All posts by h716a5.icu

Leicester City could save themselves millions of pounds in the transfer market this summer by reintroducing winger Rachid Ghezzal.

The Foxes finished a fabulous 2020/21 on a disappointing note following a final-day defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

An own goal by Kasper Schmeichel was compounded by a Gareth Bale brace to condemn the Midlands outfit to a second consecutive fifth-place finish, missing out on a Champions League qualification spot by a solitary point.

It’s left Brendan Rodgers’ men with work to do in the transfer window over the coming months as the Northern Irish manager looks to bolster his squad in order to finally break into the Premier League’s top four.

However, unlike many of their rivals at the upper echelon of the top-flight table, Leicester don’t have a huge budget to work with when it comes to recruiting new signings.

The current FA Cup holders have built their success off of working smartly in the market, buying young gems with vast amounts of potential before developing their talent and selling them on for huge profits.

Links to highly-rated stars such as Odsonne Edouard, Boubakary Soumare and Nuno Mendes indicate a similar strategy is being targetted by the club’s hierarchy this time around, but talk of a move for Manchester United’s Dan James is indicative of an ulterior motive.

With key forward Harvey Barnes suffering a season-ending injury back in February, Rodgers found himself having to play either attacking midfielder Ajoze Perez or full-back Ricardo Pereira out wide, limiting his side’s attacking ability.

Therefore, the purchase of another winger to add strength in depth in that particular position makes sense but Leicester may already have the perfect solution on their books.

Ghezzal struggled to make an impact upon his arrival at Leicester back in 2018, making just eight league starts and scoring a solitary goal as the Foxes limped to a mid-table finish.

A loan to Fiorentina the following season followed and also failed to produce an upturn in performances from the Algeria international before his fortunes changed in the recently concluded campaign.

The 29-year-old bagged eight league goals and provided an incredible 17 assists for Turkish giants Besiktas as Sergen Yalcin’s men completed a domestic double.

While Ghezzal may not provide the quality to propel Leicester into Europe’s elite cup competition, the money Rodgers can save by reintroducing the tricky wizard would allow him to bring in the calibre of players capable of doing just that.

It’s a strategy that the Foxes should consider, especially given the current financial restraints as it could prove to be the difference next season.

And, in other news…LCFC receive huge boost in their pursuit of “technical” gem, Rodgers will be delighted 

Yuvrav Singh and Jacob Martin combined in a fifth-wicket partnership to lift India `A’ to 235 for eight in their one-day match against South Africa `A’ at the Lenasia Cricket Stadium on Thursday

Peter Robinson18-Apr-2002Yuvrav Singh and Jacob Martin combined in a fifth-wicket partnership to lift India `A’ to 235 for eight in their one-day match against South Africa `A’ at the Lenasia Cricket Stadium on Thursday.Singh made 66 while Martin, who started slowly, made an unbeaten 71 as the pair added 71 in one of only two stands of any substance in the Indian innings.The tourists started badly, faltering against the bounce obtained by Andre Nel as he took three wickets in a fiery opening spell that reduced India to 32 for three inside the ninth over of the innings.Mohammad Kaif (30) then put on 54 for the fourth wicket with Singh before being trapped leg before to bring Martin to the crease.The left-handed Singh was the dominant partner until he tried to hit Gulam Bodi out of the ground and skied a straightforward catch to Justin Ontong.Martin stayed there until the end of the innings with Bodi, Kemp and Nel each picking up a wicket in the closing overs with Nel finishing with four for 34 off nine overs.The match is the first of two one-day games between the two teams. The second match will be played in Benoni on Monday.

According to The Sun, Tottenham are to be offered Raheem Sterling by Manchester City as they attempt to sign Harry Kane.

The Lowdown: Kane wants to leave Spurs

The 27-year-old dropped a bombshell on Spurs in May as he revealed to the club that he wants to leave for pastures new this summer (Sky Sports).

The Citizens have been heavily linked with a move for the England captain (The Guardian), and there have been suggestions there could be a part-exchange offered.

The Latest: City could offer Sterling

It is now being suggested that City could offer Sterling, along with Gabriel Jesus, to Tottenham as a sweetener to capture Kane’s services.

Pep Guardiola is prepared to let both players go as he aims to freshen up his squad following the 1-0 Champions League final defeat to Chelsea.

The Verdict: Interesting deal

Losing Kane will be a hammer blow for Spurs, of that there is no doubt. In 336 games for the club, he has scored 221 goals (Transfermarkt), and he picked up the Premier League Golden Boot for the third time this season (premierleague.com). He is Tottenham’s best player and, quite frankly, he will be all but impossible to replace.

If he does leave, however, Tottenham must secure the best possible deal. While £81m-valued Sterling (Transfermarkt) has not enjoyed his best season, he still managed 15 goals and 12 assists in all competitions. Throughout his career, he has found the back of the net 137 times – he is still only 26 and predominantly plays as a winger.

Along with Jesus, Spurs could be getting themselves two top players with plenty to prove – their potential arrival would more than cushion the blow of Kane’s departure.

In other news, Spurs eye this league-winning manager.

The Western Australian Cricket Association (WACA) is pleased to announce that Western Power will renew its partnership with WA Cricket next season, as the major sponsor of the Western Warriors and of the Western Power regional junior cricket program

Western Australian Cricket Association22-May-2002The Western Australian Cricket Association (WACA) is pleased to announce that Western Power will renew its partnership with WA Cricket next season, as the major sponsor of the Western Warriors and of the Western Power regional junior cricket program – Australia’s largest regional junior cricket program.The Western Power – WACA partnership continues for another 12 months the powerful four-year association between two successful, high profile WA-based organisations capable of delivering world class performance.Western Power is the leading electricity provider in WA and the Western Warriors are a dominant force in Australian cricket – having won the domestic first-class competition (Pura Cup) 15 times and the Australian domestic one-day competition (ING Cup) 10 times.Through their sponsorship of the WACA, Western Power has rights to the Western Warriors and naming rights to the regional junior cricket program which benefits tens of thousands of children across regional WA.Western Powers’ sponsorship of the Western Warriors ensures that a WA company continues to support one of the State’s leading ambassadors.WACA Chief Executive Kath White said the WACA was pleased Western Power was continuing its support of State cricket and regional junior development."Western Power has stepped up again to support something that involves the entire WA community, right across the State," said White.Western Power Managing Director David Eiszele said the community partnership with the WACA formed part of the corporation’s commitment to the WA community."The WACA is part of the sporting and cultural fabric of WA.""The Western Warriors have an outstanding record of on field success that makes them proud and consistent competitors.""Our experience of the WACA’s commitment to regional junior development continues to impress us. Our backing of this program complements our role as a prominent service provider to people throughout regional WA."Warriors’ captain Adam Gilchrist echoed the sentiments."Western Power’s support for State cricket is very important especially in country areas at the junior level where kids need to be given every opportunity to grow as individuals and develop their skills," he said.Gilchrist added that having a Western Australian organisation involved was a real positive."All the players feel great pride playing for their State and having Western Power there again to help is really good news."Western Power has been the major Warriors sponsor for the past four seasons and sponsor of the regional junior development program since the 1997/98 season.As well the Western Power – WACA community partnership also allows the State under-17s, 19s and colts to compete at a national level further helping Western Australia to maintain its premier position in the Australian cricket competition.

A new player will win the honour of being the winner of the FICA international player of the year in the 2002 awards when they are announced on July 10

Lynn McConnell28-Jun-2002A new player will win the honour of being the winner of the FICA international player of the year in the 2002 awards when they are announced on July 10.Zimbabwe’s Andy Flower won the PricewaterhouseCoopers-sponsored title last year, the fourth occasion on which it has been presented.Up for the honour this time are: Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka), Sachin Tendulkar (India), Jacques Kallis (South Africa), Adam Gilchrist (Australia), Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka), Matthew Hayden (Australia).The previous winners were: 1998, Steve Waugh (Australia), 1999, Brian Lara (West Indies), 2000 Glenn McGrath (Australia) and Flower last year.The nominees for the International Young Player of the Year are: Virender Sehwag (India), Matthew Hoggard (England), Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) and Ramnaresh Sarwan (West Indies).The FICA Wisden Cricket Monthly Place in History contenders are, the Australian opening pair of Justin Langer and Hayden for their four double-century opening partnerships; Nathan Astle for the fastest double century in Test cricket and Shane Warne who took six for 161 in his 100th Test match.A FICA Slazenger award will be made for International Sheer Instinct.The nominees are: Mark Butcher (England) for his 173 not out against Australia; Waqar Younis for his seven for 36 against England in last year’s NatWest Series; Andrew Flintoff for the close of play victory in an ODI against India, and Waugh for his comeback 100 against England.The nominees for the International team of the year are: the Australian and Sri Lankan Test teams and the Australian One-Day International team.

Celtic’s transfer plans have been left in the dust this summer by the ongoing managerial saga at Parkhead.

The Hoops are on the verge of appointing Ange Postecoglou but it has now been over three months since Neil Lennon vacated his position at Celtic.

On the chalkboard

One player who Postecoglou may not have the privilege of managing next season is Moi Elyounoussi.

The Norwegian was the club’s second top scorer this term on 17 strikes but is heading back to Southampton with a permanent move to Paradise extremely unlikely.

A fee of £5m was touted for his services but it would appear that Celtic are favouring to spend their money on other areas of the squad.

You can hardly blame that point of view when you consider his dismal end to the campaign.

Elyounoussi scored only three goals in his final 16 league outings of the campaign, registering just three assists in that time frame as well.

The replacement

Celtic were interested in signing FC Utrecht forward Gyrano Kerk last year.

A move never materialised but with the Hoops searching for an Elyounoussi alternative in the coming weeks, they should consider reviving their pursuit.

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Kerk was in red hot form for the Eredivisie side this term, scoring nine goals and registering seven assists while playing out wide and through the middle as a central striker.

That’s something Elyounoussi did to good effect while playing for Celtic in 2020/21, operating in tandem with Odsonne Edouard on a regular basis.

Like the Norway international, Kerk is capable of beating the goalkeeper with great regularity. He’s racked up 42 strikes in his 173 outings for Utrecht.

What’s most appealing about the Dutchman is his mazy dribbling ability. No player completed more than his 112 dribbles in the Eredivisie this campaign, performing them at a rate of 3.3 per game.

In replacing Elyounoussi, that statistic is vital. A tricky footed individual, the attacker had the ability to torment defenders at times.

What’s also intriguing about his game is the raw pace he possesses. Voetbal International hailed his finest qualities in expert fashion; “Kerk is a speed demon who always creates danger in the final third. When Kerk is on the moped, there is hardly any defender that can keep up with him.”

That viewpoint was matched by former striker Robin van Persie who was effusive in his praise: “Kerk is a player who basically has everything. He is fast, has vision, is technical and can score.”

Kerk’s value has likely increased after such a fabulous season but it’s worth Celtic enquiring about his ability.

AND in other news, Celtic can find a new Jullien by signing “special” 6ft4 tank, he’s “one of the best”…

West Ham are facing a battle to secure mooted target Chris Wood, according to emerging reports…

What’s the word?

The Mirror claimed that the Irons are one of three Premier League clubs eyeing up a move for the Burnley striker ahead of the summer transfer window, which is set to open on Wednesday.

Aston Villa and Everton are also said to be monitoring his situation, with the latter waiting to see whether their next manager wants to pursue a deal or not.

The Clarets will not want to lose such an integral player, especially as he has two years to run on his current contract at Turf Moor, but every player has his price and it’s thought that Wood is valued in the region of £30m, as per Football Insider.

Moyes’ next Ferguson

Football Insider added that David Moyes is a huge admirer of the 29-year-old because of his physicality, finishing ability and knack for spearheading the attack.

This should come as no surprise, though, as every club the Scotsman has managed has had a player of this calibre – an aggressive and in-your-face target man.

The most famous example is Duncan Ferguson at Goodison Park, where Moyes’ fellow countryman played 108 times across five seasons under him before working alongside him in a coaching capacity.

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Wood has been a prolific goalscorer in the English top flight in recent seasons, hitting double figures in each of his last four campaigns, including a tally of 14 goals in 32 appearances during 2019/20, via Transfermarkt.

Premier League record scorer Alan Shearer knows a thing or two about scoring goals in the big time and he’s a big fan of Wood, too.

“I like him, I like what he does for the team and he is the focal point for them He is very good at occupying two centre-halves,” claimed the former Newcastle and Blackburn talisman, via Lancs Live, before adding: “He can keep hold of it and bring other players into the game. He is horrible to play against and he won’t give defenders a moment’s peace.”

Wood has also been described as a “natural goalscorer” by his former boss Garry Monk, as well as someone who is “frightening” to come up against by old Milwall teammate Scott Malone, so there are plenty of reasons why the 1.91m (6 foot 3) powerhouse could fit Moyes’ eye.

It’s no secret that the 58-year-old will be absolutely desperate for another striker this summer, having lost Sebastian Haller during the January transfer window with no backup in sight.

The Irons cannot afford to go into the new season with just Michail Antonio as a centre-forward option, so the vastly experienced 56-cap New Zealand international could well be a shrewd piece of business if West Ham pull it off.

GSB must look to sanction this deal as Moyes may well unearth his next Duncan Ferguson at the London Stadium.

AND in other news, Hammers suffer BLOW in pursuit of “incredible” 30-goal target, Moyes will be fuming…

Gloucestershire have given a new two-year contract to their director of cricket John Bracewell

Stephen Lamb23-Jul-2002Gloucestershire have given a new two-year contract to their director of cricket John Bracewell.Gloucestershire have had mixed fortunes this season; they are currently second from bottom in the Second Division of the Frizzell County Championship, but lead Division Two of the Norwich Union League, by eight points over Surrey.Gloucestershire captain Mark Alleyne has also agreed to lead the side for the next two seasons with the aim of extending their Norwich Union success into the County Championship.In a statement the club said: “We have identified a number of areas where it is necessary for us to make improvements and we are in the process of putting these in place.”The matter has been discussed by the management committee who have statedtheir complete support for John Bracewell and Mark Alleyne.”During their time at the club, Gloucestershire have achieved unprecedentedsuccess and are confident that the problems of the past few weeks, while notinsignificant, will be dealt with in an appropriate manner.”Cricket teams can only flourish when the whole squad are working together and we believe that with hard work and sensitive leadership we can achieve this.”Bracewell said: “I’m delighted by the club’s support for me and it means I’ll be able to work on a number of things that I want to.”

Derby County have made no progress with regards to tying Martyn Waghorn down to a new deal, according to a fresh report regarding the striker.

The Lowdown: Waghorn future up in the air

The Rams managed to retain their Championship status by the skin of their teeth last season, staying up on the final day of the campaign.

They have a host of out-of-contract players in their ranks, however, one of whom is Waghorn, who will be allowed to leave at the end of this month.

The 31-year-old has scored 30 goals and registered 13 assists in 123 appearances for Derby, proving to be a key man at Pride Park and being described as ‘absolutely excellent’ by journalist Ryan Conway.

The Latest: Fresh update provided

Now, The Athletic have given an update on Waghorn’s situation, saying the Rams are no closer to persuading the Englishman to sign a new contract.

The update suggests he sees his future lying away from Derby, potentially eyeing up a move elsewhere this summer.

The Verdict: Derby must stand firm

While Waghorn may not necessarily be an irreplaceable figure for Derby, he is still an important player who would certainly be missed.

He weighed in with five goals and four assists in a tough season last time around and he possesses a huge amount of Championship experience, netting 75 times in the competition overall.

At 31, he should still have a few years left in him at the top, so Wayne Rooney needs to do all he can to retain his striker’s services.

In other news, Derby are believed to be in the race to sign an established international player. Find out who it is here. 

Pakistan vice-captain Inzamam-ul-Haq was kicking himself for his unusual dismissal in the game against South Africa Sunday that led to pre-tournament favourites making an early exit from the Morocco Cup

Special Representative21-Aug-2002Pakistan vice-captain Inzamam-ul-Haq was kicking himself for his unusual dismissal in the game against South Africa Sunday that led to pre-tournament favourites making an early exit from the Morocco Cup.”I am bitterly disappointed. That was the worst possible way to get out. It is still hurting me from inside because my dismissal proved to be the turning point in the game,” Inzamam said.Inzamam was out hit wicket for the first time in his 11-year career when he lost his balance and dislodged the bail with his right toe against part-timer Justin Ontong after hitting him for a six.”It was just one of those incidents that one would like to forget as early as possible. But I must admit that it has not been easy to forget it also because Pakistan lost the game and were out of the tournament. As an experienced batsman, you shouldn’t make these silly mistakes. But then that’s part of the game and I hope I don’t make it a habit,” Inzamam said. But he believed he was slowing getting back to his full fitness and hoped to be at his best by the ICC Champions Trophy in Sri Lanka.”I did very little training and practice for this competition because I was recovering from the surgery. Therefore, I was lacking match practice and timing. Now this tournament has helped me to assist myself where I stand and I think I will regain my form by the Champions Trophy,” he said.The 31-year-old admitted that there was pressure on him because he was the most experienced batsman and the team was largely depending on him. But he refused to admit that his form had dipped this year because he had been unable to hold the pressure.”I think I have handled the pressure well in the past and can still manage that. Yes, I didn’t do well in this tournament and let the team down. But I was short of match practice and lacked proper timing. Nevertheless, if you look back at my career, I have always held the innings and the ample example are my runs which I have scored,” he defended himself.”The pressure is to perform consistently as all the competitions that lead to the World Cup are prestigious and vitally important to Pakistan’s chances. I know I have a big role to play and just can’t remain an ordinary player or a liability. Like everyone, I am determined to regain the World Cup for the country because I know that this maybe my last chance,” Inzamam said.players to sign contracts Meanwhile, two Pakistan players have signed contracts with the International Cricket Council (ICC) while the team management hopes that the remaining boys will submit their documents in the next 24 hours.Pakistan manager Yawar Saeed said Imran Nazir and Abdul Razzaq returned the contracts Monday evening.”I don’t see any problems players signing the contracts because no one has come to me for any clarity on any of the clauses. I briefed the players in detail and have also checked with our sponsors. There is no conflict,” Yawar said.Yawar said he had checked the list of the sponsors of the two competitions with the personal contracts of the players. He said his players were absolutely safe.”In fact, I have sent the sponsors names of the cricket bats to the ICC because one of the clauses is that no tobacco is to be promoted. Neither my players have contacts with the tobacco company or any of the rivals of the sponsors of the tournaments,” he said.