Without Messi, the Herons recorded their first loss since July 16, when they fell to Cincinnati in MLS
Now ninth in the East with 42 pointsWill face LA Galaxy next SaturdayLuis Muriel scored a brace for Orlando CityFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Inter Miami’s 4-1 loss to Orlando City in the Florida Derby hit the Herons hard, as they were unable to count on Lionel Messi for a second consecutive match due to injury. Manager Javier Mascherano took the blame after Sunday’s setback at Exploria Stadium.
“The first person responsible is me, and I take full accountability,” he said after the match. “We have a long week ahead to reflect on what happened. As the leader of this group, it hurts to present the image we showed today. This has to be a turning-point match. When we take our foot off the gas, any team can beat us.”
The Argentine was disappointed after the result, as the team played its first MLS match following a strong group stage in the Leagues Cup.
“If we truly want to compete, this is not the way," he said. "There was only one team on the field today. We didn’t play with the intensity these games require. They outplayed us from the first minute to the last. Very hurt, very concerned.”
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Inter Miami missed Messi, as it was a painful defeat for the Herons in the Florida Clásico after being on a roll – they hadn’t lost a match since July 16, when they fell 3-0 to FC Cincinnati in MLS. It also marked their first defeat since Rodrigo de Paul’s arrival and their second straight loss to Orlando City.
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This was the 17th edition of the Florida Derby, and for the second straight time, the victory went to Orlando City, who now have seven wins, five draws, and five losses against Inter Miami.
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR INTER MIAMI?
The Herons face LA Galaxy next Saturday looking to return to winning ways.
da betway： Take out Erling Haaland from the equation, and it’s likely most clubs in European football, Arsenal included, would choose to sign Alexander Isak this summer.
da dobrowin： The Gunners have had a long-vested interest in the Swede, dating back to before he was even a Newcastle player.
Sadly, after a campaign in which the Toon’s star man bagged 27 goals in 42 games, he looks like he’s staying in the north east.
Asking prices from £150m to £200m have been touted, making this move nigh on impossible for anyone, let alone the Gunners.
Liverpool are reportedly at the table too and if Arne Slot’s men were to prise the forward away from Newcastle, it would be a colossal kick in the teeth for Arsenal.
Still, there are alternatives, and alternatives that share similar traits to the Swedish superstar.
The latest on Arsenal's hunt for new attackers
With moves for Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard and Martin Zubimendi set for completion in the not-too-distant future, Andrea Berta and Mikel Arteta are getting a move on with their summer business.
Still, a new forward continues to elude them amid ongoing talks to sign Viktor Gyokeres or Benjamin Sesko.
Arsenal have also been looking at wingers, namely Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa and Crystal Palace’s playmaking sensation, Eberechi Eze.
Well, what if they could find a player with the ability to play on the flanks and through the middle? That fact is certainly true of Ademola Lookman.
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Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
According to Caught Offside, the Gunners are now in active negotiations to sign the Nigerian attacker from Italian outfit Atalanta.
After previous spells in England with Charlton, Everton, and Fulham, Lookman has more than proven himself in Italy and appears to be keen on coming back to the Premier League.
Ademola Lookman for Atalanta
While Arsenal will face competition from Liverpool for his signature, the 27-year-old is said to be valued at around €45m to €50m (£38m – £43m) plus add-ons.
How Ademola Lookman could improve Arsenal
Let’s take you back to the year of 2020 for a moment. Football is being played behind closed doors due to the pandemic and Lookman has just missed one of the worst penalty attempts you will ever see.
A panenka looks great when it comes off, but in this instance, it disgraced and embarrassed a young Lookman.
Since then, the attacker has become “one of the best prospects in Europe”, in the words of former Man City defender-turned pundit Nedum Onuoha.
Why? Well, who could forget the Lookman final, a game where Atalanta won the Europa League in 2024 courtesy of the Nigeria international who scored a stunning hat-trick to seal a 3-0 win over Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen.
It was genuinely one of the best individual performances you will see on a big stage and he’s not slowed down since that moment.
During the 2023/24 campaign, Lookman scored 17 goals and supplied ten assists in all competitions. In 2024/25, he was even better in front of goal, netting 20 and registering seven assists.
Undoubtedly one of the most exciting players in Serie A, his rate of productivity in the final third is captivating, but the player’s versatility is also an enormous plus point. Capable of playing on the flanks, as a striker or behind the leading no.9, that versatile nature should be a big box tick for Arteta.
Such an ability to play in a plethora of positions has led data-led website FBRef to proclaim that Bukayo Saka is the third-most similar winger in Europe to Lookman, while Isak is the third-most similar striker. Not bad indeed. But, what makes them alike? We’ve crunched the numbers.
Lookman vs Isak & Saka: 2024/25 league
Stat (per 90 mins)
Lookman
Isak
Saka
Goals
0.60
0.75
0.31
Assists
0.20
0.20
0.52
Shots
3.24
3.10
3.44
Key passes
2.44
1.34
3.02
Progressive passes
2.98
2.88
3.65
Shot-creating actions
5.41
3.01
6.09
Succesful take-ons
1.48
1.37
2.14
Progressive carries
5.68
2.71
5.00
Stats via FBRef.
Blessed with pace, fleet-footedness and low centre of gravity, Lookman possesses a very similar style on the flanks to Saka and his ability to dart in behind and run the channels can draw comparisons to Isak.
That’s certainly seen in the numbers, where the former Fulham man combines the best of both players here.
He’s more potent than Saka in front of goal per 90 minutes but he creates a similar number of key passes. He’s also very progressive with his actions, only slightly falling behind Arsenal’s number 7 for progressive passes but actually ranking higher for progressive carries.
Like Isak, he completes a similar number of take-ons and they’re almost equal for shots taken as well.
So, if Arsenal are not willing to break the bank to sign someone like Sesko or Gyokeres this summer, Lookman could be the next best thing.
It’s a rare opportunity to find someone who combines the best attributes of two of the best players in the Premier League.
£100m star & the "new Haaland" sign: Arsenal's dream summer
Andrea Berta is in for a big summer at Arsenal; here’s how it could play out.
England collapse after Archie Vaughan’s 60 before Bennie Hansen steadies run chase
ECB Reporters Network22-Jan-2025Daniel Bosman took three wickets in four balls as South Africa Men U19s clinched the Youth ODI series against England Men U19s with a four-wicket win in Stellenbosch.Young Lions captain Archie Vaughan top-scored with 60 but his dismissal prompted a collapse of four wickets in seven balls as the tourists were bowled out for 156.South Africa skipper Bennie Hansen then hit 56, falling just short of guiding his side home, after Tazeem Ali’s three wickets had caused a mid-innings wobble. The hosts steadied to reach the target in 35.1 overs.It was spinner Bosman who turned the game with his three wickets in the 37th over immediately after Vaughan, who had struck six boundaries, was caught off a miscue to the final ball of the previous over from Bandile Mbatha.Bosman’s key over saw Joe Moores bowled attempting a lap sweep before Harry Moore was stumped thanks to sharp hands from Hansen. Bosman then parried a return catch from Eddie Jack and saw it fall to him as he stumbled to the ground.South Africa made a solid start as Adnaan Lagadien and Chad Mason added 49 for the first wicket before Hansen took up the attack with a 46-ball half-century.The Young Lions battled back through Warwickshire spinner Ali, who returned 3 for 51, but the hosts needed only seven more when Hansen edged Alex Green to wicketkeeper Thomas Rew on 57.The two-Youth Test series begins at Coertzenburg Cricket Club in Stellenbosch on 27 January.
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney find themselves in a position where they may have to start paying players to leave Wrexham.
Meteoric rise enjoyed by the Red Dragons
Are now working with a bloated squad
Movement expected before next deadline
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WHAT HAPPENED?
A meteoric rise for the Red Dragons has seen them enjoy a historic run of three successive promotions. Rapid progress has been made on and off the field, meaning that the Welsh outfit are now a Championship club.
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Regular forays into the transfer market have been made in order to ensure that Phil Parkinson has a squad at his disposal that can be competitive across various levels of the EFL. Big money has been invested, with the record books being rewritten.
DID YOU KNOW?
Wrexham do, however, now have a rather bloated squad. They can only register 25 players (excluding those under the age of 21) for the 2025-26 campaign. As things stand, the Red Dragons have 30 senior stars on their books.
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They have eight strikers, the same number of central midfielders – after bringing in the likes of Ryan Hardie, Josh Windass and Lewis O’Brien – along with four left wing-backs. reports that “some on the fringes may have to be paid to leave”. Others may “strike deals on transfer fees to allow the purchasing club to offer wages more on a par with what Wrexham pay”.
Compared to their nearest competitors, this has been a quiet transfer window so far over at the Emirates Stadium for Arsenal.
Did you expect anything less? While Manchester City have spent a shedload on Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Tijjani Reijnders, Manchester United have added Matheus Cunha to their ranks.
Matheus Cunha
Over in Merseyside, Premier League winners Liverpool have already confirmed the arrival of Jeremie Frimpong to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold. Florian Wirtz is also set to arrive from Bayer Leverkusen in a British transfer record £116m fee too.
So, Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta better whack out the cheque book soon with plenty of new recruits needed, particularly in attack.
The latest on Arsenal's transfer plans this summer
Two of the biggest priorities at the Emirates are bolstering the wide positions and signing a brand new centre forward.
Out wide, we’ve seen notable links to the likes of Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo.
Athletic Bilbao'sNicoWilliamscelebrates scoring their third goal
As for the striker position, it’s all about Benjamin Sesko. Arsenal reportedly opened talks regarding a deal for the Slovenian a few weeks ago. Now, according to German reporter Florian Plettenburg, there is a ‘positive’ feeling around the deal, but no agreement is in place yet over a deal that could reach £68m to £85m.
If a deal cannot be done for the RB Leipzig star, then it’s likely Arsenal will aim to conclude a deal for Sporting superstar Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners were interested in the Swede’s services last summer and that interest has remained over the last year. What’s the latest on this one? Well, amid interest from Premier League rivals, Manchester United, it appears as though Gyokeres would prefer the Gunners.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
That’s according to Saturday’s edition of Portuguese newspaper, Record. They suggest that north London and Arsenal is now a ‘dream’ destination for the 27-year-old attacker.
As a result, Record reveals that Man United are ‘no longer an option’ for the Sweden international. That’s despite the fact the Red Devils are now coached by Gyokeres’ previous manager at Sporting, Ruben Amorim.
According to previous reports, Arsenal have already lodged an offer worth £55m, of which £10m are bonuses.
What Viktor Gyokeres could bring to Arsenal
The great debate of the 2025 summer transfer window for Arsenal fans is whether Sesko or Gyokeres would be the better signing.
Well, as far as the raw numbers dictate, it would be the latter. There are few better finishers in the game right now than the Sporting sensation with the Swede scoring a ridiculous haul of 54 goals in 52 games throughout all competitions in 2024/25.
In the league alone, Gyokeres trumped Sesko considerably with the former now being described as “the best striker in Europe” by the Athletic, while former Chelsea defender Mario Melchiot even posed the question: “Is he the best striker in the world right now?”
That question is a tricky one considering the level the big Swede has been playing at, but regardless of that, he’d surely be a sensational signing for Arteta’s attack.
They need goals and in the form of the Sporting star, they would find more of them. But, what qualities could be bring just outside of the goals?
Well, there are echoes of a certain Alexis Sanchez here. While the Chilean was certainly better on technique alone and he boasted better close control with the ball, they do have similar builds and running styles.
Indeed, one of the most notable traits Gyokeres can bring to the game is his bulldog-like style. His slightly stockier frame means he is a “human battering ram” in the words of the Athletic’s Mark Carey.
Outlining what makes him so difficult to deal with, Peter Kisfaludy, who was academy director at Gyokeres’s former Swedish club Brommapojkarna, once said: “He is a box player but he can also drive forward with the ball because he is fast and strong.”
What Arsenal have arguably lacked since the days of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Sanchez up front is pace. Gyokeres would bring that, but like Alexis, he’d also bring the physicality to stand up to the test of rugged Premier League defences.
Alexis Sanchez in English football
Season (club)
Games
Goals
Assists
2014/15 (Arsenal)
52
25
12
2015/16 (AFC)
41
17
10
2016/17 (AFC)
51
30
18
2017/18 (AFC & MUFC)
40
11
9
2018/19 (Man Utd)
27
2
4
Stats via Transfermarkt.
The Chile superstar has a similar bulldog-like approach, described by FourFourTwo as someone who “plays like he hates losing”, hassling defenders and never giving them a moment’s peace.
Ultimately diminutive in size, Sanchez has a compact build like the Swede and his muscular frame, particularly in the upper half of his body, meaning he could drive forward and burst past defenders with the same sort of power we see from Gyokeres.
There are obvious differences, we cannot deny that, but by luring the Sweden international away from Lisbon, Arsenal may finally find a ruthless centre forward with the same level of efficiency, one who’s capable of replicating the South American’s incredible impact at Arsenal.
Can you just imagine Alexis in this current Arteta side? We can only dream.
He's a dream for Rice: Arsenal are about to submit bid for £84m "magician"
The outrageously talented international would be game-changing for Arsenal.
Liverpool have become one of the most interesting sides to follow on the market this summer and appear primed to announce yet another signing at Anfield, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Liverpool not wasting any time on transfers
Jeremie Frimpong became Liverpool’s first signing of the window, and he has been joined by young goalkeeper Armin Pecsi from Puskas Akacemia, though more headline additions are on the way as Arne Slot gets to work.
Florian Wirtz has passed his medical on Friday ahead of a record move to the Reds from Bayer Leverkusen, and Jarell Quansah’s potential move to Germany has set the scene for the arrival of a new central defender.
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehi
Recent reports suggest Liverpool have upped their interest in Crystal Palace central defender Marc Guehi and the Eagles could be compelled to sell the England international, who only has one year left on his deal in South London.
Despite the excitement emanating out of the red half of Merseyside, Mick Brown believes the Reds could entertain selling Andy Robertson, citing the financial incentives involved in a potential switch to Atletico Madrid for the Scotland international.
He stated: “In terms of wages and transfer value, they would make the most back from letting Robertson go. If they get an acceptable offer for him, I think they’ll entertain it.”
Liverpool’s first five Premier League fixtures of the new season
Bournemouth (H)
Anfield
Newcastle United (A)
St James’ Park
Arsenal (H)
Anfield
Burnley (A)
Turf Moor
Everton (H)
Anfield
Admittedly, Liverpool’s Premier League-winning side could form a very different complexion next term. There is a feeling that the dynamic has shifted regarding transfer activity at Anfield, with Slot becoming a ruthless force in his mission to claim further silverware.
In light of this, the Reds are now close to completing another deal for a star who has been edging towards a move to the top-flight holders.
Romano: Liverpool agree deal for Milos Kerkez
According to Romano, sharing the news on Friday lunch time, Liverpool’s negotiations with Bournemouth are complete and Milos Kerkez will now undergo a medical with the Reds.
Kerkez registered two goals and six assists in 41 appearances across all competitions for the Cherries last term as they narrowly missed out on continental qualification.
The Hungarian has been praised by Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola for his improved end product since arriving in the top flight, something which marks him out as the perfect replacement for Robertson, known for bombing down the left flank and whipping in dangerous crosses.
With Robertson potentially on his way out, the 21-year-old appears to be a shrewd replacement that could go on to become a leading light in Liverpool’s side for years to come should the medical go to plan.
Club unmoved by concern over empty stands against Sri Lanka, citing higher demand
ESPNcricinfo staff24-Sep-2024Ticket prices for next year’s Lord’s Test against India have risen once again, despite Marylebone Cricket Club coming in for severe criticism for the cost of entry to this summer’s Test against Sri Lanka.For the first three days of the India Test, which begins on July 10 next year, the cheapest adult tickets on offer are restricted-view seats for £90 each (£20 for under-16s). Those with a clear line of sight are priced between £120-£175 (£40-£50 for under-16s).These prices compare unfavourably with last month’s Test against Sri Lanka, for which the cost of unrestricted views ranged from £115-£140 for adults and £15-£40 for concessions.That Sri Lanka contest concluded on the fourth day, for which just 9,000 tickets (approx one-third capacity) were sold. This was, in part, a reflection of England’s current fast-paced approach to Test cricket, with several recent contests being wrapped up well in advance of the final day.MCC came under further criticism for failing to offer any reduced-entry options until after tea on that fourth day, when the price fell to £15 for adults and £5 for under-16s. By then, however, there were just three Sri Lanka wickets left to fall, and the lack of advance notice further prevented a significant take-up.Related
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Speaking in the aftermath of the Test, England’s stand-in captain Ollie Pope said that the subdued atmosphere had been noted by his team.”It was just like ‘jeez, it seems quiet today’,” he said. “I’m not sure if people expected the game to be done by day four or not. It’s a shame it wasn’t a full house because it was obviously a good day’s play.”Despite Guy Lavender, the chief executive and secretary of MCC, announcing that the club would be conducting a review into its fourth-day pricing policy, there is little concession for fans who hope to attend on that day for next year’s India Test. Under-16s will be admitted for £25, half the cost of the first three days, but tickets with a full view will still cost £90-£150.MCC’s rationale is that India are now the second-biggest draw in the English Test calendar, behind Australia, and the prices reflect the likely demand, which is in line with the policy adopted by other sports. The top-priced tickets for the 2023 Ashes Test were £170, which the club argues represents a below-inflation increase of £5.Lord’s is also due to host the World Test Championship final in June, which is currently on course to be contested between India and Australia, a rematch of the 2023 final at the Kia Oval. Tickets for that match are set between £70-130 for adults and £20-£50 for under-16s.England and India are also due to play a women’s ODI at Lord’s in 2025, for which adult tickets will be available for between £25 and £45. The men’s ODI against South Africa, on the other hand, will cost between £75 and £150.
A deep bond forged by this ludicrous sport culminated in one of the best days it has produced
Vithushan Ehantharajah28-Feb-2023When Neil Wagner finally calls it quits, he should donate his body to science so they can figure out how a human being can spend 17 years contorting and unraveling his torso for bouncer after bouncer and still, at 36, do it just enough to drag his team to such a famous win. That’s probably an oxymoron, mind, given it would require Wagner to give something up.His deciding spell of 3 for 38 came from 9.2 overs into the wind. Perhaps it should have been more than those 57 deliveries (including a wide) when you consider the ones Wagner might have had to bowl again. Not that we should get bogged down in those. Even dragons scorch the earth beyond their foes.New Zealand became the fourth team in the game’s history to win after being asked to follow-on. They beat England by a single run, making them only the second to win by what is literally the barest margin you can get in this format, thanks to a man who just last week had been flayed so harshly you wondered if his time was up.Evidently, though, his time was now. Specifically Tuesday, when New Zealand needed him most. England were 199 for 5 and walking, not running this time to a seventh successful chase for their 11th win in 12 and a first series victory on these shores since 2008. The wait goes on.Related
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On from the Vance Stand End in the 57th over, Wagner struck first with Ben Stokes, who was probably going to win it for England, even on one leg, because that’s kind of his thing. Then he took out Joe Root, who was actually winning it for England with the kind of immaculate poise that makes him a modern day great. Then, with the merest of tickles down the leg side, he took out James Anderson to seal it. And I know you’ll never believe it, but he was surely going to win it for England.Yep. Him. The same 40-year-old Anderson who just a week ago said he “wouldn’t get anything out” of hitting the winning runs in a Test match looked primed to do just that. Wickets are his currency, runs, seemingly, an inconvenience. The No. 11 charged Wagner – charged him! – crunching four through midwicket to reduce the ask to just two.And it was probably about then that this game assumed legendary status. Jack Leach played out a maiden to Tim Southee, and was stood at the non-striker’s end on one off 31 deliveries – more than he faced in the great Headingley 2019 heist – on the cusp of possessing more memorable singles than the New Radicals. It took a sprawling stop from Matt Henry – more on him later – at mid-on to keep New Zealand in front.The start of the 75th over from Wagner was down the leg side, Anderson happy to let it pass him by but irked it was not called a wide (it wasn’t). Next ball, having drilled into the middle of the pitch for an hour, Wagner finally struck gold.The roar when victory was confirmed, Tim Southee’s first as New Zealand skipper, was the kind they should bottle and market alongside the Wilhelm Scream. Very few explosions of glee tell the story of this sport, this format and days like these better: the pull of anxiety before the release, sending you into bedlam like the emotional rubber band you are.
NEIL WAGNER WINS IT FOR NEW ZEALAND! #NZvENG pic.twitter.com/yv1ZI8r3f7
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) February 28, 2023
To say there were no spare seats at the Basin Reserve isn’t technically correct, given all were on their feet long before the 4.06pm finish. But the locals drifted in as day five wore on, free of charge, and by the end were going toe-to-toe with the Barmy Army.They were outnumbered at the start, but any estimates on the working population of Wellington decreased as early as an hour into play. Whether working from the office or working from home, ditch it all and come here.Some parents had pulled their kids out of school to trek down in the hope of something memorable. By the end, kids were turning up in school uniform having taken the decision upon themselves to play hookie. This was an education in itself.England’s resumption of their pursuit of 258 on 48 for 1 had undergone the mother of all collapses. 32 for 4, an unwelcome throwback to an English top-order in complete disarray, even featuring the requisite run out to tip it over the edge into “comical”.Root thought he had guided a ball beyond gully, only for Michael Bracewell to swoop from second slip, gather on the bounce and throw into Tom Blundell to do the rest. Harry Brook was as far away from making his ground as he is from his peers. Though now, courtesy of that diamond duck, he’s a little closer as the average dips to 80.Harry Brook was run out without facing a ball•Associated PressOllie Robinson’s ugly but understandable swipe, Ben Duckett’s footwork-less slash, Ollie Pope’s “Command+C, Command+V” impatience outside off stump were bad enough without some intra-Yorkshire miscommunication. Root said last week Brook won’t shut up about the time he, aged 14, got him out in a net at Headingley. One imagines the youngster will have a new, less jovial nail to hammer.You could link this chase back to making New Zealand follow-on. Not so much the decision to take that option but how things transpired: the lead of 257 eventually accrued, as much as the 215.3 overs in the field split by two nights, the second more restless than the first.The creeping sense of control being ceded as New Zealand began to fancy themselves for the first time this series, thanks to a player-of-the-match sealing 132 from Kane Williamson in the second innings. The grind of simply being out there for all that long and cursing the early conclusion that never came. Tired minds love a mistake.But this could not have come about with mistakes alone. It needed more: skill shotted with that familiar Kiwi cocktail of nous and courage.Knowing England would keep coming at their bowlers after being taken apart at Mount Maunganui and here in the first innings, Southee had an idea. The bowlers could only do so much to keep the batters from advancing, but they could get them to think twice about that by getting Tom Blundell to stand up to the stumps. A tough ask against Wagner, Henry and Southee himself. In truth, there was no real conversation about it: “Straightaway, it was a ‘yes’ from Tom,” said the skipper.It meant that when Root dropped and ran, Blundell was there to assist instead of Bracewell having to throw down the stumps to get rid of Brook. As well as the deciding catch, a 90 in the second innings gave more weight to overall haul of 267 runs at 66.75 and raised him higher as a vital cog in this side going forward.His duties for this series aren’t yet fulfilled, however. It is a Blackcaps tradition dating back to 1998 to celebrate victory at this ground by taking a limousine up to Mount Victoria – Wellington’s highest point – drink champagne and smoke cigars while looking out over the city. As keeper, it’s Blundell’s job to sort the limo. “I’m sure he’s got it under control,” assured Southee, with exactly the kind of confidence Blundell has earned these last 18 months.A more physical example of said bravery came from Henry. Root and Stokes’ partnership, that would eventually end on 121, had reached 58 – the England skipper with just 11 of them as his best mate played the part of accelerator – when Henry suffered a back spasm. Southee had to step in to bowl the final delivery of the 34th over.Matt Henry had to go off after experiencing back soreness•Getty ImagesAs the quickest and possibly most accurate of the seamers, the 31-year-old’s collapse on the field and eventual walk off with the help of New Zealand’s physio did not bode well. Rotating was the name of the game, but with Bracewell being taken apart – notably by Root, who 43 from the 21 balls faced from the offspinner – and Henry’s potential absence was ultimately going to give England the game.After some intense work from the physio in the changing room, Henry spent the lunch interval bowling. Like Blundell, the conversation with Southee was quick. The result? Well, pretty remarkable. Henry ended up putting together an unbroken 10-over spell that allowed just 19 runs and ended up with the dismissal of Stuart Broad, who tried and failed to uppercut beyond third man.The catcher? Wagner, of course. By then he had cramped Stokes for an uncontrolled one-handed swat and then Root for a more controlled and arguably more culpable demise to Bracewell stationed at midwicket for a mistake that did not seem like coming given Root’s previous 112 balls.At 215 for 8, with 43 to win, the script had flipped. Finally, after 11 days of chasing shadows up at the Mount and down at the Well, New Zealand were in charge. In control of their own destiny. But for a valiant Ben Foakes, it would have been theirs sooner.As England’s least expansive batter, his has been an under-appreciated role since the start of last summer. Across the nine matches played, his work behind the stumps has been match-turning. Now in front of them, England needed him to be match-winning.He did it his way: diligently, patiently, almost painfully, yet without doubt. The confusion as he turned down singles when runs were a premium was not for self but rather to ensure Leach was protected at the other end, particularly against Wagner. From the 62nd to the 71st, Foakes ensured Leach only faced two deliveries an over.Slowly, the shots got more expansive. From twos bisecting fielders out in the deep to slapping Wagner back over his head, then pulling him in front of square for back to back boundaries. Then, just as he had got it down to seven, the temptation to go after Southee to rest the nerves further went high and away towards fine leg.Yep, Wagner again. Behind the batter is usually the best place for a bowler to hide and recharge as best they can. Here, though, it was where the action was going to be. And even in the midst of a blood-sweating spell, no-one belonged there more than Wagner.It took until around 6.45pm for Wagner to get his biggest cheer from the English. By then, the crowds had spilled out in the town’s boozers to tell everyone and each other about one of the greatest Test matches there has ever been. Back in the Basin, the Blackcaps had joined the England team to do the same.Initially, the victors joined the game of ‘Pig’: keepy-uppies played in a ring, where the one who messes up gets flicked in the forehead by everyone else in the circle. As Broad bowed his head for his punishment, Wagner came through and gave the 36-year-old’s forehead a thwack that sent both squads into hysterics.
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As time wore on, the circle of footballers got smaller, with groups breaking off for their own conversations in pockets amid cans, bottles and the odd puff of vape smoke.The bangers when these two meet are as common as the hours of that follow. A tour that started with Southee chilling with Stokes and his old mate Brendon McCullum during the warm-up match in Hamilton and ends 20 days later with exactly the same in a field they made their own.Just as McCullum said he knew Southee would ensure New Zealand always push for victory, Southee knew McCullum and Stokes would ask them to follow-on and then go hell-for-leather on the final day in pursuit of any chase big or small.Here we are, then. An unspoken promise between a bond forged by this ludicrous sport has resulted in one of the best days it has produced. It will give New Zealand hope of brighter days to come, and England reassurance their ethos of playing for the people rather than themselves can nourish them even in defeat.The game is as life – about the experiences and memories you make. And this one will carry forward long after we’re all gone.
Manchester City are now interested in a surprise move to sign a £35,000-a-week player from Chelsea, according to a new report.
Man City closing in on three new signings
As they did in January, City are expected to be very busy this summer, as Pep Guardiola eyes several incomings as well as outgoings. City have already announced the signing of Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers. The deal is thought to be worth around £31 million with £5 million in add-ons, after Guardiola identified him as the player to solve their left-back problems.
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And the Blues have also agreed a deal worth £46.3 million with AC Milan to sign midfielder Tijjani Reijnders. The Dutch international underwent his medical on Sunday, and he is now expected to sign a five-year deal before the Club World Cup.
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The final player City are trying to get in before Tuesday’s deadline is Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki. It was claimed last week that discussions have been held over a deal, and they are now close to agreeing a deal for around £35 million. His potential arrival at the Etihad could see him become the man to replace Kevin de Bruyne, who has now departed the Blues.
Man City lining up surprise move to sign £35k-p/w Chelsea ace
While City work on deals to get players in before the start of the Club World Cup, they also have their eyes on players they would like to sign further into the summer transfer window. Now, according to The Telegraph’s Mike McGrath, City are lining up a move to sign goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli from Chelsea.
The Blues want to bolster their goalkeeper options for next season, given that Scott Carson is now leaving the club following the end of his contract. Bettinelli has been identified as a replacement, as City feel his character makes him ideal to be their third-choice keeper.
Leading up to the summer transfer window, there has been a lot of talk about the future of current number one Ederson, who has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. That has yet to progress, but it seems it could be all change in the goalkeeper department at the Etihad Campus.
Marcus Bettinelli’s Premier League record
Apps
7
Goals conceded
20
Clean sheets
0
The 33-year-old, who earns £35,000 a week at Chelsea, has been at Stamford Bridge since July 2021. He joined the club on a free transfer from Fulham, and in those four years, he has played just one game for the Blues, and that came in the FA Cup in the 2021/22 campaign. The goalkeeper is under contract until 2026.
First and foremost, Newcastle United have no pressing concerns relating to finances and the ever-ominous profit and sustainability rules in the Premier League.
Furthermore, technical director Ross Wilson is now settled into his chair in the St. James’ Park offices, and have formed a good early relationship with Eddie Howe as they look to tackle key areas of the squad.
Now is the time for action. It’s been a wobbly start to the season after a summer of upheaval, but United are beginning to show green shoots in their bid to cement themselves as Champions League contenders and a multi-trophy-winning outfit.
Defensive positions are being examined, but with Joelinton’s form lacking in stages this season, Howe wants a new midfielder.
The question on everyone’s lips: Will it be Elliot Anderson?
Newcastle chasing elite midfielder
Howe spoke at the start of October about his desire to bring Anderson back home. The 23-year-old was sold to Nottingham Forest in 2024 and he has since become a top-class midfielder. It was not a happy sale for the Magpies, whose hand was forced by PSR.
Now, United want him back. The problem? Manchester City and Manchester United are also keen, and the Tricky Trees have priced their gem in excess of £100m.
This is a superstar in the making. Already, he is ranking favourably against the likes of Sandro Tonali in the Newcastle midfield; the Italian is widely regarded as one of the best in the Premier League.
If Newcastle are fruitless in their bid to sign Anderson, they could do worse than fall back on Scott McTominay, who was named the Serie A MVP last season after leading Napoli to the Scudetto.
As per Chronicle Live, McTominay is reportedly unsettled in Naples and is considering a return to the Premier League. Newcastle would be right there, offering the Scotland star a chance to take his career to the next level.
Valued at £70m, McTominay, 28, will not be short of suitors in 2026, but sources close to the player suggest that he would be open to moving to Tyneside and working under Howe’s stewardship.
What McTominay would offer Newcastle
It’s a testament to McTominay’s meteoric rise in Italy that had Newcastle signed him from Manchester United, it would have been a move met with indifference.
But now, he is revered as a hero for both club and country, 18th in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings and regarded as a “true superstar of European and world football”, as said by content creator Adam Joseph.
Ole Gunnar Solskjær, his former boss at Old Trafford, also hailed him as a “physical monster” once, and this is why McTominay could be such an interesting Anderson alternative.
He is capable of show-stopping moments, but the Tartan Army hero also has the athleticism and defensive attributes to dovetail right into Howe’s engine room.
His high duel success bespeaks his tenacity, and his eye for goal makes him an intriguing option to place just ahead of Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes, both elegant and combative players with excellent passing ranges, sure to pick out the Napoli star’s surges into the danger area.
Matches (starts)
37 (33)
34 (33)
Goals
2
12
Assists
6
4
Touches*
54.2
43.1
Accurate passes*
28.7 (82%)
22.7 (85%)
Chances created*
1.0
0.8
Dribbles*
1.0
1.1
Ball recoveries*
5.6
4.2
Tackles + interceptions*
2.5
2.0
Duels (won)*
6.5
6.1
Anderson has since raised his level, but McTominay has hardly regressed himself, instrumental in a title-defending Napoli team that trail first-placed AC Milan this season by only a single point.
There is a winning mentality about McTominay that Newcastle need to take their project to the next level, and while the 23-year-old Anderson would be a fantastic addition, this would provide Howe with the instant effect he and his team need.
Newcastle need a new midfielder, and that won’t change. Either of these stars would mark stunning acquisitions.
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