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Petr Cech, former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper, has revealed that Chelsea had previously scouted new Tottenham goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky during his time at Stamford Bridge. The 21-year-old Kinsky, who made quite the name for himself in his homeland of the Czech Republic with Slavia Prague, signed with Tottenham last Sunday. He made his Tottenham debut…
Reaction from Liverpool 2-2 Manchester United continues with Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold at odds20:00, 06 Jan 2025Virgil Van Dijk shouted in the direction of Trent Alexander-Arnold during Sunday’s match(Image:
Son Heung-min discussed the arrival of new Tottenham signing Yang Min-hyeok and how he planned to support him both on and off the pitch. The context was that Son wanted to help Yang transition into the team without adding extra pressure on the young player. Son Heung-min said, “Yeah, I’ll try my best. Obviously some…
Mark Noble, West Ham United’s sporting director, spoke about the immense sadness of losing a young talent who was deeply loved by the community. Mark Noble said “Oscar was adored by everyone at the Academy – not only was he a great goalkeeper, he was a true Hammer and a fantastic young person, who will…
When Mohamed Salah signed his latest Liverpool contract on the Greek island of Mykonos in the summer of 2022, he was sent a message from friend Ian Rush with one not-so-simple instruction01:00, 13 Dec 2024LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 01: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrating after scoring the second goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester City FC at Anfield on December 01, 2024 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)(Image:
McGoldrick, now 37 years old, and Bale, 35, were both handed their Saints debuts from the start in an April 2006 Championship clash with Millwall.
Kenwyne Jones and Ricardo Fuller netted to seal a comfortable 2-0 win for the hosts, who finished 12th in the second tier under George Burley.
Both would go on to represent Saints and become full senior internationals, although Bale’s list of accomplishments extends much beyond that.
McGoldrick insists five Champions League medals and seven different Footballer of the Year awards did not change the Welshman, speaking to Sky Bet.
He said: “Gareth Bale was a bit quiet at first in his first year, but then he matured – he got physically better and then once he got into the team…”
David McGoldrick still plays for Notts County in League Two (Image: PA)
“We made our full debuts together against Millwall at home, and he was up and down that left-hand side.
“I spoke to him a couple of years ago when I played him against Tottenham and he’s still the same humble guy, so that’s the best thing about it all.”
But McGoldrick insists it was another youngster on the books at the time who made an immediate impact after his move from Notts County.
“I could always see their potential, especially Theo Walcott. When I first went to Southampton as a 16 year old, he was a year younger than me,” he added.
“He trained with us for the first time, on my first week there – and I’ve never seen someone so quick! It was like lightning going past me. I knew he was going to be a superstar.”
Saints were blessed with many talented youth products during McGoldrick’s spell at the club, where he made 75 appearances between 2004-2009.
One of them has returned to the club at 36 years old, and, when he’s fit enough, remains a key player for Russell Martin’s side.
“Adam Lallana is one of the best players I played with in terms of technical [ability] – left foot, right foot,” McGoldrick said.
“He’s won the Premier League, played in the Premier League and with England for so many games, I knew he would go on.”
Julen Lopetegui spoke about the significance of Michail Antonio’s morale boost to the team and his current condition, highlighting the emotional lift it provided before their victory. Julen Lopetegui said “He is not in his best moment but he kept his humour. It was a special moment for us. I think we have a lot…
Alexis Mac Allister hopes Mohamed Salah can stay at Liverpool for the rest of his career, describing his team-mate as “a legend of the club”19:50, 09 Dec 2024Alexis Mac Allister (L) and Mohamed Salah warms up ahead of the UEFA Champions League league stage football match between Liverpool and Bologna at Anfield on October 2, 2024(Image:
Matty Cash was speaking about Boubacar Kamara’s impact and the significance of his absence from the team due to injury, highlighting Kamara’s ability and contributions to the team. Matty Cash said “He has so much ability – natural ability – and he’s worked really hard to get back during the time when he’s been injured….
The visitors had taken the lead when Dominik Szoboszlai latched onto mistakes in the Saints penalty box but Adam Armstrong levelled with a penalty rebound.
Mateus Fernandes stunned the league leaders after the break but Mohamed Salah tapped the ball around Alex McCarthy before scoring a penalty in the 83rd minute.
Despite walking away with no points when Saints were again leading, skipper Stephens said there would be “no issues” keeping confidence in the squad.
READ MORE: Southampton come from behind to lead Liverpool but Salah strikes twice
“I think that’s the easy bit because the group of lads that we’ve got here are amazing and work so hard and give absolutely everything every day,” said Stephens.
“There will be no issues picking lads up and getting going again because that’s what we do. We’re going to keep plugging away and we know we’ll turn things around.
“We can’t dwell on it for too long, because we’ve got another game on Friday (at Brighton) and it’s going to be another tough one.”
Fernandes scored his first Premier League goal with a drilled finish past Liverpool’s Caoimhín Kelleher – cupping his ears to the fans chanting his name in the Northam.
Stephens admitted he was “really happy” for the 2004-born midfielder, adding: “He works so hard, he does so much work for the team. He’s an amazing footballer.
“That sometimes overshadows the work rate he puts in for the team. For someone of his age to come in and have the impact he’s had on us is brilliant.
“I’m really pleased he’s got his first goal because he deserves that.”
READ MORE: As it happened recap – Southampton vs Liverpool in Premier League
Saints were without key defensive players Aaron Ramsdale and Jan Bednarek, who both suffered injuries during the international break.
On missing two regular starters, Stephens said: “When anyone’s out injured it affects the group. What I will say is the lads that have come in are always ready.
“That’s a credit to the lads and the group. It doesn’t actually look too different when players come out of the team and other lads come in.
Defender Stephens also heaped praise on academy product Tyler Dibling, who set up Saints’ second goal with a cross-pitch ball.
“He’s 18 years old and he plays like he’s playing in the park,” Stephens continued. “I’ve run out of words to describe him because he’s so, so good.
“I really believe he can do whatever he wants in the game and I hope that’s with us for a long time. He’s got the ability to impact games against any team in the league.”
James Maddison on his performance and collaboration with Kulusevski during Tottenham’s win against Manchester City: James Maddison said “Two different goals in a way. I actually said to Kulu before the game, because obviously he hasn’t played on the wing as much lately, but being left-footed on the right wing with his ability when he…
Martin Keown was reflecting on his experiences and the competitive era between Arsenal and Manchester United while discussing former teammates and the Roy Keane vs. Patrick Vieira debate. Martin Keown said “It was like a ladder to the goal. You’d have to go into Patrick and they talk about Roy Keane, I’d put him ahead…
Rio Ferdinand’s context is his criticism of Noni Madueke’s actions after being substituted, reflecting on standards from his playing days at Manchester United. Rio Ferdinand said, “You think (Danny) Welbeck or Tom Cleverly or Nani are going to storm off the pitch and throw their dummy out? It’s disrespectful to your teammates as well. It’s…
Ismael Bennacer was reflecting on why he decided not to join Manchester City, despite their interest in 2015. Ismael Bennacer said “I was ready. (City) called me and told me ‘we want you to be with the reserves’ and everything. It’s City, man.” Bennacer continued sharing his experience about his visit to City and the…
Bruno Fernandes explained why Alejandro Garnacho didn’t celebrate his goal. Garnacho felt he had lost faith from some fans despite scoring a brilliant goal, which was a significant moment in the game. Bruno Fernandes said “Garnacho scored a banger but didn’t celebrate like he should because he thinks he has lost faith from some fans….
Fernandes, 20, insists the tactical familiarities between the two young coaches has helped his seamless transition into playing Premier League football.
Sporting manager Amorim, who at 39 is just one year older than Martin, is following Fernandes to England after taking the job at Manchester United.
Amorim reluctantly agreed to sell Fernandes for £15million in August and he has already become a regular for Saints as they battle for survival.
Other Premier League clubs were surprised that Saints landed the Portuguese youth international but he insists the decision to join was easy.
“I think the first reason that I joined Saints was because of Russell, I like the way of his football,” said Fernandes, speaking to the Daily Echo for the first time.
Mateus Fernandes insists Russell Martin was the biggest factor in his decision to join Saints (Image: Stuart Martin)
“It was easy. I spoke to the coach and he was very clear with me. He showed me that he really wanted me and I’m really enjoying the way we work and play.
“I really like the city, I enjoy the football and the atmosphere of the stadium and the city well. I really enjoy all the things.
“I also spoke with Jose Fonte and he told me many good things about the city, the club, the staff and the people- and I was very excited about that.”
Fernandes speaks to the Echo less than 16 hours after Sporting defeated Premier League title-holders Man City 4-1 in the Champions League on TV.
Fernandes watched on from his sofa as his old teammates hoisted Amorim in the air to celebrate his final home match as Sporting boss.
“I’ve said before to Juan Larios, I think Ruben can be better than Mourinho in my opinion. He’s a very good coach. He knows the way of football,” he insists.
Ruben Amorim recorded a famous victory in his final home match as Sporting boss (Image: PA)
“He was a footballer so he knows how players feel. Yes, in England it is different. In the Portuguese league, it’s easier for Sporting. I think he can be good.
“The way of Ruben and Russell is similar, they like to play football with the ball so it was easy for me to come to Southampton and play.”
Fernandes wears number 18 for Saints and there is a bit of Sporting influence in that decision too, following in the footsteps of one of his idols.
Bruno Fernandes signed for Man United from Sporting for more than £55million in January 2020 but Spaniard Juan Mata was occupying his preferred eight.
“When he came to England he chose the number 18, so I chose it too,” said Fernandes. “I want to play more and more in the Premier League.
“I really enjoy the football here, the football of the Premier League – and I can play it better. It is true that it’s more physical than in Portugal.
Mateus Fernandes has made an impressive start to life in the Premier League (Image: Stuart Martin)
“It is more fast but I knew already when I came here that it was like that – so I need to work in the gym too to play well!”
Fernandes currently lives alone but insists the challenge of moving abroad at such a young age was one he not only relished but required.
“Of course, it was difficult. Sometimes my family and my girlfriend come to England but I need to grow up alone as a man, not only as a footballer,” he said.
“Juan has helped me settle in as I can talk with him. I would also say guys like Lesley (Ugochukwu), (Yukinari) Sugawara and Cam (Archer).”
But when it comes to his long-term aims and ambitions, Fernandes is relaxed. His potential is clear but there is no need to pile pressure on every talent.
“I can only continue to work every day like I have worked before. I’m just focusing on reaching my limit, that’s it,” he declared.
James Maddison is aiming to emulate the high standards set by David Beckham. He showcased his skill with a remarkable free-kick goal against Aston Villa, a strike reminiscent of Beckham’s best moments, which contributed to Tottenham Hotspur’s decisive 4-1 victory. Maddison, coming off the bench later in the game, delivered a precise free-kick that found…
Kyle Walker felt he needed to force himself back into the Manchester City team for their match at Bournemouth to fulfil his duties as captain. The 33-year-old had missed the previous four games for the Blues, and his only training during that time was a brief session on the Friday before traveling with the squad…
Djed Spence’s career at Tottenham Hotspur is experiencing a much-needed revival as the 2024/25 season approaches. Despite the initial excitement during 2022/23—spurred by hopes of his potential contribution to Antonio Conte’s system due to his skills as a wing-back—Spence found himself sidelined. His situation at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium seemed dire, leading to a determination over…
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:
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 player. Both players were speculated to potentially play together as City attempted to bring Rice into their team alongside Rodri. This speculation was intensified due…
Roy Keane has admitted that he was ‘worried’ when Newcastle United signed the ‘brilliant’ Les Ferdinand. Newcastle finished third in their first season back in the top-flight and although the black-and-whites fell to sixth in their second campaign, Keegan’s side came roaring back. Newcastle certainly showed their ambition in the summer of 1995 by signing…
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 year. Martinez, who has shown remarkable performance both at club level and internationally, played a significant role in Aston Villa’s qualification for the Champions League…
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 with his teammates, approached the away supporters to apologize for their performance. Tottenham’s display left much to be desired, offering little for the travelling fans…
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:
In a recent Premier League match, Manchester City secured a 1-0 victory over Southampton, with a decisive goal from Erling Haaland. The Norwegian superstar converted a cross from Matheus Nunes within five minutes of the match, marking his 14th goal of the season. Remarkably, this was only the second goal Haaland had directly scored from…
Phil Jagielka turned to Royston Drenthe as he explains the challenges of being a captain when players go ‘rogue’11:42, 25 Oct 2024Former captain Phil Jagielka during a training session in his final Everton season(Image:
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, kicked, and then struck in the face by Kudus, resulting in a straight red card for the West Ham player due to violent conduct. Kudus…
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 20-year-old Duran, who guided in Morgan Rogers’ cross to double Villa’s lead nine minutes after John McGinn broke the deadlock in the 55th minute. This…
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.”
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, who wasn’t included in the recent squad against Fulham despite being fit, has been praised for his dedication to getting back in shape. Simultaneously, Boubacar…
Leading Premier League injury expert Ben Dinnery has provided insights into Tyrell Malacia’s recovery timeline, suggesting that the full-back may not make a complete return to first-team action for Manchester United until next season. Tyrell Malacia, the Dutch left-back, joined Manchester United from Feyenoord in July 2022 on a four-year deal worth €15 million (£12.9m),…
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.”
Dejan Kulusevski has had a remarkable start to the 2024/25 season with Tottenham Hotspur, establishing himself as the club’s standout performer. His exceptional form extends beyond club football, as he shines on the international stage with Sweden. Recently, Kulusevski has donned the captain’s armband during Sweden’s last two international breaks. After Victor Lindelof’s unavailability in…
Ronald Koeman’s team suffered a defeat in Munich, succumbing to Jamie Leweling’s second-half goal. This loss highlighted defensive struggles for the Dutch side, which had to be reconfigured due to Van Dijk’s suspension following his red card against Hungary. In response, Van de Ven was moved to center-back to substitute for Van Dijk, while Jorrel…
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.
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“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.”
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 national team, where he demonstrated his skill with a wonderful through ball to Jack Grealish, who finished calmly in Helsinki. His impressive form for both…
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 in discussion at the Celtic Foundation’s annual gala in London, with Tierney taking time from his commitments with Arsenal to attend. Rodgers, who rejoined Celtic…
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 Swedish national team and sharing the field with Harry Kane at Tottenham Hotspur. During his tenure with Juventus, Kulusevski worked alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. Although their…
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 after drowning in his swimming pool at his home in Glyfada. Greek police confirmed that there was no evidence of criminal activity in connection with…
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 international break, where both teams vie for crucial points in the title race, the spotlight is on promising young talents. Palmer, who made 33 appearances…
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.”
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 A2 with six points, having secured victories over France and Israel in their recent matches. In contrast, Belgium sits in third place with three points,…
The Spurs midfielder extended his team’s lead on the south coast with a composed finish following Brennan Johnson’s opening goal. Celebrating in his signature style, James Maddison mimed throwing a dart at a TV camera. However, Brighton responded by turning the match around with goals from Yankuba Minteh, Georginio Rutter, and Danny Welbeck, resulting in…
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who recently transitioned from Leicester City to Chelsea, celebrated a significant milestone by scoring his first goal for the club in their Conference League win over Gent. Despite Enzo Maresca, the head coach, making 11 changes to the squad that previously defeated Brighton in the Premier League, Chelsea maintained their prowess, securing…
Pedro Porro has been instrumental in Tottenham Hotspur’s recent surge of success. During the Europa League match against Ferencvaros, Porro was one of just four players to keep his place in the starting lineup. With Destiny Udogie sidelined due to injury, Porro took on an inverted role and excelled along the touchline while Ben Davies…
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.
John Stones rang the Spaniard up on Sunday after the Newcastle game before the team then trained and flew to Bratislava for their Champions League campaign. Unfortunately, Rodri will not be with the group after suffering a tear of his anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, with surgery putting him out for the season….
Dwight McNeil was speaking following Everton’s 2-1 win over Crystal Palace at Goodison Park13:00, 30 Sep 2024Jarrad Branthwaite and Dwight McNeil speak on Sky Sports about Everton’s latest points deduction(Image:
Bruno Fernandes, captain of Manchester United, expressed his exasperation over being sent off in Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-0 win. He received the first red card in his Red Devils career subsequent to fouling James Maddison. The incident took place on the brink of half-time as Manchester United was about to stage a forward break. Referee Chris…