Leeds United, following their disappointing EFL Cup exit in midweek, will be seeking to return to winning ways as the Championship returns…
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Daniel Farke has endured a tumultuous start to the new season, having failed to win in his opening three league matches before finally claiming all three points with last Saturday's win over Ipswich Town.
They now face another tough task against newly-promoted opposition, welcoming Sheffield Wednesday to Elland Road.
With a host of new players set to be available for this fixture, at last the German manager will boast a positive selection headache given the mass overhaul he has masterminded in the final week of the transfer window.
Read the latest Leeds transfer news HERE…
One such example was the acquisition of Djed Spence, who could revolutionise the right-back spot after joining on loan from Tottenham Hotspur.
However, it is another of their August additions that must be recalled for today's clash, with Joe Rodon having been sorely missed most recently against Salford City.
His inclusion, alongside his Lilywhites teammate, could help solve one of the club's big issues.
Will Joe Rodon start against Sheffield Wednesday?
Given how quick Farke was to throw him into the starting side, it is clear just how important the Wales international will be for the Yorkshire outfit this season as they seek to earn promotion.
Already his quality and impressive pedigree have begun shining through despite only having made three league appearances, with his 7.15 average rating impressive. This is a figure buoyed by his outstanding 92% pass accuracy, paired with 1.7 interceptions and 3.7 tackles per game, via Sofascore.
joe-rodon
When he is present the entire team is elevated, and the 25-year-old will hope that he can prove instrumental in plugging the gaps that have seen them ship seven goals in their opening four fixtures.
His reemergence into the starting side is made particularly important given how youngster Charlie Cresswell failed to impress in that midweek cup clash, with his 6.8 rating the joint-lowest of those who started for the travelling side.
The 21-year-old's inability to stake his claim emphasised Rodon's absence and how big of a miss he proved to be, with Rennes boss Bruno Genesio having lauded his importance and strong mentality whilst on loan: "Joe Rodon shows an exemplary mindset, although he does not play."
Spence also suffered from a lack of game time with the same club, having seen his season in France cut short due to injury.
However, to once again be reunited with his £10k-per-week defensive teammate could prove revolutionary for Leeds, who have been crying out for both a new defensive leader and some added energy in the full-back spots.
Rodon would offer the foundation for his 23-year-old right-back to recapture form from his loan with Nottingham Forest, which saw him record six goal contributions, one key pass per game, and earn praise from former Tricky Trees stalwart Brian Laws: "Full-backs do not tend to get many headlines.
"He grabs them by the handful. In every single game, he has a positive impact. He has power going forward, he has electric pace, he has an abundance of skill, he can drop his shoulder, step-over, go inside or outside — he is a major threat."
It is worth noting that he was allowed to thrive within that setup beside Joe Worrall, with Rodon boasting more than enough quality to assume this role and hand Spence his ideal start to life at Elland Road.
Before Brighton & Hove Albion, it was Southampton who were renowned for their world-class transfer strategy for identifying young players both for their first-team and at youth level.
The Saints may have been relegated to the Championship, but this hasn’t stopped Russell Martin’s side from recouping over £150m in transfer sales with young players such as Tino Livramento and Romeo Lavia who have both departed St.Mary’s Stadium.
In recent years, players such as James Ward-Prowse, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Luke Shaw and Gareth Bale have progressed through the Staplewood training ground and into the Saints first-team.
Despite the Hampshire outfit’s excellent ability to nurture upcoming prospects, the youth coaching staff at Staplewood will be hiding behind their hands for letting go of Ben White for free who was previously on their books.
Southampton has missed out on potentially adding a very healthy £50m to the club's coffers after deciding to release the now 6 foot 1 defender.
What must hurt even more is that White went for more money than Saints' most recent prized possession, Ward-Prowse, who was sold for only £30m to West Ham United after playing over 400 games for the club.
Why did White get released by Southampton?
The England international began his journey with Southampton as a young child and slowly worked his way up the age groups.
However, the powerful defender would end up finding himself on the chopping block for which academy players would get a chance to earn a new contract and get a well-deserved run-in with the first team.
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White had to face the news which many footballers dread to hear and was told that he was going to be released by the Saints when he was 16 years old.
The £47m-valued defender has now admitted why he believes he wasn’t offered the opportunity to stay on with Southampton.
White said: "When I was at Southampton I didn't have any confidence. The way I play now is with a lot of confidence. It's the complete opposite of what I used to be.
"It's tough when you get released and you're not wanted. Especially when you're young, it's hard to deal with. You either sink or swim, but for me, I obviously wanted it a lot and it was the only thing I wanted at the time so I went for it."
The now 25-year-old’s mother, Carole, decided to phone up a number of clubs touting White's services as a way to help her son bounce back.
What was White’s next move?
After his release from Southampton, the 6 foot 1 defender was offered trials at Leicester City and Bristol City but eventually chose to stay on the south coast and signed for Brighton.
John Morling, head of Brighton’s academy, described the then-teen defender as “technically good” and “passed the ball well” which is even more ever-present today.
White thrived in the Seagulls' U23 team but if the ball-playing centre-back was to make it at the top level he had to improve on his physicality.
Welsh side Newport County would be where the young defender would be sent on loan in 2017 to gain more exposure in a first-team environment.
The then-manager of the League 2 outfit, Michael Flynn, described the signing of White as a “big coup” which couldn't be further from the truth.
Also described as a “Rolls-Royce” of a defender by his ex-manager, White smashed it in his one season at the Rodney Parade.
He then finished his season in Wales winning the Exiles’ Player of the Year award as he helped his side finish 11th.
The most memorable moment during White’s stint at Newport was reaching the fourth round of the FA Cup in front of a packed crowd to see the Exiles play against Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur.
How did White’s career pan out?
The defending powerhouse would have follow-up loans with League 1 side Peterborough United and Championship big-boys Leeds United helping the latter win the division earning him a sport in the PFA Team of the Year.
After six years contracted to the Seagulls, White would finally become a regular in the Brighton first-team for the 2020/21 Premier League campaign, finding himself at the top of the pecking order as he averaged 89 minutes played a game.
During his 36 Premier League games across the season, White averaged 1.4 tackles per game a slight decrease to the 1.6 he averaged in the season prior in a dominant Leeds side in the Championship – showing he was adapting nicely to England’s top division.
According to FotMob, only defensive midfielder Yves Bissouma (1.9) averaged more interceptions per 90 than White in the entire Brighton squad.
The 6 foot 1 "mentality monster" – as lauded by former Gunners teammate Rob Holding – clearly demonstrated he was more than capable of playing consistently for a top division side and due to his young age he was already attracting interest from the Premier League’s elite as Arsenal came calling.
White officially signed for the Gunners in a deal worth a reported £50m and he would also be a late call-up to Gareth Southgate's England Euro 2020 squad.
How has White fared at Arsenal so far?
Newport County’s former Player of the Year performed as expected during his first year in north London.
Playing as both a ball-playing centre-back and a right-back, White was the standout performer statistically for defenders at the Emirates.
Across his 32 Premier League matches, White made the most interceptions (42) in the entire Arsenal squad and joint first with Tomiyasu for interceptions per 90 1.3 according to FotMob.
The Englishman also ranked first for clearances per 90 within his squad with 3.2 per game.
However, if you step back and look at the entire league White’s stats are above average.
North London rival's centre-back pairing of Davinson Sánchez and Cristian Romero averaged 1.7 and 1.6 interceptions per match respectively with former Watford defender Hassane Kamara averaging an insane 3.5 interceptions per match.
Similarly, when taking into account all Premier League defenders White is ranked joint 19th for clearances per 90 with fellow England stars Harry Maguire (3.6), Eric Dier (4.1) and Tyrone Mings (4.2) all ranking higher than Arsenal defenders.
Ben White’s statistics in the Premier League, according to WhoScored Stat2021/222022/23 Games 32 36 (2) Goals 0 2 Assists 0 5 Interceptions per game 1.3 0.6 Tackles per game 1.4 1.6 Key Passes per game 0.4 0.7 Pass success percentage 84.6% 86.6%
White has drastically improved within a year in north London.
Mikel Arteta has allowed for the England international to be a catalyst in starting attacks from defence and that has been highlighted in last season’s stats.
Not only has the defender been involved in scoring goals he has also been a force creating them as last season he produced five assists.
White’s pass success percentage has also increased slightly showing he is becoming less incompetent on the ball and has been molded into a ball-playing defender that Arteta demands.
His defensive output has also not slowed down despite being more adept at playing as an attacking full-back at times.
White tackles per game have increased from 1.4 to 1.6, showing his pressing mentality is paying off.
Arteta still has at least another seven years to get the best out of White and he could play a vital role if he is to stop former mentor Pep Guardiola from winning Manchester City their eight Premier League title.
Since the PIF completed their takeover of Newcastle United in October 2021, the Magpies have gone from being embroiled in a relegation dogfight to sniffing out European football and silverware after clinching a place in the Champions League last term.
Although defeats against Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion have threatened to curtail their progress at the start of this season, they returned to business as usual with a 1-0 victory over Brentford on Saturday evening, as a Callum Wilson penalty secured their second three points of the season.
With Eddie Howe spearheading a Saudi revolution in the North East, enabled by the riches presented to him, Newcastle have spent their war chest of funds wisely since their takeover, going about their business in smart fashion, unlike Chelsea.
Their transfer dealings have been brilliantly astute and accurate, bringing in the likes of Kieran Trippier, Bruno Guimaraes, Alexander Isak, Nick Pope and Sven Botman, the quality of signing that has enabled them to cement their place at the forefront of domestic and European football.
While the majority of their signings have reached hero status on Tyneside, others have become villains, and one of those was striker Chris Wood.
How much did Newcastle sign Chris Wood for?
In January 2022, Newcastle completed the signing of Burnley striker Wood for £25m, triggering the release clause in his contract following the news that sharpshooter Callum Wilson was ruled out for eight weeks with a calf injury.
With his side involved in a fight against relegation, Howe heavily relied on Wilson's goals and the Englishman served up six in 15 appearances prior to his injury as the Magpies only recorded one victory in their first 20 matches.
Former Newcastle striker Chris Wood.
In the absence of their star striker, Newcastle were staring down the barrel at what would be a detrimental relegation, but it wasn't the signing of the New Zealand target man that would save their season, the big-money acquisitions of Guimaraes, Dan Burn, Trippier and Joe Willock would achieve just that, with the influential quartet becoming the driving force behind their impressive turnaround.
Howe would go on to lead his side to a remarkable 12 wins in their last 19 Premier League matches, steering them to an 11th-place finish and although Wood was signed to help them in their meteoric rise up the table, he failed to have the desired impact.
How did Wood get on at Newcastle?
Compared to Shola Ameobi by journalist Luke McCormick after signing, the 31-year-old was expected to become their focal point, playing to the strengths of Howe's direct football with his height and physicality.
During his 14-year spell at the club, Ameobi made almost 400 appearances on Tyneside, chalking up 84 goals and 38 assists, and although that was far from clinical returns for a striker, the Nigerian was often cut as a divisive figure despite his longevity and the commitment he gave to the club.
Wood was a divisive figure himself, not just with the Toon, but particularly while at Leeds United between 2015 and 2017. Indeed, he became the subject to criticism from their passionate supporters, similar to what Ameobi faced at Newcastle.
Speaking to Goals on Sunday [via Leeds Live] in 2020, the New Zealand international lifted the lid on his time at Elland Road, saying:
“At Leeds, I had a bit of a rough patch, it wasn't always smooth sailing, but in the end, it came good and it was a good time [in my career],”
Wood managed to use criticism as fuel during his time in West Yorkshire, putting a disappointed 2015/16 campaign behind him by scoring 27 goals in the following season under Garry Monk.
An impressive rate of scoring at at Elland Road – 44 in 88 appearances – earned him a £15m move to Premier League Burnley in 2017, where he formed a strong partnership with Ashley Barnes as the duo were crucial to the Clarets top flight bid
After joining in 2018/19, the "exceptional" striker, as dubbed by journalist Jordan Cronin, reached double figures for goals in three consecutive campaigns and despite only scoring three times in the first half of the 2021/22 season, Howe hoped a move to Newcastle would help recapture his goal-scoring touch.
Although he didn't aid the Toon's survival bid with his goals, scoring just twice in 17 appearances, Wood did draw plaudits from Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville for his contributions off the ball.
Speaking on his self-titled Gary Neville podcast, the former defender said: "He had a big impact on that game today, the little flick-ons that he wins in the last 10 minutes that just keep the ball alive in that corner, means that it’s not coming back at you all the time.
"He had a big impact on that game today, the little flick-ons that he wins in the last 10 minutes that just keep the ball alive in that corner, means that it’s not coming back at you all the time."
Last season, with Newcastle fighting for top four, Wood didn't really get a look in as Isak and Wilson shouldered the goal-scoring responsibility, but in pursuit of regular football, he decided to join Nottingham Forest on loan in January before making the move permanent this summer for a fee of £15m.
After being bought for £25m in 2022 and now already being sold, it's fair to say that Newcastle had a nightmare with this transfer, even if he did initially evoke memories of Ameobi.
Manchester United are now interested in signing an exciting youngster whose playing style has been compared to Chelsea's Moises Caicedo, according to a report.
Who could Man United sign in January?
Man United used the recent international break to scout defensive prospects, having watched Benfica's Antonio Silva and Atalanta's Giorgio Scalvini, amid former captain Harry Maguire's uncertain future at Old Trafford.
In the summer transfer window, the Red Devils managed to strengthen their midfield considerably, bringing in Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat, but Erik ten Hag is seemingly still keen on additional options, with Royal Antwerp's Arthur Vermeeren now of interest.
There have now been reports that Inter Milan's Nicolo Barella was strongly considered by United in the summer, but no official offer was submitted, with the financial constraints at Old Trafford hindering their chances of signing the Italian.
As such, Man United may have to turn their attention towards a more unproven option to bolster their midfield, with Tutto Juve reporting they are now seriously interested in signing Oscar Zambrano, who currently plays for Ecuadorian side LDU Quito.
However, United may have to fight it out with some of Europe's top clubs, as the Italian outlet reports that Barcelona and Juventus are also interested in the "great prospect for the future" ahead of the January transfer window.
Tutto Juve state that Juventus would initially give the 19-year-old experience in the U23 team, should they win the race for his signature, indicating he would not be at the level to immediately challenge for a starting place at Old Trafford.
However, the starlet could still be an exciting signing for the future, given that he is clearly thought of in very high regard by a number of sides across Europe, with Ajax and Luton Town making approaches for him back in the summer transfer window.
Who is Oscar Zambrano?
The Santo Domingo-born midfielder made his breakthrough with LDU Quito in 2022, and he has since gone on to establish himself in the first team, making a total of 36 appearances for the Ecuadorian club.
There are indications the youngster could also be about to announce himself on the international scene with Ecuador, having made 14 appearances for the U20 side since his debut in June 2022.
The Ecuador U21 international has scored just one professional goal, as he has mainly been utilised as a defensive midfielder, making 27 appearances in that area of the pitch, due to his defensive qualities.
Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag.
Football talent scout Jacek Kulig has provided an overview of the Quito star's abilities on X, describing him as a "modern holding midfielder", while also praising him for his tackling, pace and passing, among a number of other key strengths.
Perhaps in light of the central midfielder's tackling ability, he has been likened to compatriot Moises Caicedo, who signed for Chelsea for a British record £115m fee in the summer.
It would be very difficult for Zambrano to replicate Caicedo's rise to the top, but he is clearly a very talented youngster, and Man United should continue to monitor him ahead of January.
Tottenham Hotspur boast a rich history of academy production and youth acquisition, with some of their most famous names having been cultivated as youngsters and developed into world-class stars.
The outstanding name that springs to mind is Harry Kane, who emerged from N17 to become both the club's and England's all-time leading scorer, and a £100m man at the age of 30, drawing the interest of Bayern Munich in the summer.
However, it cannot also be forgotten that Gareth Bale was another who serviced the latter of those two devices, having been brought in from Southampton as a 17-year-old left-back, converted to a right winger, and transformed into one of the Premier League's elite stars.
He too would command a hefty fee, leaving for a world-record sum in the summer of 2013.
The hope will be that under Ange Postecoglou, who has already enjoyed a fine start to life in north London, they can continue their rich history of youth development, handing the Australian a crop of perfect starlets ready to grow and underpin a brighter generation at the club.
Whilst there are numerous standouts within the academy, with stars like Jude Soonsup-Bell, Alfie Devine, Troy Parrott and Dane Scarlett all knocking on the first-team door, another in Tyrese Hall could go under the radar, but will surely soon be a part of an elite group of youngsters.
Who is Tyrese Hall?
Having joined the club from Chelsea as a schoolboy, the versatile 18-year-old boasts plenty of attributes that the former Celtic boss would adore in a forward or a midfielder.
With a deft touch of class to partner his immense work rate and defensive contribution, it should come as no surprise that such a well-rounded individual was bound to feature all across the field.
In fact, journalist Alasdair Gold sought to outline this, writing for football.london: "A versatile mainstay of the U18s, 17-year-old Tyrese Hall can fill in wherever called upon due to his high technical ability. The teenager, who made his debut for the U18s last season while still a schoolboy, can play in central midfield, in an attacking or defensive role, he can play up front and he can also do a job on the wing."
However, his proficiency must also be noted, having ended last season with three goals in the final three games of the U18s Premier League, adding to his two assists for the campaign too. He would also put the U17 Premier League Cup beyond doubt too, with a late driven effort to secure the silverware.
Jamie Donley
18
Alfie Devine
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Alfie Dorrington
18
Rio Kyerematen
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Although far from the most outstanding finisher in the world, his pure desire to make things happen could see him succeed under Postecoglou, who sought to praise the toothless Richarlison in pre-season: "He is someone who has got all of the attributes that I look for in a striker, in that he has got the strong work ethic, he is always in the right areas and he is presenting himself and making a presence of himself in the right areas for the way we play."
Hall, whilst still incredibly inexperienced, has also been earmarked for future success by Lilywhites academy expert John Wenham: "I really want to give a shoutout to Tyrese Hall,
"The game against Norwich last week was the best I have seen him play. He was demanding the ball, passing first time and making some really positive movements. I am really pleased with him. I want him to settle in and really make that space in the team his own. I think he has a really big future at Tottenham."
It remains to be seen where his prediction comes true, but the early signs are positive. Whether it is in central midfield or up front, Hall could certainly grow into the perfect player for Postecoglou.
How good was Wayne Rooney?
Whilst many might suggest this to be quite a lofty comparison, there are lots of similarities between Spurs' teenage maestro and the way Wayne Rooney played at the back end of his incredible career.
Having starred largely as a central striker whilst with Everton and Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson would recognise the work rate and exceptional equality the 37-year-old boasted, and often used the Liverpool-born finisher to plug gaps.
Dropping into a no.10 role or even deployed in central midfield, nothing would stop him from scoring goals, and in the end, he called time on a glittering spell at Old Trafford having won five Premier League titles, one Champions League and a host of other domestic honours, whilst also becoming the club's all-time leading scorer with 253 strikes.
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However, as he grew older and his powers waned, that versatility earlier in his career allowed him to drop into midfield again with ease, remaining as technically proficient as ever but limiting the amount of explosive running required.
Louis van Gaal praised his ability to shift roles in 2014: "He has the lung capacity to run 90 minutes as a midfielder, so that’s why I use him as a midfielder. But I can also use him as a striker. But for the team, at the moment, it is better that he plays in midfield."
Funnily enough, the legendary Scottish tactician would say the same just three years earlier: "[Wayne] Rooney was fantastic in central midfield. His awareness of people around him and choice of passing was really good. He did very well for us but I think it's a short-term thing at the moment. It's difficult to say".
Having become a Red Devils legend across his 13 years there, eventually returning to Merseyside for a solid stint back at Goodison Park, it is fair to say that Rooney conquered football with the records he broke and silverware attained.
After all, the growing praise from former teammate Gary Neville says it all:
"Wayne Rooney was the best centre-forward I ever played with at Manchester United. I do not hesitate to say that because he had everything. He could defend; he could press; he could fight; he could score; he could assist.
“He was a massive player for the club. It shouldn't be underestimated, the impact Wayne Rooney had on that team that won four or five Premier League titles in a very short period of time. The greatest period in United's history was when Wayne Rooney was a centre-forward in the team.
“Wayne Rooney is one of the greatest English football players that's played in the last 150 years of football. Simple as that.”
Postecoglou will hope that Hall can enjoy half as successful a career as Rooney did, given the shared assets he boasts with the versatile marksman, and develop into someone capable of spearheading his own revolution that brings a similar level of title success to north London.
Rangers are on the lookout for a new manager to replace Michael Beale after his sacking, and one of the individuals in question is apparently keen on taking the job.
Why did Rangers sack Michael Beale?
It has been an underwhelming start to the season by the Gers, who went into the new campaign hoping to narrow the gap on rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership. Instead, the gulf in quality arguably appears to have become greater, with Beale struggling to convince since taking charge ten months ago.
On Saturday afternoon, Rangers were beaten 3-1 at home to Aberdeen, in what was arguably the worst result of 2023/24 to date, and it ended up being fatal for Beale, who was relieved of his duties on Sunday evening.
It isn't exactly a huge shock to anyone of a Gers persuasion, however, with the pressure mounting on the 43-year-old by the week, and the team arguably no longer performing for him.
Now, it is absolutely vital that Rangers absolutely nail their next appointment in the Ibrox hot seat, and numerous names have already been thrown into the hat, including former Brighton and Chelsea boss Graham Potter.
Rangers head coach Michael Beale.
Which manager is keen on taking Rangers job?
According to talkSPORT on X, Yokohama F. Marinos manager Kevin Muscat is "interested" in becoming Rangers' new manager, as he continues to impress in Japan:
"BREAKING: Kevin Muscat would be interested in speaking to Rangers about becoming their new manager. Muscat is among the contenders to replace the sacked Michael Beale. – talkSPORT sources understand."
This could be an intriguing appointment by Rangers, with Muscat someone whose reputation appears to be growing all the time, having won one league title with his current side in 2021/22, not to mention securing A-League glory with Melbourne Victory during his time there in 2017/18.
Muscat has even been lauded by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, with the legendary Spaniard once hailing him and his style of play at Yokohama: “I say wow. I watched Yokohama and I like what I see. Maybe because we are in the same football group – the City Football Group – they are doing a very good job."
Granted, Muscat hasn't yet proven himself in European football, which could be considered a slight drawback, given the arguable step up in quality in expectation levels on the continent, but if Rangers see him as a strong candidate, they should be trusted in their decision-making, even if Beale didn't work out.
The Australian is known for adopting a 4-3-3 formation as his preferred system, which suggests that he would like to bring attacking football to Ibrox, and that is something that is likely to appeal to supporters.
Results are the most important thing, though, which is a big part of the reason why Beale had to be replaced, so Muscat should only be thought of a genuine option if those high up at the club feel he could be a real difference-maker.
He has shown his winning mentality at two different clubs already, however, and the fact that he is drawing praise from perhaps the world's greatest manager is certainly cause for consideration.
Daniel Farke is finally starting to find his feet at Leeds United, having initially got off to a difficult start. Now, as the international break comes to an end, the new boss will hope to see his side's recent momentum continue in the Championship as they square off against his former club, Norwich City. It would be some statement from the Whites if they were to beat the Canaries this weekend – three points would lay down a serious show of intent.
As the season goes on, and games come thick and fast, we may start to see Farke experiment to keep his squad fresh, and that could include trying one particular young player in a new role, handing him more game-time.
Leeds United team news
The Yorkshire club have been boosted by the fact that the international break didn't leave them with too much to worry about on the injury front, giving them every chance to kick on and cement themselves as promotion hopefuls in the Championship this season. Injuries could yet result in the emergence of a new star, however, or perhaps even a role change. And the latest Charlie Cresswell news suggests that could be the case for the central defender. Or, at least, that's what Graham Smyth believes.
Speaking on Inside Elland Road, Smyth said: “It will be a really interesting time in January. You don’t know if someone might pick up an injury. It almost feels to me like two need to pick up injuries for Cresswell to get a start right now because I think Farke plays Cooper, Struijk and Rodon before he plays Cresswell, that’s how it feels at the minute.
“But then who saw Archie Gray playing right-back? So Farke has maybe got a surprise up his sleeve, he’s maybe got a role for Cresswell or a game for Cresswell. But if the situation remains as it is, then he’s got a decision in January.”
How many games has Charlie Cresswell played this season?
Former Millwall loanee Charlie Cresswell.
Struggling for minutes, Cresswell has featured just six times for Leeds this season, starting just three times. At 21-years-old, the defender will be aware that his time will come, but for the sake of his development, Cresswell may need to adjust under Farke in order to receive a place in his starting side. After a successful loan spell at Millwall last season, the youngster's struggle at Leeds has come as a surprise, but last season shows that he is more than capable of taking his chance when it comes.
Cresswell earned plenty of praise at The Den, including from former Millwall boss Gary Rowett, who told South London Press: “Knowing his dad and the character he had, you can see that in the lad as well. He’s been brought up really well with a real hunger for work-rate. He’s an aggressive boy who wants to fight, I think that’s why Millwall was something they were very, very keen on even though they had some very good other options.
“A loan player wants to know they’ll get a fair chance and what you’re offering is actually what it says on the tin – not just to try and get the player into our club. He’s not going to be our player at the end of it, he’s going to be Leeds’ player, so we’ve got to do the best job we can along the way.”
Phil Hay has shared a worrying update on the fitness of one Leeds United star who Daniel Farke has recently hailed.
Leeds United injury news
The Whites have suffered a number of injury concerns this season, with the likes of Stuart Dallas and Junior Firpo yet to feature under the new manager. Summer signing Djed Spence is also sidelined, whereas Wilfried Gnonto has recently returned from ankle surgery.
On the pitch, Farke’s side have been in solid form, although Wednesday evening’s 1-0 defeat to Stoke City put an end to three successive victories in the Championship. One player who has starred under the German is Crysencio Summerville, who also has missed parts of the current campaign through injury.
The winger was the hero on the weekend, scoring twice in a dramatic 3-2 win at Farke’s former side Norwich City, however, he was left out of the starting XI at Stoke and only came on as a substitute for the final 20 minutes Taking to X after the game, Hay provided an injury update on Summerville, relaying information from Farke that the attacker is still struggling with a pre-season injury which is requiring painkillers and is preventing him from playing three games in a week.
“Farke says Summerville isn't physically able to play three games a week at the moment, owing to a pre-season injury. Needs painkillers. Also felt he needed to give Kamara a rest after international duty with Finland.”
It represents a concerning update for Farke, who recently praised Summerville, saying after his display against Norwich:
"Crysencio is a baller, it's a joy to watch him. When you see a guy touching the ball like he does, it's heart warming. We always speak with him about wanting him to improve his effectiveness, we need goals, assists, end product. This is the final step for him to find his next step in his career. If he delivers like this, he's on a really good path with goals and assists but he has to keep going. Today he deserves all the praise.”
Leeds United fixtures
The games come thick and fast for the Whites in the second tier, with 12 Championship games scheduled between now and the New Year, so Summerville may have to be used carefully as the club continue to monitor the issue.
Leeds United's upcoming fixtures
Huddersfield Town (H)
28th October
Leicester City (A)
3rd November
Plymouth Argyle (H)
11th November
Rotherham United (A)
24th November
Swansea City (H)
29th November
Middlesbrough (H)
2nd December
Blackburn Rovers (A)
9th December
Sunderland (A)
12th December
Coventry City (H)
16th December
Ipswich Town (H)
23rd December
Preston North End (A)
26th December
West Brom (A)
29th December
At this moment in time, Leeds are sitting in third place in the league, nine points behind Ipswich Town and 14 behind leaders Leicester City. The Whites and Farke will be hoping to be in and around the automatic spots come January, and Summerville may have a big part to play if e can remain fit.
Liverpool are much-improved across all departments after Jurgen Klopp restored the engine room this summer with multiple exciting additions, replacing the bulk of last season's sapped midfield.
Last year, Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League, with the squad's stark decline from former fluidity and intensity – hallmarks of Klopp's illustrious reign – exposed, but Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and co have settled the equilibrium and success is on the cards once again.
There is further work to be done on the transfer front, however, and the Reds appear to have an assortment of targets lined up ahead of what could be a busy winter transfer market at Anfield.
Liverpool transfer targets for January
According to Italian publication Calciomercato, a 'great frost has fallen' in Naples, with star striker Victor Osimhen disconcerted at Serie A champions Napoli and starting to fix his gaze on an exit.
Liverpool are among the contenders should the Nigerian sharpshooter become available next year, though the finances involved in a deal would be astronomical.
Elsewhere, TEAMtalk report that Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen is set to leave Stamford Bridge as owner Todd Boehly looks to continue the staggering spending spree since taking ownership of the club in 2022.
Maatsen, aged 21, is considered one of the most exciting young prospects at the outfit but manager Mauricio Pochettino has yet to start him in the Premier League and several sales will be required to facilitate the upcoming activity.
Burnley enjoyed the Dutchman's services on loan last season as Vincent Kompany's side blitzed the Championship, and while efforts were taken to secure his signature on a permanent basis in the summer, with a £31.5m offer accepted, he remained in west London after rejecting the Clarets' advances.
Liverpool and Manchester City are poised to compete for the left-back, the report states, with Klopp earmarking Maatsen as a possible option should the Merseyside outfit choose to bolster the left side of the backline in January.
The stats that show why Liverpool should sign Ian Maatsen
When Maatsen signed for Burnley on a short-term deal in January 2022, Kompany praised his qualities, saying: "We’re pleased to add Ian to our team, he’s a talented, energetic and pacy player, who can defend and get forward well. Ian will be a great addition to our team on and off the pitch."
Some effusive remarks for an exciting new addition, but Maatsen surpassed all expectations with his blistering performances, racking up four goals and six assists across 39 Championship appearances last term.
The electric full-back complemented his direct return with sustained and impressive displays across the year, creating 11 big chances, averaging 1.0 key passes, 1.9 tackles, and 1.4 interceptions per game, also completing 83% of his total passes, as per Sofascore.
These statistics show that the talented whiz made an impact at both ends of the pitch. He was able to contribute with attacking quality whilst still being able to win possession back for his team on a regular basis to cut out opposition attacks.
While he is inexperienced at the highest level – Maatsen has played six times in the Premier League for the Blues this season but has started from the bench on every occasion – there is plenty to work with and his high-octane, offensive approach fits perfectly with the way that Klopp sets his teams up to play.
And given the "dangerous" approach to his game, as was once said by manager Peter van der Veen, he could be the perfect heir to Andy Robertson's position in the Liverpool squad, with the 29-year-old Scotland captain currently out injured and not expected to return until after Christmas.
Robertson has been a reliable option for Klopp's side since signing from Hull City for a bargain £10m in 2017, making 275 appearances in total and winning the whole gamut of silverware under the German's tutelage, but his presence will not last forever and an heir must soon be established.
Kostas Tsimikas has served as his understudy for the past three years since arriving from Olympiakos for around £12m, but the Greek ace has never managed to usurp Robertson's starting position and has only made 66 displays for the Reds, assisting 12 times.
While Tsimikas is deputising in the Scotsman's absence right now, it certainly does not look like he is the long-term solution at left-back, and while Maatsen is a raw talent, he does boast quality in abundance and could be shaped to Klopp's own creation.
Metric (per 90)
Maatsen
Tsimikas
Goals
0.12
0.00
Assists
0.08
0.12
Shot-creating actions
2.05
2.90
Passes attempted
74.92
74.20
Pass completion
81.2%
77.6%
Progressive passes
6.77
4.95
Progressive carries
3.32
2.90
Tackles
2.05
1.57
Interceptions
1.43
1.45
Clearances
1.47
2.77
While the statistics show that Tsimikas is more creative with his ball-playing, Maatsen is clearly more energetic and marauding in his play, with an innate eye for goal that the Greece international, who has never scored for Liverpool, lacks.
Given Maatsen's youthful age and the fact that he is largely an untested commodity on the major stage, there would be a slight risk in taking on the left-back.
However, there is so much potential there and some discernible core qualities that would be well worth the venture, especially considering Robertson is set to retain his starting spot in the Anfield side for several years yet.
Maatsen would be a long-term project, and the dynamic Dutchman could take inspiration from his compatriot Ryan Gravenberch in making the move to Merseyside.
Gravenberch had languished on the fringe with Bayern Munich before Klopp pushed for his signature in the late days of the summer transfer window, signing the 11-cap Netherlands star in a £34m deal.
Liverpool's Ryan Gravenberch.
And he is already proving to be quite the acquisition, with Gravenberch, also aged 21, already posting two goals and assists apiece and earning praise from his manager for his "incredible" talent.
Maatsen too is a top-tier prospect, and indeed evidenced his glittering qualities during an immense loan spell with the Clarets last term, albeit at Championship level, and he still has plenty of time left to develop and improve at his young age.
Given that Chelsea were all too willing to ship him on in the summer, Liverpool would likely be able to prise him away from Stamford Bridge in 2024, with Ben Chilwell and Marc Cucurella both contesting for the starting spot in Pochettino's team.
Therefore, the transfer rumours surrounding Klopp's interest might hold some weight, and Maatsen would be the perfect protégée to serve underneath Robertson, transcending the role that Tsimikas plays for the Reds at present.
Tottenham Hotspur have enjoyed a remarkable start to the 2023/24 Premier League campaign after they made the decision to appoint Ange Postecoglou as their head coach at the end of last season.
The Australian boss arrived from Scottish giants Celtic and has hit the ground running in English football by making his Spurs team exciting to watch and effective on the pitch. A win against Chelsea on Monday night will take his side back to the top of the table and two points clear of reigning champions Manchester City after 11 matches.
Despite their incredible form, Postecoglou may still look to the January transfer window in order to bolster his team's chances of achieving success in the second half of the term.
Spurs transfer news – Kyogo Furuhashi
One player the Tottenham tactician is reportedly eyeing up is Hoops star Kyogo Furuhashi, who was one of the shining lights in his successful Bhoys side in Scotland. According to Alan Nixon of The Sun, the Spurs boss has sent scouts to watch the Japan international in action this season ahead of the January window.
Celtic forward Kyogo Furuhashi.
The report claims that he has sent his people on scouting missions to watch the talented forward throughout the 2023/24, whilst top scout Ian Broomfield was recently sent to take in a number of matches north of the border; including ones that featured Celtic, Aberdeen, and Rangers.
However, there is no mention of whether or not Postecoglou is willing to swoop in to secure Kyogo's services in January or how much the Hoops would demand for his signature if they did.
Easy to see why Spurs like "special" Kyogo
The Japanese finisher, who was once hailed as "quite special" by former Celtic forward John Hartson, has been in phenomenal form for his club since the start of last season.
He has plundered seven goals in 15 matches in all competitions so far this term, which has included two strikes in three Champions League outings.
Meanwhile, only South Korea international Heung-min Son (eight) has scored more than three Premier League goals so far this season for Postecoglou's team.
During the 2022/23 campaign, Kyogo racked up an eye-catching 34 goals in 50 appearances across all competitions, and 27 of those came in the Scottish Premiership, alongside five assists for his teammates.
Whereas, Harry Kane (30) was the only Spurs player with more than ten top-flight strikes throughout last season, which suggests that the club have lacked multiple significant goalscoring threats over the last 18 months or so.
There is no guarantee that the Celtic star will be able to directly translate his performances and goalscoring record over to English football but his form for the Scottish giants provides a taste of what he could offer the side in 2024.
It is now down to Postecoglou and Daniel Levy to decide whether or not they want to push ahead and make a formal approach for his services during the January transfer window in order to add him to the group alongside the likes of Son, James Maddison, and Richarlison at the top end of the pitch.