from various clubs. Richard […]

  • Latest Arsenal injury news as four miss Bournemouth after Odegaard update and Saka announcement

    Arsenal faces a challenging situation with up to eight players potentially missing their match against Bournemouth due to injuries. Despite these challenges, the Gunners are currently third in the Premier […]

  • Arsenal star Kieran Tierney hints at emotional club return after being spotted in London

    Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney was recently seen in conversation with Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers during a charity event, igniting speculations about his future with the club. The two were engaged […]

  • Dejan Kulusevski reveals Cristiano Ronaldo inspiration as he takes on new Tottenham role

    Dejan Kulusevski has had the privilege of learning from some of football’s finest talents throughout his career. The 24-year-old’s experience with past teammates includes playing alongside Zlatan Ibrahimović with the […]

  • The £65million champions league problem Manchester United are sleepwalking into

    [Manchester United’s Financial Report] said: “Qualification for the Champions League is largely dependent upon our men’s first team’s performance in the Premier League and, in some circumstances, the Champions League […]

  • Former Man United star Facundo Pellistri pays heartfelt tribute to teammate George Baldock

    The football community was plunged into mourning following the tragic death of George Baldock, a 31-year-old former Sheffield United right-back. Baldock, who was residing in Athens, Greece, was found dead […]

  • Steve Cooper expresses relief after winning first game with Leicester City

    Facundo Buonanotte scored the only goal of the game against AFC Bournemouth last time out, dancing his way into the area and smashing the ball past Kepa Arrizabalaga. The Foxes wanted a penalty when Illia Zabarnyi appeared to handle in the area but referee Darren Bond waved claims away before Bournemouth piled the pressure on in the second half. Leicester held on to leave Saints among just four teams without a win at the bottom reaches of the table, ahead of the St Mary's meeting on Saturday, October 19. Cooper was relieved to get a first win heading into the latest break and said: “I feel happy for the players, equally as happy for the supporters and staff. Steve Cooper has his first #PremierLeague win of the season with Leicester! ✅#BBCFootball #LCFC #PL pic.twitter.com/enR2OUTMVv — BBC Sport Wales (@BBCSportWales) October 5, 2024 "It was always going to be important to get the first win back in the Premier League. I’ve seen many win here, I would have loved for it to be sooner, we know that. "We could have done some things better but we’ve also been unlucky, so I’m just glad everything went well. It’s great to win but we have a lot of work to do to be a force. “It’s an international break and the work continues and now we need to be completely obsessed with beating Southampton in a couple of weeks.” Cooper added: “I’ve got to build trust here, it’s clear I have work to do with people really believing in me and I’m fine with that. “That’s my really big motivation because it’ll show how much I really want to be here and how much I want to get this job right with the players. “Feeling the atmosphere here, it’s been good. We really needed the supporters in the second half and there were times when the crowd backed us. "We needed that. It’s great to win but I know I have a lot of work to do so the team become a force – it’ll take a lot of work.” Saints start a block of four crucial games with the visit from Leicester, including clashes with Man City and relegation rivals Everton and Wolves.

  • ‘A consistent kid’ – Academy director Goldie issues glowing Dibling verdict

    Former Dundee United and Swansea City academy boss joined Saints ahead of the 2023/24 season and has seen Dibling's rise into the first team. Dibling has started each of the last four Premier League matches under boss Russell Martin, setting up and scoring his first goals against Brentford and Ipswich Town. Goldie insisted Dibling's challenge is now to remain consistent but he had only positive words for the young starlet, who is attracting interest across England.  Goldie said: "I have only known Tyler for the 16 months I have been in post but during that time, I have found him such an amazing kid. "He is such a consistent kid who has a fantastic identity as a human being first but also on the pitch. It is a great testament to the work that was done before I came in. "An academy is also only as successful as the first team manager's willingness to give them a chance and Russell Martin and his staff have given him that platform.  "It's early days. Tyler is still an under-19, to put it into perspective, he has just come out of under-18s football, but he has really taken to the Premier League. "It's a step up but he's performing well now and he's got to remain consistent. I don't think you can underestimate the support he's had from Carl Martin and the staff."

  • Taylor Harwood-Bellis raring to lead out star-studded England side in ‘big’ qualifier against Ukraine

    England's youth side must win to top EURO 2025 qualifying Group F as they take on Ukraine, who lead by five points with only the group winners guaranteed progression. The three best second-place teams from across the nine groups also guarantee automatic qualification for the tournament in Slovakia. Harwood-Bellis will lead a star-studded team including the likes of Aston Villa mainstay Morgan Rogers and Ipswich Town's in-form Liam Delap tonight (7:45pm). Speaking from the Young Lions training camp at Eastleigh's Silverlake Stadium, Harwood-Bellis said: "It'll be good, really good. It's a big game for us.  "What a team!" 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿#YoungLions skipper Taylor Harwood-Bellis sums up our #U21EURO victory... pic.twitter.com/kRZJWWrgH0 — England (@England) July 9, 2023 "As I said. Ukraine are a good side. They beat us away so we know we're coming up against them. They're an organised team and we've worked hard this week. "Of course, we want to win every game. Obviously, not just because of us getting beat at their place," the 2023 European Championship winner added.  "I think it's important for the group for us to win the game and hopefully win the group and qualify. But I think we prepare like we do every other game. "It's not my first thought going into every game but it'd be nice to get my name on the score sheet. Keep a clean sheet first and then we'll go from there." The clash with Ukraine is England's penultimate qualifier, with a visit from Azerbaijan to Ashton Gate concluding the group on Tuesday, October 15. England need to win both of their matches and hope Ukraine drop points away to Serbia to finish top of their group and guarantee qualification. For Harwood-Bellis, the goal of impressing former under-21s boss and current Three Lions interim head coach Lee Carsley remains a constant. He said: "It's good to be playing in a top league in your own country. I think that's what I'd say most of the boys are aspiring to do. "It's just playing in the Premier League. It's the best league in the world. It's enjoyable and you just want to stay there for as long as possible. "I've spent a lot of time working under Lee. It's enjoyable watching him with the seniors. Hopefully, I can push myself to get working under him again."

  • Liverpool defender Kostas Tsimikas and Chelsea player Noni Madueke name Chelsea star Cole Palmer as favorite

    Liverpool’s left-back Kostas Tsimikas has expressed his admiration for Chelsea’s burgeoning talent, Cole Palmer. With the much-anticipated clash between Liverpool and Chelsea set to take place at Anfield following the […]

  • Premier League correspondents expect more chaos and arguments between premier league clubs

    According to The Mirror’s Simon Bird, there’s a noticeable reluctance among North West clubs to compete with Newcastle United, particularly if The Magpies tap into their owners’ immense wealth. Newcastle […]

  • England striker Solanke on ‘close’ relationship with Saints ace Walker-Peters

    The Premier League pair played together in the youth teams, going on to win the Under-20 World Cup in 2017 - where Solanke was named best player. Saints forward Adam Armstrong was also among that squad in South Korea and was one of five goalscorers for the Young Lions en route to the final. Tottenham Hotspur striker Solanke, 27, has received his first England call-up since 2017 in Lee Carsley's latest squad and could add to his one senior cap. "I think we all keep in touch a little bit, some more than others," said Solanke, in his first pre-match press conference with England's men.  Kyle Walker-Peters was named on Lee Carsley's England standby list in September (Image: PA) "When we see each other or play against each other, we would always catch up. There are quite a few I am close with from that World Cup.  "Two of my closest friends on and off the pitch are Kyle Walker-Peters and Tosin Adarabioyo who I played with at various age groups with England. "They are two of my closest friends to this day so there are still quite a few boys who we are close with from that squad."  Walker-Peters, 27, has never played with Solanke at club level with the pair on opposing sides of a South Coast rivalry before Solanke's AFC Bournemouth departure. The former Spurs defender could be on the move himself next summer, with his Saints deal set to expire and no agreement on renewed terms. Saints manager Russell Martin said: "He won't sign a new contract right now. I don't know if that will change at any point."

  • Erling Haaland sends clear Premier League warning as Man City star echoes Rodri threat of packed schedule

    Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland has raised his concerns about the intense football schedule, expressing his support for potential player strike actions amid growing dissatisfaction among top-level players. Last month, […]

  • Howard Webb reveals how VAR evaluates handball rule in the Mic’d up series

    Premier League news as referee chief Howard Webb explains controversial rule change for the new season18:10, 09 Oct 2024Referees are making handball decisions in a different way this season.(Image:

  • The no-holds barred Eddie Howe meeting that sparked Newcastle ‘reaction’ after Fulham farce

    Newcastle United’s head coach, Eddie Howe, reminded his players of the expectations following their performance at Fulham. He expressed satisfaction with a 1-1 draw against Manchester City and was pleased […]

  • Arsenal told they made a big mistake over £17m Aston Villa transfer Emiliano Martinez

    Former England goalkeeper David James has criticized Mikel Arteta for the sale of Emi Martinez. The Argentine goalkeeper had been with Arsenal for a decade but made only 15 Premier […]

  • Aston Villa are poised to complete £7m transfer as forgotten man Leander Dendoncker finds fresh lease of life

    As the summer transfer window progressed, Leander Dendoncker realized that his chances of securing regular football were dwindling at Aston Villa. Despite a brief opportunity during Christmas when he started […]

  • Brighton star Enciso reveals he ‘almost died’ after fainting on plane

    The Albion star is on international duty with Paraguay, where he will play in two World Cup qualifiers. In a TikTok video with colleague Ramon Sosa, he revealed he felt ill on the team flight – and that a soft drink and Japanese soup helped him recover. He told followers: "My head hurts. I almost died, I fainted on the plane. "I was powerless, I didn’t eat or sleep well. At one point I got up to go to the bathroom and I felt like I was falling." He added: "A guy grabbed me and took me to the front. He made me drink coke and a Japanese soup and that did me good." Sosa himself left Albion feeling pretty sick recently with his goal for Nottingham Forest at the Amex. Enciso faces his Albion colleague Pervis Estupinan, of Ecuador, tomorrow in the race for World Cup qualification. He has been only a bit-part player for the Seagulls under Fabian Huerzeler and the head coach was asked by The Argus recently about he fitted into the team plan. Huerzeler replied: “We are working hard with him. “We show it to him after every game, after every minute that he is playing, where he can improve. “That is our job, to make him better. “And it is also the responsibility for the player. “How he accepts his role at the moment, how he reacts to his role. “Is he disappointed and then shows his disappointment and also trains not good? “Or is he like, ‘Alright, now I want to show it to everyone and show it to myself how good I am and show it to the gaffer how good I am, that I am in the gaffer’s head’? “In the end this has to be the goal for every player who is not starting at the moment, to be in my head.”

  • Riccardo Calafiori tells Arsenal teammate Leandro Trossard to ‘watch out’ as Mikel Arteta injury hope clear

    Italy’s preparation for their upcoming clash against Belgium has taken an interesting turn as Riccardo Calafiori issued a playful warning to his Arsenal teammate, Leandro Trossard. Italy currently leads Group […]

  • Jack Grealish shows true colours with 10-word message to Arsenal star Declan Rice

    Manchester City’s forward, Jack Grealish, made headlines after sending a message to Arsenal star Declan Rice amidst the October international break. Despite missing a training session due to a knock, […]

  • ‘I feel the need’ – Ian Wright sends plea to Arsenal supporters to back under-fire star Gabriel Jesus

    Ian Wright has urged Arsenal supporters to rally behind Gabriel Jesus, who is still searching for his first goal of the season. Despite Jesus reportedly falling out of favor at […]

  • Howard Webb explains new Premier League rule that will impact handball checks

    Howard Webb has divulged the rationale behind the absence of penalty awards for handball by Premier League officials this season. Recent changes to the handball rule mean penalties are less […]

  • Richard Masters ‘pulls out’ of broadcast meeting ahead of crunch talks after Man City verdict

    Premier League chief Richard Masters has reportedly decided to prioritize an emergency meeting with all 20 Premier League clubs, due to the ongoing legal battle with Manchester City, over attending […]

  • Erik ten Hag shares Manchester United defender Leny Yoro injury update with positive message

    As part of his recovery process, Yoro underwent surgery in August to address an issue, aiming to return to full fitness by November. This return is critical as he looks […]

  • Christian Eriksen hits back at Manchester United critics after surprise Erik ten Hag decision to play him regularly

    After a challenging period where Christian Eriksen found himself struggling for game time, the Danish midfielder has made a strong comeback to Manchester United’s starting lineup. Erik ten Hag has […]

  • Russell Martin admits last season’s hero Adam Armstrong is ‘really frustrated’

    Armstrong, 27, contributed 24 goals and 13 assists to power Saints to promotion from the Championship, including the winner in the play-off final. He started the first three Premier League matches but was hooked at half-time during the 3-1 defeat to Brentford and has been limited to two cameos since. Armstrong had struggled in his first two seasons in the top flight after a £15million move from second-tier Blackburn Rovers in 2021. He is not yet showing signs of turning that around but Ross Stewart's injury combined with the team's poor form could open the door again. "He just needs to preserve and keep working," Martin told the Daily Echo. "Arma's really frustrated at the moment, as he should be. Russell Martin says Adam Armstrong will still be important (Image: PA) "It's probably been a bit hard on him because we signed Cameron Archer and Ross Stewart had come back fit. "Arma played predominantly on the right for us last season, pretty much all season. Ben Brereton Diaz plays wide left, Arma plays wide right. "Paul Onuachu and Ross are very similar profiles so in case you need them at some point and then you have Cam. It's like they're all very different. "Arma just needs to be patient and trust that we absolutely love him still and we know what he can do. There'll be games where we really, really need him." Martin added: "And looking back, I should have put him on the pitch on Monday night at Bournemouth so it's my fault, not his. "I've told him that and he hopefully accepts that. Whilst being frustrated, he trained brilliantly and I know he's ready for us whenever we need him. "He'll have a big part to play. It's been a bit of a frustrating few games for him but that's football. It's never linear. It's never a straight line. "He needs to stick with it, keep working hard as he has done in training and use the frustration he feels when he gets his opportunity. I've got no doubt he will."

  • Russell Martin explains “Why is Brereton Diaz failing to make an impact at Saints?”

    The 25 year old did net a confident penalty in the Carabao Cup shootout at Everton and should have got off the mark with a spot-kick against Man United. But instead, he has managed just one shot on target - a speculative backward header that was never going to threaten Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken. Chilean international Brereton Diaz attracted interest from Villarreal for his performances and statistical output with Blackburn Rovers in the Championship. That move to the Yellow Submarine failed but he returned to England with Sheffield United for the second half of last season, scoring six goals in 14 matches. Brereton Diaz scored on his Premier League debut and second league appearance for the Blades, who never got off the bottom of the league. Two goals in two @PremierLeague matches for Ben Brereton Díaz 🇨🇱🔥 pic.twitter.com/Iz2wUmMQpR — Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) January 31, 2024 The first was a trademark Blackburn Rovers Brereton Diaz strike, cutting in from the left. The second was a rebound from a central position. The final goal he scored was a penalty but the three prior were all first-time finishes from inside the box - precisely where Saints are not getting him. The area from which Ben Brereton Diaz found the net last season (Image: Wyscout) The area from which Ben Brereton Diaz found the net last season (Image: Wyscout) The area from which Ben Brereton Diaz found the net last season (Image: Wyscout) He has largely been cast out to the left touchline. In the first two matches that was with nobody even playing through the middle at all. Brereton Diaz has only averaged about four touches in the opposition box per 90 minutes so far for Russell Martin's Saints side. This is the key statistic.  He is not receiving the ball enough in the areas in which he can be dangerous - nor is he carrying it there himself.  Ben Brereton Diaz's positional heat map this season (Image: Wyscout) It is not a matter of total isolation for the wide forward, though. He is receiving as many passes per 90 minutes as Mohamed Salah (27). "I think just keep developing his understanding of why he needs to be where he needs to be at certain times," Martin insists. Ben Brereton Diaz is still looking for his first Saints goal (Image: Stuart Martin) "We've got a lot of players trying to learn and develop in a certain way whilst playing in the Premier League. It's not always easy. "He's been here before but played very differently with a team that had a bit less structure in possession, so he had a bit more freedom to go there." Martin continued: "But he's playing in a position now where he's scored a lot of goals for Blackburn. I've got no doubt he'll be fine." It took Brereton Diaz just five minutes on his first friendly start to show St Mary's what he is capable of, cutting in from the left to beat Lazio's keeper. El GOL de Ben Brereton para marcar el 1-0 de Southampton sobre Lazio en el amistoso internacional.pic.twitter.com/CplqZupT0j — 𝟬𝟮𝟬𝟭𝗼𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 ® (@0201oficial) August 7, 2024 He had two big chances in the Premier League opener - one with his head, and one goalbound shot from close range blocked behind for a corner. Had he netted either of those - or been given the penalty missed by Cameron Archer three weeks later - maybe the narrative would be different. It was against AFC Bournemouth where that narrative really turned against the summer signing, with some fans declaring that they had seen enough. Upon rewatching his clips from that 3-1 defeat, Brereton Diaz almost made fairly a positive impact. But not when it came to impacting the opposition box. Conceding possession in three of his first four progressive moves, including a failed backheel pass, set the lens for what supporters watched his efforts through. Ben Brereton Diaz's failed backheel attempt frustrated supporters (Image: Wyscout) Ben Brereton Diaz's failed backheel attempt frustrated supporters (Image: Wyscout) He twice tried but failed to find Archer with balls across the box before going as an unused sub for the first time in Saturday's clash at league-leaders Arsenal. Ben Brereton Diaz moved across to the right for the end of the match (Image: Wyscout) Martin insisted: "We just need to stick with him and persevere and make sure he understands why he's doing what he's doing all the time. "He is a talented player and he's probably really frustrated with himself. We have to be patient and understand in the same way we did our forward players last season. "We were a little bit rigid and sticky and then by the end, we scored a lot of goals and a lot of fluid moments. I've got no doubt Ben will be brilliant for us."

  • Cesare Casadei opens up on another Chelsea loan after Leicester City spell

    Chelsea’s young midfielder, Cesare Casadei, has dismissed the idea of a loan move in January despite limited game time under manager Enzo Maresca. The pair previously worked together at Leicester […]

  • New VAR audio emerges as Howard Webb explains Liverpool penalty decision vs Crystal Palace

    Latest Liverpool news and gossip as the Premier League and PGMOL have released the latest round of VAR audio that includes an incident during the Reds' win over Crystal Palace20:15, 08 Oct 2024PGMOL chief refereeing officer, Howard WebbVAR audio has emerged surrounding the decision not to award Crystal Palace a penalty against Liverpool. The Reds claimed a 1-0 win over Palace in the Premier League at the weekend to retain their spot at the top of the table going into the October international break.Diogo Jota scored the decisive goal to secure the three points for Arne Slot's team, but Liverpool faced a nervous wait over a VAR check for a penalty for Palace. Video assistant referee David Coote looked at an incident that saw Virgil van Dijk appear to hold defender Marc Guehi during a cross into the penalty area.‌Referee Simon Hooper did not award a spot-kick and Coote, who looked at replays of the incident for VAR, agreed with the on-field decision. Coote explained that the "hold" by an Van Dijk was not enough to award a penalty for Palace.READ MORE:

  • Man City ‘won on penalties after extra time’ against Premier League according to leading lawyer

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  • Lee Carsley and Curtis Jones enjoying time together with England National Team

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  • Pep Guardiola has explained importance of ‘close friend’ Txiki Begiristain’s exit

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  • Premier League face ‘disastrous’ Man City charges outcome

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  • Russell Martin labels Cameron Archer’s first league goal ‘a big moment’

    Archer gave Saints the lead at the Emirates Stadium when he raced onto Mateus Fernandes' long ball before firing past David Raya. It ended his near eight-month wait for a Premier League goal - his last coming for Sheffield United in a 3-1 win over Luton last season. Martin previously stated his belief that Archer would "fly" for Saints once he scores his first league goal for the club. Archer had already opened his account for Saints with a brace against Championship side Cardiff City in the Carabao Cup.  The former Aston Villa forward likes to operate on instinct and admitted he knew his first league goal would "come eventually." Speaking to the Daily Echo, Martin said: "It'll be a big moment for him I think.  “Obviously, he missed a penalty against United and then a couple of chances at Ipswich. "He found himself out of the team not because of that at all, just because the game probably dictated something different. "We wanted Ross Stewart's physical presence against two really brilliant centre-halves and we're gutted for Ross but Cam came on and took his moment. "I think he's going to be a really top player for us as well. We spent a lot of money on him in the summer and he's got real tools that he needs.  "The best tool he has is his hunger to learn and to improve and to grow and I think that will do him the world of good."

  • ‘Do my own thing’ – Ryan Gravenberch gives insight to Liverpool success

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  • Man City damages, PSR chaos – what next for Premier League

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  • Richard Keys slates Aston Villa with ‘walking football’ jibe after DULL goalless draw against Manchester United

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  • Aston Villa receive new Ezri Konsa injury update with International Break approaching

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  • With tussle between Man City and Premier League, Nuno reveals no concerns this season with Nottingham Forest

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  • James Maddison and Neal Maupay explain dart celebration after Brighton comeback win against Tottenham

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  • Gary O’Neill considers key Wolves change after ‘disastrous and terrible performance’ loss against Brentford

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  • What McKenna said about Tuanzebe injury – and how long he might be out for

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  • Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer agree about Leicester City prospect Buonanotte who ‘has got something’

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  • Angel Gomes admits Manchester United may be possible destination after Lille

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  • ‘Gutted’ – Russell Martin issues Ross Stewart update after striker goes off injured

    Stewart, 28, was making his first start for Saints having signed from Championship rivals Sunderland with an Achilles injury more than a year ago. The £9million man made four appearances last season. The first two came in November before a fresh hamstring injury ruled him out until May. However, returning Stewart was forced off after just 26 minutes at the Emirates Stadium and replaced by goalscorer Cameron Archer. Martin told the Daily Echo: "He's got a muscle injury, so we'll scan that tomorrow. I am absolutely gutted for him, he's worked so hard to come back. "We are honestly so disappointed for him. Everyone is. We just have to see how bad it is and then I know he'll attack it in the same way he does everything. "It's hard for him to deal with but he has a huge resilience and character, so we'll have to go again and see how long he's going to be." Martin added: "I don't think any of us will understand the level of frustration, hurt and pain he'll feel right now. "I just don't think it's ever easy. A footballer's journey is never easy, whatever age you are. They have to have a certain level of resilience just to make it this far. "His journey's not been easy either, in the lower leagues and up in Scotland. So, yeah, we will help him, we will support him.  "Our job is to help these players, especially the young guys and the guys who have not been here long, on their journey. We'll continue to try and do that."

  • Russell Martin: ‘Our season will not be defined by a defeat at Arsenal’

    Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli struck in 10 second-half minutes as Arsenal came from a goal down to secure a 3-1 win against Saints. Saints almost hit back – striking David Raya’s woodwork twice in one minute – but Bukayo Saka made sure of the points with two minutes remaining. Martin remained proud of his team's performance against "one of the best teams in the country" but was left frustrated by the goals conceded. Martin told the Daily Echo: "I feel really proud of the team in a lot of ways. The willingness to defend, fight and run that wasn't there in the first half on Monday was there in bundles today. Thoughts from Emirates Stadium 💭#SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/xgj1LmNHFP — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) October 5, 2024 "I feel like they've grown since Monday, they've learnt a lot. They stuck with the game plan, I thought it worked really well.  "We knew we were going to be under a bit of pressure in the first half especially. We asked them to be a bit braver in the second half, to take the ball and we did that. "We were not in front for long enough and that's the only frustration. We have a chance to take the temperature out of the game at that point when Flynn receives the ball. "We go back into the bodies and it's really unfortunate because Flynn's been amazing again today. "The game goes a bit crazy and we have to stick with doing the right things at that moment. Then we're 2-1 down, trying to chase the game, not accepting just being beaten. "We get caught with a third goal which, again, is just not good enough. The same frustration is conceding goals that are not good enough to concede against a really brilliant team. Today I feel much better about it than I did on Monday and I think it's made me excited about what's to come. Martin continued: "I think it's unfair on some individuals that we have conceded so many goals so far. Bukayo Saka (right) scored Arsenal's third goal against Saints (Image: PA/Zac Goodwin) "At some point, it has to change and it will if they defend how they did today. We're not going to be defined by the result at Arsenal away. "We played really brilliantly at Newcastle away and against Manchester United for half an hour at home. "They are not the games that are going to define us. The games that define us are coming up. We have three of them in the next block of four games. We have to do better in those games. "We've had a few already against teams that are going to be in and around us and having the same fight to stay in the league or stay established. We have to take the same mentality today."

  • Arne Slot reveals how fixtures against mid table teams can be banana skin if not handled properly

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  • Arne Slot sends Ryan Gravenberch message and admits inheriting a strong squad

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  • Jordan Pickford’s ‘fancied’ response to Gordon as Everton fume after Newcastle goalless draw

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  • Unai Emery drops exciting Aston Villa hint ahead of Man United clash

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  • Anthony Elanga makes Nottingham Forest prediction ahead of Chelsea game

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  • Aaron Ramsdale in tears in reaction to what Arsenal fans did for him at Emirates Stadium

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  • Kai Havertz Instagram update after impressive Arsenal performance speaks volumes

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  • Wolves boss Gary O’Neill devastated after defeat and Thomas Frank reveals “Goals always exist” with Brentford

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  • Man United chiefs and Joel Glazer ‘hold emergency meeting’ 48 hours after Aston Vill match

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  • ‘Defend properly’ – Martin insists Saints have worked to ‘negate’ Arsenal set-pieces

    Arsenal have excelled from dead-ball situations under Mikel Arteta while Saints have been susceptible to conceding goals.  Arsenal scored 16 goals from corners last season - matching the Premier League record - and remain a threat this year. Speaking ahead of his side's trip to London, Martin said: "We got undone by a quick one which is a bit of a different scenario (against Bournemouth). "We have a group of people that are working very hard on analysing that and trying to negate that in the best way we possibly can. "The players are really aware and if we give away some corners and free kicks we have to be ready to stand up to it and defend it properly. "That's the same at any level but especially against a team with some players who attack the ball so well. They are really consistent with it "It's their mentality that makes them such of threat, nothing else. The quality of delivery but their mentality to actually go and put their head on it and score is incredible."

  • Russell Martin says he could coach ‘really, really excellently without the ball’

    Saints are winless in six matches so far this campaign, having picked up their sole point in a home clash with relegation rivals Ipswich Town. Martin, 38, is feeling the pressure in his first season as a Premier League boss but reiterated again that he will not deviate from his principles. Martin's style has been called into question as Saints have averaged 60.2 per cent possession but conceded 10 goals in their last four matches. It follows shipping 63 in the Championship campaign. Ahead of facing Arsenal, Martin was asked directly whether he could coach any differently. He responded: "I've played in many other ways of playing and I can coach in a different way really, really excellently without the ball. "I can coach that no problem but I don't believe in it so I won't be able to convince the lads to believe in it either."  After the press conference formally finished, Martin quipped he would "go 4-4-2 and bank up" for Saturday's daunting trip to Emirates Stadium. The same reporter had made the comparison to possession-based Burnley, who finished 19th last season under principled boss Vincent Kompany.  Despite that, Bayern hired the Belgian, to which Martin bluntly responded: "I'm not Vincent Kompany so I'm not going to get a job at Bayern Munich." Martin insists he still feels the support of the fans after a small group stayed to clap him and his side off despite the 3-1 defeat at AFC Bournemouth.  Martin said: "I bumped into a few on Wednesday and they've been amazing. Fans, owners, players, staff, I don't think anyone thought it was going to be easy. "I also still feel we really believe that we can achieve what we want to achieve. It's not done in the first month or two of the season. We need to keep adapting. "With time and patience, we'll be okay. I really believe that. Are we in a better place than we were over a year ago when we first walked in? I believe so. "I think the supporters hopefully will feel that, albeit in a tough moment. I've not been unhappy with too much of it apart from that half hour on Monday. "But I think they've seen enough signs, the supporters, to really believe that the team can grow to do something and be a team they are proud of."

  • The moment Chelsea midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has ‘been waiting for’ after transfer from Leicester City

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  • Arne Slot knows difference between Liverpool and Man City and major change that must happen

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  • Eddie Howe reveals whether Alexander Isak fit to start for Everton vs Newcastle?

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  • “The Everything is Black and White Podcast” identifies Newcastle United’s transfer priority

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  • Unai Emery doubles down on England issue as Aston Villa boss raises fresh concern for Jaden Philogene and Morgan Rogers

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  • Aston Villa demands, ten Hag & injuries – Full Unai Emery press conference ahead of Man Utd clash

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  • Kalvin Phillips feeling the love at Ipswich after negative West Ham experience, says McKenna

    The former Leeds and England star has endured a difficult couple of years, struggling for game time at Man City, being labelled 'overweight' by Pep Guardiola, dropping out the international set-up and then receiving criticism during a brief loan spell at West Ham. He responded to abuse from Hammers fans with a choice hand gesture following a 4-3 defeat at Newcastle back in March and, ahead of his return to the London Stadium on Saturday, admits he decided to join the newly-promoted Blues this summer to play with 'less stress'. Asked if he'd spoken to Phillips about his experience in East London, McKenna replied: “Not massively. That was a pretty short period in a relatively long career. "I don't know the ins and outs of it. I'm sure he would have liked to have played a little bit more (three starts), but I do know that January loan moves when you’re not playing very much before you arrive are difficult because you’re playing catch up and competing against players who are 90 minutes fit. “He’s with us now though. He’s happy here and we’re happy with him." Kalvin Phillips has started Ipswich Town's Premier League draws against Fulham, Brighton and Aston Villa. (Image: Ross Halls) Having seemingly felt the pressure at West Ham, Phillips has certainly felt the love at Portman Road. He appeared to be taken aback and uplifted by the standing ovation he received when subbed on his full league debut against Fulham back in August. “I think that’s massive for all our players," said McKenna. "It’s been an incredible atmosphere in the stadium and the players are really feeling that support. “All of the players who have signed over the last couple of years have noticed the positive environment both inside and outside the club. "The people they come across in their daily lives are so passionate about the club, they’re so positive about the direction of travel and they’re so positive to see the club now competing in the Premier League. That’s a great environment for any player to play in.  “I spoke to all the players who came in this summer about how this will be a fantastic place to play football. I think Kalvin is feeling the benefit of that, as many players are.  “Being in a supportive, positive environment with lots of great team-mates, hopefully good staff, and the supporters right behind you can really help." Ipswich are still searching for their first Premier League win following back-to-back promotions, but are now unbeaten in four following draws against Fulham, Brighton, Southampton and Aston Villa. West Ham, meanwhile, have lost their opening three home league games as new boss Julen Lopetegu continues to bed in a number of expensive summer signings. McKenna added: “Kalvin's settling in well and enjoying it day-to-day here. I think he’s getting fitter and each performance he’s had for us has probably been a little bit stronger than the last.  Of course it’s not always a perfect line, but we feel that he’s got a chance to work himself up to some really good form.  “Over the last few years we’ve generally played with closer to a double pivot, maybe one of those midfielders having a little bit more flexibility, but in our build-up play it’s generally two midfielders close together. Him and Samy (Morsy) have done that well in the last couple of games.  “Having two really combative midfielders who can protect the backline whenever we’re pressing is important. That’s one of Kalvin's big, big strengths. He’s really mobile and reads danger well.  “Massimo (Luongo)’s been terrific at that over the last couple of years, Jens (Cajuste) did some really good against Southampton and Jack Taylor is going from strength to strength, so that midfield unit is in a good place."

  • Russell Martin accepts ‘with hindsight’ he should have started striker with Southampton at Bournemouth

    Martin credited the performance of "outstanding" substitute Ross Stewart at Vitality Stadium, who came on with Saints 3-0 down at half-time. His 45-minute cameo was the longest of his Saints career so far but Martin played down his chances of starting at Arsenal as a "different" challenge. Martin did, however, accept that he should have started with a striker - having benched Cameron Archer after missed chances in his two starts.  "It's really easy with hindsight but I should have played with a nine, whether that's Ross, Paul Onuachu, Adam Armstrong or Cam," Martin told the Daily Echo. But when asked if changes were counter-productive to the team's understanding, he responded: "No, not really because we played that system a lot. I’m no tactico but I worry Russell Martin is trying so hard to find a winning formula that he’s betraying one of his own fundamentals.He says his sides are best when they have total understanding and feeling with teammates. Can they when it’s changing every week?#SaintsFC — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) October 1, 2024 "We played it a fair bit last season at times. We build up like that. I think the formation would have changed as we got through the thirds. "We just didn't spend long enough in their final third. We had like eight days or whatever to work on it in training so it's not like it was really alien to them. "It's about assessing the opposition. You're damned if you do and damned if you don't. If it works, then everyone speaks about the changes you make. "Maybe I am guilty of trying to find something to really hurt one opposition but I don't think it's a problem. The players know it. "The occasion and the moment took over, really so it sort of negated any tactics. I maybe could have, after the second goal, maybe made a sub or two. "That's my learning, but it's never a nice feeling to have to do that in the first half. Looking back, I should have, so I take responsibility for that. "But in terms of being counterproductive in the shape and system and all that? No, they all played together enough. The concept doesn't change." Russell Martin with a small gesture of apology to the travelling fans.#SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/jvSyh7Zj3V — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) September 30, 2024 Martin's comments suggest he is unlikely to name a strikerless side again, while both Armstrong and Archer will fancy a recall at Emirates Stadium. Saints are the lowest scorers in the Premier League this season, with their three in six matches two goals fewer than the next lowest sides in the division. Asked how Saints can improve on that record, Martin said: "I think we're one of the lowest performers in terms of chance conversion. "We've created a lot relatively for the Premier League but we haven't made the most of that, so we have to keep doing the things that have got us there. "I think the guys just have to keep believing in what they're doing and be willing to really make the most of that moment. "We have some exceptionally talented players but maybe there's that bit of tension in the last action right now so we need to find a way to free them up."

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  • Flynn Downes insists players ‘have to look at ourselves’ and take responsibility after defeat against Bournemouth

    Downes, 25, was elected by manager Russell Martin to captain the side for the 3-1 loss at Vitality Stadium in the absence of skipper Jack Stephens. A sold-out away end of 1,307 travelling fans were only barely spared embarrassment with Saints three goals down and all at sea at half-time. Saints wrestled back some control after the break but it was too much to ask to get back into the game and they slumped to a sixth game without a win. Speaking after the match, Downes told BBC Radio Solent: "That first half, it's not acceptable at this level or any level to be fair. "We let the staff down and the fans that travelled. We lacked the fight and there was no commitment or belief. "We let everyone down. Going 3-0 down in the Premier League, you are asking for a lot. We started well, started sharp. "We were caught out with a quick free-kick and then we sunk and it's exactly the same as against Manchester United. "We have got to look at ourselves, there is nothing anyone else can do - it's on the 11 players out there, we have to line up quick. "It was fight, commitment and heart. You can talk about tactics all you want but you have to fight and earn the right to play. "Whether you are going to go long or try and play football, you have got to earn the right or you've got no chance in this league - and we didn't. "The fans deserve to see that fight every week. It's a given at this level, there is no other option. That first half was nowhere near it." Downes is likely to wear the armband again for Saturday's visit to Arsenal, who are chasing down Manchester City to end their Premier League dominance. Stephens, 30, has been ruled out for two more matches with an additional suspension after admitting an FA misconduct charge.

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  • ‘We’ve got the feel for it now’ – Leif Davis on Town’s hunt for first top tier win

    The Blues made it four games unbeaten in the top tier in a pulsating 2-2 draw with Champions League side Aston Villa yesterday. READ MORE: Stuart Watson's verdict on action-packed Villa draw Indeed, Villa boss Unai Emery admitted after the game that Town could have won, while the Blues also had chances to claim all three points in the 1-1 draw with Fulham in Suffolk last month. The Blues have drawn four and lost two of their opening six Premier League games, with a first win the next achievement to tick off this term. Leif Davis and Town are four matches unbeaten in the Premier League (Image: Steve Waller) "We could’ve had it today," Davis said after the game. "And then against Fulham as well. "I think we did deserve something in the game, but who knows. Results can happen anywhere and we’re just working hard on ourselves. “We’re four unbeaten but they’re not wins. It’s a good four points on the board, but there’s more to go, like the manager has said. "We’ve still got the next step to go in terms of running, wanting to play, being brave playing out from the back like we were last year. “It’ll all come, we’re taking it game-by-game. We’re just trying to do what we can do for now.” Liam Delap bagged a brace in the draw with Villa (Image: PA) Davis, who was a threat down the left all game against Villa, added: “I think we’ve got the feel for it now.  "Our start has been very tough, we haven’t had the easiest of starts. No game is going to be easy in the Premier League, every game is going to be a different challenge. READ MORE: What impressed North Stander the most about Villa display “We took a foothold in the game and we’ve taken teams to the wire almost every time we’ve played against them. "Take Liverpool in the first game of the season – we took them to the dark places where they didn’t want to be. “Today, I think we did the same. We’ve got to keep going, improving every day and every game.”

  • Ipswich Town keeper Cieran Slicker extends contract until 2028

    The 22-year-old joined the Blues from Manchester City for an undisclosed fee last summer and featured in Carabao Cup wins against Bristol Rovers and Reading. A Scotland U21 international, he currently finds himself backing up Aro Muric and Christian Walton in Kieran McKenna's squad. "The club has put trust in me, which is a real positive," he told the club website. "I have only been here a year, but the relationships I've built during that time have made me feel at home.  "I think I've improved a lot and my development is on an upward trajectory. I know it's going to take a lot of hard work to keep going and keep pushing to where I want to get to. There's a big season ahead and I am really excited for it." Slicker joins Wes Burns, Christian Walton and Sam Morsy in signing new deals since promotion to the Premier League was secured. Blues boss Kieran McKenna revealed recently that there were 'conversations ongoing' with other members of the squad about fresh contracts.   TOWN CONTRACTS * Known 12 month extension option for club Loan: Phillips, Cajuste 2025: Tuanzebe, Woolfenden, Burgess, Davis*, Luongo*, Edmundson, Baggott*, Harness*  2026:  Walton, H.Clarke*, Townsend, Morsy, Taylor, Burns, Chaplin, Broadhead, Humphreys 2027: Hirst 2028: Muric, Slicker, Johnson, Ogbene, Szmodics, J.Clarke, Al-Hamadi 2029: O'Shea, Greaves, Hutchinson, Delap  

  • Russell Martin takes responsibility for defeat before launching scathing review of players

    The Cherries raced to a three-goal lead through record signing Evanilson, Dango Ouattara in fortuitous fashion and Antoine Semenyo at Vitality Stadium. Defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis spared Southampton embarrassment with a header but they never looked likely to mount a second-half fightback. Martin resisted making in-game changes until half-time, following a tactical switch of formation ahead of the match, but admitted he could have moved sooner. He told the Daily Echo: "I think it surprised me, I was a little bit hurt by the response to conceding as we started the game so well. Russell Martin with a small gesture of apology to the travelling fans.#SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/jvSyh7Zj3V — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) September 30, 2024 "Maybe after two goals, maybe I should have changed it but maybe I just put too much trust in the guys out there that we'd get through that. "We were much better in the second half but whatever personality you have on the pitch and whatever way you play... "If you lack the fight and aggression and spirit and togetherness and courage that we lacked in the first half, you're going to have a big, big problem.  "We spoke about Bournemouth taking quick set plays and playing forward and all of their strengths, which is why it hurt even more." He added: "I feel we prepared the team to understand the opposition's threats and strengths but I haven't given the team enough in terms of mentality. "That really hurts me because I think they are traits as a human being have got me this far, so far, but the team hasn't got it tonight. So that's my fault. "I'm coming off the pitch at the end and I thank them for running and fighting in the second half and actually, I don't think you should ever thank them for that. "I think that should be the bare minimum. Obviously, I haven't given them enough in between their ears to respond properly to a setback. "And then the anxiety takes over again in the first half because we put ourselves in a situation that in the Premier League is almost impossible to come back. "It's ridiculous. Then that takes over and then they go into self-preservation mode and I hate that. I hate that from our team.  "Don't look after each other. With the ball, just dump the ball on each other. They start throwing their arms at each other.  "I'll never accept that, ever, and that's a problem. And then a couple of guys come on who should be playing. They should start. "Joe Aribo is outstanding when he comes on. Ross Stewart is outstanding. Adam Lallana. They show fight and spirit. They show courage. They show aggression.  "Bournemouth make 20 fouls. We make 10. I think that sums up the whole game. It's impossible if you're not going to fight. I need to work out a way."

  • Harwood-Bellis: ‘It’s not a reflection of the manager or the staff’

    Saints, winless in the Premier League this season, saw themselves 3-0 down in the first half before Harwood-Bellis pulled one back early in the second half. The England youth international confessed Saints were punished for switching off and admitted their reaction to conceding was not good enough. Harwood-Bellis saw the positives in Southampton's second half performance, during which he felt they looked more like a team they want to be. He told the Daily Echo: "We started well but our reaction to the goal was not good enough. Then we came out in the second half and we played how we wanted to play. "We were a team that we wanted to be. We hurt them, and we look more like a team, more of a threat, and we defend properly. "As you see, we didn't concede in the second half and we scored a goal. I think that just shows that we take our foot off the gas and when we come off it a little bit, we get punished. "It was a quick free kick. I kind of turned my back and he's done that. That's what happens in the Premier League. "That's the MOMENT they've been waiting for." 🔥Evanilson nets the opener and scores his first goal for Bournemouth! 🍒 pic.twitter.com/GITPfkF91p — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 30, 2024 "As I said, you switch off for a second and you get punished. I think it's the quality of it. Obviously, for us as a team, that's not good enough, the reaction. "But as I said, we come out second half and put the performance in, and do what the manager's asking us to do.  "You see we can win games. We've just got to look at that first half coming together as players. It's not a reflection of the manager or the staff. "That's far from what we want for them. That's not them, they give us everything. So, to come out, it's hugely disappointing and frustrating to show that that's what we put out." Saints started without a recognised forward before introducing Ben Brereton Diaz and Ross Stewart at the break. The chance resulted in them creating more chances, however, Harwood-Bellis was adamant the defeat was not down to team selection.  "I think it's the way we played," he continued. "That's us. We had people in the positions first half and we weren't clean with the ball, and we didn't defend properly. "It's nothing about the tactic or the team the manager picks. I think if you look at that team, we have more than enough to win that game. Definitely not be 3-0 down. "The players that come on were excellent. They give us a lot going forward and a lot of running - that did help, but in the first half, that's down to us and how we play, nothing to do with selection. "I'd rather not score and not concede three. It's stuff I've been working on in training, just trying to be more of a threat in the box. I wouldn't say I'm happy by any stretch of the imagination."

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  • ‘We could even have lost the match’ – Villa boss Unai Emery on pulsating draw with Ipswich Town

    Liam Delap gave the Blues the lead early on, but goals from Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins put high-flying Villa on top at half-time. However, Town once again showed their resilience to grab a fourth straight draw as Delap scored a brilliant second to level the scores with 20 minutes left. The result sees Villa sit in fifth spot in the early table, while Town are 15th with four points from six games. Kalvin Phillips on the ball for Town (Image: PA) Emery told the Birmingham Mail: "The result is fair and we are in a process as a team working out how we can build strongly our tactics and mentality with some new players getting progressively better.  "More or less, my thoughts are that one match like, after the first half, we came back the result and controlled the match like we planned. READ MORE: Alex Jones' Town player ratings "When teams play at home they are pushing and more or less demanding more from us, focus and tactically defensively and offensively. We need to control the game again like we didn’t do in the second half. "The result was fair and we could have even lost the match in the end. I am accepting the point, but in the way I want to raise our level and demands, I accept it in our process.” Liam Delap scored a brace for Town (Image: Steve Waller) He added: “Overall we have 13 points, but today we were as well optimistic about the possibility to get to Liverpool with 15 points. We can accept how difficult this league is and playing away, playing against a team like Ipswich who are excited and have a good structure tactically. "They are playing with confidence and this is the difficulty we faced today in 90 minutes. In the first half we played even better than I had planned to stop their game plan and their capacity to push us. READ MORE: McKenna's reaction to draw "In the second half they played like I thought they would in the second half. Of course, in this moment we needed to be stronger than we were. "For example, we conceded 10 corners and how is the question. We didn’t control the ball and our positioning to stop them to get to our box. They didn’t score through corners, but it showed we didn’t have control."

  • ‘The lads didn’t stop until the final whistle’ – Leif Davis on Villa draw & Delap’s double for Ipswich Town

    The Blues extended their unbeaten run to four matches with a 2-2 draw against Unai Emery's men, having taken the lead via Liam Delap's early goal. Morgan Rogers replied with a low strike before Ollie Watkins put the visitors ahead. However, Delap's quick feet saw him twist and turn in the box before firing in an equaliser, earning his side a point in Suffolk. “Obviously we went a goal ahead – a great goal, a great combination up the pitch," Davis said after the match. "It was a good finish from Liam at the front post. Jack, who started his first league game for us today, had a good impact for us as well. SIGN-UP! Get 30% off a whole year of our Town coverage - or try a month for just £1! “We could’ve taken three points. We created a lot of chances in the game, but they took a two-goal lead and we dropped off a little bit. “When they scored their second goal, we went back for it again. It’s a negative when we go behind but it gets us going again. “The lads didn’t stop until the final whistle. The lads who came on in the 60th minute ran their hearts out like they always do. Davis created the most chances in the match (Image: Ross Halls) “All-round, it was a good performance.” If the game had to be won, you'd say that Ipswich were going to be the most likely team to do it. Town piled on the pressure in the latter stages and could've found a third goal with their chances. “Hirsty as well, coming on and running down the line," Davis pointed out. "The lads have got the heart to do it for everyone. “You’ve got Omari’s chances as well, Wes’ chance. But we’re playing against the best teams in the world, they’ve got very good players and know how to defend really well. “There was a spell where they had control of the game, but from that, we had a foothold in the game for longer than they did.” Delap was the star of the match, with brace to earn a draw against Champions League opposition. He now has three Premier League goals to his name, and Leif has been thoroughly impressed by what he's seen from the 21-year-old so far. “He’s a handful," the left-back admitted. "For the second goal, that’s his quality. He uses his body, he runs hard. He’s a strong lad, good with the ball at his feet. For the second goal, he’s sat him [Diego Carlos] down with a little scoop and then just look how composed he is in front of goal. “Yeah, he missed that one in the first half, but he didn’t let it get to him. He went again and got what he deserved.” The left-back piled praise on striker Liam Delap (Image: Steve Waller) The next step for Ipswich is to get their first win of the season, and based on their performance against Aston Villa, it might not be far away. “We could’ve had it today," Davis argued. "And then against Fulham as well. I think we did deserve something in the game, but who knows. Results can happen anywhere and we’re just working hard on ourselves. “We’re four unbeaten but they’re not wins. It’s a good four points on the board, but there’s more to go, like the manager has said. We’ve still got the next step to go in terms of running, wanting to play, being brave playing out from the back like we were last year. “It’ll all come, we’re taking it game-by-game. We’re just trying to do what we can do for now.” On a personal level, Davis feels like he's adjusting to what's required in the Premier League, having faced some of the best wingers in world football in the first six games of the season. He's beginning to find more space to get forward like he did in the Championship, which he believes is a sign of things to come. “I think we’ve got the feel for it now," he said. "Our start has been very tough, we haven’t had the easiest of starts. No game is going to be easy in the Premier League, every game is going to be a different challenge. “We took a foothold in the game and we’ve taken teams to the wire almost every time we’ve played against them. Take Liverpool in the first game of the season – we took them to the dark places where they didn’t want to be. Davis had already faced Mohamed Salah, Savinho and Adama Traore this season (Image: Ross Halls) “Today, I think we did the same. We’ve got to keep going, improving every day and every game.” Of course, it's been a baptism of fire for Ipswich and Davis, but he's enjoyed the challenge so far. The 24-year-old feels like everything is started to click for him and the team, which has given him confidence for the weeks and months ahead. “It’s what I’m here for! I love the challenge, I’m always going to work hard. It’s a different task every week – Salah, Traore, players like that. “Then today, two good wingers in Leon Bailey and [Jaden] Philogene, who came on. Two good players that like to attack you. “I think I’ve found my feet now. I’m settling in really well, I think we all are. We’re all bedding in really well and hopefully we’ll start to get the points and wins on the board.”

  • Russell Martin suggests Lallana can be huge influence on ‘receptive’ Dibling

    Dibling, 18, was only four months old when former England international Lallana, 36, made his Southampton debut back in 2006. Matin feels senior players have a duty to help youngsters but admitted he has been in dressing rooms where that is not the case. He praised Dibling's talent - suggesting he possesses abilities that not many other players have - before adding he still has a lot to learn. The boss is confident Lallana is willing to impart the knowledge he has gathered to Dibling during the early stages of his high-potential career. Martin told the Daily Echo: "It can only benefit Tyler - but only if he's willing to learn and be receptive to Adam, which he is. "Fortunately for us, all the young guys are. They are brilliant. We are fortunate to have Adam and we will use him in the best way we can, on and off the pitch. Tyler Dibling scored his first senior goal against Ipswich (Image: Richard Crease) "When you look back at your own career, there are always people who are an important part of your journey. At the time, you might not recognise it. "When I was a young player at Wycombe, guys like Keith Ryan and Tommy Mooney were seasoned professionals. "Being around guys like that who were really good with the young guys - players like that are really important because of the way they treat you. "I tried to help you players as much as I could as a senior pro. I think when you've lived it, you have a duty to look after young players. "I've also been in dressing rooms where the experienced guys don't want to help the younger guys because they are struggling to come to terms with their career coming to an end.  "That's never a good place to be in. With Adam, it's not like that. He wants to make the most of every bit of his career. He wants to help as many people as he can." Lallana has told Dibling he is available at any time to guide him as he adjusts to senior level under the Premier League spotlight. Adam Lallana returned to Southampton this summer (Image: Stuart Martin) Martin continued: "What Tyler needs to do is have a look at the career that Adam has had and the person he is. When it's in front of you like that, it's simple. "We believe that Tyler possesses a level of talent that not many people do. It's up to Tyler where he ends up. It's up to him how much he plays this season. "It's not up to me. It's up to his attitude and how much he wants to learn. There's a lot more to come from him. He has a lot to learn but he's getting better and better. "All we are aiming for as a group is to get better. For him as an individual player, he needs to give it everything that he has got."

  • Owen Hargreaves highlights Ryan Gravenberch big impact but also Liverpool transfer priority – ‘next Fabinho’

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  • ‘I’m ready’ – Maxwel Corne arrives at Saints with ‘same feeling’ that fuelled him

    Cornet, who turned 28 on Friday, signed for Premier League outfit Burnley from French Ligue 1 side Lyon in August 2021. The Ivorian international justified his £12.5million price tag with nine goals in 26 matches but was unable to maintain Turf Moor's status as a top-flight ground. Burnley's relegation meant Cornet switched to West Ham United permanently, earning the Clarets a small profit in the process. But it has been difficult for Cornet since then, although he still raises a smile when reminded of a brace he netted at St Mary's in October 2021.  "I remember the game here at the Saints stadium. I scored one with the head and one with the shot," he told the Daily Echo. Maxwel Cornet could make a first Premier League start for Saints at AFC Bournemouth (Image: Stuart Martin) "I will try to do it now for Southampton. I had confidence in myself to come here and show what I can do in the Premier League. That's what I try to do.  "I'm in the same feeling as when I first signed for Burnley. I had a tough moment in West Ham with my injuries but now it's behind me. "I'm ready to go again and give the maximum I can to help my teammates and the club. I really want to do the maximum I can for the lads and everyone." Cornet added: "I think for me, it's a great opportunity to come here to Southampton and try to help the team the best as possible. "Deadline day was a tough day, a long day for me. Everything was okay at the last minute, so after that, I was really happy to join this club." Saints had to wait until more than an hour after the deadline in August before they got confirmation that Cornet's season-long loan was official. He only scored once in 37 appearances for the Hammers across two campaigns but manager Russell Martin wanted a different profile of attacker. "I just spoke with him and he said he likes the things I can bring to help the team," Cornet revealed, having spoken first in the final week of the window.  Happy 28th Birthday to Maxwel Cornet 🎉 #TwitterClarets pic.twitter.com/EggQyj7hSj — The-Clarets (@TheClarets_com) September 27, 2024 "I can play on the left wing or right wing. It doesn't matter. The most important thing is to be aware of what the coach says and just do the maximum on the pitch. "I like to ask for the ball between the defenders and in the channel. I try to be as maximum as possible in front of the goal to receive. "We never know the cross is going to come or even when the goalkeeper releases the ball. We just need to be here to finish."  A complex injury to the soleus muscle in the calf kept Cornet sidelined for five months during his first season in London - and Saints will need to keep him fit. But it was not all bad for Cornet under David Moyes. He set up five goals on their way to winning the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2023. Recounting that experience, Cornet said: "It was incredible, to be fair, because we were actually in trouble in the Premier League. "To win this trophy was good for the confidence of the guys and we did well. To be fair, it was an amazing moment for us." Cornet will hope to put his experiences good and bad to use at St Mary's as Martin's side look to beat the drop back into the Championship.  "For me personally, and I think for the club as well, the target is just to do everything to stay in the Premier League," he insisted.  "They did well last season to come up and the best thing to do is to stay in the Premier League and show the quality that the lads have. "There are young players here but talented players. They deserve to play in the Premier League so we will fight for that, to stay in the Premier League." 

  • Arne Slot shares Andy Robertson injury latest after win against Wolves

    The left-back was taken off late on against Wolves after suffering a heel problem01:00, 29 Sep 2024An injured Andrew Robertson of Liverpool goes off during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers FC and Liverpool FC at Molineux on September 28, 2024 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)Arne Slot has played down injury concerns for Andy Robertson after the Liverpool defender was forced off in the closing stages of Saturday's 2-1 win at Wolves. Rayan Ait-Nouri cancelled out Ibrahima Konate's first-half header at Molineux before a Mohamed Salah penalty, given after Diogo Jota was wrestled to the ground, restored the lead around the hour mark for the visitors.The victory was enough to take Liverpool to the top of the Premier League but there was some worry over Robertson's condition after he was hurt in a tangle with lively substitute Carlos Forbs and replaced by Joe Gomez late on.‌Slot, though, is not expecting to be given bad news on the situation of his first-choice left-back, saying he expects the Scotland captain to report for duty as normal on Monday at the AXA Training Centre.READ MORE:

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  • McKenna reveals he twice came close to signing Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers

    Versatile forward Morgan Rogers, 22, joined Villa in a deal worth up to £15m, from Middlesbrough, back on January transfer deadline day and has since gone on to establish himself as a key man in Unai Emery's attack. The former England U21 international previously spent four years at Manchester City, during which time he had loan spells at Lincoln (League One), Bournemouth and Blackpool (both in the Championship. “Morgan Rogers is a player that we know well," said McKenna. "We were certainly there or thereabouts to bringing him here a couple of times earlier in his career when he was on his loan moves. "He’s a player that I’ve known for a good number of years. We played against him nine months ago when he was at Middlesbrough, now Aston Villa have improved him and the impact he’s having at Premier League level – though hopefully not this weekend – is great to see." Ipswich saw Villa beat them to the signing of Hull winger Jaden Philogene this summer, though the latter is currently injured.  “They’ve recruited really well," said McKenna. "They’ve invested a lot and invested wisely. The manager has shown he consistently improves and gets the best out of what he’s got. That’s why they’re doing so well." Villa finished fourth in the Premier League last season to qualify for the Champions League. They have won six of their opening seven games across all competitions at the start of 2024/25. Ipswich, back in the top-flight after a 22-year absence, are still waiting for their first victory of the campaign. Defeats to Liverpool and Man City were followed by draws against Fulham, Brighton and Southampton.

  • McKenna on admiring Emery and preparing to face Watkins

    The Midlands club have hit new heights in recent times, finishing fourth in the Premier League last season to qualify for the Champions League. Unai Emery's men arrive in Suffolk having won six of their opening seven games across all competitions at the start of 2024/25 and will be motivated to keep that momentum going ahead of a home clash with Bayern Munich next Wednesday. "I have to say he’s a manager that I admire a lot," said McKenna. "I’ve studied his teams for a lot of years, having come up against his Arsenal and Villarreal teams a few times (when assistant manager at Manchester United). Kieran McKenna says Aston Villa counterpart Unai Emery is a manager he admires a lot. (Image: PA) “He took Villarreal to winning the Europa League and deep into the Champions League. That was a team with fantastic structure on and off the ball and really clear patterns of play. I think the ingredients that he’s put into this Aston Villa team are similar, just probably with a higher athletic calibre of player.  “I really enjoy watching them play. We share some principles, I think, in terms of how both teams are set up.  "We’ve had a good amount of time to prepare for this game. That doesn’t make it any easier, but I think everyone’s clear on their threats, what we’re going to have to do to limit them and also where we think we can go and hurt them.  “We feel like we know the opposition pretty well. It’s up to us now to do everything we can to make it a very difficult game for them. It will be a great test for us and we’re looking forward to it." Ollie Watkins has been directly involved in 57 Premier League goals (37G, 20A) since the start of the 2022/23 season. (Image: PA) Villa's attack is spearheaded by England international Ollie Watkins, a player who has been directly involved in 57 Premier League goals (20 assists, 37 scored) since the start of the 2022/23 season. “He’s a fantastic striker, it’s clear what his strengths are, and the team are set up to utilise them really well," enthused McKenna. “He’s obviously one of the best strikers in the league, probably in Europe, playing on the last shoulder and running onto through balls. And Aston Villa are the team that play the most through balls in the league. "They build up short well and you need to commit bodies to press them higher or else you won’t get the ball back, but when you do that then you leave forwards who are good in big spaces and one-v-one situations. It’s very clear what they do and he’s a big part of that.  “It’s a balance between pressurising their build-up to try and get regains and score, but also making sure you are covered against the pace and one-v-one threats they have on the top line. That’s why they are scoring a lot of goals. It’s a good challenge for us." Kieran McKenna says he feels his side is well prepared for Sunday's game. (Image: PA)

  • Martin believes Saints have been unlucky and asserts ‘we should have more points’

    The St Mary's outfit sit 18th in the division after picking up their first point of the campaign last time out in a 1-1 draw with relegation rivals Ipswich Town. Martin's Saints were seconds away from a vital first win when Sam Morsy's added-time strike was deflected to beat the impressive Aaron Ramsdale in goal. Saints were beaten by one goal in their first two league matches and missed a penalty to go ahead against Manchester United in another defeat.  Martin believes they have been unlucky and his assertion is supported by Opta's expected points data, which put Saints as high as 12th in the table. "I think it makes me really frustrated but it also tells us, in the same way it did at this time last season, that we're really not very far away," Martin said. Russell Martin's Saints are still searching for their first win of the season (Image: Richard Crease) "If we keep on doing the right things with the right intention, eventually them things will often end up levelling out and becoming more of a reality. "We have an awareness of what's hurt us for sure and what we need to tweak but we have an awareness of what's really working in the Premier League. "We're not sat here just trying to do the same thing. We had 45 games in one shape last year and then changed because we felt that was the best way to win. "This year we played a few different shapes we're trying to find really the best way to win. I feel like we're doing that every single game. "We should have more points we should be higher up in the table but we're not, so sometimes that is football and that is life. "You can choose to suffer through the pain or you choose to grow through it and use it as fuel. I always know what my choice is and I said to the players we have that choice "We have a brilliant group here that can continue to do that and I think they know that when we're adapting and tweaking we're not we're not doing it out of fear. Opta's predicted final Premier League table 📊👀 pic.twitter.com/ylcRUXy2lK — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 26, 2024 "We're doing it out of a want to get better and I think we will we will get better. We'll end up with the points that we hopefully feel like we deserve. "There is probably one game this year that I've been so annoyed at myself with and that was Forest where we probably didn't deserve anything from the game "We have been so competitive and there's been moments of real control and dominance in each of the games. Those periods are getting longer and longer." Opta statistics measure Saints as 12th on 'expected points' based on their chances versus the opposition and the likely outcome of game scenarios so far. It asserts that Saints should be ahead of Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Brentford, Wolves, West Ham, Everton, Leicester City and Ipswich Town. Saints visit AFC Bournemouth on Monday, September 30 (8pm), hunting their first win of the season and Martin's first as a top-flight boss.

  • Saints starlet Tyler Miles issues classy ‘thank you’ message ahead of seven-figure Man City move

    Midfielder Miles, 16, was on an early scholarship deal at Saints but exercised his right to talk to other clubs in England earlier this summer. Premier League champions approached Staplewood's Miles at the beginning of July, before agreeing on a deal with Saints, the Daily Echo understands.  Saints are satisfied that they are set to pocket a seven-figure fee and will hold a sell-on percentage clause and other bonus contingencies. Miles made his under-21 debut against Tottenham Hotspur at just 15 years old last season and has issued a message of thanks to his developing club. On social media site Instagram, Miles said: "I'm not sure I’ll ever be able to express what Southampton FC means to me. Harrison Miles was the under-16 academy player of the year at Saints (Image: Southampton FC) "Staplewood Campus has been a home from home for the last nine years and the people there are truly like family. "From the operations team to the security guards, canteen staff to the education team and the physios who have been incredible at keeping me on the pitch. "The connections I’ve built are ones I’ll always value as these are the people who have made my experience at this academy very special," he added. "I’ve been so lucky to have been coached by some top people both past and present, and I hope they know the positive impact they have had on my football development. "I’m so grateful for all of their guidance, support and opportunity. Lastly the players, well we’ve got some memories haven’t we? "Whether times were good or bad I’m so grateful to have experienced them with you all. Very privileged to have played with and learnt from some of the very best. "I will never forget what this club has given me but now is the time to say goodbye. Thank you for everything." Miles becomes the second recent Saints academy talent to depart for the Etihad after defender Max Alleyne moved to Man City for £1.5million at 15 in 2021.

  • ‘It is noticeable’ – What AFC Bournemouth boss Iraola said about Dibling

    Former Spain international Iraola, 42, made his playing debut for Athletic Bilbao three years before youngster Dibling was born in 2006. Dibling scored his first senior goal for Saints in last weekend's 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town, having impressed at every opportunity this camp. Cherries boss Iraola, who will sit in the stands for Monday's clash at Vitality Stadium due to suspension, has pinpointed the threat the teenager poses.  “He looks very good. He looks very good. He has made the difference in some games," said Iroala, in his pre-match press conference. Tyler Dibling and Yukinari Sugawara has formed a strong partnership (Image: Richard Crease) "It is noticeable when you are 18, to play like this. He's one of the threats that we will have to defend but they will be worried also about the threats we have. “When you face a Premier League opponent, you will have always difficult wingers, difficult number nine to cover," he continued. "With Dibling, I think the things he has done, as young as he is, are really, really good. Obviously, you analyse all the information we have. "He has made a big impact in their games for someone so young. Also, he has a very good combination with the full-back (Yukinari Sugawara). "I think they've been quite threatening on this right side so we will have to be very good defensively on that side. "We must also demand them to cover us too because sometimes the best way is to attack them so they are more worried about defending us than opposite." Bournemouth boss Iraola wants to make it a miserable Monday night for south-coast neighbours Saints at Vitality Stadium. One of Iraola’s first matches in charge of the Cherries was a 3-2 pre-season friendly win along the coast and he would love a repeat in front of their fans. He said: “I remember when I arrived in pre-season we played a friendly at St Mary’s. I am sure it’s a game that our supporters want to win for sure. “It’s always a game that everyone wants to win and considering the opposition and the standings, I think it’s a very important game for us.”

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  • ‘We’re enjoying the journey we’re on’ – McKenna on early Premier League lessons

    The Blues started their first top-flight season in 22 years with defeats against Liverpool and Manchester City, but go into this weekend's game off the back of successive draws against Fulham, Brighton and Southampton. Villa, competing in the Champions League after finishing fourth last season, have won six of their opening seven games across all competitions so far. “We know we’re not going to dominate every moment of games, as has been the case at times in previous seasons, so it’s about learning how to manage different game states," said McKenna, when asked what his side has learned so far. “When we’re on top of games, like we have been in spells, in the home games especially, it’s about the execution to go and turn that into clear chances and goals. That needs to improve and we’ve been working hard on that. I’m sure as the players adapt to the league, individually and collectively, that will develop.  SIGN-UP! Get 30% off a whole year of our Town coverage - or try a month for just £1! “There have been other phases in games when the opponent has been on top and we have had to defend collectively and with good organisation. We’ve already felt how important that is. You can’t afford to go off strategy and play individually at any moment. Our strength is going to be as a collective.  “I think the players have learned lots already, on and off the ball. They've felt the level, but they’ve also gained confidence from how competitive we’ve been in certain parts of certain games. We’ve played two of the best teams in the division and taken results from two teams just outside the real top ones in the division."  The Blues boss added: "Our intent going into every game is the same. It’s to be the dominant side and to be brave and aggressive with and without the ball, but it’s not always going to pan out that way. "For us to be competitive in this league and be successful we’re going to have to show a lot of strings to our bow for sure.  "We’re enjoying the journey we’re on." 

  • Russell Martin has ‘no worries’ about Tyler Dibling’s mentality despite hype growing

    Dibling, born in 2006, scored his career-first senior goal in the 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town, having impressed against Manchester United last time out. The Saints academy graduate was the side's best player during pre-season and is now the first attacker on Martin's Premier League teamsheet. Dibling, contracted at St Mary's to 2026, is likely to generate interest from all of the top clubs in England at the end of his breakout season. However, Martin, ahead of the clash with AFC Bournemouth, insists he is not concerned about Dibling's ability to remain grounded amid all of the hype. He said: "He has an incredible belief in himself in a really nice, humble and modest way. He has to just keep living at 100 per cent. Tyler Dibling celebrates his first Premier League goal (Image: Richard Crease) "He has to understand where that is and understand what's got him this far. I think he has a brilliant support network with his family. "He has a lot of trust from us and he has that back. It's not always plain sailing with young players so we need to make him understand that. "At this minute in time, he couldn't play for every team. He suits the way we play a lot and he's getting so much better at the stuff he needs to improve." Martin added: "He needs to continue to develop and stay so hungry. I think that's always a challenge with young players when they have a quick rise. "To keep them humble and to keep them wanting to learn, improve and develop. But with Tyler, I don't see that being a problem. "He's such a calm and confident boy in the nicest way, so as long as he maintains his sense of self and his character and his personality. "That's up to us to help him do that along with his family, then I've got no worries about him. If he's playing well and in form, I don't think age comes into it." Martin insists the influence 36 year old Adam Lallana, who made his Saints debut when Dibling was a few months old, will be key. "I think it was part of the reason to bring Adam in. It was a big part of that, not just on the pitch but off the pitch," Martin said.  "He is someone who's aligned in terms of his vision of the game and his values as a person and is really demanding with the young guys on the training pitch. "He's probably the only guy I know that moans more than me on the training pitch but in a much better way than I was. When he talks, they listen."

  • Martin expecting ‘real contrast’ of styles against AFC Bournemouth

    Saints make their shortest trip of the Premier League season to Vitality Stadium in front of the Sky Sports cameras on Monday for an 8pm kick-off. The Cherries play an aggressive high-press style under Spaniard Iraola, averaging 43 per cent possession to Southampton's 60 per cent, and attempting the third-most long balls in the division while Saints have tried the fewest. The Dorset outfit recorded their best-ever finish with 48 points landing them 12th in the Premier League last campaign under Iroala, who will serve a touchline ban during Monday's fixture for yellow card accumulation.  Martin, speaking ahead of the match, said: "It's a real contrast of beliefs on the game or whatever you want to call it, game model, all that stuff. "Andoni has done a brilliant job, a really brilliant job, but it took him some time in the same way it's taken us a bit of time to adapt and adjust. Russell Martin's possession-based style will meet Andoni Iraola's high-press vision at Vitality Stadium (Image: PA) "They had a bumpy start under him, Andoni, and then they've been brilliant ever since. They've not looked back and they've just kept building on it and building on it. "They have real clarity, which gives them so much strength, and they've recruited really well. We have to go there and try and bring the game that we want. "It is two very different styles and two very different teams. What they'll be looking for from the game is probably very different to what we'll be looking for. "We need to try and control as much of it as we possibly can, which is not easy against Bournemouth. Not easy at all. I'm looking forward to it." Saints will remain without Will Smallbone and Kamaldeen Sulemana, who are the only two absentees Martin now has to contend with.  Smallbone, who has been out since the end of August, remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, whilst Kamaldeen is yet to feature this season. "We have no one coming back that we didn’t expect," Martin said. "Ross Stewart is back now and will come onto the pitch, Kamaldeen is still a bit away from being with us. "Will is still out for another week or two. Maybe on the other side of the international break or maybe the Arsenal game, but this week, no."

  • Saints weighing up Dom Ballard surgery for shoulder injury with Blackpool

    Ballard, 19, joined League One outfit Blackpool on loan this summer after impressing in the division in his first senior spell with Reading last season. However, goalscorer Ballard's season in Berkshire was cruelly cut short after just 11 appearances when he required surgery on a Patella tendon injury.  Ballard has headed back out on loan but Tangerines manager Steve Bruce revealed he "popped his shoulder" in their recent 2-0 win over Huddersfield. Martin admits Saints have not mapped out his rehab yet with the potential for more surgery still on the cards, having already missed over six months of action. The Saints boss told the Daily Echo: "I found out this morning actually from our medical team and I am really disappointed for Dom. Dom Ballard registered 62 goals or assists in 67 matches for Saints at professional phase level (Image: Chris Moorhouse - SFC) "He had a good start to life there and through the manager change. He's a great kid, I know he'll attack his rehab in the same way he did last year after a big injury. "This can happen, everyone's journey is so different and Dom was on the ascent here and getting really close and then he gets an injury out on loan. "Then has to go out on loan again and just things can happen and change so quickly in football. We'll touch base with him today. "I know the medical team have already spoken to him and the Blackpool medical team. It might mean he needs to come back here for a bit to get his rehab done.  "Or he'll stay there, we'll decide what's best for him and where he's at right now but I've got no doubt Dom will come back stronger and better than he did previously. "He did with his last big injury. Football and life are not fair sometimes but he'll choose to either suffer and feel sorry for himself or he'll choose to use it to come back better. "Of course, he'll feel the disappointment and the hurt - we all will for him - but I've got no doubt what choice Dom will make and he'll be more than fine long term. "It's just another small setback for him. How long he is out depends if he needs an operation or if they'll heal it naturally. "No operation gets you back quicker but then there's a risk of redoing it so they'll decide that all together and then once they've made the decision I'll speak to him." Blackpool sit ninth in League One, only outside the play-offs on goal difference, and will hope to welcome Ballard back to action later this campaign.

  • Arne Slot hands Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah clear pathway after ruthless ‘kick up the backside’

    Jarell Quansah issued a strong response after an early setback in Liverpool's 5-1 Carabao Cup win against West Ham United on Wednesday night20:15, 26 Sep 2024Updated 23:54, 26 Sep 2024Wataru Endo and Jarell Quansah during the Carabao Cup tie between Liverpool and West HamJarell Quansah would have been forgiven for thinking he had walked under several ladders on his way to Anfield for the start of Liverpool's Carabao Cup defence against West Ham United, such was his initial luck on Wednesday night.For many weeks, the third-round tie had promised to be an important night for Quansah after he had been left waiting in the wings since he was replaced by Ibrahima Konate at halftime of Liverpool's 2-0 win over Ipswich Town on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.‌Indeed, it was against the Hammers that the 21-year-old was handed just his second outing of the season as Arne Slot made nine changes from Saturday's 3-0 win over Bournemouth. And Quansah, who used his performances en route to League Cup glory last season to ready himself for the ruthlessness of the Premier League, was keen to catch the eye on his first Anfield start of the season.READ MORE:

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  • ‘Best way to play’ – Mateus Fernandes on adjusting to Premier League and working with Russell Martin

    The 20 year old joined Saints from Sporting this summer in a deal worth up to £16million, having spent last season on loan at Estoril. Fernandes revealed the biggest difference he has noticed between Portuguese and English football is the intensity. Fellow summer signing Yukinari Sugawara made a similar claim when speaking to the Daily Echo last month. In an interview on Southampton's website, Fernandes discussed his first month on the south coast. He said: “I am very happy to be here. As I said in my first interview, it’s a dream come true to play in the Premier League with good players and a good coach. Mateus Fernandes played 90 minutes for Southampton against Ipswich (Image: Richard Crease) “The intensity and the quality of all the players is different in England. The atmosphere in the stadium is very different. "The Sporting stadium is very good, but in Portugal, we don’t have many stadiums that have a great atmosphere. “In England, we have that. I’ve enjoyed every stadium. I prefer to play at our stadium. I really like the atmosphere in England. I’ve really enjoyed every minute on the pitch and I want more.” Martin heaped praise on Fernandes following his eye-catching performance in their 1-1 draw against Ipswich on the weekend. Southampton chiefs worked hard to secure a deal for the talented midfielder this summer, beating a number of other clubs to his permanent signature. Having already worked his way into the starting lineup, Fernandes is keen to work with Martin to better understand the demands of his role. He insisted Saints play football "the best way" and drew comparisons to Sporting, one of Portugal's most successful clubs. “I like the style very much. In Portugal, I played at Sporting. We had the ball a lot of the time. I want the ball and I want to score," he admitted. Mateus Fernandes grew up in Sporting's academy (Image: Richard Crease) “I want to run for the box to score. I like the coach’s style. I think it’s the best football you can play. I want to do everything. “I need to learn more about the space in the middle. English football has many spaces. It’s different to the Portuguese league. “The pitches are very good. I’m new here but the team play very well. In football, age doesn’t matter. We play and the coach likes to play young players. "It’s a long season. We want to win and play well but we want more and more. I want to learn with the coach and with my teammates. For the fans, I want to score and assist. “I want to do everything. I have really enjoyed every single minute on the pitch and outside of the pitch too." Fernandes earned his first Premier League start against Manchester United, who are captained by his idol Bruno Fernandes. He swapped shirts with his countryman and fellow former Sporting midfielder at full-time and now proudly displays it at his home. Mateus Fernandes battles countryman Diogo Dalot (Image: Stuart Martin) Asked if he was nervous to make his full Premier League debut against United, Fernandes said: “No, I just tried to enjoy the warm-up. “I played against my idol Bruno. I want to play more games like this one. In Portugal, Bruno was the best midfielder. “He played in Sporting as well. I looked up to him many times at the heart of the pitch. I learned a lot from him." Alongside adjusting to life in a new league, Fernandes is also conscious of the areas he needs to improve off the pitch. The Portuguese youth international confessed he needs to improve his English and explained that Spaniard Juan Larios is helping him do that. "At the moment, Juan Larios has helped me a lot," he detailed. "I understand that I need to learn more English. I can’t speak English very well. “I can speak better Spanish. I’m now living with him and he has helped me a lot. He’s teaching me. "I’m watching Prison Break again. It’s easier because I need to learn English. I’ve been watching it again to help my English."

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  • ‘Still got a lot of improving to go’ – McKenna on Town’s first five top tier games

    The Blues are winless after their opening five matches, but have gone unbeaten over the last three games. They drew at home with Fulham in a clash they could have won, held firm for a 0-0 draw at in-form Brighton and then snatched a point at the death at Southampton on Saturday. SIGN-UP! Get 30% off a WHOLE year of our Town content - or try a month for just £1! A late strike from skipper Sam Morsy saved a point for Town at Southampton (Image: Ross Halls) That trio of games came after a baptism of fire start, with a home defeat to Liverpool and away at four-time defending champions Manchester City - but even in those losses, Town had their positive moments. They sit 17th in the early top tier table, two points clear of the drop zone. READ MORE: North Stander - Why national pundits should pipe down! Reflecting on the three-game unbeaten run, Town's brilliant young boss said: “Three games, two of them away, each a challenge, as they will be, with their own story. "For us to be as competitive as we have been, to show the different qualities that we have, is good. "Last week was a different point to this one. At Brighton we were defending and looking to see out a point. This week we’re trying to chase the point and get the late equaliser." Town fans enjoying themselves at Southampton (Image: Ross Halls) The Blues now return home to host Champions' League side Aston Villa on Sunday (2pm), before heading to West Ham on October 5th ahead of next month's international break. READ MORE: Flynn Downes on captaining Saints against old side Town “Look, we know we’ve still got a lot of improving to go," McKenna admitted. "There are things from today that I think we will definitely be better on over the course of time. "But while we’re working on our execution in all phases, building the foundations of a successful group – like never giving up, like showing resilience – is more important. "And we’ve done those things over the last couple of weeks. It’s always nice to get something from away games."

  • Russell Martin: ‘I don’t know how Ramsdale has conceded seven goals. It’s unfair on him’

    Five-time England international Ramsdale joined Southampton on deadline day from Arsenal in a bid for regular football. He immediately displaced Alex McCarthy between the sticks, making his debut the next day against Brentford in a 3-1 defeat. Ramsdale conceded three more goals against Manchester United at St Mary's despite managing to make seven saves - keeping Martin's side in the game for a long period. Aaron Ramsdale made five saves against Ipswich (Image: Richard Crease) The 26 year old looked set to keep his first clean sheet, having made two brilliant saves, against Ipswich on the weekend before Sam Morsy's late equaliser stung Southampton hearts. Expected goals stats state that Ramsdale prevented two goals against Ipswich, while Morsy's heavily deflected equaliser was ranked at 0.04 xG. Only Kepa Arrizabalaga (6.72) and Mark Flekken (5.12) have made more saves per 90 minutes than Aaron Ramsdale (5.08) in the Premier League this season. “He’s a top goalkeeper," said a disappointed Martin at St Mary's. "He’s played three games and I don’t know how he’s conceded three goals. “It’s not fair on him really. The stuff he does with the ball at his feet, the decisions he make, help us as a group and as a team. “He’s a top goalkeeper and he’s showing that. I’ve only watched the equaliser once and that was enough because it made me feel sick."

  • Pep Guardiola admits “Man City rocked by Rodri injury”

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  • ‘Funny doing it against them’ – Downes on captaining Saints against Ipswich Town

    Downes, who signed for Russell Martin's side in the summer, captained the Saints for the first time in the Premier League, with club skipper Jack Stephens suspended.  The 25-year-old, whom Town also pursued in the summer window, became the Blues' youngest-ever captain aged just 20 back in 2019. READ MORE: Stuart Watson's verdict on dramatic draw Martin said after the match that Downes was 'really, really good' - but the Town academy product said he was crushed by Sam Morsy's late, late leveller. “I’m gutted," he admitted. "I don’t want to be negative, but it feels like a loss and it’s hard to take at the minute. “There were so many positives to take from it, but we’ve got to see the game out – either control the game or put it to bed by getting a second. “I don’t think we did that well enough in the second half.” Sam Morsy rifled home a late leveller at Southampton to spoil Flynn Downes' day (Image: PA) It was the second straight game in which Town have grabbed points late against the Saints, this drama following on from Jeremy Sarmiento's iconic injury time winner at Portman Road last season. The result leaves Southampton with just one point from their first five games of the season and sitting 18th in the top tier, a place and two points behind Ipswich. “It’s such a tough one to take," Downes admitted, after being asked about conceding late to Town again. "20 yards out, deflection, top corner. It’s so hard. “But we’ve got to look at things before that. We’ve got to stop the crosses. It’s the 90th minute, we’ve got to control the game, we’ve got to be smarter. “But we’ve got to take the positives from the game and move on.” READ MORE: McKenna on Kalvin Phillips' injury  Of being skipper against the side he once captained, he added: “It was a bit of a bad one! But to captain this club, with all them boys and all the staff, in front of all the fans, it was a real honour in my career, probably the biggest one I’ve had. “It was a pleasure, and it was funny doing it against them.”

  • ‘Different option’ – Russell Martin explains decision to start Taylor over Walker-Peters

    Taylor kept his spot in the starting lineup after providing an assist for Taylor Harwood-Bellis against Everton in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday evening. Walker-Peters dropped to the bench for the first time this season - just as he did last time out against Ipswich. The two-time England international was benched at Portman Road last season but Martin admitted that missing two games against the Tractor Boys is only a coincidence. Southampton's Charlie Taylor was booked for a foul on Wes Burns (Image: Adam Davy/PA) He played down any suggestion that Walker-Peters dropped to the bench as a result of talks around a new contract. Martin told the Daily Echo: "I think it's a coincidence, really. It was about putting out the team that I thought would give us the best performance. "On Tuesday, I told the guys that they need to put in a performance that can put them in the team on the weekend. "I thought Charlie did that. With a natural left-footer on that side, I think it gives us a different option there with more balance. "Yuki has been outstanding (at right-back). I think he's been one of our best players so far this season. "Unfortunately for Kyle, he misses out. Now it's up to him to force his way back into the team."

  • ‘Not a secret’ – Russell Martin makes Tyler Dibling interest admission following first Saints goal

    Dibling scored his first Premier League goal on Saturday during Southampton's 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town. Martin suggested Saints could look to strengthen their already strong position on Dibling's contract, which is set until 2026 with an option for an extra year. Clubs have previously shown heavy interest in Dibling, with Chelsea even prying him away from Southampton's academy before he opted to return to the south coast soon after. A goal made in Southampton ✨ pic.twitter.com/UVdaVmPFmc — Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) September 21, 2024 Martin revealed that Southampton have rejected other bids for the 18 year old since he took over last summer. The boss insisted his job is to ensure Dibling can continue to enjoy his football while thriving in the system. He told the Daily Echo: "I think when you're 18 and you're playing in the Premier League at the level he has, then every club in the world probably looks at you. "He's ours. The club have turned down bids for him previously since I've been here. It's not a secret to people who have watched under-21s football. "He left the club and didn't enjoy it where he went so he came back. We ultimately want what's best for him and he has a great support network around him. "We have to make sure he is constantly enjoying it and that we are playing a style that he can flourish in.  "The speculation is nothing for him or for me. We are in a strong position and I'm sure we will look at securing and strengthening that even more. "If he carries on doing what he is doing then he will deserve that. He just needs to focus on football and concentrate on what he is doing." 

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  • Martin: ‘There’s too much anxiety in the team but we are getting better every game’

    Ipswich captain Sam Morsy fired in from distance to secure a 1-1 draw for the visitors after Tyler Dibling's first Premier League goal had Southampton ahead. Southampton had looked set to secure their first win of the season but missed chances from Cameron Archer and Ben Brereton Diaz proved costly. Martin, admittedly angry with the result when speaking to the media, insisted Saints are getting better with every game. He told the Daily Echo: "My overriding feeling is just frustration and I'm a bit angry and disappointed really. "We scored a great goal in the first half. Ipswich had too many moments from set plays and in the second phase because we couldn't quite clean the game up enough. "We had a really good chance with Cam (Archer) and some really good moments that didn't come to enough. "But I really liked a lot of the performance. I thought the lads came out brilliantly and started the second half so well. Southampton manager Russell Martin saw his team draw 1-1 with Ipswich (Image: Adam Davy/PA) "We have another big chance with Cam and a few moments with Ben - we should put the game to bed really. "Ipswich had two shots on target in the second half and that was in the 96th minute and they scored from one of them. So That's the disappointing thing. "I thought we were really good second half but you have to score the second goal and if you don't you have to defend the set play properly and It shouldn't come to that.  "It was a really poor set-piece to give away. It's about game management and there's too much anxiety in the team. "I'm sure I'll be so happy about a lot of it (when I watch it back). I'm angry right now as you can see. Conceding on 96 minutes, of course, you're going to be furious and not very happy about it. "We are getting better and better every game. I really feel that. We have to continue progressing and getting better. "It's so tight down there that the league will be so tight for a long long time. We just need to keep performing and getting better, but make sure we turn it into wins."

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  • ‘Not quite yet’ – Southampton Manager Russell Martin sets return dates for Smallbone and Kamaldeen

    The St Mary's side take on a fellow promoted team for the first time this season and are looking for their first points of the campaign. Ipswich, managed by Kieran McKenna, have drawn on their lost two outings but remain in the hunt for their first win as a returning Premier League team. Saints midfielder Smallbone, 24, has missed the last two games with a tight hamstring while Sulemana, 22, has been injured since pre-season. Martin told the Daily Echo: "Smallbone is not quite back. He'll be another week or so, Will, and hopefully, he'll be in contention next week. "I'll keep you posted on that but not quite yet. Kamaldeen is not yet back training with the group so hopefully in the next week or so back training with the group. "He will be moderated and being looked after a little bit so he's still a way off getting fully fit and playing and helping us on the pitch at the minute." Saints have a fully fit squad to choose from otherwise, with a handful of players out of the squad set to play for the under-21s on Friday evening. Saints take on Ipswich Town from 3pm on Saturday, September 21, after suffering defeat in both matches against the Tractor Boys last season.

  • Southampton Manager Russell Martin: ‘I think the fans have been brilliant. The players need that’

    Saints take on a newly promoted side for the first time in the Premier League season when Kieran McKenna's Tractor Boys visit St Mary's. Martin's side are without a point from their first outings, while Ipswich remain winless but have registered two draws in their last two matches.  Saints were supported by more than 1,000 fans at Everton's Goodison Park in the Carabao Cup midweek and Martin credited their dedication.  He told the Daily Echo: "I think the fans have been brilliant. The ones that travelled on Tuesday night to Everton and the cup. Russell Martin's side are hunting their first Premier League point (Image: Southampton FC) "The ones after the Man United game, where the majority stayed and clapped the team off and we're going to need that. The players need that. "The relationship between them and the players last season was incredible with the way that grew and it seems to have stayed on course despite a tough start. "We are going to need everyone. I don't think anyone thought this season was going to be easy and we knew there were going to be a few tough moments. "We should have more points than we have. It's really that simple and I think a lot of people who have been to the games would probably understand that. "They're seeing a team that's given everything they've got - which should be the thing they're really judged on all the time." Martin continued: "The rest is on me. I'm asking them to play in certain ways but the players need the supporters. Saints fans have sold out St Mary's for the first three home matches (Image: Stuart Martin) "The supporters need the players to give them everything and I think they've given that so far. I feel like we just all need that first win. "Everyone can then relax and actually enjoy themselves a bit so I want to put a performance in that the players enjoy being part of." Saints were beaten in both matches against Ipswich last season, who went on to finish second in the division while Martin's side needed the play-offs. McKenna was linked with moves to Premier League clubs over the summer, including Chelsea and Brighton, but extended his stay in Suffolk. Martin is looking forward to reigniting his battle with the fellow 38 year old but admitted last season's encounters will have little bearing. "They've got so many new players. We've got a fair few ourselves. Both me and Kieran have our own ways of seeing the game," Martin added. "I'm sure he won't want to veer too far away from his and I don't from mine - but we both have to adapt and learn in the Premier League quickly. "Does last season come into it? We've looked at the games we've played against them and looked at their approach to the game so far this season. "I'm really excited about the game at home. We need to bring the energy we started the game with at the weekend and continue that. "Then we can create real energy and atmosphere in the stadium as we did, but if we have a setback like we did on Saturday, respond to it in a much better way."

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  • Kieran McKenna reveals Fit-again Broadhead could feature for Ipswich Town against Southampton

    The Welsh international, who joint top-scored for Town in their Championship promotion season (13), has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury in the early stages of pre-season. He's now had two weeks back on the training pitch though and could be in the squad for a crunch clash between two newly-promoted sides at St Mary's this weekend. "I think from a physical point of view he would be able to play some minutes this weekend, which is a big positive," said McKenna, speaking at his pre-match press conference. Striker George Hirst and winger Wes Burns both returned from injuries in last weekend's 0-0 draw at Brighton, with right-back Harry Clarke, who underwent Achilles surgery in May, now the only player in the first team squad not fully fit. "Harry’s a little bit further behind, but he’s trained the majority of the sessions this week," said McKenna. "If we were in big, big need he could probably get on the pitch this weekend, but we’re pretty strong in that position.  SIGN-UP! Get 30% off a whole year of our Town coverage - or try a month for just £1! "We’ve got some players with different knocks and issues, but everyone has played some part in training this week. The group’s looking really healthy. That gives us good depth now. Over the course of the season we’re going to need everyone to give us contributions."  Now everyone is fit, McKenna has to leave seven first team players out of his 20-man matchday squad. In addition to Clarke and Broadhead, Cieran Slicker, Luke Woolfenden, Cameron Burgess, Jack Taylor and Ali Al-Hamadi were the ones who missed out last weekend.   Meanwhile, the Blues boss revealed that Janoi Donacien, whose contract was not renewed in the summer, is still training with the club. “He’s just come back from international duty (with St Lucia) and has got a small ankle injury," said McKenna. "He’s still with us, is getting some treatment and is looking at the next steps. "As I’ve said many times, he’s a top, top player, an outstanding person and I think there’s a big demand for his services. We’ll try and help him make the right decision for the next step of us his career."  

  • Double over Saints counts for little going into Premier League clash, insists Kieran McKenna

    Omari Hutchinson scored in a 1-0 victory on the south coast last September, then Jeremy Sarmiento bagged a 97th goal to seal a dramatic 3-2 comeback win at Portman Road on Easter Monday. Those results played a big part in Town pipping the Saints to automatic promotion, with Russell Martin's men going on to secure their step up via the play-offs. Since then, however, Southampton have signed 16 new players and Ipswich 12 in preparation for top-flight football. "The first game was pretty early in the season, it was our first big midweek away game, our first game at one of the newly-relegated sides and we were missing a few players that night. But we got a clean sheet, won a tight game and that provided a great foundation in our season," reflected McKenna.  Jeremy Sarmiento's dramatic 97th winner against Southampton at Portman Road is the most iconic moment from Ipswich's Championship promotion season. (Image: PA) “Then the home game provided a wonderful moment that will live long in the memory for everyone. That game will never change. It’s in the folklore and history of the football club now.   “But there’s not too much we’ll reference from those games now. This is a new game, a new season and new squads. We’ll have to go at it with fresh eyes." SIGN-UP! Get 30% off a whole year of our Town coverage - or try a month for just £1! Southampton, sticking to their possession principles, are still to register their first point of the campaign having lost to Newcastle (1-0 away), Nottingham Forest (1-0 at home), Brentford (3-1 away) and Manchester United (3-0 at home). “They’ve caused every team problems," he insisted. "They caused Man United a lot of problems for half an hour last week (seeing a penalty saved at 0-0), they caused Newcastle a lot of problems in the first game of the season away (having 19 shots, but failing to break down 10 men for more than an hour), even the Brentford game, which Brentford ended up winning with some high regains and a set-play, they caused a lot of problems. Omari Hutchinson scored the winner when Ipswich went to St Mary's last September. (Image: PA) “I’m not surprised by the style they’ve gone with, because I think Russell’s pretty vocal about that being what he believes in and will stick to. "Southampton are a team that challenge every opponent that they come up against in terms of how they hold the ball in deep areas. We know we’ll have to answer some questions that they pose. It should be a good game. We’re going to have to show lots of the good qualities that we’ve shown across the opening four games."

  • ‘Great learning’ – Russell Martin insists Archer will ‘bounce back’ from penalty miss against Manchester United

    Archer, 22, missed from the spot to put Saints ahead after a quick start in their 3-0 defeat to United last Saturday. He sent a rebound header straight at Andre Onana - which transpired to be Southampton's final effort on goal. Martin pointed out that missing chances is part of Archer's job as a striker but insisted that his response is the most important thing.  Martin explained: "The players really care. Cameron's come in, he's such a good young man, a brilliant young man. He's brilliant to work with and he wants to get better. "He's missed a penalty but he's a striker, he's playing in a position where he'll miss chances, maybe some in big games at points in his career. "Your response to disappointment is the most important thing. I don't think as a group we responded anywhere near well enough on Saturday. Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana saves a penalty taken by Southampton's Cameron Archer (Image: PA) "That's a big learning for us. Cam's trained brilliantly. We've looked at his clips and we've had a couple of really good discussions about it. "I think between the time the penalty was given and it was actually taken allowed a bit of tension to creep in. "I think it's brilliant learning for him and we have a really top young talent in our hands and it's up to us to manage him. "I've got no doubt if he plays on Saturday for however many minutes he will bounce back and it'll be brilliant for us." Archer could return to the starting lineup to face Ipswich Town on Saturday having played no part against Everton on Tuesday evening. Archer remains Southampton's top goalscorer this season following his brace against Cardiff City in the Carabao Cup.

  • Russell Martin makes Walker-Peters contract admission after Bednarek pens new deal

    The Polish international has penned a new three-year deal, potentially keeping him at Southampton until 2027. However, Martin conceded that Walker-Peters' current position is to not sign a new deal at St Mary's.  Walker-Peters had been linked with West Ham in the summer before they decided to sign Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The 27 year old has started every league game for Saints on the left of defence, with summer signing Yukinari Sugawara settling in on the right. Asked for an update on Walker-Peters' contract situation, Martin told the Daily Echo: "He won't sign a new contract right now. I don't know if that will change at any point. Kyle Walker-Peters' contract expires next summer (Image: Stuart Martin) "It is a situation we have to be conscious and aware of. If it's not going to change then he needs to give us everything on the pitch as Stuey (Armstrong) and Che (Adams) did last year. "It will be the owner's call in January (if Saints will cash in on Walker-Peters), it will depend on how much he has played by then and his level of performance. "It will come down to how he is feeling and how we are feeling. It depends on so much. I can't give you a definitive answer on that. "It also depends on who comes in for him and what clubs value him at because nobody has done that in the last three transfer windows. "Kyle has been brilliant for us, and whilst that continues to be the case, it is not a problem at all." Bednarek's new deal could take his time at Saints to a decade, having joined the club from Lech Poznań in 2017. Jan Bednarek admitted Southampton has become his home (Image: Stuart Martin) Martin praised the 28 year old for evolving into a leader over the last 12 months and is delighted to get the deal done early into the season. "I think it's massive for the club," he explained "Janny has grown into the season nicely. He's getting better and better. "He's an outstanding person who has grown into a leader in the last year. With the responsibility he takes on and off the pitch, he's a big character for us. "He's an amazing professional. It's been a privilege to watch him evolve over the last year. I don't think we should take him for granted. I think he's a top player. "With a year left on his contract, it would have been easy for him to say I want to see that out. That has been other people's prerogative last season, and this season still. "But he loves it here and he loves being a part of it. I think he likes working with us and has a lot of trust in us. "It's a brilliant statement of intent from the ownership group to back us on that by giving Janny a new contract. I think he would have had a lot of offers if he allowed his contract to run out."

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  • Adam Lallana insists Saints will take confidence from Carabao Cup win over Everton

    Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy was the penalty shootout hero when he saved Ashley Young's effort to see Saints win 6-5, having drawn 1-1 in regular time. Lallana praised his teammates for holding their nerve to score all six penalties in an intense Goodison Park atmosphere.  The veteran midfielder believes Southampton can take a number of positives from the result but confessed he would have preferred to win the game inside 90 minutes. "Any way you progress is good," Lallana told the Daily Echo. "It would be nice to win it in normal time.  "But the lads showed great nerve to take the penalty and Al came up trumps at the end with a big save. Adam Lallana joins his Saints teammates in a huddle ahead of kick-off at Everton (Image: Southampton FC/Matt Watson) "I think we will take any bit of confidence, belief. It's never been easy to come here to Goodison Park for me. "I thought we controlled the game in the first half, they had probably a couple of big chances on the break. "There are lots of positives to take and more importantly (we got) the win going into a big game at the weekend. "It's not easy when you make 10 changes and lads are coming in. We've got a big squad, a lot of players. "I thought we played well enough considering the changes and we'll dust ourselves down now and get ready for the weekend." Lallana has mainly been used from the bench this season, his start at Everton was his first since rejoining the club on a one-year deal. Martin opted to withdraw the 36 year old at half-time in order to manage his minutes after Lallana missed most of pre-season with a knock. "It was nice to start the game," Lallana explained. "It was always a plan to just play the first half. I felt really good out there actually. "It was important that I didn't want to get carried away. I want to recover well and be available for the weekend. "Whether that's off the bench again and just be available to help the boys. It's amazing having a manager that can communicate that with me and ask me how I'm feeling." Russell Martin (left) and Adam Lallana (right) (Image: PA) Saints boss Russell Martin added: "The plan was always to get him 45 minutes and I think on Saturday he showed what he's going to bring. "I just love watching him play football. He is an amazing footballer. He's so graceful, elegant but aggressive. "He has an amazing mentality. He's going to be massive for us. He is off the pitch already and on the pitch he's going to have a big, big say." Martin has repeatedly praised Lallana for adding voice to the Saints dressing room, which has helped the likes of Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Flynn Downes grow as leaders. Harwood-Bellis donned the armband for the first time in a competitive game on Tuesday evening. The England under-21s captain got the nod from Martin even though Alex McCarthy and Adam Armstrong both started - two more players who have previously been skipper. Lallana praised the 22 year old for his maturity and how he dealt with coming back into the team after dropping to the bench against Manchester United. Taylor Harwood-Bellis scored for Saints in regular time (Image: PA) He concluded: "He found himself out of the team at the weekend and I thought he responded really well tonight coming back in. "He's got that level of maturity to definitely make steps forward in his career. He's still got plenty to learn and we speak a lot. I'm pretty close with Taylor. "It's just important he gets his head down and keeps looking to improve. I'm convinced in time he'll be ready to make those strides forward. "I thought he was excellent. He played with a lot of maturity and led the boys really well out there."

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  • Martin insists Lallana ‘wanted so badly’ a return to Saints to ‘finish his career’

    Lallana did not put a foot wrong, completing 100 per cent of his passes, in his first 30 minutes back at the club in the 5-3 Carabao Cup win at Cardiff City. The 36 year old then set up Southampton's first goal of the Premier League season, heading down to Yukinari Sugawara at Brentford. Lallana's last two Premier League appearances for Saints are separated by 10 years and 112 days - the fifth longest gap in the league's history. The former club captain admitted to the Daily Echo, during pre-season, that he harboured nerves about playing in front of his old fans again. Martin, speaking about Lallana last week, responded: "Yeah, we've had a lot of chats, me and Adam, about that.  Adam Lallana did tell me he was taken responsibility for the development of these two when we were out in Girona.Been chatting with them the whole time I’ve been here. The back four stood together separately, another group of young lads together elsewhere.#SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/9PY4PkhVrt — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) August 28, 2024 "I think when you care so much about something, and he wanted so badly to be here and finish his career, and now it's happened. He also wants to add. "He doesn't want to come back and have people going, 'He's a completely different player and I'm not sure he can help us'. "That is because he's such a top player and a top character. When you care that much, of course, there's some tension in the body that you feel at some point. "I think he's fine. He's looking forward to it. I think he's completely different but he'll be in a really good place where he's trained so well. "I'm looking forward to seeing him on the pitch. I think everyone is and I think having got his first few minutes out of the way will settle him." Lallana is likely to be involved when Saints return from the international break to take on Manchester United at St Mary's, on Saturday, September 14.

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    The Swedish midfielder was hailed as a “team player” by Fabian Huerzeler after forcing his way on to the Premier League stage. Ayari, who spent last season on loan at Blackburn, fared well alongside fellow 20-year-old Carlos Baleba in the 1-1 draw at Arsenal after the early exit of James Milner. Huerzeler likes Ayari’s commitment and his willingness to get into dangerous attacking areas. The Seagulls boss said: “He is a top motivated player. “He plays with high intensity against the ball. He has quality in possession, especially with his deep runs. “He made a great impact when he came here. He used his chance. “Now it is up to him to continue his level, to keep going in his development and we try to help him. “I am happy to have him here. “I love players who give everything for the club, who give their last per cent of what they have to the performance of the team and who are team players. “He is one team player and you need team players to be successful. “You can’t only have creative players and only leaders. “He is a team player and very helpful for the balance.” Ayari previously had a goal disallowed for a narrow offside at Everton and played a big part in the late winner against Manchester United.

  • Andoni Iraola on tactical changes as Cherries mounted comeback against Everton

    The Basque manager made two lots of changes, bringing on Luis Sinisterra, Alex Scott and Dango Ouattara on 66 minutes, before Dean Huijsen and Adam Smith came on after 77 minutes. Ten minutes after the final changes for Cherries, Antoine Semenyo pulled one goal back. Then, five minutes later, Lewis Cook levelled the game, before Sinisterra headed home to complete the remarkable turnaround six minutes into stoppage time. Speaking to the media after the game, Iraola was asked what needed to happen to change the momentum of the game. “I think we needed something to happen because it's true that I was feeling that physically we were finishing strong with the subs, with Antoine, Tav[ernier],” he said. “I think they were starting to make the difference, one versus one. (Image: Peter Byrne/PA Wire) “But probably it was too late and we needed something to happen to really start to believe and also to make them fear a little bit because they were think they played very well and they had the situation under control most of the game. “Once we scored the first one, probably this has changed.” The Bournemouth boss was asked what he told his side to change, saying: “We always ask them to change things, especially when you are losing. “Sometimes [they] work, sometimes [they] don't work. But I don't feel like I've done amazing substitutions. “I put Dango left back and then something has happened from that, no, no. “I think it's 99 per cent merit of the players, of the change of attitude, the willingness to revel in front of a difficult situation and this spirit that they scored 2-2, and go quickly and they have another chance and then Pickford makes a save. “They keep pushing and believing and making everyone feel like they are going to do it. And this is everything from the players for me.” (Image: Peter Byrne/PA Wire) Iraola’s tactical changes involved targeting Everton’s right side, giving Ouattara license to push forward. “I changed Dean and Adam to improving this build up, also to Dean because he's very good on the ball to take more advanced positions to try to push the left side with Dango, Sini, Justin [Kluivert] after,” Iraola explained. “I think Ant personally has assumed some leadership, some duels, some ball carrying, some ruthlessness, I would say. “After, Justin was very tired, I think we needed some energy in the number nine position and Sini has been able to give us this.” He added that while Kluivert was very tired at the close of the game, he was able to stay smart and put in good deliveries for his teammates, with his cross being the one that Sinisterra scored the winner from.

  • Andoni Iraola: Everton victory a ‘key win’ in lead up to international break

    Cherries came from 2-0 down with just three minutes to play to win 3-2, with three goals in nine minutes stunning the home side. The Basque boss felt the result was a reward after the opening games did not produce the results that performances deserved. Iraola told the Daily Echo: “For us, it was a key win because I think we didn't get the rewards we deserved the previous games and also after the break we have games against Chelsea, against Liverpool. “In theory at least, they are very difficult. “So for us to get this win, I think is very important and also is fair considering everything, how we started the season, because I feel like the players have done a very, very good job in these first four games.” Cherries headed to Goodison Park with two points from two games on the hunt for their first win of the season. They return after the international break to the Vitality Stadium, hosting Chelsea at 8pm on Saturday, September 14.

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  • ‘An aggressive side’ – Fulham boss Silva on battling Ipswich Town in ‘tough game’

    Honours ended even at 1-1 after a pulsating, physical battle at Portman Road, with Liam Delap giving Town the lead through a rampaging run and 25-yard rocket before Adama Traore got the leveller. READ MORE: Stuart Watson's match verdict On balance, Town probably had the better chances to win the game, but the point means they're up and running in the Premier League ahead of next week's international break. “It was a tough game against an aggressive side," Silva said. "They have great support which demanded us to win duels and beat the pressure. Liam Delap scored a cracker for Town's opener (Image: Steve Waller)"A tough Premier League game, as always, against a side that you know are going to be really tough to play against. “We know it can be tough to play here because last season we played against them in a different competition (Fulham won 3-1 at Town in the Carabao Cup last season) with great support from the home crowd. “You can say it was a balanced game, both sides trying to get the control of the game. SIGN-UP! Get three months of ALL our Town content for just £3 - or 30% off a year! “We should have done much better to be tight to Liam Delap driving the ball from the halfway line for their goal, but the reaction was good from us, and we scored a very good goal in an open play moment. “From then, I think we did control the game with a clear chance from Rodrigo (Muniz) to score. “Moments that we have to be clinical, we have to build to be ruthless and to punish them in those types of situations." READ MORE: Alex Jones' Town player ratings If Fulham ended the first half on top, Town had the better of the second stanza, with Delap, Omari Hutchinson and Jack Clarke all going close to finding a winner. Silva added: “We were solid in the second half, but not in the way that we like to play, not with that quality in our build-up and it was more difficult for us to create chances. “There were all the defensive set pieces, a lot of situations there, and I think we were really solid, we were brave enough in those moments. “It's a game, of course, that we wanted to win, we wanted the three points. We got one point, and we move on to prepare for the next one."

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  • Fabian Hürzeler claims Brighton will ‘show their style’ against Arsenal and ‘role model’ Arteta

    Albion's manager heaped praise on players like Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz for their attacking work adding the North London side “have solutions for all phases of the game”. But Huerzeler added that his team would “make sure that we can suffer together” at the Emirates but also show their style of play by posing threats in attack. Huerzeler also praised Mikel Arteta as a “role model” in how he develops his team and his players. Looking ahead to the game, he said: “You can only develop like this [like Arsenal have] if you are focusing on the details and trust the process. “You see small elements of how they improve the players individually in their games and that’s something I really like to look at. “How they transform into this machine I don’t know, but there are no secrets in football, just hard work and trying to improve every day and that’s also my thinking. “I’m looking forward to competing with Arsenal and their coaching staff. It will be a great challenge for us and we have a lot of respect but we go there to win and show our style of play even when we play away.” Brighton have had a dream start to the season having won all of their first three games and Huerzeler said he wanted his team to be the best version of themselves every day. He said that Albion have had a “great start” but had a “big challenge” ahead of them if they wanted to remain unbeaten going into the international break. He said: “It's a daily business, this job. You have to try to be the best version of yourself every day and thinking step for step. “We have had a great start. I think for me to win against the Crawley was very important. It was in the League Cup. We are trying to make the next step, trying to continue in the process, and now we have a big challenge ahead of us. We are looking forward and let's see what happens on Saturday.”

  • Andoni Iraola thinks ‘It’s not fair to look at the numbers’ on goals and Cherries forwards

    Dango Ouattara has seen two goals disallowed in the first two games of the season, while Antoine Semenyo has picked up a goal and an assist, with Marcus Tavernier scoring on Sunday against Newcastle. When asked by the Daily Echo about what impact those two disallowed goals may have on Ouattara’s confidence, Iraola was emphatic that he does not select players purely on their goalscoring form. “Dango, Tavernier, Semenyo, [Luis] Sini[sterra], they will not play because they score or not,” the Cherries boss said. “This, I think they have it quite clear. I'm not evaluating Dango because he could have scored two goals, or he's not going to play, or not play because it was valid or not valid, the goals. “At the end of the season, probably you look at the numbers, but it's not fair to look at the numbers.” (Image: Richard Crease) Speaking about Tavernier, Iraola pointed to last season, where the Englishman scored three goals, but said this did not tell the whole story, with him being ‘very good’ for Iraola’s Cherries. “He did a lot of work for the team and he made us better, and Dango, the same,” the Basque boss said. “It’s unlucky for him because obviously with the same performance he could be already in two goals. “Also, we could be already with two goals from corners, offensive corners, and now we have zero. “I said we already scored, but we've been unlucky. “The numbers don't tell everything. You have to read more and you have to analyse more. “But I think it's a signal that he [Ouattara] has done a very good pre-season. “He can make more numbers. I think he has the level to do it, but I don't want him to focus on the numbers. “I don't want him to because I think everyone is a worse player if you only play for the numbers.” (Image: Richard Crease) Asked about how impressed he was with Semenyo’s opening two performances, Iraola said: “I think he played this one [Newcastle] better than the first one [Nottingham Forest]. “The first one he scored a goal, probably it wasn't his best performance. He knows, I told him, but the other day he played very well, and I think he was a threat, always. “He was a threat and he was dangerous. He gave an assist, [hit] the crossbar, [created] a couple of situations where we could finish them. He did a very good job. “I think it's a performance to give him confidence. “He knows that we trust him a lot, but he has to keep pushing, because he also knows that he has a strong competition behind and there are a lot of players willing to play more minutes in those positions and he has to continue with the same level of intensity.”

  • Draw of the Premier League brings Champions League players to Cherries: Iraola

    Andoni Iraola believes the league is a massive draw to potential new Cherries signings. When asked about what statement the signings of Evanilson and Kepa Arrizabalaga, both of whom played in last season’s Champions League, sends, the Basque boss said: “I think it's a matter of the Premier League overall. “We cannot say it's because of Bournemouth, because you see other teams that were around us and they also have these kinds of players. “I think the Premier League is raising the level or at least becoming the most powerful league, I would say. “It attracts the interest of a lot of very good players. For me, when they arrive, I'm not thinking if they played here or there. “I try to choose the best ones to win the game.” Iraola said he doesn’t care if new signings have come from a Champions League side or a lower division side, adding: “It's good for the experience of the group because we are quite young, age wise at least, and to have players who have perform like, like Neto before, like Evanilson, Kepa, if he comes, that have performed at the biggest level, I think is good for the overall experience of the group.”

  • Marcos Senesi: Cherries ‘gutted’ with late defeat in cup but rue missed chances

    The Argentine played all 90 minutes of the game at West Ham, which saw Jarrod Bowen score an 88th minute winner for the home side – which appeared to hit his arm on the way into the net. But Cherries were left to rue missed chances as they were unable to convert and fell to a 1-0 loss. The 27-year-old told the Daily Echo after the game: “We’re gutted because we created chances. “We created the chances to score, to win the game. “At the end if we don’t score, it is like that. “They scored at the end of the game, maybe if there is a VAR, maybe it gets cancelled, but we are out of the cup and now we have to look forward to Everton at the weekend.” On his view of the goal, Senesi said: “I saw that he didn’t hit the ball, the ball went to his hand. “But the linesman is in front of the goal line and he could easily see it, but at the end, people can make mistakes.” The late disappointment followed a stoppage time winner disallowed by VAR. When asked about parking those disappointments ahead of Saturday’s Premier League game on Merseyside, Senesi said: “We know that going to Everton’s stadium is a hard stadium, it’s a tough place to go and get points. “We are going to try our best and try to get a result over there.”

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  • Russell Martin insists Carlos Alcaraz transfer would mean Saints get players who can ‘really help’

    Saints are in negotiations with Brazilian giants Flamengo over the permanent transfer of the 21 year old, although a deal is not yet complete. Reports from Brazil suggest Saints will receive around £16million and the opportunity to sign promising midfielder Victor Hugo. Saints would also retain a sell-on percentage clause on Alcaraz for the duration of his development at Flamengo - which could be as high as 20 per cent. Alcaraz has never been in favour under boss Martin and spent the second half of last season on loan at historic Italian outfit Juventus. "I think if it happens, it helps us financially," Martin told the Daily Echo. "Carlos is a really talented player but probably his attributes suit a different style. Saints boss Russell Martin is happy to keep Charly Alcaraz if a deal is not done (Image: PA) "He's a great guy. I've enjoyed working with him. If he stays, it's not a problem. I think he's at a stage in his career where he wants to play every week. "We'll have to wait and see on that one but I think if he goes, it's a good deal for us and it's a good deal for Carlos. "He goes with nothing but positive things hopefully to say about the club and us to say about him," the boss added. Alcaraz signed for Saints from Argentine outfit Racing Club in January 2023 for around £12million, scoring four goals in 18 Premier League matches. He signed a new long-term contract at St Mary's after receiving his first senior international call-up in October 2023. However, out-of-favour Alcaraz departed for Juventus with the ambition of earning a permanent move on deadline day in January 2024.  Martin said: "He came here and played in a system that really suited him and his attributes, and did well in a team that really struggled. "Last season, he had a couple of really good moments but couldn't quite get into the team in front of other people. "He wanted to go and play elsewhere in January and he did. Obviously, he didn't play as many minutes as he would have liked. "Now he's at a point in his career where I think if it works for him and it works for us, then he moves on and goes and plays somewhere that suits him. Argentine Charly Alcaraz has scored eight goals in 48 appearances for Saints (Image: Stuart Martin) "If it happens, it'll be a good deal for him. It'll be a good deal for us and it means we can probably have players that can really help us in the next few days." Martin insisted he wants "some help in the final third" following Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest - but has been vague on what form that comes. Saints have been linked to Corinthians striker Yuri Alberto, 23, and West Brom winger Tom Fellows, 21, within the last 24 hours.  After a few days to assess, the Daily Echo asked Martin how many new attackers he would like - and the boss left the door open for more than one. He responded: "We'll have to wait and see. I think I need to help the lads. We need to help the lads a bit more as well. "Last summer Nathan Tella left and he went and had a great season, achieved brilliant things, and then we ended up playing Adam Armstrong out there. "He did brilliantly but he's a guy that wants to play as a number nine really, and he did all last season - although he scored 25 goals or whatever. "We just need people that are a bit different to what we have right now just so we have various options. I'm really happy with the options we have. "But we have a lot of similar options if that makes sense. We just need probably one or two points of difference at some point. "I think Mateus Fernandes can help us with that. Tyler Dibling and Sam Amo-Ameyaw are brilliant young players. We'll wait and see where we end up. "It depends on who leaves the building as well, whether it's one or two players or whatever, it will depend on maybe who goes out. "It's probably frustrating for people but it also may be exciting for some to see what happens. I'm pretty sure whatever business we do, it will be good for us."

  • Russell Martin on whether Saints will reject last-minute bids for Walker-Peters

    The boss claimed he expects the 27 year old to remain a Saints player beyond Friday's transfer deadline day, despite initially accepting he would leave. Saints have not received a satisfactory offer for his transfer and Martin insists interest in star man Walker-Peters has died down.  Walker-Peters has played both of Southampton's opening Premier League fixtures and looks poised to remain at St Mary's for the final year of his deal.  Saints rejected a late bid for an unnamed player last summer due to the proximity to the deadline but Martin refused to guarantee that again. Martin responded to the Daily Echo: "I don't know. That's out of my hands. I think we signed Yuki (Sugawara), we have James Bree so I don't know.  "That will not be my decision. I'll have an opinion on it, of course. If Kyle really wants to go at that point and the ownership group decides it's enough money... "Then yeah, it will be what it will be. However, right now I can't envisage that happening - but things change quickly in football." Earlier in the press conference, Martin said: "I think he's going to be here. I think all the interest and the deals that might have happened have pretty much gone. "That is unless someone decides really late that they want Kyle. We've offered him a new contract so when the window's shut maybe that will be another discussion." Saints offered Walker-Peters a new deal this summer, along with Jan Bednarek, with the defensive duo out of contract in June 2025. Walker-Peters has spent more than four years at Saints, making his 169th appearance for the club in Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest.

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  • Fabian Hürzeler ‘not really happy’ with Brighton performance but applauds win

    The manager said that his team "didn't have enough courage" during the game and were too passive against a spirited Crawley side. But Huerzeler added that, having experienced cup games in Germany, he knows how difficult it is to play against a team with "nothing to lose" and so was happy that his team won regardless. Speaking after the game, he said: "I’m not really happy about the performance and how the game went. "I think it was too wide and too many mistakes. We were too shy and didn’t have enough courage and were too passive. "But you have to win games like this, tough games like this. I experienced a lot of cup games in Germany and I know how difficult it is to play against a team from a lower league. "They have nothing to lose and a lot to win. "In the end we are happy about the result and that is why we try to keep improving and try to play better than today."

  • Andoni Iraola reveals Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga looks set to join Cherries

    The Spanish stopper spent last season on loan at Real Madrid but is set to head to the south coast for a season-long loan. He is currently undergoing the tests after signing a contract extension with his parent club in London, allowing him to move on loan for the 2024/25 season. There is reportedly no buy option or obligation to buy after the loan is complete for Cherries. Speaking to the media on the potential move, Cherries boss Andoni Iraola said: “It's a little bit like the situation we had with Evanilson. “We can say that things are happening, you know, but still, it's not our player and we have to wait and see how the situation finishes.” When asked if the Basque manager knows the ‘keeper from their time at Athletic Bilbao together, he said: “I think we haven't played together any game, but I know him. “Obviously I know him because he has been an academy player when I was a first team player for a lot of years, and we have for sure trained together a lot of times, but I don't think we've played together.” The 29-year-old made 14 appearances in La Liga for the Spanish giants last season, including once off the bench. He also made four appearances in the Champions League and was on the bench for the final, in which Real Madrid beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0. Kepa has made 109 appearances for Chelsea, and 13 for his national side Spain. He began his career in Athletic Bilbao’s youth setup, before moving to Basconia. From there, Kepa moved across to Athletic Bilbao’s B team, where he played between 2013 and 2015, before progressing to the first team. Here he stayed until 2018, at which point he joined Chelsea, after loan spells at Ponferradina and Real Valladolid.

  • Pair set to leave Cherries on loan – but Cherries manager Andoni Iraola wants Philip Billing to stay

    When asked about Jaidon Anthony’s potential loan move to Burnley, the Basque manager said the club was in the same position as their incoming loan move for Kepa Arrizabalaga – that medicals and final paperwork were being done. “Something interesting has appeared for the player, interesting for the club,” Iraola said. “I've said it a lot of times, you know that I love Jaidon, but sometimes, you know, it's deals that are good for everyone that probably they are going to get finished soon. “And also with Junior [Traore] we have more or less the same kind of situation.” (Image: Richard Crease) Traore is set to head on loan to French side Auxerre, and Anthony has been undergoing a medical at Scott Parker’s Burnley. Billing has been rumoured to be leaving the club on loan, too, with Championship sides reportedly interested in the Dane. On his future in the side, Iraola said: “I see him happy. I don't want to lose Philip Billing. “I think he's a very, very good football player and I don't think [he will leave but], I cannot guarantee like with every player, because you never know what's going to happen tomorrow. “But no, I think he will stay. My idea at least is that he stays with us. “It's true that the other day he couldn't play with back issues. Today, we'll see if he can be involved tomorrow or not. But if he's not, probably for the weekend, he will be ready. “I want him to stay. Yes, definitely.” Iraola feels the club cannot afford to lose more offensive players. “Especially once the Junior situation has happened or the Jaidon situation has happened, definitely we cannot afford to lose more players and especially if there are not incomings, let's say. “I think offensively at least we cannot lose more players.”

  • Andoni Iraola reveals Cherries have no new injuries ahead of West Ham clash – but Billing will face late decision

    Andoni Iraola provided an update on the team’s fitness to the media ahead of Wednesday's game. “I think the ones who played there haven't been any new injuries,” he said. “Probably we have some tired legs, that is something normal. “But we've prioritised, and we will prioritise this week the recovery process and we hope everyone is ready. “We have one or two situations, one with illness. Every week we have someone that we don't know if he will be able to travel. “And another player, Philip [Billing], with the back. That's the reason he wasn't in the squad the other day. “Let's see how he trains this afternoon and if he has a chance to be involved tomorrow. “But the rest, I think will be available.” Asked about the strength of his side, with the prospect of a number of changes, Iraola said: “It's not we are strong or weak, depending on who we put in the starting lineup. “You can put the same starting lineup and go very weak because they are not ready for the challenge and you can change a lot and be very strong. “We will obviously need some fresh legs for sure. For sure we will make some changes. But I haven't still decided on the starting eleven. “I haven't because it's such a quick turnaround that I want to see them, see how they are feeling and feel it to make the last decisions.”

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  • ‘He’s pretty unique’ – Kieran McKenna on Cameron Humphreys and Elkan Baggott and their loan spells

    Having made 24 starts and 15 sub appearances for the Blues over three years, the 20-year-old midfielder is in the early stages of a first spell away from his hometown club. And he got off to the perfect start by scoring a fine goal on his debut at the weekend, as the Chairboys won 2-0 at Rotherham in League One. “As I've said many times, Cameron is such an important player for us," said McKenna. “He's been a fantastic part of the success that we've had, I have to say, and people won't fully understand that. “It’s maybe easier to understand that with a senior player, maybe a Kayden Jackson or Dominic Ball or Richard Keogh, players we've had over the years who maybe haven't played in every game, but have been a really important part of the group.  “But it's pretty unique when you have a 20-year-old who is also one of your standard bearers day to day, one of the best players in training day-in and day-out, is one of the most professional players in the group and the most committed players in the group. “He's had a massive part in the success over the last couple of years. He had a big impact on the League One promotion season at a time when we were much shorter in numbers than we were last season. “So he's a really important player for us and we think he's got a really good career ahead of him. He's had some good experiences here now as part of a successful group and the chance now is for him to go and get his first loan experience, and I'm sure he'll embrace it and take the challenge with both hands." Elkan Baggott is on loan at League One club Blackpool. (Image: Ross Halls) Homegrown centre-back Elkan Baggott, 21, is on loan at League One club Blackpool, this the Indonesian international's fifth spell away. “He’s had another really good pre-season with us," said McKenna. “But we know with young centre-backs, the most valuable thing you can get is game time and pick up those experiences. “We're disappointed, of course, to hear that there’s a managerial change there so soon in the season (Neil Critchley was sacked last week, with Baggott’s former Town team-mate Keogh now in temporary charge), but Elkan’s such a committed and versatile player, he’ll work really hard to make it a successful loan."

  • Ipswich Town transfer rumour: Blues linked to Luton Town attacker

    The 25-year-old speedster joined the Hatters from Rotherham on a Bosman free transfer last summer and produced four goals and one assist in his debut Premier League campaign. Born in Nigeria before moving to Ireland, Ogbene has earned 20 caps for the latter. Ipswich goalkeeper coach Rene Gilmartin recently worked alongside interim Republic of Ireland boss John O'Shea before Heimir Hallgrimsson took charge. The Blues currently have two Republic of Ireland internationals in their squad, Sammie Szmodics and Dara O'Shea, and have three more eligible in Liam Delap, Jack Taylor and Marcus Harness. Kieran McKenna has signed 11 players at a combined cost of £92.5m in transfer fees this summer. But with Nathan Broadhead, Wes Burns and George Hirst all currently injured, the Blues boss is keen to strengthen his forward line further ahead of Friday's 11pm deadline. A loan deal for Chelsea's Armando Broja was struck, but is now looking unlikely to be completed following issues highlighted in the medical. Upon signing Ogbene last summer, Luton boss Rob Edwards enthused: "We know we are going to need some real athleticism in the Premier League, and he knows how to use it. He’s flexible, and he’s going to be able to play through the middle as a forward, but also as a wide one. "He’s still at a good age where he’s willing to learn and he’s a fantastic human being, we had a brilliant chat and I just loved his personality." Stu's verdict At this stage, I can't verify if Ogbene is a player of interest. He certainly has the traits that McKenna looks for in players though - humble, driven, athletic, exciting and versatile. What price tag Luton put on him would be interesting. Anything they receive would be pure profit. Whether the Blues see him as an alternative option to Broja, or someone in addition to an out-and-out striker remains to be seen. There's clearly still some wriggle room in the budget. [embedded content]

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    The Blues boss said the Carabao Cup tie with Doncaster Rovers would be used as an opportunity to give first team minutes to some of his new signings17:00, 26 Aug 2024Updated 17:04, 26 Aug 2024Everton new signings Iliman Ndiaye and (inset) Jesper Lindstrom plus Jake O'Brien are all still waiting to make their first competitive startJesper Lindstrom, Iliman Ndiaye and Jake O’Brien could all start against Doncaster Rovers. Sean Dyche is set to use the Carabao Cup tie as an opportunity to give first team football to the summer signings who are yet to start in the Premier League.He said the match will provide those players with the chance to make an impression as he searches for answers to a difficult start to the season. Ahead of the match, Dyche said: “When games come around, show us what you can do, that's what we want, especially with the new players because they have only had a limited time with us.”‌Ndiaye has been introduced from the bench in both Premier League games, while Lindstrom came off the bench at Tottenham Hotspur - having the club’s only shot on target shortly after his introduction. The Europa League winner had featured alongside first team players Joao Virginia and Beto in the Under-21s’ win over Tranmere Rovers in the EFL Trophy earlier in the week.READ MORE:

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  • Brighton boss Fabian Huerzeler reveals New box-to-box midfielder Matt O’Riley has ‘good ambition’ and defensive instinct

    Brighton confirmed they have signed the 23-year-old from Celtic for an undisclosed fee reported to be a Scottish record £25 million. The Danish international has signed on a five-year-deal until 2029. Huerzeler said: “He plays a very specialist position; he is very good at occupying and attacking the right space. He likes making deep runs, and know when to attack at the right time. “He enjoys getting forward and attacking the opponent's penalty area, but he also has a good defensive instinct. That balance makes him special. Welcome to the Albion, Matt O'Riley! 🇩🇰 pic.twitter.com/44NgSIVa7G — Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) August 26, 2024 "He is a great character, and has a good ambition to succeed and that's something which is very important for us.” Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers previously said he would be sad to see O'Riley go after he missed the Scottish champions' weekend game against St Mirren. O'Riley, who had 19 goals and 18 assists for Celtic last season, represented England at under-16, under-18 and under-21 level before switching to Denmark. The midfielder is known for his box-to-box qualities, making late runs into the box while also covering every blade of grass defensively.

  • Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola ‘very proud’ of side despite late goal ruled out win against Newcastle United

    The Cherries boss said his side played very well, and deserved more from the game, after Dango Ouattara’s goal in stoppage time was disallowed by VAR. “I think we played very well, especially until the 60, 70th minute. And after, I think we ran out of energy a little bit. “We couldn't keep the high line so high. We had an opposition in front that is very good and they put us under pressure. They started crossing balls. “I think Neto made very good saves for us. But I'm even happy with the reaction because they scored an equaliser after a very good game that you probably deserve. Okay, it looks like we could win it. “They scored, 1-1. Sometimes teams go down and they finish. “[That] didn't happen, I think we reacted well. The game was very open. I think it was a high-level game from both sides. “At the end we scored, we scored and it should have been 2-1.” Iraola said his side played with a ‘very high rhythm’, making it an enjoyable game to watch. “We ran a lot today, ran a lot against the opposition that also wants to run a lot,” he said. “Both teams accepted the rhythm of the game and everyone was tired at the end. “But I think we like this kind of games. Both teams, it was open. I think it has been a very good game to watch from the outside. “And it's true that we couldn't keep until the end the same level of energy. They also assume more risk, put more forward and open a little bit. Also the spaces at the back. “It could have happened everything at the last 5, 10 minutes. We could have lost, we could have won. “But overall, I finished very happy.”

  • Eddie Howe: Disallowed goal a ‘welcome surprise’ for Newcastle against Bournemouth

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  • Russell Martin admits “That was not fun” – what do Saints need to do to survive in the Premier League?

    It has been some fixture. Even putting the two 1-0 defeats aside, that is now seven home matches against Forest in the Premier League without a win. Some of the criticism that comes Southampton's way now will likely be overboard and reactionary but they will have to take it on the chin. For all that has been said, I do think it's key to keep some faith. It's two games into a 38-game season and you don't know yet, even if you think it's bleak. Good people all about the place who deserve backing. #SaintsFC — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) August 25, 2024 Playing at home for the first time on their return to the top flight against another team likely to be in the bottom half, Saints must show intent. They instead slumped to defeat against Forest and did little to inspire the new 'Northam Wall' into action - until an 18 year old lad came on, anyway. Saints lacked incisiveness and managed just one shot on target all game - a speculative effort from their most involved player, Kyle Walker-Peters. Kyle Walker-Peters remains Southampton's most dangerous player (Image: Stuart Martin) Former Wolves midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White delivered the winner for manager Nuno Espirito Santo, finishing inside the box in the 70th minute. Saints, likely for a combination of reasons, just seemed to lack energy from the get-go and they found it impossible to mount meaningful attacks. Russell Martin's side attempted 90 passes for every shot they took (633 for seven), while Forest required only 18 passes for each shot attempt. By comparison, Saints averaged 40 passes per shot against Newcastle United and around 45 throughout the 2023/24 Championship season. Such is Martin's customary domination of the ball, Forest had one fewer attack (43 to 44) and yet 12 more shots and six more on target.  Walker-Peters, who had four of Southampton's seven attempts, was the only Saints player to register more than 0.01xG. "There was a lot of tension in the team and Forest started well. We turned the ball over too much which meant there was tension in the stadium," Martin said. Saints manager Russell Martin spoke to the press after the match (Image: Stuart Martin) "We made a couple of moments that we didn't make the most of but I think it was out of eagerness to make things happen. "The minute we got into their final third we just turned it over and against Forest, it's the worst thing you can do. It's frustrating because we spoke about it all week." It is not a surprise that Forest's average pass length into the opposition's third was 33.8 metres compared to 21.8m - nor is it a problem. It does not mean Saints need to divert from their path and lump it long to get results in the Premier League, however effective a tactic for other teams. But they do need to find a way to pose opposition a threat and the next three graphs combine to illustrate a potentially key issue from Saturday's match. Southampton's average player positions vs Nottingham Forest (Image: Wyscout) This map shows the average positions of Southampton's players, with the starters indicated by red circles and the substitutes transparent. Southampton's average player positions vs Nottingham Forest (Image: Wyscout) This map shows the passing network, with the thicker lines and dots representing frequency. Only combinations with more than three passes are shown. Saints attacks by flanks and danger level vs Nottingham Forest (Image: Wyscout) The final graph shows the effectiveness of the attacks from each third of the pitch - on this occasion, showing near zero effectiveness from the flanks. Adam Armstrong and Ben Brereton Diaz have been operating as wide forwards, hugging the touchline for a lot of the match as indicated on the graph. This was the same system as used in the final pre-season friendly against Getafe and at Newcastle - all matches ended goalless, for different reasons. Saints looked like they were crying out for someone to break through the middle and Martin suggested they may tweak something next week.  He said: "They both had chances inside the box at Newcastle. It's the same shape we won the play-offs with and it makes us fairly solid.  "It's utilising the players that we have at the minute in the best way. I've learned a lot about that in the last two games and what we need to tweak." However, Martin added: "But we'll see it again and we might not. It's not the reason we lose." Saints are not a million miles off. Although it was hard to see where from, a couple of goals in the first two would have changed the complexion completely. Cameron Archer has had a couple of chances at goal during his substitute appearances (Image: Stuart Martin) They missed a big opportunity to give their fans belief with either a sharp home performance or a result, which he put down to a "rubbish" goal conceded. But there are 36 matches to go and new signings Mateus Fernandes and Charlie Taylor made an impact from the bench, while Cameron Archer is finding his feet. Academy product Dibling is making a case for more opportunities, attempting more dribbles and duels per minute than any other Saints player. While Martin recognises his side "needs some help" in the final third, the boss was vague about what form that comes in - a wide player or a number nine? They look like they need a Dusan Tadic-type maverick. A player who, while the structure and organisation keeps them in games, can put another team out of it. Nobody really felt that something special might happen in the closing stages. A curling goal from long range or a pinpoint cross to the back-post. Are they going to be able to get that on their budget? It might be the difference. Oh, and is it time to switch the phones off to any Walker-Peters bid?

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  • ‘I completely don’t agree’: Iraola left frustrated after disallowed goal

    The AFC Bournemouth boss said it was the most frustrated he has been on the touchline and saw him booked by the referee, which he said he deserved for complaining. Cherries looked like they had taken all three points at the death vs Eddie Howe’s Newcastle, with the sides drawing 1-1 going into stoppage time. But when Dango Ouattara thought he had scored, the VAR intervened to rule the goal out for handball, prompting anger from the Bournemouth fans and staff. “I went to talk to the referee, but I think the referee today, he cannot do much more,” Iraola said. “He gave the goal, they didn't give him the chance to see it again in the match. “What is he going to do? “He took the right decision. He dealt, I think, quite well with the game and I have been talking to him, but, you know, it's just because he heard me complain, but it's not against him. “He cannot do much more. I think it's obvious that he's not the one that has made a mistake today.” (Image: Richard Crease) On the reasoning being the disallowed goal, the Cherries boss said: “I understand the route they will try to follow to make me think that there is a part of reason in there. “But I completely don't agree. It's just common sense and whoever has played football, only looking at the strength that the ball goes in to and touches the back of the net knows that that's not a handball, you know, it's a shoulder. “That's why it goes very strong, the ball to inside of the net. “They disallowed us one goal the other day against Forest because they took the last part of the shoulder of Lewis Cook and then they put the lines, and we didn't complain. “We didn't say anything. You have to believe the lines. “Is something factual this time? Factual is because it's true that you can score with the shoulder. “So you have to accept it is a lot of the ball against Forest, unlucky. “But now I don't understand this one because if you see the video, we have very short sleeves. Very, very short sleeves. He has caused [the goal] clearly with the badge.” Iraola said he felt his players did not deserve what happened at the end of the game, and that his side had lost two points, through no fault of their own. He added it was important for the team to park their frustrations, as they head into a busy week with away games against West Ham in the Carabao Cup and Everton in the league on Wednesday and Saturday.

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  • Ipswich Town sign Sunderland winger Jack Clarke for £15 million

    The Blues, who were beaten 4-1 by Premier League champions Manchester City earlier this afternoon, had a £15 million bid for the 23-year-old accepted on Thursday evening. The East Anglian Daily Times and Ipswich Star understands that the deal includes up to £5 million in add-ons, of which £3 million is deemed to be realistic. Clarke, who started his career at Leeds United, made a move to Tottenham Hotspur that didn’t work out. He had frustrating loan spells at QPR and Stoke City before making the switch to Sunderland, helping them secure promotion from League One in 2021/22. His return in the Championship has certainly caught the eye, contributing to 43 goals (scored 25, assisted 18) since the start of the 2022/23 campaign. He started in the Black Cats’ first two games of this season, scoring against Cardiff City and registering an assist against Sheffield Wednesday, but he was left out of their 1-0 defeat to Burnley. A target for a number of Premier League and Championship sides, Southampton boss Russell Martin ruled out a move for him earlier in the week. The likes of Wolves, West Ham, Bournemouth and Leeds had been linked as well. “I’m really excited to have joined the club and can’t wait to get going,” Clarke said. “Ipswich have been on a really good trajectory over the last few years and the recruitment this summer has been very impressive, so this was always something I was going to be interested in.  “Speaking with Kieran McKenna really sells the club and the journey it’s on, as well as what they’re still trying to achieve, and you’re almost silly if you don’t want to jump on board with the way things have been going.  “I try to be an exciting player and contribute goals and assists so I think the style of football here will suit me, so I just feel excited to meet the lads and get started now.”  Clarke becomes Ipswich's 10th signing of the summer, following Omari Hutchinson (Chelsea, £18m), Ben Johnson (West Ham, free), Jacob Greaves (Hull City, £15m), Liam Delap (Man City, £15m), Arijanet Muric (Burnley, £8m), Conor Townsend (West Brom, £750k), Sammie Szmodics (Blackburn Rovers, £8m), Kalvin Phillips (Man City, loan) and Jens Cajuste (Napoli, loan).

  • ‘Didn’t show enough’ – Martin reflects as Saints go goalless in defeat to Forest

    Saints were beaten 1-0 at home by potential relegation rivals Nottingham Forest, meaning they are without a point after two Premier League matches. Morgan Gibbs-White scored the only goal for the visitors but it was a deserved win with Saints managing just one shot on goal across the 90 minutes. Martin labelled it "crazy" that no Saints player attacked the balls into the box in the closing stages but he was calm in his assessment of the match. He told the Daily Echo: "Ultimately, we conceded from a rubbish set-piece. We shouldn't give the ball away for the corner in the first place. Saints will hunt their first points of the season at Brentford (Image: Stuart Martin) We had a chance to secure the ball, in the moment when we were so on top, got to grips with the game brilliantly and we started to cause them real problems.  "Then we give them a corner and we have a chance to clear it inside the box and we don't. I don't know what goes on after that, I need to watch it back. "It's not good enough for how much work we do on set-plays so I'm annoyed at that, but we didn't play well enough in the first half," Martin added. "There was a lot of tension in the team and they started well. We turned the ball over too much which meant there was a lot of tension in the stadium. "They made a couple of moments we didn't make the most of but I think it was out of eagerness to make things happen and we just turned the ball over. Saints owners Dragan Solak and Henrik Kraft were in attendance (Image: Stuart Martin) "The minute we got into their final third we just turned it over. Against Forest, it's the worst thing you can do. It's frustrating because we spoke about it all week." Martin named an unchanged side from the team that were promising in defeat to Newcastle United, including forwards Ben Brereton Diaz and Adam Armstrong. The pair took up wide positions, often hugging the touchline, leaving the middle free. However, Saints only mustered one shot from inside the box. Martin explained: "They both had chances inside the box at Newcastle. It's the same shape we won the play-offs with. It makes us fairly solid.  "It's utilising the players that we have at the minute in the best way. Ben's always played there and Arma played there all last season and scored a lot of goals.  "I've learned a lot about that in the last two games and what we need to tweak, but we'll see it again and we might not. It's not the reason we lose."

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    Former Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez has singled out Anthony Gordon’s improvement at Everton as one of the reason’s he’s holding out for a Premier League return. The 64-year-old, ex-Magpies […]

  • Tuanzebe proud of Ipswich Town’s performance against Liverpool

    The Blues were arguably the better side in the first half of the match, registering two shots on target while limiting their opponents to very little. However, Diogo Jota and Mohamed Salah both struck after the break, with the points returning to Merseyside after a competitive clash in IP1. “Especially our performance in the first half, we showed the levels, the principles and our game plan,” Tuanzebe said after the match. “We executed it well at times but there’s still some little bits that we need to brush up on, and I think it showed a little bit in the second half when Liverpool took it to another level and caught us out in a few moments in the game. “On the whole, we stood our ground and represented ourselves well today. “We can respect the opponent but we’re definitely here to compete. We’re not here to just play a part in it, or just because it’s Liverpool that it’s automatically three points to them. No. “We’re at our home ground, we’ve got the advantage and we’ve got good tools, good players and good ways of playing. We utilised that today.” The 26-year-old started the game at right-back ahead of Ben Johnson (Image: PA) Unsurprisingly, there was a bit of a difference in Ipswich’s performance levels before and after the break, with some of the players clearly tiring after a competitive opening 45 minutes. That allowed Liverpool to turn the screw and eventually win the game. That, for Tuanzebe, is the improvement that the Blues need to make in the coming weeks, albeit that the overwhelming feeling is one of pride from the performance. “In the first half, I think our press gave them a lot of problems,” he argued. “They ended up going long and we were able to win it quite high up the pitch. We need to capitalise on that and be more clinical in front of goal. “In the second half, it’s just that concentration and intensity, keeping it always at a high level today. That was the difference, I think they were able to consistently be intense at crucial moments. They damaged us today and ended up with two goals to them. “Like I said, it’s a very positive game for us and a good step forward. It’s a confidence boost as well because we can look back at the game and say that we represented, we played rather well. We can take it into the season and really utilise that.” Tuanzebe was tasked with marking Colombian international Luis Diaz (Image: PA) Another positive is the fact that seven starters of the 11 starters and four of the five starters were able to make their Premier League debuts today, giving certain members of the squad a huge boost and an experience that they won’t ever forget. “It’s exactly that,” Tuanzebe explained. “And it’s obviously about understanding the level and what it takes to play in the Premier League week in, week out. “You can’t take your foot off the pedal and we had little moments of that today. It cost us, ultimately, but now that we’ve taken the lesson, we’re definitely going to utilise it for the rest of the season.” The fixtures won’t get any easier. Ipswich travel to the Etihad Stadium to face Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City next weekend, facing a side that has won four Premier League titles in a row. However, Tuanzebe believes that their performance against Liverpool will give them confidence heading into that daunting trip, where they’ll look to play the same fearless style of football against the champions. “Even the [Liverpool] goals, when we look back at them, they weren’t individual brilliance, moments of magic or anything like that,” he argued. It was just certain combinations that cut through us because we were getting tired and there was a lack of concentration. Tuanzebe believes Town will 'take the game' to Manchester City next weekend (Image: PA) “We can look at ourselves and think that we came off the pedal there, and they punished us. “The way we played today, we’re very happy with our performance. We’re going to build on it in the weeks to come and take the game to City.” Having a big support will be crucial for games like that, and Town certainly had it against the Reds at Portman Road, cheering the players on after they conceded to show that they still believed. “I think that’s from occasions last season where we’d go 1-0 down, the fans know it’s not over until the final whistle,” Tuanzebe stated. “It’s just how they are with us, the relationship we have, it’s good. “Ultimately, as a player, that’s what you want. You want that belief, that uproar, it keeps you going. It helps us massively as players knowing that the fans are always behind us.”

  • Academy star Ben Knight who left Ipswich Town in £1m Man City move signs for Spanish third tier side

    Attacking midfielder Knight made big waves at the Blues as a youngster, with ex-Academy chief Bryan Klug once intimating he was the ‘potentially the best young player I’ve worked with’ and Kieron Dyer comparing his style to Lionel Messi. SIGN-UP! Get six months of ALL our Town content for just £6 - or 50% off a whole year! He duly departed Suffolk as a 16-year-old in 2018, signing for giants City for a fee believed to be £1m. While he initially impressed, he only ever made one senior appearance - in the 2021 Community Shield at Wembley - and was loaned out to Crewe Alexandra and Stockport County.  Ben Knight spent time out on loan at Crewe and Stockport while at Manchester City (Image: PA)Now he's left the Etihad for good, signing for Murcia, who play in the Primera Federacion, the third tier of Spanish domestic football. A statement on the City website said: "Everyone at City would like to wish Ben the best of luck for the future and thank him for his efforts at City." 🛡️ 𝑩𝒆𝒏 𝑲𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 y su nueva armadura. pic.twitter.com/m248XGF5RE — Real Murcia CF (@realmurciacfsad) August 12, 2024 Speaking back in 2021, ahead of facing the Blues with loan side Crewe, Knight said: “I’m so grateful for everything Ipswich did for me. “I was so young but was given so many opportunities to go and play. It’s a great club, I loved it there and it made me the person I am today. "I was looked after really well and anything I or my family needed, there was always someone there to help. “I played in the FA Youth Cup games at Portman Road and that was really cool, so I was hoping before I left, with everything going on with Mick McCarthy, that I might have had a little run-out with the first-team. But that didn’t come round. I was very young."

  • Arsenal handed quadruple advantage over Manchester City after Pep Guardiola decision

    After three long months, the Premier League is finally about to return. Arsenal get their quest to finally beat Manchester City to the title underway with a 3pm kick off […]

  • Arsenal hatch Benjamin Sesko transfer plan as Edu targets striker ‘better than Erling Haaland’

    Benjamin Sesko is said to have made a huge decision regarding his future amid links to Arsenal. The 21-year-old was thought to be high on the Gunners’ list of targets […]

  • Aston Villa chief threatens Premier League legal action as Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham watch on Manchester City legal case

    Aston Villa owner Nassef Sawiris has called for the Premier League to overhaul their rules on club spending. He claims that the system in English football has essentially made the […]

  • Lawyer hands Man City FFP verdict as Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham get ‘severe’ hint

    Former Manchester City financial advisor Stefan Borson has expressed concerns that the club might not come out on top in their legal tussle with the Premier League concerning Associated Party […]

  • Cristian Romero names the ‘beautiful person’ at Tottenham who has made a big impact on him

    Cristian Romero has called Ange Postecoglou a “beautiful person” who has made an impact on him after their first season together at Tottenham. The 26-year-old Argentine is coming off the […]

  • Aaron Cresswell signs contract extension at West Ham

    The 34-year-old is the Hammers’ longest-serving player, having joined them from Ipswich in the summer of 2014. He has been a key man over the last decade.    We are delighted to confirm that @Aaron_Cresswell has signed a one-year contract extension with the Club 📝 — West Ham United (@WestHam) June 5, 2024   Cresswell's previous deal, which did not include a one-year option, was set to expire this summer, but he now set to stay for an 11th season at the East London club.  He has made over 300 appearances for the Hammers, helping them win the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2022/23.  SIGN-UP! Get four months of ALL our Town content for just £4 - or 40% off a whole year!  “Ten years is a long time, and I’ve loved every minute of it here,” Cresswell told West Ham TV. “I’m delighted that I’m going to be here for at least another season. Me and my family are very happy down here. My son and daughter were both born here – my boy at Queen’s Hospital down the road in Romford – and he is West Ham mad. Aaron Cresswell joined West Ham from Ipswich in 2014. (Image: PA) Cresswell only made 11 Premier League appearances last season and said: "This year has been a bit of a change in role - I haven't played as much, but I've been in football a long time to understand that there is a bigger picture than just playing every week. "I'd like to think I've done that well when not playing, supporting the team and the lads. He will be playing under a new manager next season as former Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui has replaced David Moyes.  The left-back will be coming up against Town for the first time in the top flight, having played 138 games for the Blues and scoring seven goals during his three seasons at Portman Road.  

  • Southampton’s Shea Charles makes Premier League claim after Spain thrashing

    Charles is a key man in midfield for Michael O'Neill's side but admitted his frustration as his country failed to stop the likes of Pedri, Rodri and Fabian Ruiz from dominating the game. Spain characteristically dominated the ball, ending the game with 79 per cent possession, giving Charles a flavour of chasing the ball after playing under Russell Martin this season. Saints ended the 2023/24 Championship campaign with the highest average possession, 66 per cent, but may struggle to achieve that in the top flight. Shea Charles made his Northern Ireland debut in June 2022. (Image: PA) Speaking after the defeat, Charles said: "I guess it’s just different when you don’t have a lot of the ball. “That might happen more in the Premier League when you’re up against better players, it’s almost like a taste of what it’s going to be like in the Premier League.” Saturday's friendly against Spain served as a chance for Charles to come up against his former Manchester City teammate Rodri. The 20 year old played alongside the Champions League winner during his time training with City's senior squad. This was the first time both had been on the pitch at the same time - Rodri was named among the substitutes when Charles made his senior debut against Brentford. Charles swapped shirts with his ex-teammate after the game and revealed: “It was nice to come up against the best midfielder in the world." Asked what it was like to face the 27 year old, Charles added: "It’s not enjoyable, to be completely honest. Shea Charles joined Southampton last summer from Manchester City (Image: Stuart Martin) “The way he controls the game, I don’t think anybody does it like him. It’s always good to come up against the best players in the world on the international stage. “You know what you’re coming up against, but it’s just, how do you stop him controlling the game? “He’s so focused, you can see that, it’s just completely different (to training) when you’re up against him in a competitive game.” Charles made 32 appearances during his first season at Southampton, starting 15 times. He has drawn praise from manager Martin, who described his first season on the South Coast as a "big success."

  • Jannik Vestergaard reveals new Leicester City manager hope

    Jannik Vestergaard is backing himself to win over the new Leicester City manager just as he did with Enzo Maresca. Vestergaard has signed a new three-year deal at the King […]

  • First transfer of Arne Slot era out to ‘prove people wrong’ after Liverpool confirm move

    Calvin Ramsay has left Liverpool this summer with a point to prove after enduring two injury-hit seasons since signing from Aberdeen. Ramsay, 20, made just two appearances for Liverpool during […]

  • Everton takeover: New bidders sent open letter and considerations for new owners

    https://i2-prod.liverpoolecho.co.uk/incoming/article29042803.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/0_GettyImages-2149567983.jpg An influential Everton supporters organisation has urged prospective new owners to be open with fans. Majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri is mulling over rival bids after the collapse of the […]

  • Brighton’s Pascal Gross reveals fan hope for Euro 2024

    The Albion midfielder fired a brilliant late winner as his nation edged out Greece 2-1 in a friendly. It was his first goal for the national team. Germany fans jeered when their side trailed at half-time but went home happy. Gross said: “The fact that you can turn the game around is also a positive because that can also happen during the tournament. “It was a good test that you stay calm, that you continue to believe in victory. “The fans at home can be a big plus for us. They can support us, we will give everything so that there is no reason to whistle. “But if things get difficult, if you can support us then it would help us enormously.” Gross became the second oldest player to score a first goal for the national team, and the oldest for unified Germany, as he struck at the age of 32 years and 358 days. Eintracht Frankfurt winger Richard Kress was 36 when he opened his international account for West Germany against Northern Ireland in a World Cup qualifier on May 10, 1961.

  • Charlie Christie believes Ryan Christie playing his best-ever football

    Since Andoni Iraola came in as Cherries head coach, Christie has excelled in a slightly deeper position, which Christie senior believes has helped to get the best out of the midfielder. And Christie senior is not just a proud parent, with the Scot in charge of Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s academy set-up. Christie junior came through the ranks at Cally Thistle before impressing for Celtic and Aberdeen ahead of a move south of the border in 2021. As quoted in the Press and Journal, Christie senior shared: “I’ll be honest – for three months there, it’s the best I have ever seen him play. “Around 2019 at Celtic under Brendan Rodgers, when he was scoring against Lazio and winning the treble, I thought he had really hit the heights. “In the last year I look back to the game where Bournemouth won 3-0 against Manchester United at Old Trafford. “There were games at Newcastle home and away, and dare I say it the second half against Manchester City where they were terrific and deserved to get something out of the game. “For a period in the game, Ryan was the best player on the park. “When you look at the standard of player he is coming up against now, it’s some of the best on the planet. “He has really taken to it and excelled.” Both Iraola and Christie junior have spoken about how the switch from a more advanced position to a role halfway between a classical number six and eight has reaped benefits for Cherries. And Christie senior agrees, stating: “The manager came in and spoke to Ryan early in his tenure. “What Iraola liked was his tactical awareness of the game. “The manager came out with that quite early which really pleased me, as it’s not said too often, but it’s something I have seen from a young age in Ryan. “He has played in that deeper role, and Ryan talks numbers. He’s a lot more up-to-date than me, but he calls it a hybrid between a six and an eight. “Ryan’s energy levels, and his awareness of the game means he can give you that. “It’s why it’s called more of a hybrid role. He will play as that six but he’s not just sitting there, he will make that run to support the front men when it’s required. “He’s got the legs to do that – and he has done it many times effectively for Steve Clarke (and the Scotland national team). “It seems to suit him. Loads of players are asked to play different roles and can struggle at it, but he has really taken to it.”  

October 30, 2024October 30, 2024October 30, 2024October 30, 2024October 30, 2024October 30, 2024October 30, 2024October 30, 2024October 30, 2024October 30, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 29, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 28, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 27, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 26, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 25, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 24, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 23, 2024October 22, 2024October 22, 2024October 22, 2024October 22, 2024October 22, 2024October 22, 2024October 22, 2024October 22, 2024October 22, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 21, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 20, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 19, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 18, 2024October 17, 2024October 17, 2024October 17, 2024October 17, 2024October 17, 2024October 17, 2024October 17, 2024October 17, 2024October 17, 2024October 17, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 16, 2024October 15, 2024October 15, 2024October 15, 2024October 15, 2024October 15, 2024October 14, 2024October 14, 2024October 14, 2024October 14, 2024October 14, 2024October 14, 2024October 13, 2024October 13, 2024October 13, 2024October 13, 2024October 13, 2024October 13, 2024October 13, 2024October 13, 2024October 13, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 12, 2024October 11, 2024October 10, 2024October 10, 2024October 10, 2024October 10, 2024October 10, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 9, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 8, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 7, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 6, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 5, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 4, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 3, 2024October 2, 2024October 2, 2024October 2, 2024October 2, 2024October 2, 2024October 2, 2024October 2, 2024October 2, 2024October 1, 2024October 1, 2024October 1, 2024October 1, 2024October 1, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 30, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 29, 2024September 28, 2024September 28, 2024September 28, 2024September 28, 2024September 28, 2024September 28, 2024September 28, 2024September 28, 2024September 28, 2024September 28, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 27, 2024September 26, 2024September 26, 2024September 26, 2024September 26, 2024September 26, 2024September 26, 2024September 26, 2024September 26, 2024September 26, 2024September 25, 2024September 25, 2024September 25, 2024September 25, 2024September 25, 2024September 24, 2024September 24, 2024September 24, 2024September 24, 2024September 24, 2024September 23, 2024September 23, 2024September 23, 2024September 23, 2024September 23, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 22, 2024September 21, 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10, 2024June 10, 2024June 10, 2024June 10, 2024

English Premier League fan since 1992. Travel enthusiast, sports buff and blog writer with deep interest in watching sports - English premier league, American Football, Basketball, Tennis, Cricket.. you name it.. Firm believer in giving back to the community which gives you happiness and identity. My inspiration - “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” – Mother Teresa

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