But it does leave a big question mark. This is a versatile player, capable of magic out of nothing and is a player that fills two big holes at Leeds – cover for Aaronson, and a set-piece specialist. Why did he go?…
But Newcastle brushed Leeds and Arsenal aside with a £6.5m bid to sign Dyer, and it saw Leeds go into the market the next season and sign Johnson from Derby, and we all know how that went after his move…
Aaronson won five times as many duels as the Dutch striker and completed a higher percentage of his passes, whilst winning three fouls for his side, which suggests that the American – despite a poor showing – still offered more than the Leeds number ten…
Tottenham’s Richarlison is expected to be out until early December. Tottenham secured a dominant 4-1 win over Aston Villa, but it came with injury concerns […]
Saints manager Russell Martin acknowledges the significance of Saturday’s relegation clash at Wolves, emphasizing that “every game is big.” Southampton heads to Molineux after a […]
Nottingham Forest have progressed since shedding some excess players over the summer, yet one former player may now be on the verge of a return […]
**Viktor Johansson Inspires Stoke City’s 2-0 Win Over Blackburn**
Stoke City secured a crucial 2-0 victory at Blackburn Rovers, marking their first away win under head coach Narcis Pelach. Goals from Million Manhoef and Tom Cannon gave the Potters all three points, but it was goalkeeper Viktor Johansson who truly stole the show. The Swedish keeper was in outstanding form, making a series of vital saves that kept Stoke in control. His performance wasn’t just about what he did on the pitch, though. After the final whistle, Johansson’s joyous celebration with the away fans highlighted the bond he’s forming with supporters. His infectious energy and brilliant shot-stopping have made him a fan favourite, and his impact on the team cannot be overstated.
The victory also highlighted Stoke’s growing attacking threat. Cannon continued his fine form with another goal, while Lewis Koumas added dynamism to the attack after being reintroduced to the starting lineup. Despite being without Ben Wilmot due to illness, the Potters looked solid all over the pitch and are beginning to show the signs of a more cohesive, well-rounded team under Pelach. With Johansson in such fine form and key players returning to fitness, Stoke look set to build on this momentum.
As Leicester City prepare to face Manchester United in the Premier League this Sunday, manager Steve Cooper is grappling with three crucial selection decisions that could impact the outcome of the match. After a heavy 5-2 defeat in the Carabao Cup last week, Leicester should be buoyed by the knowledge that they were capable of causing United problems, despite the loss. With Cooper set to name his strongest XI, recent performances—such as the draw with Ipswich—have likely shifted his thinking on some positions.
One of the most debated decisions is who should start at centre-back. Writers Amie Wilson, Josh Holland, and Jordan Blackwell each offer different perspectives. Wilson favors the established pairing of Wout Faes and Jannik Vestergaard, citing their solid partnership last season and Vestergaard’s passing ability as key assets. Holland, while appreciating the Faes-Okoli pairing, argues that Vestergaard’s experience could offer the defensive stability Leicester need, especially against United’s quick counter-attacks. Blackwell, on the other hand, leans towards a faster pairing of Faes and Caleb Okoli, suggesting that pace might be critical to neutralize United’s threat on the break.
Another major dilemma is whether Boubakary Soumare should start in midfield. Soumare has shown glimpses of his potential, particularly in his recent performances, but consistency has been an issue. Wilson is tempted to include him for his strength and dribbling ability, especially given the departure of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, while Holland believes Soumare could add the necessary defensive solidity and drive Leicester need. Blackwell, however, insists that Soumare’s lapses in concentration mean he should start alongside the more disciplined Harry Winks, to provide defensive cover.
Finally, the question of whether Jordan Ayew should start or remain a substitute is dividing opinion. Wilson feels Ayew’s best work comes late in games, when defenders are fatigued, while Holland thinks his recent contributions make him a natural replacement for the struggling Stephy Mavididi. Blackwell, however, argues that Ayew’s qualities are most effective when coming off the bench to exploit tired legs.
With so much at stake, Cooper’s decisions could shape Leicester’s approach to what promises to be a challenging encounter at Old Trafford.
Sheffield Wednesday defender Gabriel Otegbayo admitted he was taken by surprise when he was called up to make his Championship debut against Norwich City on Tuesday night. The 20-year-old centre-back, who has impressed manager Danny Röhl since preseason, was handed a starting role after an injury to Dominic Iorfa. Despite having been at the club for just eight months, Otegbayo rose to the occasion, helping to protect a 2-0 lead and secure a vital three points for the Owls.
“I wasn’t expecting it, but I was ready,” Otegbayo said after the match. “It was a great feeling, and I was buzzing to get onto the pitch. The gaffer and his staff believe in me, and I went on full of confidence knowing I’ve got great lads around me. As long as I did my job, we’d get the three points we were hoping for.” Reflecting on the fast-paced nature of the game, he added, “It was surreal. The game went so quickly, but I’ve been able to soak it in today and hopefully there’s more to come.” With the Steel City derby against Sheffield United on the horizon, Otegbayo is ready to step up again if called upon.
Coventry City manager Mark Robins has provided an update on the injuries of strikers Ellis Simms and Norman Bassette ahead of Saturday’s trip to Sunderland. Both players missed Wednesday night’s 2-1 defeat to Derby County, with Simms sidelined due to a foot injury and Bassette ruled out after suffering an elbow to the head during the previous match against Middlesbrough, leaving him with a stiff neck and a lump.
Robins admitted that the absence of both players was a “big blow” to his side, particularly after their underwhelming performance against Derby. While there’s still no clear timeline for Simms’ return, Robins explained that his recovery would depend on how the striker manages his pain. As for Bassette, Robins is hopeful that his neck injury will improve in time for the weekend, but stressed that they will have to “wait and see.”
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