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Sunderland needed a fresh start this season after back-to-back relegations. With new owner Stewart Donald and new manager Jack Ross at the helm, Sunderland now look like the good times might be about to return to the club after a torrid last few years.

Sunderland had fought relegation for three years in the Premier League and last year, the club barely put up a fight as they slid to down the table.

This year, however, Sunderland have been brilliant and currently sit third in the table, three points off league leaders Portsmouth, albeit The Black cats do have a game in hand.

Ross has sealed up the club’s terrible defence while also giving Sunderland one of the best attacks in the league, led by academy product Josh Maja.

Maja has been a sensation this season and according to Donald, he is one of three players who have indicated that they would like to stay at the club.

The Breakdown

According to the owner, Lynden Gooch and Denver Hume are also keen to remain at the club. Following a summer where the club lost Joel Asoro while also having the ongoing contract situations of Didier Ndong and Papy Djilobodji, to hear that three young players are keen to remain at the club is great news going forward.

Gooch and Maja especially are going to be crucial in getting the club back into the Championship but also keeping them there. After so many years of negativity, the contract updates show that Sunderland are on the up.

Thoughts Sunderland fans? 

Manchester City are looking strong once again as they saw off Arsenal on the opening weekend of Premier League action with considerable ease.

Pep Guardiola’s men carried on pretty much from where they left off last term, and it looks like the writing is on the wall already in terms of the race for the title.

However, the summer saw City slow down in the transfer market somewhat, and there could well be scope for improving the City squad come the next window, if Guardiola feels the need too.

And one player we here at the Transfer Tavern think would be a superb addition is Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara.

The Spaniard worked with Guardiola at both Barcelona and Munich, and is one of few players in the football world who can genuinely come in and challenge for a place in the City squad.

With David Silva ageing, the Manchester club will no doubt be keeping an eye out for a long term replacement, and Thiago fits the mould perfectly.

Bound to be excited by the idea of working alongside his former manager, Thiago might well relish the chance to move to England after proving himself in Europe already. Classy with the ball at his feet and with a footballing brain only few players possess, the young Spanish star would be a superb addition at the Etihad.

City fans, what do you think? Good signing? Let us know in the comments!

Chelsea’s clash with Manchester City this Saturday represents the most significant contest in the Premier League so far this season, last term’s champions hosting arguably the biggest threat to their title defence.

Indeed, the Citizens have started the campaign in emphatic fashion, scoring 21 goals in six games and dropping just two points to move to the top of the Premier League table.

Accordingly, it’s vital Antonio Conte gets his tactics and squad selection perfect this weekend and as things stand, there’s one notably contentious department – the defence.

David Luiz is still serving a domestic suspension, so Chelsea will be without arguably their most important defender for Saturday’s game.

Which in turn questions whether Gary Cahill should keep his place in the starting line-up after featuring in the 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid in midweek, having been benched for Chelsea’s 4-0 victory over Stoke City last Saturday.

Conte appears to prefer summer signing Antonio Rudiger in the left centre-back slot and Andreas Christensen certainly hasn’t let the Blues down when utilised in the central role.

So, Chelsea fans, considering the experience Luiz’s absence takes away from the backline, would you start the 57-cap England international against City? Let us know by voting below…

Leeds United defender Pontus Jansson has avoided bringing up the reason behind his surprise omission from Garry Monk’s starting lineup.

Eyebrows were raised when the Swedish centre-back was not named in the first XI for Saturday’s Championship game over Brighton.

The 26-year-old has started 28 league games this season, but Liam Cooper was preferred in the centre of defence.

There has not been a clear cut explanation for why Jansson started on the bench, but it did not affect the team too much as they earned a 2-0 triumph at Elland Road.

The defender took to Twitter on Sunday, but he did not mention the fact that he was an unused substitute.

The result has put the Whites on course for possible automatic promotion to the Premier League.

Newcastle United and Brighton occupy the top two spots in the table, but after Leeds overcame the Seagulls and the Magpies were held to a goalless draw by Birmingham, Monk’s side are eight points adrift.

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Talk of choking is hugely unfair. Spurs haven’t been the pace setters in 2015/16 and have actually over achieved massively to even reach the point of being genuine challengers. Mauricio Pochettino has built a side of fresh-faced, fearless footballers and their brand of high-energy football has been a joy to watch.

Depth is the real problem for the Lilywhites. The stats when the players on the periphery of the squad have started don’t make for pretty reading and the lack of goalscoring alternatives when Harry Kane and Dele Alli aren’t available is a concern for any team that is hoping to compete.

The riches of Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal will make this a tough transfer window for any club hoping to move for similar players, yet Spurs have the token of Champions League football to lure the players in.

Spurs have scouted excellently over the past 18 months or so and they will be determined to prove this season is not just a flash in the pan.

So, here are FIVE players that could change it all…

Marko Arnautovic

Although Stoke have spluttered in the second half of this campaign, Marko Arnautovic has been one of the few players who has continued performing.

The Austrian has a reputation for being difficult to manage, but, although he has still had his ups and downs, Hughes seems to have him firing on all cylinders.

Leading the Potters’ goalscoring charts comfortably and showing himself as a versatile left-winger, the man affectionately called ‘Arnie’ should be a top priority for Spurs. Goals from the wings haven’t come as freely as Pochettino may like and the enigmatic ex-Inter star would certainly provide that.

Javier Hernandez

Could the former Manchester United super sub return to the Premier League?

Hernandez would surely not be happy to warm Spurs’ bench, and the side would need to adapt to his style of play, but the Mexican striker would be ideal for the games when Kane needs a rest. Although he does not provide the same sort of back to goal play, Hernandez would give Pochettino a different option that may prove the difference against low block defences.

William Carvalho

Spurs seem to be one of the few top clubs that haven’t been linked with Sporting Lisbon’s powerful defensive midfielder of late.

The fee will be high, but, considering his age, Carvalho would be worth the money. The Sporting man would fit into the current profile of the Spurs squad and provide ideal competition for Eric Dier in the defensive midfield role.

Whilst others at the club can play the shielding position, none have proven themselves to be up to the standards of a title winning team.

Moussa Sissoko

One of the most inconsistent players in Europe, Sissoko is a greatly frustrating figure for the Newcastle fans.

Whether the Magpies stay up or go down, Benitez is likely to want to build a squad of more disciplined players and Sissoko is likely to be one of the first to go. Pochettino, if anyone can, could hone Sissoko’s skill base and his powerful physique, paired with his great engine, would make him perfect for Spurs’ high octane system.

A gamble, sure, but Pochettino would reap huge rewards if Sissoko could find some sort of consistency.

Idrissa Gueye

Not many industrious midfielders have come close to the performances of N’Golo Kante this season, but Gueye’s tireless running and combative play make him a sought after prospect this summer.

Leading the way in the Premier League on both interceptions and tackles per 90 (let’s ignore the superhuman Kante), Gueye has been one of the few positives in Villa’s pathetic campaign. Spurs may need extra defensive midfield bodies in tougher European games and Gueye could easily slot in to replace Dier or Dembele in the midfield.

Sarina Wiegman says it is “a matter of time” before a female coach takes charge of a men’s team in England, but she is not ready to make history yet.

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Article continues below

Article continues below

• Dutch tactician earning plenty of plaudits
• Won European crown & reached World Cup final
• In no rush to walk away from current post

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The highly-regarded Dutch tactician has enjoyed considerable success in charge of her homeland and the England women’s team – leading the Lionesses to Euro 2022 glory and the final of the 2023 World Cup. It has been suggested that she could be lined up to succeed Gareth Southgate as leader of the Three Lions when that role becomes available again.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  No woman has filled a permanent role as coach of a professional men’s team in English football – with Hannah Dingley getting as close as anybody when she became caretaker boss at Forest Green Rovers in July – but the expectation is that the glass ceiling will be shattered at some point in the near future.

• WHAT THEY SAID

  Wiegman has said of knocking down those barriers, and potentially being the one to do so: “In football, it's still the question of can a female coach a male team? I think in every sector females are in higher positions, so that's a little bit strange [it isn't in football]. I think a female can coach a men's team. My thoughts are not there. I am just really happy in the role I work in now and I am really enjoying it. And, as you say, sometimes I think when I see it, it is so personal, also with men in the men's game. I think, how much fun is that? We know Corinne Diacre coached a men's team in France and more females also in Italy coached men. I think it is a matter of time and I think when first one happens it will be really big – but I think then more will follow. When I was a little kid I was not allowed to play football as a girl, but now everyone says, 'Oh why not?' Hopefully in 20 years we say, 'Why did we think females couldn't coach males?' Hopefully that will change quickly.”

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  WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

  Emma Hayes is another to have been mooted as a potential history-maker in the men’s game, but the legendary leader of Chelsea’s successful women’s team is being lined up to take charge of the USWNT following their disastrous showing at the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

MatériaMais Notícias

O Paraná continua ativo na reformulação do elenco e nesta terça-feira sacramentou a saída do atacante Rodrigo Rodrigues, que rescindiu o seu vínculo com o Tricolor

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Contratado para fortalecer o sistema ofensivo, o atleta disputou 11 partidas e não anotou nenhum gol, fato que pesou na decisão da diretoria.

Rodrigo Rodrigues chegou ao time da Vila Capanema após a boa participação que teve no Atlético-GO, quando integrou o time que garantiu o acesso.

Com a saída, o técnico Allan Aal e os diretores buscam opções no mercado para deixar o time mais forte para a disputa da Série B, que começa neste fim de semana.

It's going to be an interesting week!

Now that Jurgen Klopp has stated that Liverpool need a midfielder before the transfer window closes, his scouting department will have provided a list of targets who fit the profile of age, suitability to the playing style, and potential availability.

GOAL have cast our eye across some midfielders, and their numbers, who Liverpool could sign before next Thursday.

Getty ImagesFrenkie de Jong – Barcelona

Now that Manchester United have bought Casemiro and continue to pursue Antony, and Chelsea seem set to go deep for Anthony Gordon, a move for de Jong suddenly doesn't as far fetched as it did last week. An expert passer, who is brilliant at driving the ball forward and excellent at winning it back – Xavi has even deployed him as a centre-back in recent weeks because of this ability.

It is believed a fee of around £72 million could secure a player Barcelona are happy to let go to find their curious rebuild. Liverpool have a good relationship with the club and can offer the Champions League football he craves.

League appearances 2021/22: 32

Pass accuracy: 91%

Dribble success rate: 85%

Total duels won: 63%

Goals: 3

Assists: 3

AdvertisementGetty ImagesJude Bellingham – Borussia Dortmund

Now this is probably a transfer saga for next summer, but there is always a chance that Liverpool could pull the trigger this season. He was recently named in 10-man shortlist for the 2022 Kopa Trophy, the best player under the age of 21 and in March was named NXGN's player of the year.

Bellingham has regularly performed in the big games. When Manchester City visited the Signal Indua Park in 2021, he showed what he was made of with a wonderfully taken goal to put Dortmund in the lead, and he showed his ability to be a leader during his post-match interview after Dortmund lost 4-2 to Rangers. He spoke like a player far beyond his years, and showed he is not scared of letting people know how he feels.

League appearances 2021/22: 32

Pass accuracy: 84%

Dribble success rate: 57%

Total duels won: 51%

Goals: 3

Assists: 8

Getty ImagesMarcelo Brozovic – Inter Milan

The Croatian international is the type of midfielder that would fit the profile on Merseyside, known for his passing, tackling, intelligent running and stamina. He can play at the base of midfield as well as box-to-box and his versatility could be key.

Last term he was named as Serie A midfielder of the season. Brozovic was close to leaving Inter in 2018 before manager at the time Luciano Spalletti chose to play him deeper in a match vs Napoli, a role in which he excelled. Since then he has been a mainstay in the Inter squad, and has performed consistently at an extremely high level.

League appearances 2021/22: 35

Pass accuracy: 93%

Dribble success rate: 76%

Total duels won: 54%

Goals: 2

Assists: 1

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GettyLuka Sucic – Red Bull Salzburg

A relative unknown in terms of name in world football, but a player who no doubt fits the mould of a Liverpool signing. The Croatian international likes to play further forward in the midfield, scoring eight goals in the Austrian Bundesliga last season.

He also impressed in a pre-season friendly between the two sides, testing Adrian with a strike from 20-yards out and showcasing his attacking threat.

League appearances 2021/22: 28

Pass accuracy: 79%

Dribble success rate: 61%

Total duels won: 47%

Goals: 8

Assists: 3

MatériaMais Notícias

O Flamengo foi valente, caiu de pé e tem que sentir orgulhoso da temporada, apesar do vice do Mundial de Clubes, diante do Liverpool. Certamente, o torcedor do clube tem lido tais colocações desde o apito final para Liverpool 1×0. E o consolo não se restringe ao realizado antes da decisão, mas também durante o confronto de alto “nível europeu”, “olhos nos olhos”.

Quando a bola rolou, com menos de um minuto, o Liverpool chegou na frente de Diego Alves. Roberto Firmino isolou. Ali parecia que a discrepância dos centros faria com que o Rubro-Negro chegasse ao Rio com o rabinho entre as pernas e ciente de que a quilometragem para alcançá-los seria elevada.

Porém, o susto passou. Do estádio, era nítido que os jogadores do Liverpool estavam inseguros e longes da zona de conforto. Firmino, por exemplo, pediu duas vezes seguidas para os seus companheiros saírem de trás, pois o Fla conseguia acuar os ingleses jogando “à Flamengo”, como gosta de citar o Mister, com a bola de pé em pé, inclusive com a estratégica participação de Diego Alves, acionando sempre as laterais como desafogo.

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O Flamengo, em momento algum, flertou com a linha baixa e entronização dos contragolpes. Pressionou, foi intenso na marcação alta, inverteu Arrascaeta com Everton Ribeiro, abriu Gerson, posicionou Vitinho… Ou seja, o Mister, apesar de não ter tido êxito, foi “atrevido” e ratificou o seu maior legado no nosso futebol: ser insaciável e possuir repertório tático para superar adversários mais potentes tecnicamente.

– Fomos tão bons quanto eles, fomos uma equipe em termos de sistema tático muito mais atrevida, portanto isso também dá para tiramos algum orgulho do desempenho da equipe do Flamengo – falou Jesus, na coletiva de imprensa.

O Liverpool não teve o seu trio de ataque inspirado, embora Mané e Firmino tenham decidido na prorrogação. Mas até com times mistos em copas locais, é raro ver os Reds como estavam no primeiro tempo: sem válvula de escape e roubar a bola. Ao todo, por exemplo, o Flamengo trocou 77 passes certos a mais (548 a 471, de acordo com o Footstats).

Com essa postura adotada, a mesma se o Flamengo estivesse jogando contra um adversário de meio de tabela no Brasileiro, Jesus teve o seu “atrevimento” atingindo outro patamar. Isso significa que o seu modelo de jogo será uma referência ainda mais significativa quanto a cobranças de torcedores rivais no Brasil em 2020.

Um sarrafo mais alto.

PARTIU FÉRIAS!

Antes de iniciar o planejamento para 2020, Jorge Jesus terá férias de um mês, assim como o seu elenco. A reapresentação será no dia 23 de janeiro e, possivelmente, em Portugal. Ou seja, ares caseiros para Mister se atrever mais.

MS Dhoni may have hinted last week that his long season would end with the Bangladesh ODIs, but India’s limited-overs captain could still find himself in the squad for the short tour of Zimbabwe next month.The national selectors, who will meet in Delhi on Monday afternoon, are unlikely to rest too many regulars for the three ODIs and two T20Is. It is understood that the selectors are also keen on picking the strongest possible India A squad for a home tri-series against Australia A and South Africa A, which begins on July 19 and will overlap with the Zimbabwe tour.With Dhoni having retired from Tests, some of the BCCI hierarchy feels he should be asked to lead in Zimbabwe since it’s a shorter tour than the one in Bangladesh. Moreover, as India are not scheduled to play any limited-overs cricket for four months after the series in Zimbabwe, Dhoni will get ample rest before the build-up for the World Twenty20 starts with the home series against South Africa.While some of the ODI regulars such as Dhoni, Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, Umesh Yadav and Rohit Sharma, who have been on the road for more than seven months, indicated to the board through the team management that they would like to rest, a BCCI insider revealed that a final decision will only be made by the selectors during the meeting.It is still possible, though, that Kohli, Ashwin and Yadav are allowed to skip the Zimbabwe series, while Dhoni and Rohit are asked to stretch for another fortnight. If Dhoni is allowed to rest as well, it would leave Rohit and Suresh Raina as contenders for the captaincy. While Raina has lead second-string India teams in the past, Rohit is being looked at as a potential candidate to groom as captain.Depending on the selectors’ verdict, it will be decided whether fringe players like Robin Uthappa, Varun Aaron and Sanju Samson ply their trade in Harare or in Chennai.It is understood that since the India A tri-series will be Rahul Dravid’s first assignment as coach, the selectors want to give him a strong squad, likely to be led by Cheteshwar Pujara, to take on formidable oppositions. It remains to be seen how the selectors end up striking the balance in composition for both the series.