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For the third time this season, Eddie Howe has the job of picking up his Newcastle United players after suffering defeat in the Premier League against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Danny Welbeck’s double secured a 2-1 victory for Fabian Hurzeler’s men, which has left the Magpies currently sitting in the bottom half of the table after the first eight outings.

The result leaves Howe with a huge task on his hands to try and turn the situation around, after winning just 25% of the league outings in 2025/26 to date.

Both of their victories have come on home soil, with their tally of just three points out of a potential 12 away from home certainly becoming a real concern for the 47-year-old.

However, at one stage, it appeared that the Magpies may have been able to get something out of the contest after the brilliance of one first team member.

Nick Woltemade’s brilliance against Brighton

After Alexander Isak joined Liverpool from Newcastle this summer, his replacement was already going to have huge boots to fill given the Swede’s success at St James’ Park.

The hierarchy chose Nick Woltemade as the man to take the responsibility on his shoulders, something which the German has done brilliantly in recent weeks.

He’s made five appearances in the Premier League since his big-money transfer to Tyneside, but has had an immediate impact – netting four goals with his latest coming against the Seagulls.

Such an effort was arguably his best to date, incredibly flicking Lewis Miley’s cross into the bottom left-hand corner past the despairing Bart Verbruggen.

Woltemade also completed a dribble, made five passes into the final third and won two aerial battles – subsequently showcasing his incredible all-round display.

However, despite such a showing, numerous other Magpies players struggled to impress at the AMEX, which could put their places in the starting eleven at huge risk.

The Newcastle player who could be on borrowed time

Losing in the Premier League is to be expected given the competitive nature of the division, but the fashion in which Newcastle did so on Saturday is nothing short of unacceptable.

Howe has instilled huge expectations into the fanbase, given the recent success, but such a showing against Hurzeler’s side fell way below the high stands his men have set.

Anthony Elanga was one player who once again struggled on the South Coast, subsequently being replaced at the break as a result of his first-half showing.

However, he wasn’t alone in that regard, with Brazilian international Joelinton another starter who was withdrawn from the contest after just 45 minutes.

He’s been a player who’s been called into question by the supporters for his lack of impact, with his outing against the Seagulls certainly doing himself no favours.

The 29-year-old only registered a total of 39 touches of the ball, whilst only making three passes into the final third and was unable to create any clear-cut chances.

Joelinton also failed to complete any of the long balls he attempted, even losing possession six times and often being wasteful when having the ball at his feet, having been described as “tough to watch” by Magpie Media.

Joelinton vs Brighton

Statistics

Tally

Minutes played

45

Touches

39

Passes completed

21

Long balls completed

0

Possession lost

6x

Dribbled past

2

Dribbles

0

Shots

0

Key passes

0

Crosses

0

Aerials lost

100%

Match rating

4/10

Out of possession, the Brazilian was dribbled past twice, whilst also losing 100% of the aerial battles he entered in what was an afternoon to forget for the midfielder.

As a result of his dismal showing, he was handed a measly 4/10 match rating by Newcastle World journalist Jordan Cronin – further showcasing how disappointing he was in the defeat.

After such a showing, there’s no denying he needs to be dropped from Howe’s starting eleven, especially after Miley registered an assist after replacing him.

Joelinton has been an excellent addition for the club, but it appears as though he could be on borrowed time given his recent slump in form over the last few weeks.

Related Fewer touches than Pope: Howe must drop 4/10 Newcastle man after Brighton

Newcastle United suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion this afternoon.

Posts ByEthan Lamb Oct 18, 2025

Leeds United are competing well in the Premier League and could turn to an exciting Brazilian in their bid to improve the quality of their squad at Elland Road.

Leeds frustrated after draw with Bournemouth

Despite a spirited performance against an established top-flight outfit, Leeds will feel a sense of frustration at dropping two points against Bournemouth in the dying embers of their 2-2 draw in Yorkshire.

Joe Rodon and Sean Longstaff forced the home side into the lead after Antoine Semenyo’s opener. However, Eli Junior Kroupi had the last word to steal a share of the spoils for Andoni Iraola’s men courtesy of a fantastic finish in stoppage time.

Speaking post-match, Daniel Farke chose to remain positive after his side were held, paying tribute to his players for their impressive levels of chance creation.

“It was a really good point against a good side, but if you concede that late and should deservedly have won this game of course it doesn’t feel great. Just compliments for our lads today. We’ve outperformed them in terms of expected goals, 19 shots. Just one team was missing big chances, normally we should have won.

“First half we had enough chances to win two Premier League games and sadly missed them all. There was not one big mistake but we’re in possession on 94 minutes then there’s a sloppy touch on the ball. We would not need to be there with a foul.”

Bournemouth midfielder Ryan Christie admitted his side were relieved to leave Elland Road with a point, illustrating the distance Leeds have come in a short space of time and the progress they’ve made.

Behind the scenes, the Whites and the 49ers Enterprises are already plotting a transfer swoop that could add another intriguing option to his talented squad if all were to go to plan.

Leeds look to sign Gustavo Prado below release clause value

According to South American reports via Sport Witness, Leeds are considering a £17 million move for Internacional youngster Gustavo Prado, who is capable of playing on either flank and is someone viewed as a market opportunity for the Elland Road club.

The Whites have increased their scouting focus on the Americas and have sent a scout to Chile to watch the star in action for Brazil’s Under-20 side at their World Cup. Despite his release clause standing at £51 million, they could look to swoop at around the £17 million mark, a valuation that he could be made available for by his current employers.

Leeds told Farke could sign and "get the best" from Man Utd star if he "loves" him

They’ve been told to chase his signature.

ByTom Cunningham Sep 27, 2025

Prado, 20, has scored twice in 22 appearances across all competitions in 2025, and his potential arrival may provoke nostalgia over his compatriot Raphinha, who is now one of the world’s best wingers at Barcelona following his spell in Yorkshire.

Nevertheless, Stuttgart and Atalanta are also keen on his services, signifying that there is work to be done before he indeed signs on the dotted line at Elland Road, a deal that won’t come cheap.

MatériaMais Notícias

Com gol de Flaco López no último minuto da partida, o Palmeiras bateu o Cruzeiro por 1 a 0, nesta segunda-feira (14), pela 19ª rodada do Brasileirão. A torcida ainda viveu momentos de tensão à espera da análise do VAR, mas acabou celebrando a vitória palmeirense no Allianz Parque.

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+ Veja tabela e classificação do Brasileirão-2023 clicando aqui

Com os três pontos conquistados na última rodada do primeiro turno, o Verdão volta à vice-liderança do campeonato com 34 pontos, 13 atrás do líder Botafogo. Já a Raposa está na 12ª posição com 24 pontos.

CINCO LANCES QUE MARCARAM O DUELO

> DM COM TRABALHO! Logo no início da partida, o Cruzeiro perdeu Mateus Vital com um problema no ombro e precisou fazer uma substituição. No Palmeiras, já no fim da primeira etapa, Gabriel Menino sentiu lesão muscular e acabou sendo trocado.

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>CRUZEIRO ASSUSTA, LOMBA SALVA! O Palmeiras tinha volume de jogo, mas acertou apenas uma finalização no primeiro tempo. O Cruzeiro, mesmo com menos posse, assustou com chutes de William e de Rafael Elias de fora da área, mas Lomba fez duas grandes defesas para salvar.

> INACREDITÁVEL! Com dificuldade de criar uma boa chance de gol, o Palmeiras teve uma ótima oportunidade com Artur em cobrança de falta de Veiga, mas o camisa 14 fez o mais difícil e perdeu o gol de forma inacreditável.

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> INACREDITÁVEL 2! Pelo lado do Cruzeiro, mais um lance inacreditável. Wesley recebeu belo lançamento sem marcação, mas ao ficar cara a cara com Marcelo Lomba, finalizou na rede por fora do gol. Seria o 1 a 0 para a Raposa.

> NO ÚLTIMO MINUTO! Depois de Luis Guilherme sofrer falta em uma arrancada, Raphael Veiga cobrou com perigo no meio da área e Flaco López estava lá para garantir os três pontos palmeirenses no último minuto do jogo.

PRIMEIRO TEMPO

Como se esperava do time mandante, o Palmeiras impôs seu jogo e ficou com a posse de bola, mas tinha muita dificuldade para penetrar na área do Cruzeiro. O Verdão se movimentava, gerava espaços, mas no momento de concluir a jogada, não foi eficiente. O primeiro chute no gol foi apenas aos 36 minutos. Enquanto isso, a Raposa aproveitava os erros do adversário e encontrava brechas, não é à toa que as melhores chances foram da equipe mineira na etapa inicial. O empate, no entanto, fez jus à falta de qualidade no jogo.

SEGUNDO TEMPO

Mesmo com a falta de eficiência do time na primeira etapa, o Palmeiras voltou sem alterações para o segundo e os problemas seguiram os mesmo. Na melhor chance do jogo até então, Artur desperdiçou cara a cara com o goleiro adversário. Do outro lado, Wesley teve ótima oportunidade e chutou na rede de fora do gol. Luis Guilherme quase fez o seu em bela jogada e a Raposa assustou em alguns lances. Mas o melhor ficou para o último minuto, quando Veiga cobrou falta e Flaco López desviou para o gol para garantir a vitória.

O QUE VEM POR AÍ

Na próxima rodada do Brasileirão, o Palmeiras vai enfrentar o Cuiabá, fora de casa, no sábado (19), às 18h30, na Arena Pantanal. Já o Cruzeiro recebe o Corinthians, também no sábado (19), às 21h,

FICHA TÉCNICA
PALMEIRAS 1 x 0 CRUZEIRO
Local: Allianz Parque, São Paulo (SP)
Data e hora: 14/8/2023, às 19h (de Brasília)
Árbitro: Wagner do Nascimento Magalhães (Fifa/RJ)
Assistentes: Thiego Henrique Neto Correa Farinha (RJ) e Luiz Claudio Regazone (RJ)
VAR: Rodolpho Toski Marques (VAR-Fifa/PR)
Público: 38.555 torcedores/R$ 2.485.779,06
Cartões amarelos: Vanderlan e Gustavo Gómez (PAL) Palacios, Gilberto e Matheus Jussa (CRU)
Cartões vermelhos: –
Gols: Flaco López (50’/2ºT) (1-0)

PALMEIRAS: Marcelo Lomba; Mayke, Gustavo Gómez, Murilo e Vanderlan; Zé Rafael (Flaco López, aos 35’/2ºT), Gabriel Menino (Richard Ríos, aos 47’/1ºT) e Raphael Veiga; Artur (Luis Guilherme, aos 19’/2ºT), Jhon Jhon (Breno Lopes, aos 19’/2ºT) e Rony (Endrick, aos 19’/2ºT). Técnico: Abel Ferreira.

CRUZEIRO: Rafael Cabral; William (Palacios, no intervalo), Neris, Luciano Castán e Marlon (Kaiki, aos 38’/2ºT); Matheus Jussa, Lucas Silva e Mateus Vital (Filipe Machado, aos 7’/1ºT); Wesley, Arthur Gomes (Gilberto, aos 21’/2ºT) e Rafael Elias (Bruno Rodrigues, aos 21’/2ºT). Técnico: Pepa.

Six 200-plus totals were made in the first five matches of IPL 2025. Four of them exceeded 230, with a highest of 286. But scoring rates have come down since, with no 200-plus scores in the next eight matches. Dwayne Bravo, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor and the IPL’s highest wicket-taker among seamers, said this was a result of batters putting less value on their wickets and bowlers getting smarter.”The batsmen are not having that value on the wicket anymore,” Bravo said on the eve of KKR’s home game against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). “They’re a bit reckless because they play on those flat pitches. Teams are batting longer with the Impact Player, so the value for batsmanship is no longer there. The Impact Player is there, a lot of teams have batted longer, so the value for batsmanship is no longer there.Related

• KKR coach bats for home teams getting favourable conditions

“So that’s why you see the scores are now starting to drop a bit. Bowlers are getting smarter and they’re trying to use their strengths more.”Bravo’s side KKR, the defending champions, are among the teams who promised to raise run rates this season, but they’ve only made totals of 174 and 116 on the two occasions when they’ve batted first, with their middle order not yet finding form. Their opponents SRH have also promised breakneck run-rates but have lost steam since posting 286, one run short of their own IPL record total, on the first weekend of the season. Bravo said batting was about more than just hitting.”Yes, we are an aggressive batting line-up but that’s not cricket,” he said. “My message to the batsmen especially is that the basics of the game are still required. The smarts of the game are still required. These guys just need to apply themselves a bit more and I think they’re getting to understand that.”The games we lose, we have those learnings, so that when we speak cricket, they get to understand that the evidence is there on why we are failing as a batting group. As coaches, it is about telling them that cricketing shots are allowed in T20s as well.”[L to R] Chandrakant Pandit, Venkatesh Iyer, Dwayne Bravo and Ajinkya Rahane have a chat•NurPhoto via Getty Images

KKR’s upper and lower middle order (Nos. 4 to 8) has averaged 17.22 so far this season while at 113.63, with Andre Russell, Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh and Ramandeep Singh failing to reproduce their performances from the last few seasons. But Bravo maintained that the tournament was still in its early days.”Batting is not our main concern,” Bravo said. “We are not the only team after three matches in this position. But we are working on being smarter. Once we get that right, we’ll be fine. We bat fairly deep and it’s an area we are letting ourselves down [in], but these guys are all quality players.”In a tournament where there are 14 games, you don’t judge a player who has had success over the years after just two games. You’re judging them based on two games, because one game none of them batted.”In the IPL you don’t expect any player to be consistent with 14 games. It’s important to keep encouraging them, remind them of how great they are. They already have success in IPL with KKR.”And Rinku will win two games by himself, Russell will win two by himself. Ramandeep will contribute, Venky will come into his own, and will also win two games by himself. There are so many match-winners there.”While KKR head coach Chandrakant Pandit has called for teams to be allowed a greater say in the preparation of pitches on their home grounds, Bravo didn’t comment on the surfaces at Eden Gardens. Instead, he felt home advantage also came from players feeding off the energy of the crowds.”For me, you turn up, you play,” he said. “The team that plays the best will win – whether it’s slow, it’s turning, or not turning. For me, my language to the players will always be to make the necessary adjustments for the conditions.”And what helps us with home advantage is the fans. I think that is more important than how the pitch plays. I will not really comment much about pitches. Once the fans are there into the game and cheering us on, that makes a difference.”

Aston Villa’s transfer activity this summer has been a careful balancing act, reflecting both ambition and necessity.

After losing academy graduate Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle and contending with persistent Premier League profit and sustainability regulations (PSR), Unai Emery’s side have sought reinforcement across multiple positions.

The Midlands outfit have already added Evann Guessand from Nice, but there remains a pressing need to bolster creativity and experience in midfield, particularly in the event of Morgan Rogers’ departure.

The club’s early campaign has been patchy, with a draw against Newcastle followed by a 1-0 defeat away at Brentford.

Despite summer interest from Newcastle and Manchester United, Ollie Watkins continues to lead the line.

However, there is a growing recognition that midfield reinforcement is required to support their talismanic striker, which in turn will unlock the team’s full attacking potential.

Previously, Aston Villa have gambled on other technically gifted Brazilian midfielders, exemplified by Philippe Coutinho’s arrival after struggling for form at Barcelona.

Now, another South American talent is emerging on the radar, with the potential to recapture that same blend of flair and influence.

Villa enquire about potential Rogers replacement

According to journalist Santi Aouna, Aston Villa have opened discussions with West Ham regarding the possibility of signing Lucas Paquetá.

The 27-year-old Brazilian, who has amassed 55 caps and 11 goals for his national side, is considered one of several midfield options should Villa need to replace Morgan Rogers before the close of the transfer window.

West Ham are understood to be holding out for a fee in the region of £60m, with initial inquiries suggesting Villa would need to meet a minimum valuation of £40m before talks could commence.

Paquetá has undoubtedly experienced a turbulent period at the London Stadium, having faced betting allegations in August 2023.

Although he was cleared of all charges in 2025, the episode is reported to have affected him profoundly.

Transfer Focus

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

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Nevertheless, he continues to be highly rated.

Former West Ham player Declan Rice praised the attacking midfielder’s abilities, describing him as “mind-boggling” in terms of quality and vision.

Clubs including Crystal Palace, Manchester City, and Tottenham have reportedly monitored the player, though news of Spurs’ recent acquisition of RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons will reduce the likelihood of any continued interest.

For Villa, Paquetá represents a chance to combine proven Premier League experience with the technical finesse necessary to complement both new arrivals and established stars such as Watkins.

Why Paquetá could be Villa’s next Coutinho

Tactically, Paquetá offers Aston Villa a multifaceted solution.

Primarily an attacking midfielder, the Brazilian excels in creating and progressing offensive sequences, with metrics that underline his all-around capability.

According to FBref, last season, he ranked in the 74th percentile for shot-creating actions per 90 minutes (2.89) and the 79th percentile for progressive passes (6.16), demonstrating his ability to influence both goal-scoring opportunities and build-up play.

Additionally, he boasts the 84th percentile for touches in the opposition penalty area and the 75th percentile for tackles per 90, illustrating a willingness to contribute defensively – a balance Emery prizes in transitional play.

His aerial ability is also notable, with the 89th percentile for aerial duels won per 90, making him a threat in both open play and set-piece scenarios.

The comparison with Coutinho is plain to see.

Before arriving at Villa Park, the Brazilian struggled to live up to his colossal pricetag at Barcelona before briefly flourishing on loan at Bayern Munich.

When at his best, Coutinho combined exceptional vision, dribbling, long-range shooting, and set-piece delivery, ultimately making him a dangerous attacking asset.

Paquetá, arriving at a stage in his career where his technical maturity and Premier League familiarity intersect, could offer a more immediate and sustained impact than his predecessor.

From a squad composition perspective, Paquetá could integrate seamlessly with Villa’s existing framework.

He would complement Watkins in attack, add creativity in the final third, and relieve pressure on newly-signed Guessand, allowing Emery greater flexibility in rotation and tactical setups.

The midfielder’s proficiency in linking play and breaking lines would enhance Villa’s transitional play, which has been a key focus under Emery’s management.

If the deal progresses, it would also signify Villa’s commitment to international-level talent capable of impacting the Premier League immediately.

After losing Ramsey, and with ongoing interest in Rogers from external clubs, adding a player of Paquetá’s calibre would send a clear message regarding the club’s ambitions.

Aston Villa are prepared to invest in both technical skill and experience to remain competitive domestically and in this year’s edition of the Europa League.

Ultimately, a successful move for Paquetá could mirror the allure of Coutinho’s signing while avoiding the pitfalls that hindered his predecessor.

Villa would acquire a player with vision, creativity, and finishing ability, tempered by Premier League experience and tactical maturity – qualities capable of elevating both the midfield and the team’s overall attacking profile.

For supporters, it represents an opportunity to witness Brazilian flair integrated into a system designed for consistency and results, potentially bridging the gap between raw talent and polished Premier League performance.

Related Emery's own Grealish: Aston Villa agree terms for "magical" late signing

Aston Villa are ready to welcome one or two late signings to their squad as the transfer window draws to a close.

Posts ByAngus Sinclair Aug 29, 2025

Newcastle United could now complete the £35m signing of a “remarkable” striker, coming after a breakthrough around a similar price for AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw.

Magpies agree £35m deal for Malick Thiaw

Eddie Howe shared the latest on Alexander Isak’s situation at St James’ Park after the 2-2 draw against Espanyol on Friday, not exactly guaranteeing that he will be staying put.

“I don’t know how long that will be for. It’s clear I can’t involve him with the team at the moment. He is training later than the rest of the squad. There have been discussions since the tour. I don’t think disciplinary action has happened.

“He is here, so of course he has a future at Newcastle. From our perspective, we would love to have him back with the team, but the situation has to be right for that to happen. He doesn’t have a fitness issue. I’m aware of a feeling within the squad that there’s something there not to the benefit of the group.”

It goes without saying that at least one top-quality striker will be needed for Newcastle if Isak does leave, if not two – the likes of Michail Antonio have been mentioned as a possible replacement for Callum Wilson.

Newcastle also need to strengthen in defence however, and a move for Milan starlet Thiaw is gathering pace. Indeed, Keith Downie revealed on Saturday afternoon that ‘Newcastle now have an agreement in principle with AC Milan’ for around £35m, and the German defender will sign a four-year contract on Tyneside.

Newcastle could also sign £35m striker this weekend

According to Downie, Thiaw may not be the only signing on the horizon, as Yoane Wissa’s representatives are travelling to the UK this weekend, looking to seal a move away from Brentford, also for around £35m.

The Bees striker is desperate to join a club in the Champions League despite interest from Saudi teams, and PIF are ‘ready to finalise a deal’ in the coming hours and days.

It is reaching the stage where Newcastle may have to bite the bullet and accept a huge offer from Liverpool for Isak, rather than keeping an unhappy player, and it looks as though the likely British transfer record windfall from that deal will fund multiple moves in several positions.

In Wissa, Newcastle would be signing an experienced and proven Premier League player – one who scored 19 league goals last season, also being lauded by Thomas Frank back in 2023.

“Wissa, we knew, has always been a goalscorer. He scored seven goals in the first season and seven in the second in the Premier League, for a player that didn’t play much. It’s remarkable. I definitely think he is best as a 9. He’s got that nose for goals.”

Newcastle want to sign "brilliant" Wilson replacement who has 68 PL goals

The Magpies could land a bargain as they look to replenish both striker berths.

BySean Markus Clifford Aug 8, 2025

Keeping a happy Isak is clearly still the ideal result for Newcastle, but there are plenty worse outcomes than picking up Wissa, Thiaw and a new midfielder with the funds generated from his exit.

There’s never a quiet day in the Newcastle United recruitment department is there?

It was reported on Tuesday morning that Alexander Isak has no intention of playing for the Magpies again, even if the transfer window closes and he has not been sold.

This is certainly a saga that will seemingly rumble on and on, possibly even beyond the 1 September transfer deadline.

In the meantime, with or without Isak, Eddie Howe is looking to bolster his squad ahead of a return to the Champions League, so could a “quality” talent soon move to the North East?

Newcastle's busy transfer activity

So far, Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale are Newcastle’s only two additions, but a fair few more could soon follow.

Transfer Focus

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

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Indeed, an enquiry has been made for Porto’s Samu Aghehowa, while it has also been claimed that the Magpies are set to make a bid for Brentford’s wantaway marksman, Yoane Wissa.

Meantime, could Newcastle snap up a bargain by bringing in a young talent reminiscent of Hatem Ben Arfa?

Well, John Percy of the Telegraph reports that Newcastle are set to accelerate their interest in signing Bilal El Khannouss from Leicester City.

They add that the Moroccan international’s contract contains a release clause, following the Foxes’ relegation to the EFL Championship, with the Magpies willing to pay up to £30m to secure his signature.

El Khannouss did complete 90 minutes during Leicester’s league opener against Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday, but is seemingly set for a return to the Premier League, with Leeds and Tottenham also interested, so could he end up on Tyneside?

Why Bilal El Khannouss should excite Newcastle supporters

Fair to say, Leicester City endured a miserable campaign last time round, winning just six Premier League matches all season, failing to score in nine consecutive home games, losing all of them, between 22 December and Easter Sunday, a new unwanted top division record.

However, amid all the dross, El Khannouss did manage to impress, scoring three goals during his debut season in England, most notably bagging the winner at Tottenham in January.

As a result, analyst Ben Mattinson has described him as “one of the best prospects in the world”, while scout Antonio Mango has lauded him as a “genius”.

The 21-year-old’s composure on the ball and exceptional dribbling ability rank among his key strengths, having notably averaged 1.1 successful dribbles per game in the top-flight last season, as per Sofascore. That certainly sounds like former Newcastle favourite Ben Afra, doesn’t it?

During his time on Tyneside, between 2010 and 2014, the French international became renowned for his skill, dribbling prowess and attacking flair, all of which was encapsulated by this astonishing solo strike against Bolton at St James’ Park in April 2012.

So, let’s analyse El Khannouss’ statistics and Leicester last season to underline the comparison.

El Khannouss – PL statistics 2024/25

Stat

Record

Leicester rank

Goals

2

5th

Assists

3

3rd

Expected assists

4.6

1st

Shots

30

4th

Big chances created

8

1st

Progressive carries

73

2nd

Progressive passes

128

1st

Key passes

42

1st

Passes into the box

31

1st

Shot-creating actions

78

1st

Successful take-ons

34

2nd

Touches in the attacking 3rd

445

1st

Average SofaScore rating

6.91

3rd

via FBref.com and Sofascore

As the table documents, in a generally dismal Leicester City side, El Khannouss was without a doubt the primary creative force, ranked first when it came to expected assists, big chances created, key passes, progressive passes and many, many other attacking metrics.

He has a similar talismanic quality that Ben Arfa possessed during the majority of his time at Newcastle, taking on the attacking burden and often making things happen all by himself.

Thus, in a significantly better side, El Khannouss could become a star of the Premier League, and the Magpies could provide him with the platform to do that.

Related He'd replicate Isak: Newcastle make enquiry to sign "complete" £80m striker

With Alexander Isak still hoping to force a move to Liverpool, could Newcastle target a “complete” striker valued at £80m who’d replicate the Swede?

Posts ByBen Gray Aug 12, 2025

Beth Mooney made 97 for Perth Scorchers but Voll matched her score to seal a superb run chase at the MCG

AAP15-Nov-2024Georgia Voll produced a blistering knock to give Sydney Thunder a thrilling seven-wicket win over Perth Scorchers that lifted them back to the top of the WBBL table.Thunder dropped five catches at the MCG on Friday and Beth Mooney cashed in, hammering 97 from 64 balls. But Voll wouldn’t be outdone by the competition’s all-time leading run-scorer, responding with an unbeaten 97 from 56 deliveries to steer the to victory with one over remaining. It was the first time in three attempts this season Thunder have mounted a successful run-chase.Voll hit 13 fours and a six in her career-best innings, surpassing the 92 she made against Adelaide Strikers earlier this month.”It sits pretty high,” Voll said of her player-of-the-match performance. “To be chasing sort of a biggish total and to have the backing from the coaches to just go out there and play my way and for it to come off like this is pretty special.”Voll’s 64-run partnership with Heather Knight was crucial for Thunder. The 21-year-old revealed she took inspiration from Hobart Hurricanes opener Lizelle Lee’s record-breaking feats with the bat this month.”I actually watched Lizelle Lee bat the other day and noticed that I’ve been trying to go a little bit hard too early,” Voll said. “I sort of just took my time a little bit more and took the strike off Atha [Chamari Athapaththu] at the start there as well. It was just sort of lucky to come off.”Mooney had looked like she would be the match-winner with the bat when she made the most of Thunder’s dropped catches. She was put down three times before reaching 20 and again soon after ticking off another half-century.Sophie Devine was also given an early life by Thunder and the experienced pair put on a 112-run partnership for Scorchers’ third wicket. Devine fell to Taneale Peschel and Mooney was out lbw to Shabnim Ismail in the final over, falling narrowly short of what would have been her fourth WBBL century.Amy Edgar removed Knight and Scorchers looked headed for victory when Thunder’s required run rate climbed above 10. But Voll took charge with support from Anika Learoyd to guide Thunder home.

Looking to deal Crystal Palace a major blow, AC Milan are now reportedly taking initial steps towards signing a Selhurst Park star this summer.

Crystal Palace could still lose Eze

Whilst they have at least managed to sign Walter Benitez and Borna Sosa, it’s fair to say that Crystal Palace have endured a frustrating summer so far. And things could yet get worse for those in South London. Rumours are continuing to arrive regarding Eberechi Eze’s future and reports suggest that both Chelsea and Arsenal have set their sights on the talented attacker.

His exit wouldn’t be the only bad news that Palace have received this summer, either. The Eagles were recently dealt a harsh blow when UEFA confirmed their relegation from the Europa League to the Europa Conference League after John Textor’s involvement with Lyon and Palace broke multi-club ownership rules.

Steve Parish has since had his say on the matter, confirming that Palace will be appealing UEFA’s decision: “We are still fighting. There’s an appeal process, so we go to CAS which is the court for arbitration and, you know, we’re very hopeful. We think we’ve got great legal arguments.

“We don’t think this is the right decision by any means. We know unequivocally that John didn’t have decisive influence over the club. We know we proved that beyond all reasonable doubt, because it’s a fact.”

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Whether UEFA’s decision will play a part in players’ immediate futures remains to be seen, but it looks as though AC Milan are willing to put that theory to the test this summer.

AC Milan make first moves in Mateta race

Whilst there will be plenty of concern about Eze’s future, another one of Oliver Glasner’s key players could yet be heading for the exit door. According to L’Equipe, AC Milan are now making initial moves to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is open to completing a summer switch to the Italian giants.

As things stand, however, the Frenchman’s valuation remains a major obstacle and potential saving grace for Crystal Palace. The Italians have reportedly been put off by Crystal Palace’s asking price, which stands at over €30m (£26m).

Alas, the Eagles’ demand should not be a surprise to Milan or any other interested parties. The £50,000-a-week forward enjoyed another excellent campaign last time out – scoring 17 goals in all competitions – and earned high praise from Glasner.

The Crystal Palace manager told reporters: “We don’t always talk because he knows what we demand of him. With his two goals today, he is amazing in the box.

“He has the feeling that a number nine must have in the box. He makes so many runs where he doesn’t get the ball. You need to suffer as a striker because you make so many runs where you don’t get the ball. He gets the reward and it decides the game for us.”

Pat Cummins is rested from the entire tour, while Mitchell Starc and Glenn Maxwell will join for the ODIs against England

Andrew McGlashan15-Jul-20241:23

Clarke: Some Australia players might walk away from T20Is

Perth Scorchers and Western Australia allrounder Cooper Connolly has been handed his first international call-up for Australia’s T20I squad to face Scotland and England, while Jake Fraser-McGurk has been included in both the T20I and ODI squad as the selectors start to glance towards the future.Australia will play three T20Is against Scotland and England from early September, and the squad reflects the start of the transition from the group that exited the recent T20 World Cup in the Super Eights. The ODI squad is more stable with an eye on next year’s Champions Trophy in Pakistan.Fraser-McGurk’s inclusion had been expected, and he now has the chance to establish himself as David Warner’s successor at the top of the order in both limited-overs formats. He has yet to make his T20I debut, but played two ODIs against West Indies last season.Related

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Connolly, the 20-year-old left hand batter, has only featured in 15 domestic T20s, but played a starring role in the BBL 2022-23 final to secure Scorchers the title. He strikes at 145.80 in T20s, and also provides a useful left-arm spin option. Connolly also made 90 on his Sheffield Shield debut, in the final, earlier this year.”We haven’t had that many bolters for a little while,” national selector George Bailey said. “He’s an exciting young talent. Hasn’t played a great many games yet, but we really like his versatility. His work through the middle order for the Scorchers has been really impressive. Handy left-arm spin as well which, as a secondary skill, is something we are really keen to keep exploring and see where that goes with his cricket.”Mitchell Marsh remains the T20I captain, and will also lead the ODI side in the absence of Pat Cummins, who is rested from the entire Scotland and England tour ahead of the home summer. Mitchell Starc and Glenn Maxwell will also miss the T20Is before joining for the ODIs, while allrounder Matthew Short, who was a traveling reserve at the T20 World Cup, will remain at home for the birth of his first child before arriving for the five ODIs against England.Cummins is currently among the group of Australians taking part in the ongoing MLC, but Bailey said missing the Scotland and England tour had been in the planning for around 12 months with an eye on a condensed schedule that comes once the home summer begins.”He’s got a couple of things he wants to work on physically,” Bailey said. “He’s had a lot of cricket over the past period, and this is an opportunity to get on top of those and set him up for the next period of time; it’s more a management of that. The MLC opportunity came reasonably late, [and] as far as the plan went, it’s an extra 18 or 19 days that he’s up for, [so] it doesn’t fundamentally change the plan we had for him.”2:32

Bailey impressed with Connolly’s ‘versatility’

From those who featured in the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies last month, Ashton Agar and Matthew Wade have been dropped from the T20I squad, while Warner has retired.In the T20I squad, Xavier Bartlett, Spencer Johnson and Nathan Ellis will be part of the pace attack alongside the experience of Josh Hazlewood. Allrounders Cameron Green and Aaron Hardie are included across both formats with the former likely to see far more opportunity. Josh Inglis will replace Wade with the gloves in T20Is.Alex Carey is back in the ODI squad as Inglis’ understudy, having lost his place in the XI during last year’s World Cup.The T20Is against Scotland, which replace the tour of Ireland which was cancelled by the hosts for financial reasons, take place on September 4, 6 and 7. Three T20Is against England follow on September 11, 13 and 15, followed by the five ODIs.Australia T20I squad vs Scotland and EnglandMitchell Marsh (capt), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Spencer Johnson, Marcus Stoinis, Adam ZampaAustralia ODI squad vs EnglandMitchell Marsh (capt), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis (wk), Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa