Month: May 2024

Dom Matteo says £5m Leeds man is working ‘the hardest’ in training, yet to see the best of him

26/05/2024 Raymond 0

Dominic Matteo believes Leeds United fans have yet to see the full potential of Ilia Gruev, one of Daniel Farke’s signings, who has been working exceptionally hard in training since arriving at Elland Road. As Leeds prepares to face Southampton at Wembley on Sunday for a place in the Premier League, they must alter their approach after losing both previous encounters this season.

Gruev, who joined in January, has become a key player and is expected to be in the starting lineup. Matteo praises Gruev’s dedication, noting that despite not always being flashy, he excels at the fundamentals and has the potential to contribute more goals. One of the season’s highlights was Gruev’s superb free-kick, which led to a 4-0 victory over Norwich City, showcasing his quick decision-making and ability to perform under pressure.

Transfer news: Sunderland starlet wanted by EFL club ahead of Premier League 2 play-off final

26/05/2024 Raymond 0

On Sunday afternoon, Sunderland’s under-21 team will face Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League 2 play-off final in London, amidst ongoing transfer speculation involving some of their promising talents. Graeme Murty’s squad had a commendable season, securing ten victories and finishing seventh in the league standings, progressing to the play-off final with impressive performances against West Ham and Reading.

Alan Nixon reported that Sunderland’s left-back Oliver Bainbridge is attracting interest from Bradford City, while Halifax is interested in midfielder Caden Kelly on loan for the summer. However, Halifax’s manager, Chris Millington, recently denied any interest in Kelly, emphasizing their focus on developing their own young players.

Sunderland’s recent retained list revealed that Kelly will remain at the Academy of Light next season after the club triggered an option in his contract. Kelly, a former Manchester City player, has been pivotal in Sunderland’s successful under-21 campaign, contributing significantly to their performance as they prepare for the crucial match against Tottenham Hotspur.

If Wouter Burger leaves Stoke City for Spurs, Coventry City could hold ideal replacement: View

26/05/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City is gearing up for the 2024/25 Championship season, determined to improve on their lackluster performance from the previous year. Finishing in 17th place and narrowly avoiding relegation by six points, the team faces significant pressure to climb the standings under the leadership of manager Steven Schumacher, who is entering his first full season at the helm.

With the summer transfer window open and the club’s retained list announced, Stoke is focusing on strengthening key areas of their squad to ensure a successful season ahead. However, the team’s plans might be disrupted as one of their standout players, Wouter Burger, has attracted interest from Premier League clubs. Tottenham Hotspur and Sheffield United are reportedly keen on signing Burger, who joined Stoke just last year on a four-year contract.

Burger’s arrival at Stoke’s bet365 Stadium was unexpected, given his links to higher-tier clubs. Nonetheless, his decision to join the Potters has proven wise. The 23-year-old played 39 Championship games, scoring three goals and providing four assists, becoming a crucial player for Schumacher. Despite his recent arrival, Burger’s leadership qualities shone through, as he captained the team in Josh Laurent’s absence on nine occasions.