EFL Cup

Sheffield Wednesday’s Summer Signing Faces Crucial Test: Is a January Exit Already on the Horizon?

21/11/2024 Raymond 0

Charlie McNeill’s future at Sheffield Wednesday is looking increasingly uncertain as the January transfer window approaches. Signed in the summer on a free transfer from Manchester United amid interest from several high-profile clubs, the 21-year-old striker initially impressed with a dream debut, scoring twice in an EFL Cup win over Hull City. However, since then, McNeill has struggled to find a place in the first team, playing just 66 minutes in the competition and being included in only three of the Owls’ 15 Championship matchday squads.

With the team’s other strikers, including Michael Smith and Jamal Lowe, also struggling in front of goal, McNeill’s lack of opportunities is a growing concern. Despite a promising youth career, he has yet to prove himself in senior football, and his lack of game time may push him to seek a loan move in January to get the regular minutes he needs to progress.

Stoke City Poised to Reap Rewards from Brighton’s Bold Transfer Gamble

24/10/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City’s pursuit of Andrew Moran was not a new development this summer. TeamTalk had previously reported that they were leading contenders to secure his loan for the 2023/24 season, despite competition from Blackburn Rovers. However, Blackburn seemed to gain the upper hand, and Moran ended up joining the Ewood Park club in the final week of the transfer window.

During his loan spell at Blackburn, Moran made a strong impression, particularly in the first four months, although his form did decline in the latter half of the season. As a result, it wasn’t surprising that Brighton were willing to allow him to go out on loan again this summer. Multiple Championship clubs showed interest in securing his services, but reports indicated that Stoke and recent rivals Bristol City were leading the chase for the midfielder.

In mid-August, Stoke successfully acquired Moran after he signed a new long-term contract with Brighton. The Potters must be pleased to have convinced the Seagulls that the bet365 Stadium was the ideal environment for him to continue his development. So far, it appears to be a wise decision, as the 21-year-old is settling in well in the Potteries and is likely on the verge of receiving a second senior international call-up soon.

Liverpool ‘join race for Sunderland’s Chris Rigg’

08/02/2024 Raymond 0

Liverpool is reportedly eyeing Sunderland’s rising talent, Chris Rigg, with several top European clubs closely monitoring the midfielder’s progress. The 16-year-old prodigy made his debut for the Black Cats under former manager Tony Mowbray at the age of 15 in December 2022, and has since made ten more appearances for the North-East club. Notably, Rigg etched his name in Sunderland’s history by becoming the youngest-ever goalscorer for the club at just 16 years and 51 days, finding the net in an EFL Cup clash against Crewe Alexandra in August.