Two chats that secured Stoke City’s second transfer of the summer

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

Ben Gibson revealed that he had candid conversations with his friend Jon Walters while deciding if Stoke City was the right club for him. The centre-back, leaving Norwich City after four years and a successful season finishing in the Championship play-off places, had several offers but wanted a clear picture of what was happening inside Stoke before committing.

Gibson emphasized the importance of the club’s direction over its facilities and history. “I’ve spoken about the magnitude of the club, the unbelievable owners, the facilities, the stadium, but what really matters to me is where are we heading?” he said. He made it clear that if Stoke’s aim was only to replicate last season or settle as a mid-table Championship team, he wouldn’t have signed. Gibson also spoke with head coach Steven Schumacher to ensure everyone at Stoke shared the same vision, noting that aligning with the manager’s style of play was crucial.

Sunderland should look to beat Norwich City to bargain QPR deal: View

06/06/2024 Raymond 0

Sunderland’s potential as serious promotion contenders next season hinges significantly on their performance in the upcoming summer transfer window. Despite enduring a challenging season marked by managerial changes and inconsistency, there remains undeniable potential within their squad. The team flirted with play-off contention for a while but ultimately fell to a disappointing 16th-place finish. Now, the club is in search of a new manager, a process that has taken time but is crucial for their future success. The incoming manager will need to navigate their first transfer window astutely to bolster the squad’s chances. Retaining key talents like Jobe Bellingham and Jack Clarke, who are attracting considerable interest, would be a significant boost.

The squad’s youthful nature suggests that adding experienced players could be vital for their campaign next season. One player Sunderland should closely monitor is Chris Willock, a standout performer in the Championship. Willock, who has been instrumental for QPR, contributing 20 goals and 22 assists over 144 games, appears to be on the move as his contract with the club expires this summer. His skills, versatility, and creativity have been invaluable to QPR, but with his departure seemingly imminent, Sunderland could seize the opportunity for a bargain acquisition.

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.

Leeds United star Charlie Cresswell’s Land Rover smashes into police car outside stadium before team’s must-win semi-final playoff

16/05/2024 Raymond 0

Ahead of Leeds United’s crucial play-off semi-final, a Land Rover belonging to defender Charlie Cresswell collided with a police car outside the club’s stadium, Elland Road. The incident occurred as players were preparing to report for the vital match against Norwich City. Shocking images captured the aftermath, depicting a severely damaged West Yorkshire Police patrol car alongside Cresswell’s Land Rover Defender. The circumstances surrounding the collision, including whether Cresswell was driving the £60,000 vehicle, remain unclear.

49ers are now optimistic they can sell four Leeds United players permanently this summer

11/05/2024 Raymond 0

Leeds United faces a hectic summer ahead, regardless of their success in securing promotion. Their journey begins with the Championship play-off campaign, kicking off with a two-legged semi-final against Norwich City. These playoffs offer a shot at redemption for Leeds, serving as a second opportunity for an immediate return to the Premier League after faltering in their final six matches, missing out on a top-two finish.

Norwich City star makes Leeds United claim as Whites player ‘likely’ to sign deal

07/05/2024 Raymond 0

Leeds United’s imminent playoff campaign following their third-place finish in the Championship has stirred both anticipation and scrutiny. As they gear up to face Norwich City in the semi-finals, the pressure is palpable, with Leeds viewed as favorites but mindful of the unpredictable nature of playoff football. Norwich City’s Jack Stacey has highlighted the weight of expectations on Leeds, providing insight into the mindset of both teams ahead of the crucial encounters. Amidst the playoff fervor, attention also turns to potential squad changes, with Luke Ayling’s looming departure on a free transfer attracting interest from Middlesbrough, setting the stage for potential offseason adjustments at Elland Road.