The January transfer window could be an important one for Newcastle United as they aim to reignite their season.
As it stands, the North-East outfit are staring at relegation as they sit one point from safety after losing eight of their last nine Premier League games.
Manager Rafael Benitez made it clear that he was not entirely happy with the business that was made in the summer, but it remains to be seen how much cash he will receive next month.
According to the Daily Mail, one deal has already been secured and that is the loan capture of Chelsea winger Kenedy.
The publication claims that the Magpies enquired about the 21-year-old in the summer, but were knocked back as Chelsea manager Antonio Conte felt that the youngster was needed at Stamford Bridge.
Now, though, it is believed that the West London outfit are prepared to offload Kenedy, who has made just three appearances in the EFL Cup this season.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Newcastle fans have had their say on the speculation.
The forward scored 74 times in 177 appearances for Crewe Alexandra before joining Norwich City, where he netted 18 goals in 46 matches ahead of a move to West Ham United.
Ashton managed six goals for the Hammers in the second half of the 2005-06 campaign, but his best scoring season for the London club came in 2007-08, when he managed 10 Premier League goals in 31 appearances.
Ashton managed just two more league goals for West Ham, however, before announcing his retirement in 2009 at the age of 26 having failed to recover from a long-term ankle problem.
The striker broke his left ankle whilst training with England in August 2006, which led to several operations.
Ashton tried on a number of occasions to return to full fitness, but ultimately retired from the sport following medial advice.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Ashton is still seen as a popular figure with the West Ham fans, and many were present on social media on Saturday morning to respond to a quote from the former England international where he hailed the club’s supporters.
According to reports in The Telegraph, Southampton face competition from Inter Milan and Sevilla in the race to sign Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge this month.
What’s the word, then?
Well, The Telegraph reported on December 28 that Saints were interested in taking the Reds forward on loan until the end of the season following Virgil van Dijk’s £75m move the other way, although the latest report in The Telegraph suggests that the Merseyside outfit will only consider a permanent £30m deal.
The Telegraph says that Inter and Sevilla are both keen on the 28-year-old, with the latter already having an attempt to sign the England international on loan rebuffed.
The report adds that Sturridge is being tracked by English clubs and wants to leave Anfield because of a lack of opportunities, but his £30m valuation means that he is viewed as a risky addition because of the injury issues he has suffered throughout his career.
How has Sturridge done this season?
As we alluded to previously, the 28-year-old is keen to leave Liverpool having found himself behind Roberto Firmino in the pecking order for the striker role under Jurgen Klopp this term.
The centre-forward has scored three goals and provided a further three assists in 14 appearances in all competitions, but he has laregly had to make do with cameo appearances from the substitutes’ bench and has missed their last nine matches through illness and injury.
Could Southampton still sign him?
Much could depend on their interest in Monaco’s Guido Carrillo, as they may only want to sign one striker this month.
Sturridge’s reported £30m price tag and high wages will certainly put Saints off, but if his value drops significantly or he is made available for loan nearer to the end of January they could make their move.
With 75 goals in 194 Premier League games he has the quality to end their struggles in front of goal, and the south coast outfit may also want a high-profile addition after missing out on Theo Walcott to Everton.
What’s the verdict, then?
Well, it depends on what Liverpool decide to do, but Southampton will know that they will struggle to compete with Inter Milan if it comes down to a straight choice between the two clubs.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Tottenham Hotspur were on the verge of suffering a scare in the FA Cup when they took on League Two side Newport County at Rodney Parade.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side were trailing 1-0 following Padraig Amond’s opener shortly after the half-hour mark.
With eight minutes of normal time left on the clock, Harry Kane stepped up to save Spurs’ blushes by scoring an equaliser.
The striker has been in stunning form this season, netting 30 goals in 30 appearances in all competitions.
The England international, who is one away from scoring 100 Premier League goals, was unable to inspire his team to victory.
Tottenham remain in with a chance of reaching the fifth round as they will welcome Newport to Wembley for a replay.
It was not the most convincing display from the North London outfit, and after the game, former Spurs striker Gary Lineker launched a subtle dig at the club on Twitter.
The BBC pundit’s suggestion that the team would be lost without their star did not go down well with everyone.
West Ham United could receive a big injury boost this weekend amid claims that Marko Arnautovic might be included in the squad.The forward has not played since the Hammers’ 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on January 20 due to a hamstring injury.Arnautovic has been on the list of sidelined players, which also includes Andy Carroll, Manuel Lanzini and Pedro Obiang.Since the attacker’s absence, West Ham have lost two and drawn one in all competitions.The most recent result was a damaging 3-1 loss to Brighton in the Premier League.The pressure is on this weekend as the team face Watford, who will be heading into the clash fresh off their 4-1 thumping over Chelsea.According to West Ham insider ExWHUemployee, David Moyes could receive some good news with the possible return of Arnautovic.
Under manager David Moyes, the Austrian has scored six goals in his last eight outings for the team.
Manchester United are safely through to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup after a comfortable 2-0 win away to Huddersfield Town on Saturday evening.The Red Devils will play Brighton & Hove Albion in the next round after Romelu Lukaku scored a goal in each half to secure victory against the Terriers.After defeat to Newcastle United in the English Premier League last week, it was vital for Jose Mourinho’s side to get back to winning ways ahead of a big week of European action.https://video.footballfancast.com/video-2015/earliest-plwins.mp4Supporters were pleased with the win and delighted to see one of their worst performers at St James’ Park turn his game around to become of their best against Huddersfield.Chris Smalling came under severe criticism for his display against Newcastle but played well to help United keep a clean sheet and progress in the cup.Fans were quick to give him praise, believing he deserves credit for managing to bounce back and lead the defensive line so effectively.They took to Twitter to share their thoughts…
Rangers picked up a vitally important victory against Hearts at Ibrox this afternoon, winning 2-0 thanks to an excellent Jamie Murphy effort and a late Russell Martin strike.
The Light Blues have now moved to within six points of Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, ahead of the Hoops’ huge visit to Pittodrie on Sunday. If Brendan Rodgers’ side don’t get something out of that match against Aberdeen then we may actually have something of a three-way title race on our hands.
Graeme Murty’s team had to battle hard for the three points against the Jam Tarts, who provided a stern test in the first half before eventually succumbing to Rangers’ domination in the second 45 minutes.
The breakthrough came just before the interval when stand-out midfielder Greg Docherty played a classy ball through to Jamie Murphy who had the composure to finish from close range despite pressure from the Hearts defence.
[ad_pod ]
Fans were absolutely delighted with the performance of Docherty, who dominated the midfield in just his second league start for the club, before being replaced late on by Jason Holt.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The former Hamilton player, who signed for Rangers for a reported £600,000, certainly has a bright future and some are already convinced he will be a main man for the Light Blues for years to come.
Supporters took to Twitter to share their thoughts…
Southampton defender Matt Targett put in another impressive display for loan side Fulham in their 3-0 win against Sheffield United at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night, and Saints fans will love what Cottagers supporters are saying about the left-back.
The south coast outfit decided to lend the 22-year-old to the Championship side until the end of the season during the January transfer window as he found himself behind Ryan Bertrand and Sam McQueen in the pecking order at St Mary’s, and he has quickly made a big impression for the west London outfit.
They have won six and drawn two of the eight matches Targett has played for them, and the Whites look set to compete for automatic promotion to the Premier League in the closing stages of the season after a 14-match unbeaten league run has taken them to within five points of the top two.
The Craven Cottage faithful were quick to have their say on the defender’s latest performance via social media, and Southampton supporters will love their comments.
While one said “this guy has changed Fulham”, another labelled him as “a class act who is getting better every game”.
Here is just a selection of the Twitter reaction…
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
John Barnes has backed Newcastle captain Jamaal Lascelles for an England call up.
Former Liverpool and Newcastle winger John Barnes says Lascelles would be a good addition to the England squad, as there aren’t too many centre backs cementing their places.
Lascelles has been in fantastic form this season, even when the Magpies have struggled for results. The Newcastle skipper has only lost by more than a one-goal margin twice all season – away at Manchester City and Liverpool.
His recent performances have drawn even more plaudits, and now Barnes reckons the 24 year-old deserves a chance.
“I think he would be (a good addition to the England squad),” Barnes told ChronicleLive on behalf of Bonus Code Bets.
“He is quick, he is strong and I don’t think there are many England defenders who you would say have really cemented their place in the team, never mind the squad.”
[ad_pod ]
The towering Lascelles registered a remarkable 13 clearances and won nine aerial duels against Southampton on Saturday. Many Newcastle fans have applauded his leadership qualities in the past, but Barnes says he should be in the squad on ability alone.
“Not necessarily for his leadership qualities but because of his ability. Going into an England squad for his England cap – it wont be because of his leadership qualities, he won’t be the captain like he is at Newcastle.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
“He is playing well and I don’t see why he shouldn’t be close to a call at all.”
There is plenty of competition for the defensive places in Gareth Southgate’s squad, which will be announced on Thursday. Still, not many of the candidates have enjoyed better seasons than Lascelles. Burnley’s James Tarkowski is another possible first time call-up.
Newcastle fans, would you like to see Lascelles in the England squad? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below…
Everton should be just about safe in the Premier League relegation battle but that hasn’t stopped the pressure intensifying on Toffees boss Sam Allardyce.
Allardyce had walked away from football when he left Crystal Palace before this season began but was tempted back in when Bill Kenwright came calling after the sacking of Ronald Koeman with the club in danger of relegation.
It was seen as a final chance for the experienced manager to prove that he can make something of a big club with solid resources but he has reverted to type.
His unambitious and dour football has tightened the Toffees up to the extent that they shouldn’t go down but it hasn’t inspired the Goodison Park faithful at all.
They looking for someone else to come in during the summer but it cannot be denied that Everton are still lacking some key players through injury.
We’ve had a look at when the club might expect them back, as per Premier Injuries, so read on…
When was Stekelenburg injured?: He underwent groin surgery in November and is still yet to return.
Potential return date: 31/03/18
Has he been missed?: Jordan Pickford was brought in to be number one goalkeeper, which has meant that the Dutchman has not been sorely missed. The former Sunderland goalkeeper can still improve but he would still be in the team ahead of Stekelenburg if both men were fit.
When was Holgate injured?: He was called into the England Under-21 squad for the forthcoming internationals but pulled out after it was revealed that he required ankle surgery.
Has he been missed?: He would be a big miss for Allardyce if he was out for any length of time. He adds much-needed pace and athleticism to an aging Everton defence and can play at centre-half and right-back. Big Sam wouldn’t want to be without him for too long.
When was Mangala injured?: He picked up a knee injury in the win over Crystal Palace in February.
What the manager said: On February 18, Allardyce said: “That looks like it could be long term.”
Has he been missed?: Mangala was brought in to sure up a leaky Everton rearguard but that hasn’t quite materialised. He looked shaky in his opening games, so in that respect, the Frenchman will not be missed greatly. However, Allardyce will have had big plans for Mangala to tighten up his defence and now will not get the opportunity to see those through.
When was Davies injured?: He has a neck injury but that didn’t stop him starting the last game against Stoke.
Has he been missed?: Davies, much like Holgate, adds energy and verve to this Everton side that is otherwise sorely lacking. He is not the finished article and can sometimes become overrun in matches but he is still important to what Allardyce is trying to do.
When was Gueye injured?: Gueye had to pull out of international duty with Senegal this week.
What the manager said: On March 23, Senegal boss Aliou Cisse said: “Gana had a muscle tear when he came over. I had wanted him to be in my team, but I think he will be out for three weeks.”
Potential return date: 14/04/18
Has he been missed?: With crunch home matches against Manchester City and Liverpool coming up, Gueye is exactly the kind of combative character Allardyce would like to call upon. With Morgan Schneiderlin still dogged by poor form, his importance is further amplified.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
When was Sigurdsson injured?: He picked up a knee injury in the home win over Brighton earlier this month.
Potential return date: 05/05/18
What the manager said: On March 15, when it was put to him that Sigurdsson would be out for the season, Big Sam said: “Someone gave out the wrong statement. It can be less than that.
“Whoever gave that statement out is going to get a b********g today. You cannot predict a length of injury in its entirety because you have people who heal quicker.
“Obviously Gylfi’s recovery time could be shorter than we might expect. Medics and specialists give a conservative view and you try to beat that and try to get Gylfi back as soon as you can.”
Has he been missed?: He has had his teething problems in his first Goodison season but despite that, the Icelandic international is still the most creative influence on this Everton side. He adds assists, goals and quality distribution to a squad that lacks those characteristics.