All posts by z3u9t.icu

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Former Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher believes that Tottenham Hotspur could be destined to win the Champions League, per BBC Sport.

What’s he said?

Spurs came from 3-0 down on aggregate to beat the Dutch giants in Amsterdam, with Lucas Moura scoring a phenomenal hat-trick.

His hat-trick goal, of course, came in the 96th minute, sending fans into something approaching delirium, and confirming that they will play Liverpool in the final in Madrid.

And Fletcher believes that Spurs’ run could be proof that destiny is playing a part in their run to the showpiece.

Indeed, they took just one point from their opening three games of the group stages but beat Inter Milan and PSV Eindhoven before securing a vital point away to Barcelona. A 4-0 aggregate thumping of Borussia Dortmund was followed by an amazing away goal triumph over Manchester City, in which Raheem Sterling saw an injury-time winner ruled out.

And then, of course, came Ajax. Fletcher, then, insists that Liverpool will be wary of this Spurs team in Spain.

He said: “Liverpool will think Spurs are more destined to win it than them. Liverpool were the better team over their two legs and in their other matches they have sailed through to the final.

“But Spurs have scraped and battled through. They went to Manchester City and got hammered but nicked three goals and it almost feels like it is their destiny more than Liverpool’s.

“I still think Liverpool will back themselves. They have beaten Spurs twice already this season, but for me there is just something about Spurs’ run that is different to Liverpool’s.

“Liverpool’s comeback was fantastic, you couldn’t believe what they did against Barcelona, but Spurs just seem to be finding a way, scraping their way to the final.”

Written in the stars

Liverpool have often spoken about destiny as they attempt to win the Premier League title.

But Fletcher might be right.

It really does feel as though there is something special about this Spurs team and their victories in the knockout stages have been nothing short of astonishing.

Few would bet against them going one step further in the final but they face perhaps their toughest opponent so far.

Liverpool offer a potent cocktail of pace, power, tactical assiduity and also have some brilliant individuals.

But Spurs’ run will have sparked some genuine belief in north London. They have the momentum, after all.

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Before Nuno Santo arrived at Wolves not many would have predicted the journey the club was about to embark on.

The Portuguese manager, alongside a number of players from the same nation, has done a phenomenal job.

A defeat for Leicester against Manchester City last Monday confirmed seventh place in the Premier League. Now all that remains after their promotion-winning campaign last term is to seal European football.

That will happen should Watford fail to beat City in the FA Cup final in a few weeks time.

But as the club gear up for a possible Europa League campaign, they have a European winner at their disposal ready to thrive at that level.

No, it’s not Joao Moutinho. Instead, Ruben Vinagre is the Wolves man who has all the hallmarks of becoming a star.

The 20-year-old won the European U19 Championship with Portugal last summer but has only really been a fringe player at Wolves this season.

Jonny’s form and the performances of Matt Doherty have meant the youngster hasn’t played as many games as he will have liked, starting just seven times in the league.

Signing initially on loan, Wolves made the move permanent for a bargain price of £2m in June 2018. However, he’s now attracting the interest of both Barcelona and Liverpool.

If you need a measure of the potential Vinagre has, that interest is it.

Arriving from Monaco as an unknown prodigy, he’s still a player who’s escaped the limelight despite now playing for a Premier League club.

Going into a weekend where Wolves take on one of the club’s he’s been attracting interest from, this could be the ideal opportunity to show what he’s made of in front of his potential suitors.

This could be a major audition for Vinagre, either ahead of a move elsewhere or to put himself firmly in Nuno’s plans for next term.

His emergence in the starting XI, however, could mean the end for a Wolves stalwart. Matt Doherty has done very little wrong this season and has been one of the best in his position in the league. But with Vinagre coming through, Jonny could be shifted to the right with Doherty making way.

The left-sided player isn’t the finished article by any means but he’s incredibly exciting and his qualities in the final third could be particularly important in games against the bottom half clubs.

Wolves have had no issues with defensive discipline or going forward against the top six, taking 16 points from teams in that area of the table.

But against teams who sit back, Nuno doesn’t have an answer. Playing two more technical wing-backs could be the solution.

Vinagre has already displayed the tremendous attacking qualities he has, no less than in matches against Liverpool in the FA Cup and a victory over Cardiff where he claimed an assist.

In both matches he was terrific, proving to be an absolute menace down the left with his dribbling. So far this term, he’s completed 0.8 dribbles per game. In comparison, Doherty has completed just 0.5.

Wolves captain Conor Coady told The Express & Star in March: “He’s a fantastic footballer, he’s such a young player and yet he’s got such a bright future ahead of him. Everybody probably thinks the best place for him is here so hopefully that is the case because he’s a fantastic footballer and he can stay here for many years.”

And indeed the future is bright, but only providing he gets game time. Vinagre has had to be patient for much of the season but we must remember he’s still only 20 and this is just his second season in senior football.

Providing Wolves can keep him at the club over the summer, he can have a major role to play in the years to come. Should they qualify for Europe Nuno will need to count on those who have merely been squad players in 2018/19.

Surprisingly, the Portuguese youth international has rarely been spoken about this term.

However, that’s likely to change very soon.

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If Leeds United are to bring some new players to the club this summer, then their first port of call should be a new goalkeeper.

Kiko Casilla may have cost the Whites a place in the Premier League after his error-laden game against Derby County on Wednesday, and there is an argument to be made that he shouldn’t put a jersey on for them ever again.

Casilla’s performance

The Spaniard had a shocking game. He was continually rushing out where it wasn’t warranted, and his hesitancy cost the Whites as he was entirely to blame for the Rams’ first strike.

Derby’s fourth goal which eventually won the tie, was also partly the former Real Madrid man’s fault. His positioning was well off as he failed to close down the angle quick enough before Jack Marriott lobbed him.

The keeper’s failure in the biggest game of Leeds’ season may destroy his confidence, and will more than likely see him receive a barrel load of abuse from the Elland Road faithful.

Follow Liverpool’s example

As harsh as it may be, Marcelo Bielsa should take a page out of Jurgen Klopp’s book and banish Casilla from the first team.

Loris Karius single-handedly cost Liverpool a shot at the Champions League last season after dropping two clangers in the final against Real Madrid.

Klopp almost immediately sent him out on loan to Besiktas as he knew he wouldn’t be received well at Anfield, by both the fans and his teammates, as well as seeing that he struggled to cope on the biggest stage.

Having the keeper in the dressing room next season will serve as a reminder of the failure he caused the team this season and could potentially disrupt the squad harmony.

Bielsa must cut his losses when it comes to Casilla and look for a new stopper for next season.

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Will West Bromwich Albion ever appoint a new manager? It seems like one of the most dragged out situations the club has seen.

After Chris Hughton and Patrick Vieira emerged as candidates last week, Michael O’Neill has now become the latest man to take the fancy of Albion’s hierarchy, per The Express & Star.

But reacting to the news on Twitter, the Hawthorns faithful were absolutely fuming, showing their displeasure in a series of tweets slamming the board and questioning the potential appointment.

One supporter called the club a disgrace whilst another branded the situation as unbelievable.

A further fan was baffled that Albion continued to stall on a decision when Brighton were able to appoint Graham Potter after a matter of days.

Another response saw a supporter annoyed that West Brom were again going for a cheap option.

O’Neill has never managed in England before so his potential arrival can be seen as somewhat of a risk. Previously, the 49-year-old has managed Brechin City and Shamrock Rovers, before being given the Northern Ireland job.

Albion have been looking for a permanent manager ever since they sacked Darren Moore in March. However, they are yet to find a suitable man for the role.

Here’s the best of the reaction.

West Ham United are arguably a playmaker (and a striker) short of making a real charge for European football.

Pushing for a place in the Europa League next year should not be too far from the minds of those at the London Stadium, but additions must be made to the side.

Manuel Lanzini may have come back into the fold after a lengthy spell on the sidelines, however, Manuel Pellegrini could certainly do with adding some creativity to his current squad if they are to take things up another level.

The Hammers started to find their feet with the way the Chilean likes to play and would have to be considered extremely dangerous next season if they were to continue with the type of performances that were far and few between at times.

And, if Mario Husillos can tempt one of his former playmakers to join him in east London, West Ham could have an excellent chance of securing a place in European competition.

According to a report by Greek radio station Sport24, the Hammers are understood to have made an offer of €10million (£8.8m) for Olympiakos’ Kostas Fortounis this summer.

The 26-year-old currently has one year left on his contract and the Athens-based outfit are keen to extend the deal, however, Husillos is eager to bring him to the Premier League after working together in Greece.

Fortounis has been deadly with the ball in the final third of the pitch this season and it is no surprise the Irons have taken note.

This season, the Greece international provided Olympiakos with 17 goals and 16 assists in his 43 matches across all competitions (Transfermarkt); figures that will impress anybody! That kind of return would certainly be welcomed at the London Stadium and could work wonders as it may help them to move up the top-flight ladder.

Lanzini is good, but adding the 26-year-old into the mix would surely be something the Hammers have to do! The South American could be handed some much-needed competition for his place in the side and could then spur him on to become even better than he is for the Claret and Blue outfit.

If Husillos can convince Fortounis to join him at West Ham; an £8.8m transfer fee would have to be considered a steal!

West Ham fans, do you think Fortounis would be able to light up the London Stadium as he has with Olympiakos? Let us know below!

Having led Sheffield United to an astonishing second place finish in the Championship earlier this month, Chris Wilder will understandably be excited about the prospect of being able to pit his wits against the likes of Mauricio Pochettino and Pep Guardiola next season.

Already a modern-day hero at Bramall Lane, the 58-year-old’s legacy could be furthered if he can prolong the Blades’ stay in the top-flight past 2020.

However, in order to give himself the best chance of achieving this feat, it is imperative that Wilder gets his recruitment spot on this summer.

Although he already has a good squad of players at his disposal, there will still be quite a lot of concern surrounding the goalkeeper position.

With Dean Henderson heading back to Manchester United following an incredible loan spell in South Yorkshire, the Blades have an ultimatum on their hands.

Despite the 22-year-old surely being a top target, they may have to spend big if they are to convince the Red Devils to sell him.

By doing so, they will be taking somewhat of a risk given the fact that Henderson lacks experience at the top level yet when you consider that he has the potential to go to the very top, it may be worth it for United.

However, regardless of whether they can seal a permanent deal for the former Stockport County loanee, the Blades must steer clear of bringing in another shot-stopper that they have been linked with this week.

According to Goal, United are reportedly keeping tabs on HNK Rijeka keeper Simon Sluga with Norwich City also supposedly interested in the 26-year-old.

Whereas the Croatian was very impressive for Igor Biscan’s side during a 2018/19 campaign which saw him win the domestic cup final against Dinamo Zagreb, the fact that he hasn’t tested himself outside of his homeland is a worry.

Furthermore, when you consider that he is quite far down the pecking order for his country, it could be argued that he is not good enough for the Premier League and thus the Blades may benefit from looking elsewhere.

What do you think United fans? Would you welcome a move for Sluga this summer? Or is it imperative that Wilder does all he can to secure the services of Henderson over the coming weeks? Let us know below.

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It’s official.

Daniel Sturridge will be leaving Liverpool after a six-and-a-half year stay at Anfield, where he has arguably enjoyed the prime years of his career.

After showing flashes of his potential with Chelsea, the England international’s career really took off at Anfield, where he managed to score an impressive 68 goals in 160 appearances, finding the back of the net every 2.4 games on average.

His partnership with Luis Suarez in the 2013/14 season, where Sturridge managed to hit 22 goals in 29 league games as the Reds came within touching distance of the title, was arguably his best campaign as a professional footballer.

You can relive Liverpool’s Champions League celebrations in glorious 2D thanks to the guys at 442oons in the video below…

Sadly, injury problems stopped the 29-year-old recording an even more prolific strike rate, although his time as a Liverpool player did end romantically with a Champions League trophy – his second after winning it with Chelsea.

There have been a fair few, but let’s take a look at a handful of Sturridge’s best moments in a Liverpool shirt…

[snack_break title=”Scoring just eight minutes into his debut against Mansfield in the FA Cup”]

Sturridge found the back of the net just minutes into his first ever appearance for Liverpool, netting a well-taken effort against Mansfield in the FA Cup. Not a bad way to start things off.

[snack_break title=”Notching an exquisite double against Everton in the Merseyside derby (Ignore the other bloke)”]

The Englishman was at the top of his game when Everton travelled to Anfield in 2013/14, where Sturridge scored two excellent goals – he could’ve had a hat-trick if he hadn’t missed a late penalty!

[snack_break title=”Scoring a world-class chip vs West Brom to announce himself as a truly top-tier Premier League player”]

This was the strike that truly proved Sturridge was one of the league’s finest forwards and a player brimming with confidence. A shot didn’t even look on, but Liverpool’s No.15 found the top right corner with an audacious chip which worked perfectly.

[snack_break title=”Netting in the Europa League final with a delightful outside-of-the-boot curler”]

Sadly, this goal isn’t remembered as much as it should be after Liverpool lost 3-1. Despite the scoreline, Sturridge’s amazing curler with the outside of his boot was one of the finest goals you’ll see in a cup final.

[snack_break title=”Finally winning a trophy with Liverpool in his last ever game for the club”]

Sturridge’s excellent goalscoring form throughout his time at Liverpool was finally rewarded with silverware at the last possible opportunity. It was the second Champions League title he has won after picking up a medal for Chelsea’s win in 2012.

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According to The Sun, Aston Villa are one of the teams interested in Blackburn’s Bradley Dack.

The attacking midfielder was incredibly impressive for the Lancashire side last term, scoring 18 times in all-competitions.

Dack was a force in front of goal but also displayed a strong creative nous as he claimed seven assists.

The Blackburn man could now be on the move to the Premier League, however, after Villa were touted as a possible destination.

The Sun labels Dean Smith as a massive fan of the 25-year-old but they may not find it easy to secure his services. Graham Potter’s Brighton are also showing an interest according to the report.

Having recently achieved promotion, Villa have already signed one attacking player in Jota. Another new acquisition in Kortney Hause could also arrive after the Villans triggered the £3m option to buy him following his loan spell.

With a potential move for Dack on the cards, what do Football FanCast’s writers make of the move?

Have a read below to check out their thoughts…

Billy Meyers:

“I think Villa already have too many players who play in Bradley Dack’s role, and for that reason he should be left alone. There are many more positions that need strengthening at Villa Park; the Villans shouldn’t waste their cash on this needless investment.”

Luke Glanville:

“In my opinion, Bradley Dack would have been a good signing for Aston Villa if they had failed to gain promotion to the Premier League. At the moment Dack is an excellent player at Sky Bet Championship level, but not quite good enough to make the step up to the Premier League. Dean Smith’s men should steer clear of the 25-year-old, for now at least.”

“Finding a Lionel Messi in Sheffield… bit of a tall order!” – Watch Championship fans attempt to name their clubs’ Messi in the video below…

Jack Saville:

“It seems strange that Villa are interested in Dack considering he is likely to play second fiddle to Jack Grealish. However, strength in depth is absolutely integral to surviving in the Premier League, and bringing in a quality back-up for Grealish could be the difference between relegation and survival. And, if Smith can work both players into the same system, it could give Villa an exciting new dynamic.”

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If Kortney Hause returns to Aston Villa this summer it’ll be yet more shrewd business following the acquisition on a permanent basis of Anwar El Ghazi.

There was a worry towards the back end of the season that Villa would have to bring in a number of new faces.

However, by bringing back those who have already enjoyed time at the club, it’ll go a long way to helping the team settle quicker in the Premier League.

The Villans have already triggered their £3m option to buy Hause and after impressing in the Championship, he appears ready to make the step up to the top-flight.

On the chalkboard

If the defender does return to the club this summer it could give manager Dean Smith a new tactic to think about.

The former Brentford man has usually favoured a four-man defence but in Hause, they’d have a player capable of fitting into multiple positions.

As such, a cunning switch of formation should be considered.

It will of course rely on the business they do elsewhere, but changing to a three-man defensive system tried and tested by Midlands rivals Wolves could be incredibly beneficial.

Given Hause has featured at both left back and in the centre, there are reasons to suggest he’d be comfortable as the left central defender in a defensive trio.

Having already played in the same system under Nuno Santo, it’s a formation that the 23-year-old should be capable of having a key role in.

If you factor in the large periods where the club struggled defensively last season, it’s crucial they find a remedy for that as soon as possible in the Premier League.

It’s difficult to assess whether moving to this system would solve things, but after finding life difficult in the Championship in defensive phases, it’s surely worth experimenting with, especially now Tyrone Mings has left.

The arrival of Frederic Guilbert, who is a good crosser of the ball, means he could play as a wing back. Meanwhile, Matt Targett, who has attracted interest from the Villans, should be competent in a similar role on the left after featuring for Southampton as a left midfielder and in defence.

As a result, Villa could quite easily switch things up in 2019/20.

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Celtic fans are considering the challenge of FK Sarajevo after drawing them in the first round of UEFA Champions League qualifying.

The first leg is currently due to take place at Celtic Park on the 9th or 10th of July, with the second leg away from home occurring a week later.

The Hoops are seeded and will be favourites to progress to the next qualifying round, but facing the champions of Bosnia will be considered a difficult start to the season.

How can Celtic improve next season? A Hoops fan tells us how in the video below…

Sarajevo won a league and cup double last season and are no pushovers.

A benefit for Celtic is the fact their opponents will also be returning to action after a pre-season, with the challenge always more difficult against teams who operate in a summer league.

Neil Lennon will know he needs a good start as Celtic manager to win over any doubters of his permanent appointment.

Comfortable progression will allow the Hoops boss to build some momentum ahead of the Scottish Premiership starting in August.

These fans have taken to Twitter to share their thoughts on the draw…