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Aston Villa's search for Champions League football was handed another boost this weekend, as they defeated Fulham 2-1 on the road.

Ollie Watkins was on hand to increase his goal tally to 13 for the season, as he netted a match-winning brace.

However, what will slightly concern Unai Emery is his team's lack of depth in midfield and at the back, with injuries to Boubacar Kamara, Diego Carlos, and Ezri Konsa all causing issues.

The Spaniard needs versatile players in his team that can cover multiple roles, and Villa did once have a player that the boss would have loved to have in his squad today.

Marc Albrighton's time at Villa

Marc Albrighton progressed through the ranks of the Villa academy to finally make his debut for the club in 2009 against CSKA Moscow in the UEFA Cup.

The versatile star failed to nail down a spot in the Villa starting XI over his time at the club, and his Villans career will not be remembered at all by the younger generations in the fanbase.

The former number 12 started to feature more frequently in the 2013/14 Premier League campaign, where he played 19 with a record of four assists over the season.

However, in the summer of 2015, then manager Paul Lambert decided that Albrighton was surplus to requirements, with Villa ultimately releasing the midfielder. The England international ended his time at Villa Park with 102 matches played, nine goals, and 19 assists.

Albrighton's career after leaving Villa

Leicester City were the club to snap up Albrighton on a free transfer that summer, and in the following season, he instantly made a huge impact, particularly towards the end of the season, where he picked up two goals and assists apiece in the Foxes last six games to help avoid relegation.

However, the heights that Albrighton and Leicester went on to achieve is one of the most incredible stories in Premier League history. Despite finishing 14th the season before, Claudio Ranieri's side won the Premier League in the 2015/16 season by ten points. Jamie Vardy and Riyhad Mahrez were the stars of the show, but Albrighton was an unsung hero, playing every game.

Assists

7

3rd

Big chances created

11

2nd

Key passes (Per game)

1.7

2nd

Successful dribbles (Per game)

1.3

3rd

Tackles (Per game)

1.7

5th

The 34-year-old also became the club's first Champions League goalscorer ever in the following season, and he has been a "perfect" player over the years, according to former manager Claude Puel, who said:

"He is the perfect teammate and the perfect player to have at the Club. He loves the Club and he loves his teammates. His quality is very important to me – and his fighting spirit. He’s a fantastic player for Leicester City."

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ByTom Lever Feb 18, 2024

Albrighton is now a club legend at the Foxes, having played 311 games for the club and counting, with Champions League experience and a Premier League title on his record. The move to the Foxes was a blessing, but he would have definitely been an excellent servant for Villa over the last nine years.

Manchester City are believed to be preparing an offer for a "really, really good" player this summer, having shown lots of interest in him in the past.

Man City transfer news

Pep Guardiola's side continued their impressive form on Saturday afternoon, winning 2-0 at home to Everton and going top of the Premier League table for a few hours. Erling Haaland was the hero on the day, scoring both goals, and they look in an ominous place, in terms of what their rivals must be thinking at the moment.

Once this season is done and dusted, attention will again turn to new signings, with Guardiola no doubt keen to bolster his options again, keeping things fresh in the process.

Barcelona teenager Pau Cubarsi has been linked with a move to City at the end of the season, with sporting director Txiki Begiristain keen on snapping him up from the Nou Camp. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich has also been backed to a seal a move to the Etihad, with the German someone who could be such an exciting signing, given the superb career he has enjoyed.

Man City readying Lucas Paqueta bid

According to a report from Spain, Manchester City are readying an offer for West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta this summer, with Guardiola seeing him as a priority target. The figure mentioned is more than €70m (£60m), with the Brazilian thought to be keen on an Etihad move.

The Citizens were constantly linked with a move for the Brazilian last year, but betting allegations ended up seeing him stay put at the London Stadium, with Matheus Nunes joining from Wolves instead.

Paqueta really could be a sensational signing by City this summer, given the technical brilliance he possesses, coupled with an outstanding work ethic, meaning he ticks all the boxes that Guardiola is looking for in the middle of the park.

Appearances

18

Goals

2

Assists

5

Tackles per game

2.4

Aerial duel wins per game

1.8

Dribbles per game

1.6

Key passes per game

1.4

The 26-year-old has been a huge loss for West Ham through injury of late – he was missing for the 6-0 defeat at home to Arsenal on Sunday, for example – and David Moyes has heaped praise on him in the past, saying:

"I thought 65,000 people stood to their feet and applauded him because he played as well as anybody. They were all cheering him because of his ability, he’s a really, really good player. He showed character never hid away from the ball and his performance was very good especially in the second half. I thought he did brilliantly well today. I’m only interest in how he performed today."

Manchester City now eyeing £200m double deal for “bulldog” and “strong” player

The Premier League champions are not messing around…

ByTom Cunningham Jan 19, 2024

Paqueta could feel that this summer is the right time to enjoy a fresh challenge and move to one of the best teams in Europe, and at 26, he appears to be at a sweet spot in his career where he is both experienced and young enough to go up another level.

West Ham United could move for another late January signing to replace centre-back Nayef Aguerd, according to journalist Wayne Veysey.

Aguerd linked with West Ham exit

Aguerd, who shined for West Ham during his debut season last year, has been linked with a move away from the club to Saudi Arabia in recent months.

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By
Emilio Galantini

Jan 24, 2024

Surprisingly, given manager David Moyes' lack of depth behind the Moroccan, West Ham would consider selling Aguerd for the right price. The 27-year-old put in some vital performances for Moyes to help boost West Ham's 2022/2023 survival bid, scoring a crucial winner at home to Southampton which went some way in aiding their battle against the drop (Jacob Steinberg).

Aguerd, called a "revelation" by Martin Keown, was also backed to replace Declan Rice as captain by club insider ExWHUemployee at one point.

“If Declan does go in the summer, which I’m pretty sure he is, then I think he [Aguerd] would be a great shout to be captain as well, and apparently, he’s a real, real great lad as well, which is really good to hear," said Ex on The West Ham Way podcast (via WHZ).

“From what I’ve heard from all the staff, from all the other players, he’s very well-liked, a bit of a joker, a bit of a bubbly character, so for me, he’s got the whole package.

“[Moyes] lost him from before we even kicked a [ball] in the Premier League, and that was a massive loss for us. There’s no coincidence that things are turning with him in the side.”

Fast-forward to now, and West Ham are now willing to part company with Aguerd in what has apparently left staff "surprised" (Football Insider).

Aguerd, who is currently at the Africa Cup of Nations with Morocco, played a crucial role as his country sailed through to the AFCON knockout stages on Wednesday.

West Ham have been linked with possible replacements for Aguerd, like Wolves defender Max Kilman, and the club bringing in a new centre-half is apparently something that can still happen.

West Ham could replace Aguerd with centre-back

Indeed, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke, writing a small line for Football Insider, West Ham could swoop late to sign a centre-back if Aguerd leaves.

It will be interesting to see if the Hammers and technical director Tim Steidten can faciliate such a move with just days of the January window remaining, and having already sealed moves for the likes of Man City midfielder Kalvin Phillips on loan.

West Ham will apparently front the entirety of Phillips' big wage packet during his stay at the London Stadium, and clubs may demand a premium fee to sell their star centre-halves so close to deadline day.

The Hammers also paid a reported £3 million loan fee to seal his services, so if they're to sign a new defender, any interested side may presumably have to fork out an offer worth considering.

You may be forgiven for not having watched too much Asian football aside from the odd glimpse of a nation appearing at a World Cup or two. However, considering the names and stories within, new eyes will hopefully be drawn to the continent's major tournament in the coming weeks.

After their first-ever victory in 2019, the next AFC Asian Cup takes place in Qatar and has subsequently been moved due to the desert nation's temperatures. So who will stand out in 2023's Asian Cup? Football FanCast has picked a crop of talents new and old, that could do great things for their respective nations (and even careers) at Asia's next footballing showpiece.

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ByJack Salveson Holmes Jan 3, 2024 10 Hokky Caraka – Indonesia Forward, PSS Sleman

Starting with the first of a handful of gifted young Indonesians, and with the superbly named Hokky Caraka Bintang Brilliant. Only using his first two names, 19-year-old Hokky Caraka plays for PSS Sleman in Indonesia's top flight.

Life in senior football has seen a gradual and steady rise since his formative inclusion in the first team set up in 2021. It's also been said that Hokky has risen through adversity to chase his footballing dream – even travelling 60 kilometres just to get to training. Three senior outings came before 2022-23's 11-game glimpses, but it's been this term where the forward's found his feet. While 20 club appearances have reaped three goals and one assist, it's fair to say that Caraka has boosted his 'hidden gem' status with exploits for the national team.

Since 2022's first run out in Merah Putih colours, Caraka's ascent has been rapid. In July 2022, there were four goals for Indonesia's U19s against Brunei. Then, September saw an U23 debut. His form for them continued with 5 goals in 12. The U23s outings that same month saw a goal in two before the senior team called the revelation up. Here he has two in three – and with the Asian Cup almost upon us, the 5 foot 10 right-footed striker's likely involvement will no doubt have neutrals considering if Indonesia can take some vital chances. There could be huge upsets against group D opponents Japan, Iraq, and Vietnam.

9 Ramadhan Sananta – Indonesia Forward, PERSIS Solo

The second player to watch is 20-year-old Ramadhan Sananta. Sananta plays for PERSIS Solo in the top tier and has already moved about a fair bit – he is a title winner to boot. This is perhaps already due to his scoring exploits as his record is already an impressive sight.

At his first club, PS Harjuna Putra, he scored 9 goals in 12 games. Clearly, this got him snapped up by top-tier Persikabo 1973 – yet here his form faltered with limited chances. Four games brought zero goals, yet he got a move to PSM Makassar and was widely credited for the South Sulawesi club's domestic success. In a historic term where PSM won Liga I for just the second time, a 19-year-old Sananta scored a more-than-helpful 11 goals in 24 games.

To make matters even better for the ever-improving finisher's resume, his international career has also brought the goals. In just seven appearances for the national team – Sananta has notched four goals. Before that for the U22s, Ramadhan scored five superb goals as he powered his side to victory at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia as the tournament's top scorer.

8 Elkan Baggott – Indonesia Defender, Ipswich Town

Ending what's become a miniature Indonesia hype-fest is centre-back Elkan Baggott. The only one of our three Indonesian internationals who doesn't ply his trade in the country, Baggott plays for Ipswich Town in the EFL Championship. Born in Thailand, 21-year-old Elkan has an English father and an Indonesian mother. He learned to play football at school in Indonesia, and that's who he represents at international level.

Part of an intriguing Indonesian generation of footballers, Baggott debatably has the highest pedigree of the bunch. Currently plying his trade in his father's country, Ekan continues to learn under a very progressive young manager Kieran McKenna at Ipswich Town in the English second tier.

Before this, the 6 foot 4 defender cut his teeth in prior seasons with loan moves to King's Lynn Town in the National League, Gillingham and briefly Cheltenham Town in League One. While Caraka and Sananta might do the scoring, Baggott forms the base of a key Indonesian spine. He could play a big part in Qatar and already, he has a steady 19 caps with 2 goals.

7 Firas Al-Buraikan – Saudi Arabia Forward, Al-Ahli

In a league where youth is sometimes neglected for the overpriced near-fictional sums for Europe's scrapheap and wantaway stars, Firas Al-Buraikan sticks out like a sore thumb. A home-grown talent? Why bother with Firmino, Saint-Maximin and Mahrez? Yes, that's a slightly bitter take on Saudi Arabia's recent spending exploits, but within an environment of buy-to-win, Al-Buraikan's talent has been slowly blossoming, and the Asian Cup could be another photosynthetic moment for the 22-year-old.

Since breaking through, a trip to Europe hasn't been on the cards (yet) – but he's grown excellently in the Roshn Saudi League. Although his Al-Nassr career didn't take off with four goals in 28, a move to Al-Fateh was much-needed. At the Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium, Al-Buraikan became a reputable hitman and notched 33 goals in 65 games, adding 9 assists.

This prompted a switch to Al-Ahli, where he's smashed 13 goal involvements in 14 games already. For the national team, he's got six in 36 and as he's hit fine domestic form, he could evolve into the Green Falcons' beacon up top.

6 Ali Al-Hamadi – Iraq Forward, AFC Wimbledon

While Iraq don't immediately spring to mind in football terms, a crop of players look to disprove that. AFC Wimbledon's Ali Al-Hamadi is one of them. The 21-year-old striker, born in Iraq before moving to the UK at an early age, has seen excellent growth since his time with Tranmere Rovers' and Swansea City's youth setups. Eventually moving into the senior ranks of Wycombe Wanderers and showing formative glimpses on loan at National League outfit Bromley, Al-Hamadi has found a serious groove with League Two Wimbledon since January 2023.

As the above video shows, Al-Hamadi has stormed into the Wombles' hearts with his hat-trick against Tranmere. In a wider scoring tally, an exceptional 2022/23 saw ten goals in 19 games. This season, he has 17 in 29 with 7 assists – and with League Two seasons being 46 games long, it's a frightening prospect what the Iraqi youngster could eventually end up with.

The national team have involved the Maysan-born finisher since 2021. Although he's only scored 3 times in 11 outings – fortunes could change if he brings his domestic form into the upcoming AFC competition.

Group A

Group B

Group C

Group D

Group E

Group F

Qatar

Australia

Iran

Japan

South Korea

Saudi Arabia

China

Uzbekistan

UAE

Indonesia

Malaysia

Thailand

Tajikistan

Syria

Hong Kong

Iraq

Jordan

Kyrgyzstan

Lebanon

India

Palestine

Vietnam

Bahrain

Oman

5 Hwang Hee-chan – South Korea Forward, Wolverhampton Wanderers

Hwang Hee-chan is the first South Korean gem to be included in this feature. Perhaps at times a little hit or miss at Wolves since his move from Salzburg initially on loan in 2021/22 – 'Hwangso' (or 'The Bull', as Korean fans affectionately call him) has certainly been pulling his weight this season.

The 27-year-old looks to be reaching his prime and has steadily adapted to Premier League life. Before joining Wolves, Salzburg saw 45 goals in 126 games, with the 2019/20 season alone trailblazing Hwang onto the radars of multiple teams. Here, alongside the likes of Erling Haaland, Patson Daka and Enock Mwepu to name just three – Hwang contributed goals and assists galore.

Across all competitions, he registered 16 goals and 22 assists across 40 games. 11 goals and 12 assists came in the league's 27 outings alone as Salzburg claimed their 14th title – their seventh on the bounce.

Moves to Hamburg and RB Leipzig were unsuccessful. However, after formative adaptation, his comfort at Wolves has grown admirably. Like Al-Hamadi, it's really a case of carrying recent domestic form and energy over to international tournament football as Hwang has enjoyed his best Premier League season yet, as the poaching forward has ten goals and three assists heading into the new year.

If this confidence continues, he could easily add to his 22 direct goal involvements in 59 South Korea matches and become a main focal point alongside Son Heung-min.

4 Lee Kang-in – South Korea Midfielder, Paris Saint-Germain

Following Hwang to the Asian Cup is midfielder Lee Kang-in. Similarly to his compatriot, Lee has had to bide his time when it comes to finding his true form in Europe. Alternatively, Lee had to negotiate wonderkid status and the weight that bears – yet after graduating through Valencia's youth and senior ranks, it was his time at RCD Mallorca that was more than productive.

With an eagle eye for a pass, Lee is also an adept dribbler – and in the 2022/23 season, he became one of the best dribblers in the 'big five' European leagues by making the highest success rate of dribbles and the sixth-highest number of successful dribbles.

Of course, with PSG ruler Kylian Mbappe deserving of only the finest service – Lee was bought by the Parisians in July 2023 to become the first South Korean to play for the club.

An excellent member of a core contingent of skill in South Korea's ranks, it's no wonder the Taegeuk Warriors will be among the favourites to do well.

3 Wataru Endo – Japan Midfielder, Liverpool

Wataru Endo may seem like a bit of a gimme or a sort of replacement inclusion. However, unlike the midfielder's somewhat emergency Liverpool cover-move – the 30-year-old is more than qualified to be seen as a major aid for Japan's clinching of that record fifth Asian Cup title, particularly as the side's skipper.

Part of the squad that lost out to Qatar in 2019's Asian Cup final, Endo has all the tools as a midfield battler and captain to spur Japan on to historic greatness. At Endo's former club, VFB Stuttgart, sporting director Sven Mislintat summed up the consummate pro's sheer influence in 2021.

"As a player and as a person, he’s simply incredibly valuable. He’s one of these anchors, a focal point in our system. Whether he plays as a centre-back or as a defensive midfielder, it’s good that he’s there and performs.”

2 Kim Min-jae – South Korea Defender, Bayern Munich

Rapid ascents have been commonplace in this piece thus far with brilliant youngsters aplenty. However, the theme can continue with senior pros. 26-year-old Kim Min-jae has gone from the depths of the South Korean third division to Europe in just six years, and continues to push his boundaries at Bayern Munich.

Kim's quality is demonstrated by perhaps just how brief his stints at (especially European) clubs have been so far as managers wrestle for the 6 foot 3 unit's signature. Now settled at Bayern after Fenerbahce and league-winning Napoli, Kim can no doubt bring South Korea back to the top of the pile. South Korea haven't won the Asian Cup since way back in 1960. Napoli hadn't won a Serie A title for 33 years before prime Kim's impact…

In that title-winning term, Napoli conceded just 28 goals with Kim largely responsible. Given the aforementioned talent in midfield and his teammate below, the 'monster' (as nicknamed early in his career) could yet inspire his nation from defence.

1 Son Heung-min – South Korea Forward, Tottenham Hotspur

Completing this feature, as well as our core of South Koreans, comes Spurs' Son Heung-min. For 31-year-old Son, the importance of a solid Asian Cup run and just how long it's been since victory won't likely be lost on him.

Now undertaking the role of captain, the predominantly positive attacker has evolved into a new figure at club level and for his country – particularly with the former's departure of Harry Kane. Son's stat sheet is quite something while trying to demonstrate his box-office quality. With amazing goals (such as the one featured below), the Korean's consistency has been debatably wasted by trophy-shy Tottenham.

In the white half of north London, Son has netted a jaw-dropping 157 goals in 393 all-competition games, with 85 assists to boot. For his country, Son has a little way to go if he's to beat the legendary Cha Bum-kun's scoring record of 58 goals. Son needs 18 more goals, and although not at all likely he could do it in this one tournament alone – goals, creation and success could be an extra motivation for Tottenham's star.

Widely considered to be his nation's finest modern export, Son's quality has been matched by those around him and now South Korea could grab a first AFC trophy since 1960's win on home soil.

MatériaMais Notícias

Depois de três semanas difíceis, com vários surtos coletivos de Covid-19, o Corinthians tem praticamente todos os jogadores contaminados pelo novo coronavírus de volta. Apenas o volante Roni segue em isolamento.

>> Confira a tabela do Paulistão e simule os próximos jogos

continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasCorinthiansReapresentação do Corinthians conta com retorno de Mosquito e Léo NatelCorinthians21/03/2021CorinthiansGoleada sobre a ‘La U’ garante terceiro lugar ao Corinthians na Libertadores FemininaCorinthians21/03/2021CorinthiansMeia do Corinthians tem casa roubada em São Paulo: ‘Muita raiva e impotência’Corinthians21/03/2021

O primeiro dos 15 casos registrados em março afetou uma leva de oito jogadores, na véspera do clássico contra o Palmeiras, no dia 3 de março, pela segunda rodada do Paulistão, na Neo Química Arena.

Contudo, no mesmo dia do Dérbi, o meia Camacho amanheceu com sintomas, mesmo o seu teste resultando negativamente para doença no dia anterior. Dois dias depois, em 5 de março, o Timão divulgou que um novo exame realizado com o jogador detectou a doença.

Contudo, no dia seguinte, véspera do confronto diante da Ponte Preta, pela terceira rodada do Estadual, quatro novos casos foram confirmados, totalizando 13 jogadores infectados.

Na terceira semana de março, os primeiros jogadores contaminados com a Covid começaram a voltar, mas dois outros foram infectados, entre eles Roni, que segue em isolamento.

Agora, 14 entre os 15 já estão disponíveis para as atividades comandadas pelo técnico Vagner Mancini, a maioria deles já foram relacionados e até entraram em campo nos compromissos mais recentes do Timão, contra São Caetano, pela quarta rodada do Campeonato Paulista, no último domingo (14), no estádio Anacleto Campanella, e Salgueiro, em Pernambuco, na quarta-feira (17), pela primeira fase da Copa do Brasil – vitórias por 1 a 0 e 3 a 0, respectivamente.

No entanto, além dos jogadores, o surto de Covid que atingiu o time do Parque São Jorge também respingou em integrantes da comissão técnica, membros da diretoria e funcionários. Os nomes desses não foram divulgados pelo clube, tampouco os retornos, mas as inúmeras ausências fizeram com que profissionais se desdobrassem durante duas semanas, entre eles o técnico Vagner Mancini e o presidente Duílio Monteiro Alves.

Para conter o avanço da doença, inclusive, parte dos colaboradores corintianos se mantêm em regime de trabalho remoto, sem sair de casa.

Confira todos os jogadores do elenco profissional do Corinthians contaminados pela Covid-19 em março:
​
– André Luís
– Caíque França
– Cássio
– Camacho
– Cauê
– Fábio Santos
​- Fagner
-Gabriel
​- Guilherme Castellani
– Lucas Piton
– Ramiro
– Raul Gustavo
– Roni
– Ruan Oliveira
– Xavier

continua após a publicidade

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has been handed an injury boost as Micky van de Ven and another player "close in" on returns soon.

Injured Spurs players ruled out of action

Following the returns of Richarlison, Pape Matar Sarr and others recently, Spurs' fortunes appear to be taking a small turn as Postecoglou discovers his best side without some key squad members.

Both James Maddison and van de Ven remain absent after picking up long-term injuries against Chelsea last month, but the Lilywhites did manage to seal their first win without them against Newcastle last weekend.

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ByEmilio Galantini Dec 15, 2023

Their impressive 4-1 victory ended a barren run of four defeats in their previous five Premier League games, but Postecoglou has still publicly told Spurs to sign a centre-back regardless. The north Londoners' squad is paper thin right now, and just one or two injuries could put them back in a very precarious position.

As things stand, van de Ven, Maddison, Manor Solomon, Ivan Perisic, Rodrigo Bentancur, Eric Dier, Ryan Sessegnon and Giovani Lo Celso are unavailable to play right now due to fitness issues.

"Yeah look it’s still a challenge. We’ve still got eight out injured from our first-team squad, all of whom have contributed," said Postecoglou on Spurs injuries.

"Apart from maybe Ash Phillips who hasn’t played a lot. The rest have all contributed so it’s still a bit of a challenge for us. It’s not just the games it affects. It affects training. When we had all the guys fit at the start of the year, the level of our training was a lot higher, we could be a lot more intense with what we do. It’s a bit different now.

"But yeah like you said it was good to get back Pape and Richy last week, and that certainly helped us to freshen up the team. Hopefully between now and the new year when we’ll lose players to international commitments, it’s kind of where we’re going to be for the foreseeable future."

Van de Ven and Sessegnon injury update in boost for Ange

Postecoglou will want a fully fit squad, or at least something fairly close, as soon as possible. Tottenham's hopes of Champions League qualification and possible silverware could well rest on getting the likes of van de Ven back fit and firing for the second half of 2023/2024.

Sharing an update on both the Dutchman and left-back Sessegnon, journalist Wayne Veysey has some pretty good news on when they could come back.

Writing for Football Insider, he claims both van de Ven and Sessegnon are "in line" to return for Spurs next month, with the duo both "most advanced" in their recovery processes from long-term injuries.

The former pulled up with a hamstring problem during Tottenham's 4-1 loss to Chelsea in early November, while the latter has been out since February.

Van de ven and Sessegnon are said to be closing in on returns, and could be fully match fit before the end of January. Postecoglou could use some apt cover behind Destiny Udogie on the left and not have to rely on the right-footed Emerson Royal, with Graeme Souness calling Sessegnon a player of real "quality" when fit and available.

Phil Parkinson will not be joining the Wrexham squad at their latest Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney-funded promotion party in Las Vegas.

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• Back-to-back promotions for Red Dragons
• Returning to Sin City courtesy of co-owners
• Coaches opting for more relaxing break

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Red Dragons are heading back to Sin City after claiming a top-three finish in League Two. They have bounced straight through that division after landing the National League title in record-breaking style last year.

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• Getty/Ryanbarnett Instagram
  

  WHAT PARKINSON SAID

  Hollywood co-owners Reynolds and McElhenney recognised that triumph with an all-expenses-paid trip to Nevada, and a similar trip has been put in place for 2024. Quizzed on whether he will form part of the travelling party, Parkinson has said: “It felt like a once in a lifetime opportunity last year but they are off again! It is a nice reward for promotion. Their job has been done and they are looking forward to three or four days in Vegas, and who can blame them.”

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Parkinson has revealed where he will be heading instead, having also opted out of the Vegas shenanigans 12 months ago. He added on a relaxing break in Spain: “I said last year, it is good to let the players have their own time. The staff are going to go away for a few days together like we did last year and we are happy with that. We are very grateful to the owners for sticking to what they said to the lads and also looking after the staff as well.”

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  WHAT NEXT FOR WREXHAM?

  Once everybody has returned from their respective vacations, plans can be put in place for the summer transfer window. Reynolds and McElhenney are expected to make more funds available, while it has been confirmed that Wrexham will be heading back to North America for another pre-season tour.

After smashing Tottenham Hotspur 4-1 and holding Manchester City to a thrilling 4-4 draw, things finally looked on the verge of turning around for Chelsea under Mauricio Pochettino, but a poorly-timed international break and a disastrous 4-1 defeat against Newcastle United has quickly brought their momentum to a crashing halt.

They were the creators of their own downfall against the Magpies in a game that sent Pochettino reminders over just how much work his side still need if they are to reach the Premier League's top four. Yet, still, their transfer tactic seemingly remains the same, with one particular young gem now a target for the London club.

Chelsea transfer news

It's a rare day when Chelsea aren't in the headlines for their transfer activity and the summer window saw the Blues dominate the news, as Pochettino attempted to rebuild the squad at Stamford Bridge. The likes of Mason Mount, Mateo Kovacic and Kai Havertz all left for rival clubs to make room for Nicolas Jackson, Moises Caicedo, Christopher Nkunku and many many more. So far, that transfer tactic has far from worked out with Chelsea struggling once again. Reports suggest that their focus very much remains on recruiting future stars, however.

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ByRoss Kilvington Nov 25, 2023

According to 90Min, Chelsea have made contact with Francesco Camarda's family over a potential move from AC Milan. The 15-year-old made the headlines when he became Serie A's youngest-ever player and AC Milan's youngest-ever player after coming on against Fiorentina. Breaking Paolo Maldini's Milan record, it's no shock that Chelsea are interested in the youngster, who will have the chance to leave the Italian giants until he signs his first professional contract when he turns 16 in March.

The Blues will unsurprisingly face competition for the forward's signature, with reports indicating that Manchester City, Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid all interested in the teenager, who has been promised a huge role at Milan in the future. Camarda is reportedly settled in Milan and likely to put pen to paper on a deal, but he is certainly not short on potential suitors outside of Italy.

Chelsea chasing "great" Camarda

The fact that Francesco Camarda was handed his AC Milan debut at 15-years-old shows just how talented the stirker is. With so much of the season left to come, the Italian may yet receive even more opportunities to impress and edge closer and closer to what would be a historic first goal for the club.

Milan manager Stefano Pioli is certainly a fan of the youngster, saying via 90Min: "Talent has no age, and he has a lot of it. Destiny sometimes creates opportunities for you, we will need to be good at accompanying him in his growth because we are talking about a very young boy. From a character point of view Camarda is very mature, he is ready to give us a hand if needed, in these days he has done very well. I'm sure he'll have a great future."

Chelsea face a battle if they are to pursue Camarda's signature, but it may well be one going all out for in order to secure a player who could become crucial in the next decade or so.

Jasprit Bumrah had Australia’s batsmen, especially the left handers, in all sorts of trouble

ESPNcricinfo staff16-Dec-2018ESPNcricinfo Ltd1.6 Bumrah to Harris, no run, that’s a ripper which angles in towards off stump then straightens to beat the outside edge3.1 Bumrah to Harris, no run, beaten by a cracker! This is an incredible delivery. Around the wicket, angled in it hit the seam and took off, miles past the edge and Pant had to climb high to take it3.4 Bumrah to Harris, no run, beats the edge again! 144kph, good length, angled in, nipping away, he presses forward to defend and it blows by the edge at high speed.7.5 Bumrah to Harris, no run, he gets hit flush on the badge of the helmet! He’s knocked over backwards. He’s OK. he’s bounced back up. What a brute of a ball. Short, lifting, it following him, he ducked late and it hit the helmet flush. It ricocheted away to point9.1 Bumrah to Harris, no run, 140kph beats him again, this pitched on middle and nipped across him, he pushed forward and it swerved past the edge11.1 Bumrah to Harris, no run, 137kph, beats him again! Wow. Shorter length, pitching leg stump, it climbed up and across him as he tried to defend, it flew to Pant11.4 Bumrah to Harris, no run, 142kph, gets a bottom edge that rolls to second. It was a good length outside off, he prodded at it and runs off the bottom of the bat to RahulMarcus Harris takes a tumble after being struck on the helmet by Jasprit Bumrah•Getty Images17.2 Bumrah to Harris, OUT, left alone and he’s bowled! Good length from round the wicket, Harris thought this would shape away (or he just got it badly wrong) lifts the bat out of the line and off stump is clipped17.4 Bumrah to Marsh, no run, don’t think he had a clue there! A full delivery, just outside off, Marsh is shuffling all over the crease, starts to leave, then starts to play, then eventually leaves it alone17.6 Bumrah to Marsh, no run, pads up to this one but it’s too high for lbw, and may have pitched outside leg…a short of a length delivery. Marsh all over the shop23.1 Bumrah to Khawaja, no run, what a ripper, there’s no playing that, good length from round the wicket, leaps as it straightens and beats the outside edge23.5 Bumrah to Khawaja, no run, beats the edge again, Khawaja just pushing away from his body, another one which nips off the seam34.2 Bumrah to Head, no run, 132kph, leaps off a length and beats the edge! Goodness. This is unplayable. Angled in, climbing away. Past the edge34.4 Bumrah to Head, no run, 136kph, another play and miss trying to force square off the back foot, it bounces over the edge and swings after it passes34.6 Bumrah to Head, no run, 139kph another freakish off cutter beats the edge! This hit a crack and shot sharply away from the bat! Wow.36.4 Bumrah to Khawaja, no run, 139kph beats the edge again. Angled in, just nipping away, he’s forced to defend and it nips past the edge once more. Amazing bowling38.6 Bumrah to Head, no run, 140kph, flash and miss away from his body. Back of a length, it nips away, he tries to force off the back foot and it beats the edge and flies through to Pant

Decision made to have trio in “best physical condition” before Australia tour; Siddarth Kaul brought in for Chennai T20I

ESPNcricinfo staff09-Nov-2018

Jasprit Bumrah and Umesh Yadav prepare to bowl during a nets session•Getty Images

Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav and Umesh Yadav have been rested from the third and final T20I of India’s series against West Indies. The decision was taken by the team management on Friday with a view to having the trio “in the best physical condition” ahead of India’s tour of Australia.The selectors added fast bowler Siddarth Kaul to the squad for the third T20I, which will take place in Chennai on Sunday.India have already sealed the series, having won the first two T20Is, after having won the Tests 2-0 and the ODIs 3-1.Bumrah had been rested for the first two ODIs against West Indies too, but played in the last three games of that series. In the two T20Is, he took three wickets and conceded only 47 runs in his eight overs. Umesh played only the first T20I, taking 1 for 36 in four overs, and was part of the XI for the first two ODIs.Kuldeep was rested for the first ODI but played in the next four, as well as both T20Is. He has had rich returns against West Indies, taking nine wickets in the ODIs at an average of 19.88 and an economy rate of 5.37. He took five wickets in the two T20Is while having an economy rate of just 5.62, including a Man-of-the-Match performance in the first game in Kolkata.Kaul has been part of various Indian limited-overs squads, though his international appearances have been limited to three ODIs and two T20Is. He last played for India in the Asia Cup in September, featuring in the match against Afghanistan.Kaul joined Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Khaleel Ahmed as the fast bowlers that Rohit Sharma can choose from for the third T20I. Yuzvendra Chahal, Krunal Pandya, Shahbaz Nadeem and Washington Sundar are the spinners in the squad.India’s squad for third T20IRohit Sharma (capt), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Manish Pandey, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Krunal Pandya, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Shahbaz Nadeem, Siddarth Kaul.