Friday night’s game between the Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Pirates represented the end of an era.

For years, the in-state rivalry game was lovingly known to some fans as the “P00P game,” because of the message the Phillies broadcast’s scorebug spelled out when the first pitch was thrown and the score was still 0-0.

While eventually a run would be scored and the scorebug would shift from its childishly comedic beginnings, there was always at least one pitch that was thrown while P-0-0-P shown proudly on the screen.

But this year, there is no P00P game, as the Phillies broadcast changed their scorebug heading into the new season. As soon as the change was announced in February, fans knew the end of an era was imminent.

On Friday, the Phillies broadcast put together a touching homage to the fallen scorebug, bringing tears to the eyes of baseball fans around the world.

“Before we continue with this telecast, we have to address what is on everybody’s minds and hearts,” said a somber Tom McCarthy as an orchestra swelled behind him. “July 29, 2022, our beloved scorebug first lit up the screens here with Phillies television. It was more than just a scoreboard—it was a legend, an unforgettable icon. Its name, once met with chuckles, quickly became synonymous with good times and fierce rivalries.”

Thank you for your service, P00P game. You will be missed.

This week has been an eventful one for the Chicago White Sox in ways that have had nothing to do with their play on the field.

On Thursday, Cardinal Robert Prevost—a lifelong fan of the team who attended the 2005 World Series—was elected Pope Leo XIV. Five days later, eight of the team's former players banned in the "Black Sox" scandal were posthumously reinstated from their lifetime suspensions.

The Black Sox scandal is probably the most famous scandal in the history of North American sports—endlessly debated, dissected, revived and handed down from generation to generation. The reinstatement of its principals, accused of throwing the 1919 World Series, is a hugedeal. The problem is that the generation that heard the story from their parents—and mythologized it in all kinds of media—is dying off.

With this in mind, here's a look back at the Black Sox scandal—what caused it, what happened, who the eight men involved were, and how it entered American legend.

What were baseball and the world like when the Black Sox scandal took place?

In the early 20th century, baseball—not unlike gambling—was a vaguely disreputable profession. Salaries were small, and the men who played it, though famous, were overwhelmingly working-class. The appeal of tanking games was considerable. Over a dozen players were banned from baseball before the Black Sox; the Louisville Four and 1916 National League batting champion Hal Chase are among the most notable.

In 1919, baseball and the United States were in transition. World War I and the recent flu pandemic had affected every corner of the country. In a bid to make money as the economy recovered, baseball's leaders expanded the World Series from a best-of-seven to a best-of-nine affair.

Chicago won the American League pennant that year, besting Cleveland by 3.5 games. Its three best players by bWAR were pitcher Eddie Cicotte, outfielder "Shoeless" Joe Jackson and pitcher Lefty Williams—all of whom had helped the team win the World Series two years prior. Its manager was former two-way player Kid Gleason, and its owner was another ex-MLBer in Charlie Comiskey.

How did the scandal unfold?

First baseman Chick Gandil—the scandal's ringleader—met with Boston bookie Sport Sullivan in Sept. 1919, and the two put a plan in place to fix the World Series in exchange for $80,000 (about $1.4 million in April 2025). What happened next is hazy: accounts of Jackson and infielder Buck Weaver's involvement or lack thereof are disputed. The movement of gambling lines, however, was enough to raise alarms with the press even before the Series between the White Sox and Cincinnati Reds began.

Cicotte hit the first batter of Game 1, Reds second baseman Morrie Rath, in the back to indicate the tank was on. Cincinnati went on to win it five games to three, but the story does not end there.

Late in 1920, with Chicago again battling for the pennant (it lagged just behind Cleveland in a tight race), seven of the eight alleged conspirators were suspended by Comiskey himself amid a grand jury inquiry into the previous season's series. The punishments dealt the White Sox's pennant chances a death blow and opened the door for Cleveland to pull away—and eventually win its first title.

The summer of 1921 saw the "Black Sox" tried on nine counts of conspiracy to defraud. The proceedings gripped the nation and raised allegations of major underworld figures' involvement, most famously New York mob boss Arnold Rothstein. The players were eventually acquitted, but that did not stop Kennesaw Mountain Landis—the holder of a new position, "commissioner of baseball," created by the owners—from banning the eight players for life.

Who were the eight banned players and what happened to them?

The scandal touched players of all ability levels, from stars to reserves.

Eddie Cicotte, pitcher

Michigan native who was in his late 30s when he confessed his involvement to a grand jury (which he later recanted). Knuckleballer was one of the best hurlers of the World War I era, a league leader in bWAR ('17), wins ('17 and '19), and ERA ('17). Worked several jobs in the Detroit suburbs and died in 1969.

Happy Felsch, center fielder

Son of German immigrants who came up playing in Milwaukee. Had been enjoying a career year in '20—.338/.384/.540 with 14 home runs and 115 RBIs—when he was suspended. Played unsanctioned ball in the prairie west—Manitoba, Montana and Saskatchewan—and died in 1964.

Chick Gandil, first baseman

Minnesota-born son of Swiss immigrants known for his temperamental personality. A so-so first baseman whose play was in decline when he initiated the fix through his meeting with Sport Sullivan; his best years came with the Washington Senators earlier in the 1910s. Wrote an article discussing his involvement in the scandal for SI in 1956; died in 1970.

Shoeless Joe Jackson, left fielder

The most famous and controversial of all the Black Sox; a South Carolina native with very little formal education. Best years came with Cleveland in the early 1910s, but was still recognizable as (in modern terms) an All-Star-caliber player when he hit .375 in the '19 Series. The first of the Black Sox to die, doing so in 1951 after years spent playing and managing lower-level teams under pseudonyms.

Fred McMullin, third baseman

Kansas native raised in Los Angeles who debuted with the Detroit Tigers in 1914. Fringe player said to have overheard plans to throw the series and demanded to be involved, on pain of his teammates having their plan exposed. Held several jobs in California; died in 1952.

Swede Risberg, shortstop

San Francisco native who was just 24 when he agreed to assist Gandil. Glove-first shortstop slashed just .080/.233/.160 in the World Series. Played some lower-level baseball and died in 1975, when he was noted as the last living Black Sox.

Buck Weaver, third baseman and shortstop

Pennsylvania native who only ever played big-league ball for Chicago. Capable hitter (and one of baseball's most effective bunters) whose ban stemmed from him knowing about the White Sox's scheme and not reporting it. As was the case for Jackson, his potential reinstatement eventually became a cause celebre; he died in Chicago in '56.

Lefty Williams, pitcher

From Missouri; enjoyed a 23-11 career year in 1919 before the World Series. Lost three games in the Series, a record that was tied by George Frazier of the New York Yankees in 1981 but has not been broken. Played in several unsanctioned leagues, mostly in the Western United States; died in 1959.

What was the Black Sox's legacy?

Most immediately, the scandal shook public confidence in baseball and emboldened its owners to bring in the autocratic Landis as judge, jury, executioner and commissioner. Landis served as MLB's commissioner for 25 years, and his name—when not being cited to criticize his slowness on the issue of integration—remains a byword for iron-fisted rule in sports.

The scandal became something of a touchstone for America's Lost Generation—the demographic who, as young adults, had seen much of their spirit broken by World War I. In , narrator Nick Carraway—a veteran of that war, as author F. Scott Fitzgerald was—wonders how a Rothstein-indebted mobster character "could start to play with the faith of 50 million people."

As the 20th century wore on and baseball's history-industrial complex boomed, the scandal was canonized as North American sports' most significant. Two books ensured its immortality. In 1963, Eliot Asinof wrote , a deep dive into the scandal that compellingly argued for Weaver's innocence. In 1982, W.P. Kinsella wrote , a mystical fantasy about a farmer who builds a ballpark in his cornfield so that a ghostly Jackson may play on it. The books were turned into the acclaimed movies and , respectively.

With Jackson (and Cicotte) now candidates for the Hall of Fame, interest in the scandal only figures to grow. In some ways, the chain of events set off in Boston all those years ago has never really ended.

Tottenham are facing a difficult decision over the long-term future of a Spurs player who shone last season under Ange Postecoglou.

Spurs look to extend mini winning run against Nottingham Forest

The Lilywhites travel to the City Ground on Sunday afternoon aiming to extend their recent resurgence against Nottingham Forest in a crucial Premier League encounter.

Thomas Frank’s side have finally discovered momentum after enduring a torrid November without a single league victory.

Consecutive triumphs over Brentford and Slavia Prague have injected fresh confidence into the squad, with Tuesday’s emphatic 3-0 Champions League win particularly impressive, even if it was against weaker opposition.

The comprehensive victory over Prague featured goals from Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons, who both delivered from the spot to extend the club’s remarkable 23-match unbeaten home European run.

Tottenham handed pitiful Solanke injury update with new timeline shared

The Englishman hasn’t featured since Man City in August.

By
Emilio Galantini

4 days ago

Last Saturday’s 2-0 home win against Brentford represented arguably Tottenham’s finest all-round display of the campaign, barring their win at Man City in August, with Frank describing the performance as “very complete.”

Simons has emerged as a catalyst during this revival, chipping in with three goal involvements across his last two appearances.

The £51m summer signing from RB Leipzig finally appears to be justifying his substantial transfer fee, which could actually cost Spurs a whopping £125 million over a seven-year contract when factoring in wages, agent’s fees and add-ons.

Tottenham’s away form provides genuine encouragement heading into their clash with Forest.

Only Arsenal have defeated them on the road this season, and they’ve averaged the joint-most points per match on average away from home too, level with Crystal Palace.

Tottenham could also climb into the top six with a victory against Sean Dyche’s side, provided other results go their way.

Frank will likely select Kudus on the right and either Randal Kolo Muani or Wilson Odobert on the left, with Richarlison up top again.

Kudus is set to play another key role after being Tottenham’s standout attacker this season, making his £55 million price tag seem like a bargain whilst keeping Brennan Johnson glued to the bench recently.

Speaking of the Wales international, there’s actually been an intriguing update on his future this week.

Brennan Johnson could now leave Tottenham in 2026

According to TEAMtalk and journalist Dean Jones, Johnson’s long-term future at Tottenham is now uncertain after failing to fully convince Frank and his coaching staff.

The 24-year-old arrived from Forest in the summer of 2023 for £47.5 million, amassing over a century of appearances with 27 goals and 18 assists across all competitions.

Despite these numbers, and finishing last season as the club’s top scorer, Johnson isn’t an automatic starter in Frank’s plans.

With his contract running until 2028, next summer represents a crucial juncture for Tottenham. The club will need to decide whether to offer Johnson an extension or cash in while his value remains high, particularly as they plan to strengthen across the next two transfer windows.

As a result, Jones reports that Johnson could leave Spurs in 2026.

The forward actually began this current campaign brightly, scoring in his opening two Premier League games, but his form has stalled dramatically since, failing to register any additional goals or assists in the league.

This inconsistency has raised questions about his suitability for Frank’s system moving forward, despite playing a starring role under Postecoglou and scoring that Europa League final winner against Man United.

If Spurs do sign another winger, like RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande, who they’ve reportedly held ‘very advanced talks’ with, Johnson’s place would be under even more threat.

Glenn Hoddle tips 'world-class' Tottenham star to snub new contract offer

He’s their ‘only’ elite player.

By
Emilio Galantini

5 days ago

Amid a dismal 2024/25 campaign, Manchester United appeared to be drifting ever closer to one-man team territory, with Bruno Fernandes again topping the charts for goals and assists, after registering 38 goal involvements in total from his midfield berth.

It is early days, although perhaps there has been a changing of the guard, or a share of the responsibility at the very least, with Bryan Mbreumo arguably the first attack-minded player since Fernandes himself to truly hit the ground running for the Red Devils.

Jadon Sancho never recovered from a delayed start due to an ear infection. Antony’s form swiftly tailed off after scoring on his first three Premier League outings. Rasmus Hojlund took until Boxing Day to net his first league goal for the club.

So many expensive transfer misfires, yet Mbeumo – on the early evidence – looks to be bucking the trend, already notching seven times in just his first 16 games across league and cup.

He hasn’t been perfect, notably failing to register a goal or assist in muted displays against Everton, Crystal Palace and West Ham United, although six league strikes from 15 top-flight appearances certainly makes for good reading.

The 26-year-old – who is soon set to head to AFCON – is already solidifying himself as one of the best signings of modern times at United, but is he actually INEOS’ best deal to date?

How Mbeumo's start compares to previous United signings

So many transfers have backfired in even just the years since Fernandes’ arrival back in January 2020, with forward players proving particularly erratic despite the hundreds of millions that have been invested.

While Mbeumo is only 15 Premier League games into his Old Trafford journey, the hope will be that he can maintain such early, rampant form, with new signings having usually been figured out by this stage.

Take Cristiano Ronaldo, for instance, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer having already been sacked by the time of the 15th league appearance of his second spell, albeit with the Portuguese having scored eight top-flight goals in that time.

In the case of Edinson Cavani, who arrived the year earlier, the Uruguayan hitman had netted five league goals in that time, albeit while having been hampered by fitness issues upon his move to Manchester.

The man who signed in the same summer as Ronaldo, in the form of Sancho, had netted just once in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea under Michael Carrick, while it took the aforementioned Antony until April to add his fourth league goal, following those three early efforts in succession.

Hojlund’s woes have already been made clear, with 2024 arrival, Joshua Zirkzee, scoring three times in his first 15 league outings of last season, albeit while failing to net again until the recent trip to Selhurst Park.

Mbeumo, hopefully, will kick on and continue to light up Old Trafford following his international committments, with INEOS currently being rewarded for their £65m investment.

Bryan Mbeumo

6

1

Joshua Zirkzee

3

1

Rasmus Hojlund

1

0

Mason Mount

1

0

Antony

3

0

Jadon Sancho

1

0

Cristiano Ronaldo (2nd spell)

8

3

Edinson Cavani

5

2

Donny van de Beek

1

1

That being said, he might not actually prove to be the new regime’s best deal of recent times…

Man Utd's best deal yet under INEOS

Mbeumo has been a delight under Ruben Amorim thus far, although considering the nature of his price tag, perhaps that is merely to be expected, not least after the Cameroonian international netted 20 league goals for Brentford last term.

Considering his proven Premier League quality, his stellar impact is perhaps not too surprising, with there likely more a sense of relief at boardroom level that this isn’t merely another costly move that has gone awry.

Mbeumo’s talents, such was his form last season, in particular, were not too difficult to spot, with a range of top-flight rivals having also been chasing his signature over the summer, including Thomas Frank’s Tottenham.

Plucking out a more left-field, relative unknown gem is far more satisfying, with young Ayden Heaven no doubt a contender to emerge as INEOS’ best deal yet – not least in a business sense.

Indeed, while the 19-year-old has made just 11 first-team appearances for his new club in 2025, the early signs are that the Red Devils have snapped up a bargain, after landing the teenager from Arsenal for a fee of just £1m.

That price tag had led to the expectation that Heaven would merely slot into the academy set-up following his January arrival, although it was notable that he was categorised as a first-team player by the club once the move was confirmed.

Last season was cruelly hampered by the injury sustained away at Leicester City, although the England international did show flashes of his quality, namely starring against Real Sociedad in the Europa League.

Previously described by his grassroots football coach Terry Bobie as looking “Paul Pogba-esque” after starting out as a midfielder, the towering left-footer found a natural home for himself at left centre-back under Amorim, leading to club legend Wayne Rooney to dish out praise for him last term.

As for 2025/26, the £1m gem was on the periphery after starting in the horror show at Grimsby, although he returned to action in a central centre-back berth against West Ham United, in the absence of Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt.

That outing was a learning curve, following his eventual withdrawal at half-time, although the 6 foot 4 sensation looked far more comfortable away at Molineux last time out.

As per Sofascore, Heaven completed 100% of his duels, recorded a 100% pass rate and lost the ball just once in that 4-1 victory, looking particularly assured even in what is something of a new role.

It’s also worth noting that he was up against a man who scored 14 Premier League goals last season, in the form of Jorgen Strand Larsen, yet hardly looked troubled, as United cantered to victory in the second half.

The sample size is small considering his limited game time under Amorim to date, although considering he is currently being given the nod ahead of £50m man, Leny Yoro, it certainly highlights just what a talent the Old Trafford side have on their hands.

Having forked out just £1m, it’s hard to see INEOS being able to top such an astute duel, while the ability to poach him from a rival, well, that just makes it all the sweeter.

Amorim's new Mount: INEOS hunting Man Utd deal to sign £150k-p/w "monster"

Manchester United look set to make a move for a new midfielder in the upcoming transfer window.

ByEthan Lamb 3 days ago

Leeds United secured a sensational win in the Premier League on Wednesday night. Daniel Farke’s side beat title challengers Chelsea 3-1 at Elland Road, to pick up a huge three points in their quest for top-flight survival.

The game started in perfect fashion for the West Yorkshire outfit.

Defender Jaka Bijol rose highest from a corner to head home, after making a darting run from the edge of the 18-yard box to the corner of the six-yard box before unleashing his powerful header.

Chelsea did not really threaten despite dominating possession, having 71% across the game. Leeds were able to double their lead on the stroke of half-time, thanks to a sublime effort from Ao Tanaka.

The ball broke to Jayden Bogle on the edge of the box, who laid it off to Tanaka. The midfielder smashed it in from range to put his side 2-0 up.

Enzo Maresca’s men were able to pull a goal back just five minutes after the restart through Pedro Neto. However, Leeds resisted their pressure and managed to get a third goal after a calamitous mistake from Chelsea allowed Dominic Calvert-Lewin to score.

It was a superb win for Leeds, with some standout performances across the pitch.

Leeds’ best players vs. Chelsea

One of the most impressive things about this Leeds victory was how hard everyone worked. That was certainly the case for captain Ethan Ampadu. Playing against his former club, the Welshman was the dominant force in midfield.

His stats from the game reflect how well he performed, both on and off the ball. Ampadu had 54 touches of the ball and had an 86% pass accuracy. He also won six duels and made six ball recoveries.

It was an all-action showing from the Wales international.

Another player who shone for the Whites was right wing-back Bogle. He was a real handful for Chelsea going forward, with his performance earning him an 8/10 rating from Graham Smyth, journalist for the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Smyth praised the fact that he ‘drove Leeds forward’, with the defender a real threat in attack.

That all came to a head with his assist for Tanaka, where he pounced on a loose ball before a Chelsea player could reach it, and quickly found his teammate with a first-time pass.

Ampadu and Bogle played well, but they were arguably outshone by one of their teammates.

Leeds’ best signing since Raphinha

It seemed to be a good night for wing-backs at Elland Road. Bogle was not the only one who stood out, with left wing-back Gabriel Gudmundsson one of the best players in a White shirt against Chelsea.

He enjoyed plenty of success defensively, coming up directly against the electric Estevao, and offered a threat going forward.

Gudmundsson won an exceptional 12 from 19 duels and five from eight tackles, as well as creating two chances.

Touches

55

Ground duels won

12/19

Tackles won

5/8

Ball recoveries

6

Crosses completed

2

Key passes

2

The excellent performance from the Swede was noticed by Smyth, who gave him a 9/10 for his efforts. The journalist praised him for how well he got forward, and credited him for the fact that he ‘got back in to defend and do his bit’.

As far back as September, the left-back was being called “the best” player in the Premier League in his position by journalist James Marshment.

The 26-year-old has made a brilliant start to life at Elland Road, featuring in all 14 of their top-flight games so far, and playing 90 minutes nine times.

There is a case to be made that the defender is Leeds’ best signing since Raphinha. The Brazilian was exceptional for the West Yorkshire side, and really hit the ground running in the Premier League. He managed 15 goals and assists in his first top-flight season.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Well, Gudmundsson is making an equally fast start. To be branded as one of the best players in the league so soon is a testament to how well he has performed.

There haven’t really been any Leeds players who have started this fast, especially on the top-flight since Raphinha, with several of the players they have signed in previous Premier League campaigns now having left the club.

Farke will be desperate for this form to continue, and for Gudmundsson to prove he is one of their best signings since Raphinha.

Better than Calvert-Lewin: 9/10 hero had his best game for Leeds vs Chelsea

This Leeds star shone in their 3-1 win over Chelsea

ByJoe Nuttall Dec 4, 2025

Glasgow Rangers head coach Danny Rohl is only a few weeks away from having the chance to make changes to his playing squad for the first time since he joined the club.

The German boss arrived after the summer transfer window, which was spearheaded by Russell Martin and Kevin Thelwell, which means that he does not have any of his own signings.

Whilst the former Sheffield Wednesday boss will want to make some signings of his own to bolster the squad, Rohl may also want to move some of the current players on in the January transfer window.

The Rangers players who should be let go in January

There are several current first-team duds who should be moved on ahead of the second half of the season because they do not look like key players for the new manager.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Expand Collapse

Clinton Nsiala, for example, is yet to play a single minute of football in the 2025/26 campaign, per Transfermarkt, and has only made the matchday squad on four occasions.

With John Souttar, Derek Cornelius, Nasser Djiga, and Emmanuel Fernandez ahead of him in the pecking order when fit, an exit in January could be the best move for his career.

Rabbi Matondo, per Transfermarkt, is another player who has not played a single minute of action this season and has not made any matchday squads, which suggests that he may be free to find a new club in January if he is not part of the manager’s plans.

Finally, Kieran Dowell should also be moved on in the winter amid reported interest from English Championship side Hull City, who are looking to sign him on loan.

Why Kieran Dowell should never play a minute under Danny Rohl

The English attacking midfielder, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Birmingham, played 384 minutes across six appearances in July and August under Martin and failed to score any goals before picking up an injury.

He was even described as “non-existent” by Heart & Hand content creator David Edgar in the 2-0 win over Panathinaikos in July, as he failed to create a single chance in 75 minutes on the pitch, per Sofascore.

Now back fit, having played for the U19s with Dujon Sterling last month, Dowell has not been involved in a single matchday squad for Rohl, per Sofascore, which suggests that he is not in the manager’s thoughts for the first-team.

With Hull said to be interested in signing him, Rangers appear to have the opportunity to move him on from Ibrox on loan for the second half of the season, before his contract expires in the summer, per Transfermarkt.

The Light Blues would, therefore, be allowing him to leave on a free transfer after his loan spell at Hull ends, which would give the Tigers a chance to assess whether or not they want to sign him permanently ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

On top of having that option, Dowell should also not play a single minute for Rohl between now and January because Lyall Cameron would be a better player to bring in if the manager wants to change his attacking midfielder.

24/25 Premiership

Dowell

Cameron

Appearances

12

33

Goals

0

9

Conversion rate

0%

17%

Key passes per game

0.7

1.6

Big chances created

3

6

Assists

0

5

Stats via Sofascore

The Scottish starlet, as shown in the table above, appears far more likely to make an impact in the Scottish Premiership as an attacking midfielder, after a return of 15 goal contributions last season.

Cameron, however, has been an unused substitute in seven of the last eight games in all competitions, and in all of the last four, per Transfermarkt, which shows how difficult it is to get a place in the team under the German head coach.

Therefore, given how far down the pecking order he is, it is hard to see a situation where Dowell ends up playing any minutes on the pitch for Rangers before he has the chance to join Hull on loan at the start of next month.

This is why the former Norwich City playmaker, who has registered zero goals and one assist in six games this season, should never play for Rohl, and why he should be allowed to leave on loan in January before being released on a free transfer next summer.

Related Bid already submitted: Rangers could sign a "very pacy" Gassama replacement

Rangers could replace Djeidi Gassama on the wing by signing this reported target in the January window.

Posts ByDan Emery 6 days ago

The left-footed flop has only provided two goals and three assists in 38 appearances for Rangers, per Transfermarkt, since his move from the Canaries in 2023, which illustrates how little he has contributed as an attacking force on the pitch in his time at Ibrox.

West Ham United boss Nuno Espírito Santo has been handed an injury update, with one member of his squad not set to return until nearly Christmas.

West Ham prepare for Man United clash after Liverpool defeat

The Hammers travel to Old Trafford on Thursday seeking to make amends following their first defeat since October, but Lucas Paqueta’s suspension after his sending off against Liverpool leaves Nuno with a real selection headache.

West Ham’s 2-0 loss to the Merseysiders on Sunday ended a three-match unbeaten streak, with Paqueta’s bizarre dismissal proving very costly.

Another Brazilian, Luis Guilherme, could make a rare start in his compatriot’s absence, while Crysencio Summerville is also a major doubt to face Man United after missing Liverpool with a calf problem.

Man United, meanwhile, arrive in confident mood after Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount both scored in a 2-1 comeback at Crystal Palace over the weekend.

Matheus Cunha could return after missing recent matches with a head injury, though a place on the bench appears more likely.

On paper, West Ham will be given encouragement by the fact they’ve won four out of their last five meetings against the Red Devils and completed the double over them last season.

Sunderland 3-0 West Ham

West Ham 1-5 Chelsea

Nottingham Forest 0-3 West Ham

West Ham 0-3 Tottenham

West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace

Everton 1-1 West Ham

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Brentford

Leeds 2-1 West Ham

West Ham 3-1 Newcastle

West Ham 3-2 Burnley

Bournemouth 2-2 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Liverpool

However, West Ham rank joint-second in the league for goals conceded from open play with 14, and first for goals conceded from set-pieces with 10 – weaknesses Ruben Amorin will undoubtedly look to exploit.

West Ham set for 'big decision' over selling 'most talented player' with Nuno 'fuming'

It would be a controversial move.

ByEmilio Galantini Dec 2, 2025

Alongside Summerville and Paqueta, another player who’s set to sit out of this one is young defender Ollie Scarles.

The West Ham academy graduate, who’s been out of action since breaking his collarbone against Leeds United, has now returned to no-contact training as he slowly builds his capacity.

Following Nuno’s update, the Portuguese has now been handed a more specific timeline when it comes to the full-back’s return.

West Ham without Ollie Scarles until nearly Christmas

According to Hammers News, West Ham will be without Scarles until nearly Christmas as he continues his gradual comeback.

The Englishman could be back to face Man City on December 20 at the earliest, coming as a slight boost for Nuno given the difficulty of a trip to Eastlands.

However, the tactician might not want to risk him either, considering just how serious Scarles’ injury was and the delicacy of his recovery.

Once the England Under-20 international is back fit and firing, he’ll be a valuable asset, with Nuno starting him in each of his last two appearances before succumbing to injury.

Called West Ham’s ‘most exciting prospect since [Declan] Rice’ by members of the media, Scarles excelled at youth level with three goals and 14 assists in 50 appearances for the Under-18s.

The defender also racked up 13 goal contributions (six goals, seven assists) for the Under-21s, and Scarles has since been handed 19 senior cameos in all competitions for the east Londoners.

West Ham appear to have high hopes for the youngster, who most notably put in the best performance of his career to date in a 1-0 win away to Arsenal back in February.

أعلنت وزارة الشباب والرياضة عن تحويل حادث وفاة السباح الطفل يوسف محمد، لاعب نادي الزهور، إلى النيابة العامة، وذلك بعد متابعة دقيقة للواقعة ومراجعة المعلومات الأولية المتعلقة بها.

ويأتي هذا القرار في إطار حرص الوزارة على ضمان تحقيق شفاف في ملابسات الحادث ومراجعة تطبيق الكود الطبي المعتمد.

وفي سياق متصل، طلبت الوزارة من الاتحاد المصري للسباحة إعداد تقرير عاجل وشامل حول الواقعة، كما أصدر وزير الشباب والرياضة قرارًا بتشكيل لجنة متخصصة تضم ممثلين عن الشؤون القانونية، اللجنة الطبية العليا، الأداء الرياضي والرقابة الداخلية، لمراجعة الإجراءات الطبية والفنية والإدارية المتبعة داخل النادي، والتأكد من الالتزام بالكود الطبي الخاص بالأنشطة الرياضية والمنافسات داخل الأندية ومراكز الشباب.

طالع أيضًا | وزارة الرياضة تحسم الجدل بشأن استقالة مجلس إدارة الزمالك

ويتابع الدكتور أشرف صبحي عن كثب تداعيات هذه الحادثة المؤلمة، مؤكداً أن الوزارة لن تتهاون في اتخاذ كل الإجراءات اللازمة لحفظ حقوق اللاعبين وضمان تطبيق معايير السلامة داخل الأندية ومراكز الشباب، مشدداً على أن سلامة الرياضيين تأتي على رأس أولويات الدولة.

وفي ختام التصريحات، قدّم الدكتور أشرف صبحي، وزير الشباب والرياضة، تعازيه الحارة لأسرة السباح الراحل، داعياً الله أن يتغمده برحمته ويُلهم أهله وذويه الصبر والسلوان.

MatériaMais Notícias

Não são só os vascaínos que estão empolgados com a possível volta de Philippe Coutinho. Diego Souza, ex-jogador do Vasco, também é um dos personagens que está animado com o retorno do “Pequeno Mágico”. Confira no player acima.

continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasVascoNenê sobre retorno de Coutinho ao Vasco: ‘Sensacional’Vasco26/05/2024VascoVasco observa jogadores e estuda reforços para a janela de julho; veja um dos possíveis nomes!Vasco26/05/2024VascoBastidores do Vasco: saiba como foram os primeiros treinos com Álvaro PachecoVasco26/05/2024

➡️ Tudo sobre o Gigante agora no WhatsApp. Siga o nosso canal Lance! Vasco

Até eu estou empolgado. Claro que a gente quer que o Coutinho jogue no Vasco. Todo mundo sabe da qualidade dele. Espero que ele venha. Espero que isso aconteça e ele eleve o patamar da equipe

---

afirmou Diego Souza.

– Muito legal reencontrar amigos. Tudo o que está acontecendo no Rio Grande do Sul é muito triste e a gente poder fazer o que a gente gosta: jogar futebol e poder ajudar as pessoas que precisam de verdade. Fico muito feliz de poder participar – disse o ex-atacante do Vasco após o “Futebol Solidário”.

Philippe Coutinho já está no Brasil. O meia-atacante antecipou as suas férias e aindamarcou presença no casamento do atacante Matheus Cunha. O jogador desembarcou no Rio de Janeiro na sexta-feira (24), no Aeroporto do Galeão.

continua após a publicidade

Tudo sobre

Diego SouzaFutebol NacionalPhilippe CoutinhoVasco

Root’s first ton in Australia anchored an England first innings that at times showed restraint, but was also marked by reckless dismissals

Tristan Lavalette04-Dec-20257:27

‘Root’s century was the defining performance of the day’

After an interminable break between matches, following 48 hours of mayhem in Perth, the Ashes resumed with England producing a rollercoaster batting performance as Joe Root ended his century jinx on Australian soil in the day-night second Test in Brisbane.In the final hour of an absorbing opening day, Root raised his arms aloft under the lights before taking off his helmet to celebrate his 40th Test century and first in Australia.Root finished unbeaten on 135 from 202 balls and anchored an England first innings that at times showed restraint, but was also marked by reckless dismissals. Four batters fell for ducks with England again tormented by pink ball maestro Mitchell Starc, who finished with 6 for 71 to power past Wasim Akram’s record for most Test wickets by a left-arm quick.Related

Starc stands out as the lone ranger with rest of the awesome foursome missing

Mitchell Starc on left-arm wickets record: Wasim still the GOAT

Zak Crawley settles the nerves as he bounces back from Perth pair

Stokes: Bashir remains 'England's No.1 spinner' despite Brisbane omission

Lyon 'absolutely filthy' after being left out of consecutive pink-ball Tests

But after the humiliation of batting just 67.3 across two innings in Perth, England batted the whole day – albeit only 74 overs were bowled – as they posted their first score over 300 in a Test in Australia since January 2018.After skipper Ben Stokes elected to bat on a trademark green Gabba surface, another truncated Test match loomed when England slumped to 5 for 2 after the first 15 balls with Starc dismissing Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope for ducks.But Root combined in a third-wicket century stand with Zak Crawley, who bounced back from a pair with 76 off 93 balls, to lead England’s fightback. The tourists tried to curb their aggressive instincts at times, but appeared to fall short of a par total after losing 5 for 54 under the lights.Just when it appeared Australia’s batters would be forced to face a tough stint before stumps, Root found unlikely support through No.11 Jofra Archer as they clubbed an unbroken 61-run partnership.Australia’s attack tired in the backend as the game took a surprising late twist.Australia fielded an all-out pace attack, but one that did not feature skipper Pat Cummins despite intense speculation he would be a surprise late inclusion.Queensland fast bowler Michael Neser, instead, was a bombshell selection at the expense of frontline spinner Nathan Lyon, who missed just his second home Test since his debut.Stokes had no hesitation to bat under sunny skies after the coin again fell in his favour. Openers Crawley and Duckett walked to the crease under pressure after failing to notch a run as a pair in the first Test.Ollie Pope chopped on in the third over•Gareth Copley/Getty Images

The embattled Crawley had not gotten through the first over in either innings in Perth, where he foolishly drove on the up against Starc.Against his nemesis menacingly armed with the pink ball, Crawley played and missed twice in the first three balls in a nervous start. To his relief, Crawley finally scored his first runs of the series when he pounced on a Starc delivery that missed the length and then pinched a single to ensure he survived the first over.But Starc wasn’t quite done and claimed another first over wicket with a superb delivery that angled into off stump and moved away to remove Duckett for a golden duck.No.3 Pope had somewhat quietened the critics after being arguably England’s best batter in Perth. The pressure might once again intensify after he fell tamely, chopping onto his stumps having shuffled back and across in unconvincing fashion.It meant Root had to face the music incredibly early against Starc who bagged him for single-digit scores in Perth. Root got off the mark first ball before his heart was in his mouth moments later when he edged Starc, but Steven Smith could not complete a blinder of a catch diving low to his left.Starc continued to ramp up his speeds into the mid-140kph, but Crawley showcased exquisite timing to underline the good batting conditions. Crawley was particularly aggressive against Neser, the perennial fringe bowler playing just his third Test match and first since December 2022.Crawley unfurled several extraordinary shots in the first hour, but also had luck on his side. On 15 he survived a big appeal for caught behind from Neser as Australia decided not to review although replays later suggested there was a faint line on snicko.Root looked in command and brought up the 50-run partnership in style with a lovely straight drive to the boundary. While unconvincing at times, Crawley was more respectful against good length bowling and aimed to attack fuller deliveries. His 68-ball half-century was marked by superb straight drives to ensure England’s run rate hovered around 4.5 an over.After the frenetic play in Perth, the first lull in the series ensued just before the 40-minute tea break as England showed the type of restraint many critics have called for. But a restless Crawley had enough and broke the shackles by pummelling a drive back that went through Boland in his return and whistled to the boundary.Mitchell Starc celebrates nicking off Will Jacks•Getty Images

With the pink ball showing little signs of swing, the well-set Crawley and Root looked to kick on in a middle session that appeared ideal for batting.Australia resorted to a short-ball tactic and it almost paid immediate dividends when Brendan Doggett, who took all five wickets on Test debut in Perth with shorter deliveries, had Root gloving just past diving wicketkeeper Alex Carey.Crawley had a century for the taking until under-edging a back-of-a-length delivery from Neser to fall in the 70s for the ninth time in his Test career.What then ensued was another chaotic innings from Harry Brook, who started with his foot down on the pedal as he danced down to Doggett and Neser, with Carey keeping up to the stumps, without fear.Having blasted 16 off 10 balls, Brook then attempted an incredibly risky tumbling-over scoop shot which he missed and was almost stumped as Carey whipped off the bails.The game was in somewhat of a resting pattern before Starc returned to the attack having bowled just eight overs for the day. With the natural light dimming, Starc claimed a wicket on his second ball of his new spell when he had Brook flashing to second slip in a rash stroke to end a maddening knock.Stokes survived against Starc, his long-time tormentor, as he dug in with Root before and after the dinner break as the match took on a different complexion under lights.Runs were hard to come by as England’s run rate fell below four an over in a rarity but they moved into a position of strength at 210 for 4. They let slip of the advantage when Stokes needlessly set off for a single only to be sent back by Root as Josh Inglis swooped in from cover to throw down the stump from side on.It was outstanding fielding from the recalled Inglis, who is Australia’s first-choice wicketkeeper in white-ball cricket. The Leeds-born Inglis has replaced Usman Khawaja who was ruled out with a back injury that flared up during the first Test.The momentum swung Australia’s way with Scott Boland clean bowling Jamie Smith with a delivery that snaked back sharply through the gate. Allrounder Will Jacks, England’s only change after replacing injured quick Mark Wood, looked composed amid the tough conditions and ensured Root inched closer to his elusive century.Starc ended Jacks’ resistance and tore through the lower-order to continue his purple patch. Just when it appeared England would be bowled out or that Stokes might declare, Root and Archer scored invaluable runs to complete a topsy-turvy opening day.Players from both teams wore black armbands in honour of former England batter Robin Smith, who passed away this week in Perth.