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 […]
Football legend Dwight Yorke, a former Sunderland and Manchester United forward, believes Sunderland has the momentum needed for a Premier League comeback. Yorke, who ended his career with the Black Cats, praised the team’s progress and the fervent support of their fans, describing the city as “buzzing” when the club performs well. Highlighting the challenges of the Championship, Yorke shared that Sunderland’s recent strides put them in a strong position, saying, “If they can keep building, a return to the Premier League is definitely within reach.”
Tyrick Mitchell has urged Crystal Palace fans to show their best support during the team’s first home match of the season. After a narrow defeat […]
Million Manhoef is eager to return to playing in front of Stoke City fans at the bet365 Stadium, emphasizing the importance of winning individual and team battles to succeed in the Championship. Reflecting on his initial months at the club since his transfer from Vitesse Arnhem, Manhoef acknowledges the steep learning curve and the necessity of hard work and teamwork. “If you win your duels and work hard together, then the football comes out,” he notes.
Manhoef is expected to bring flair and threat on the right wing this season, highlighting the importance of unpredictability and effective runs. As Stoke prepares for their first league match against Coventry City, Manhoef praises new signing Ben Gibson’s leadership and defensive prowess, stating, “He’s a big personality in the team and keeps everyone sharp at the back. That’s something we really needed.”
At 22, Manhoef is excited about the upcoming season and aims to break Stoke’s cycle of bottom-half finishes. He hopes to help the team climb the table, contributing with goals and assists, while also improving as a player. Reflecting on the previous season, he feels confident about the team’s potential. “If we can win the duels every game, I think we can have a great season,” he asserts.
Manhoef has set personal targets for goals and assists, having scored four and set up one in his first 14 appearances. His love for playing at the bet365 Stadium and the energy from the fans motivates him to excel. “When you can hear the fans, it gives you more motivation,” he says, underscoring the importance of fan support for the team’s success.
**Pre-season Hopes:**
Chris Griffin (CG) reflected on his initial hopes before the 2023/24 season began. “The term ‘hopes’ accurately captures my feelings. My primary hope was for promotion or at least reaching the playoffs, although I didn’t think automatic promotion was likely. I was wrong about that.”
Stuart Dawkins (SD) added, “I aimed for stability. With a new coach bringing different ideas, I expected an inconsistent start, hopefully stabilizing into a playoff spot, similar to Southampton’s performance.”
**Key Moments During the Season:**
CG shared his thoughts on pivotal games. “Despite a home loss to Hull in September, I felt optimistic after winning away against Southampton and Norwich. The Southampton match, in particular, was encouraging against a strong side.”
SD expressed his fluctuating confidence. “By March, I expected promotion, but as results fluctuated, I doubted it. The season’s end was unpredictable, with the top four teams alternately failing, making promotion uncertain until it was finally secured.”
**Team Improvements from 2022/23:**
CG noted significant team improvements. “We created and capitalized on more chances, scoring 89 goals. The team maintained fitness and energy throughout games, effectively using the full width of the pitch, especially when Fatawu and Mavididi were established. Despite mixed fan reactions to Maresca’s tactics, the players seemed comfortable, and Hermansen filled the gap left by Schmeichel’s departure as a skilled goalkeeper and shot-stopper.”
SD added, “The team played with a clear plan and strong cohesion, unlike during Rodgers’ final year. They often turned draws into wins and losses into draws, a key trait of a successful team.”
**Season Success Rating:**
CG gave his assessment of the season’s success. “Winning the Championship with 97 points, one more than Ipswich, seven more than Leeds, and ten more than Southampton, earns a 10/10 for me.”
SD concurred, “Finishing top of the league makes it a 10/10. Avoiding financial issues would have improved it, but that was a pre-season challenge.”
Philippe Clement, the Rangers manager, has observed a significant shift in the atmosphere at Ibrox since the initial days of his tenure. According to Clement, cultivating patience can serve as a catalyst to rejuvenate Rangers’ pursuit of trophies. During the recent victory against Livingston, Clement was pleased to witness the Ibrox faithful displaying newfound trust in the team. With Celtic facing a setback at Pittodrie, the pressure was on Rangers to capitalize on the opportunity.
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