All posts by z3u9t.icu

Neil Lennon’s third full season in charge of Hibernian saw the wheels come off in a manner akin to the famous old Jose Mourinho adage. Indeed, while the former Celtic boss is largely regarded as Hibs’ best manager in years, the season hasn’t ever really got going and his current suspension at Easter Road leaves the club in a mess.

Despite their status as one of Scotland’s biggest clubs, Hibs don’t tend to do continuity all too well. No consecutive top-four finishes in over ten years now are largely covered up (at least in an emotional sense) by the famous 2016 Scottish Cup win and it’s vitally important Leann Dempster gets this appointment right.

Lennon’s arrival at Easter Road came after Alan Stubbs who, despite delivering the one trophy so dearly craved by everyone in Leith, ultimately failed in his primary task – taking the club back into the Scottish Premiership. Prior to the Liverpudlian, the likes of Terry Butcher and Pat Fenlon endured shocking tenures in charge, so Lennon is currently the exception to the recent ruling of Hibs bosses.

Frustratingly for Dempster, there aren’t all too many stand out candidates right now. In fact, when Lee Clark is the man seemingly most open to the job, it’s probably not the best time to be searching for a new manager.

Still, an emotional move for Gordon Strachan has been touted (as per the Daily Mail via the Scottish Sun) and, while the former Scotland boss would certainly be a big name, we’re going to analyse to pros and cons.

Pro 1 – Status

Lennon’s appointment back in 2016 certainly brought a certain level of interest back to a club previously petering out. A huge name in Scottish football and a relative coup considering Hibs’ second-tier standing at the time, the same strategy could be applied to Strachan now.

One of the most successful Scottish managers of the modern era and a man who only left the national job recently, Strachan’s arrival would lift everyone at Easter Road.

Con 1 – Short-termism

At 61, Strachan would surely only be a short-term option. He’s unlikely to stay for years and build something and the idea of him coming to steady the ship may be a good one for the next few months or so, but where does that leave Hibs in the summer?

If he doesn’t get the new manager bounce, it could be a miserable end to his managerial career.

Pro 2 – Convincing the players

There does seem to be an element of discontent behind the scenes at Hibernian. The reports suggesting Florian Kamberi was a huge reason in the disagreement that led to Lennon’s suspension certainly speak to the potential narrative that the dressing room had been lost.

Hibs have a huge amount of attacking quality on offer and, as already proven this season, can beat anyone on their day.

What better way to convince the players that club do have ambition and raise the excitement levels than making a big name appointment?

Con 2 – Financial hit & thinking inside the box

Despite the emotional pull of finally bringing Strachan to the club he supported as boy, any potential deal may not make a huge amount of sense to those behind the scenes. Chariman Rod Petrie isn’t one to play fast and loose with his cash and, presumably, the ex-Celtic boss wouldn’t come cheap.

Kilmarnock have shown thinking outside the box when it comes to getting a new boss in can have major success, so perhaps some more strategical thinking behind the scenes is a better option.

The Verdict

Ignore the emotion and think outside the box. Gordon Strachan would be a big name but big names don’t always work and Hibs’ previous appointments along a similar line haven’t gone well at all, such as John Hughes and Mixu Paatelainen.

Granted, the former coach of the Tartan Army is probably a level above those names but why spend relatively big on a short-term deal? The likes of Gary Holt or Tommy Wright surely make more sense and that’s without even considering some of the more left-field appointments that have made the Scottish Premiership so much more interesting of late.

As long as it’s not Lee Clark. Anyone but Lee Clark.

Leeds United won’t be letting Raphinha leave this January transfer window with less than 48 hours to go…

What’s the word?

That’s according to Italian journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who delivered a promising update from Elland Road to social media this weekend.

“Leeds have no intention to sell Brazilian winger Raphinha in January. West Ham asked for him but deal looks more than complicated, as per @JacobSteinberg,” he revealed.

“Leeds are still thinking of Takumi Minamino on loan from Liverpool in case Summerville will leave the club.”

Great news

Raphinha’s form this campaign will have certainly attracted suitors, though the Irons’ interest comes as a massive surprise given David Moyes’ options.

However, Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich and Premier League rivals Liverpool have also been linked with a move for the Brazil international, who has practically carried the Yorkshire giants on his back this term.

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As per WhoScored, the 25-year-old winger leads the way for goals (eight), assists (two), crosses (1.2 per game), key passes (2.1 per game), dribbles (2.4 per game), and shots (3.1 per game).

He has really stepped up to the mark during the absence of last season’s top scorer Patrick Bamford.

Losing Raphinha would deal Marcelo Bielsa and the squad a big blow to their chances of remaining in the big time for a third successive season, that’s for sure.

There have also been suggestions of the former Stade Rennes star signing an extension to his £63k-per-week-deal with two-and-a-half years remaining, which would put the Yorkshire outfit in a pretty powerful position going into future transfer windows.

His value has soared to £36m, having been signed for nearly half that (£17m) back in October 2020.

Dubbed a “magician” and an “unbelievable player” by his peers, it appears as if Raphinha will see the season out, at the very least, and that’ll leave supporters around Elland Road absolutely delighted.

There won’t be anyone disappointed by Romano’s latest update.

AND in other news, Phil Hay drops worrying Leeds United transfer claim ahead of deadline day…

Having secured a loan deal for Philippe Coutinho and now in reported negotiations for the signing of Everton left-back Lucas Digne, Aston Villa’s owners and manager Steven Gerrard have made their intentions clear in the early stages of the current January transfer window about wanting to strengthen their squad.

In terms of what other potential transfer deals could take place at the Midlands club in the coming weeks, one area that has been touted as an area that Gerrard would want to strengthen is midfield.

With this in mind, one potential option that Villa could look to sign and have been linked with in the past is Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who has been labelled as an “outgoing player” from the Italian club this month by manager Max Allegri.

Before jetting off to Juventus back in the 2019 summer transfer window, the Welshman made a total of 371 appearances for Arsenal across all competitions, scoring 65 goals, providing 65 assists and winning three FA Cups along the way.

In the Premier League, the “intelligent” midfielder, as labelled by Juventus teammate Federico Chiesa, made 262 appearances and managed to rack up a total of 40 goals and 51 assists (91 in total), not only highlighting how much experience he has in the top division but also how much of an attacking threat he can be from midfield.

Now that Juventus are apparently willing to let the 31-year-old leave this month, this could pave the way for Villa to secure a solid midfield option that should be able to hit the ground running in the Premier League given his previous experience.

As well as his experience that could be useful for some of Villa’s younger players such as Carney Chukwuemeka, Jacob Ramsey and Cameron Archer, his deadliness in front of goal could give Gerrard the opportunity to create a scary midfield duo alongside John McGinn.

The Scot has also shown his attacking capabilities this season with three goals and two assists in the Premier League, leaving only Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings with more goal contributions.

In addition to his very useful goals and assists, McGinn has shown with his overall performances this season how much of a vital player he is for Villa with a season rating of 7.14/10 from WhoScored, making him their highest-rated player.

Moving forward, if Villa are willing to negotiate a deal for Ramsey this month, this could give Gerrard’s side that added attacking dimension in midfield that could push them to the top half of the table.

Combine Ramsey with McGinn and the Midlands outfit would surely soar up the table.

In other news: Bid made: Journo drops AVFC transfer claim, a future star could be inbound – opinion

According to reports by Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie (via GIVEMESPORT), Atlético Madrid right-back Kieran Trippier remains eager to join Newcastle United, despite reports of the Magpies facing obstacles in their pursuit.

The Lowdown

Trippier arrived at Atlético Madrid in 2019 following a £20m move from Tottenham Hotspur. Since his arrival in Spain, the 31-year-old has been an integral part of Diego Simeone’s side, having made 85 appearances for Los Rojiblancos.

This season, Simeone has utilised the England international more prominently as a right midfielder, compared to his traditional right-back role.

However, with his contract set to expire in the summer of 2023, Trippier is keen to secure himself one final big-money contract.

The Latest

Football Insider have previously reported that talks had stalled due to the player’s wage demands, with the 31-year-old seeking a three-and-a-half year deal worth £22m.

However, according to reports by Downie (via GIVEMESPORT), Trippier remains seriously interested at the prospect of securing a Premier League switch to Newcastle, with the player believing that this could be final chance to secure one last lucrative contract.

This comes as Downie feels that the full-back is hoping to seal a move back to England following his two-and-a-half year stint for the Spanish champions.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, he said: “From what I’m hearing, I think the player would be keen to come. I think he’s ready for a move back to England and probably realises he’s got one big contract left in his career, so Newcastle would tick those boxes for him.”

The Verdict

With Newcastle sitting 19th in the Premier League table, it is evident that Eddie Howe needs to strengthen his leaky backline, as his team have picked up just four points in six matches with the former Bournemouth manager in charge this season.

With this in mind, Trippier could prove to be the perfect addition to the Magpies’ squad. England manager Gareth Southgate has said that, ever since arriving in Spain, the 31-year-old has become a ‘defensive animal’ who is ‘trusted by one of the best and most successful coaches in the world’ in Simeone.

Having made 107 appearances in the Premier League already, Trippier could provide the much-needed experience that Newcastle’s backline so desperately needs as they seek to retain their top-flight status.

In other news: 36-cap attacker who Alan Shearer called ‘superb’ is now open to joining Newcastle

Speaking to club media, as shared by The Peterborough Telegraph, Director of Football Barry Fry of Peterborough United has shared an update on Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of defender Benjamin Mensah.

The Lowdown: Spurs make enquiry…

First breaking the news, Sky Sports (13 Jan, 12:46) claimed that Spurs had made an enquiry to sign the 19-year-old amid manager Antonio Conte’s hunt for a right-wing back.

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Alasdair Gold says that the search for a player in that position is among the Italian’s and transfer chief Fabio Paratici top priorities for January with Mensah now attracting interest.

It is believed that the young ace would go straight into Tottenham’s Under-23s set up as the club seemingly look at RWB options for the future also, with Mensah capable of slotting in there as well as in a traditional back four.

The Latest: Fry confirms talks with Spurs…

As per club chief Fry, Spurs do indeed hold an interest and have ‘suggested one or two things’, with the Peterborough chief revealing he has in fact ‘talked to Tottenham’.

“I have talked to Tottenham and they have suggested one or two things to me,” he explained.

“Which I told the manager and the chairman about but they were adamant it was a no. Tottenham are still monitoring the situation.”

The Verdict: Interesting development…

It’s not everyday club officials come out to confirm transfer rumours, so this comes as an interesting development.

In terms of Mensah, he could be a brilliant option for the future with Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson already raving over the teenager after he signed his first professional contract.

The former Manchester United player called his youngster ‘aggressive’ and ‘excellent’ in one-vs-one situations with the English-born Ghanian ace seemingly one to watch out for.

If Tottenham can get him over the line and reach an agreement with The Posh, it’ll be fascinating to see his development at N17.

In other news: ‘This will excite Tottenham fans…’ – Sky Sports drop major live TV transfer claim, find out more here.

Crystal Palace shared details on Thursday regarding their FA Cup third-round tie with south London rivals Millwall in the New Year.

And, as to be expected, a number of Palace fans have been reacting to the news on social media.

The two sides were paired together in Monday’s draw and are set to face off for the first time since 2013.

It has now been confirmed that Patrick Vieira’s side will travel to The Den on Saturday, January 8, with a 12:45pm kick-off. The match will be broadcast live on ITV 1 and ticket details for the game will be announced shortly.

The Eagles first need to navigate a busy festive period in the Premier League, though, with six fixtures prior to the trip to the Championship side.

Palace fans react

Palace shared the details on their official Twitter page on Thursday. This is what these Eagles supporters had to say in reply, with one labelling it as ‘inevitable’.

“No way I can’t go”

Credit: @CPFC_Ollie_

“You beauty”

Credit: @jwgribbin_

“C’mon the boys”

Credit: @BMCPFC

“Can’t make it and won’t even be able to watch it on TV at this time”

Credit: @eagle7ian

“Early kick off ewww”

Credit: @SWPalace

“It was inevitable”

Credit: @palacedan00

In other news: ‘I will flip’ – Many Palace fans react as ‘class’ transfer news emerges. 

Speaking to GiveMeSport, journalist Dean Jones of Eurosport and author of their transfer notebook has made a promising claim involving Antonio Rudiger and Tottenham Hotspur.

The Lowdown: Spurs weigh moves…

As January fast approaches, all eyes will be on whether new Lilywhites boss Antonio Conte gets the sufficient backing needed to turn his side into a Premier League and European force again.

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Over two years since Mauricio Pochettino guided them to a Champions League final, the first in Spurs’ history, it’s safe to say they haven’t reached those heights since.

Three new managers have come in off the back of the Argentine, with Jose Mourinho and Nuno Espirito Santo both given their marching orders before Conte’s highly-anticipated arrival.

He has been linked with adding a plethora of Serie A stars to his new Tottenham roster and there has even been talk of a £150 million transfer kitty.

Speaking to GMS, a name Spurs could now ‘really’ target is Chelsea star Rudiger, with Jones sharing the latest.

The Latest: Spurs could ‘really’ pull out the stops…

The Eurosport reporter and transfer ‘insider’ claims Tottenham may ‘really’ pull out the stops to sign him for Conte as he makes a promising claim.

“I think Tottenham are willing to really push the boat out to get Rudiger,” he said.

“I think the change in manager would have helped them turn his head a little bit.

“But Rudiger knows he’s basically got a pick of the teams when it comes to when his contract’s up.”

The Verdict: Get it done…

A colossal Champions League-winning centre-half with nearly half a century of caps for Germany, we believe signing the 28-year-old on a free deal is an absolute no brainer.

Currently in his prime, Rudiger has enjoyed a resurgence under Thomas Tuchel and became an undroppable figure in Chelsea’s run to the European Cup final last season.

He’s continued to be a mainstay for Tuchel this campaign, having started ten from 11 of the Blues’ top flight matches so far with only goalkeeper Edouard Mendy equalling that number (WhoScored).

A fixture in Chelsea’s table-topping side, the defender has attracted plenty of praise for his imperious form over 2021. Rio Ferdinand, speaking to FIVE (via The Metro), lavished praise on Rudiger back in late August – calling him ‘unbelievable’ and ‘like an animal’.

The former Man United defender also contested that Chelsea’s colossus has been the ‘best defender in the Premier League’ since Tuchel’s arrival at Stamford Bridge.

If Spurs can really pull out the stops to secure him on a free transfer ahead of next summer, it’s safe to say managing director Fabio Paratici will have orchestrated a masterstroke.

In other news: Conte set for injury boost as Sky Sports reporter breaks update on Twitter, find out more here.

Antonio Conte has been dealt a huge injury blow concerning Tottenham Hotspur right-back Matt Doherty.

What’s the latest?

That’s according to Alasdair Gold, with the football.london journalist revealing in a post on Twitter that the 30-year-old now looks set to be ruled out for the remainder of the season after sustaining a knee injury in the 4-0 win over Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon.

In his tweet, Gold said: “Understand it’s bad news for Matt Doherty and Antonio Conte. The Irishman is out for the rest of Spurs’ season and more.”

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Conte will be fuming

Considering how impressive Doherty has been for Conte since his arrival in north London last November, the news that the right-back looks set to be ruled out for the remainder of 2021/22 is sure to have left the 52-year-old manager fuming.

Indeed, after being used sparingly over the Italian’s first 11 Premier League fixtures in charge of the club – starting just once in these games – the £10.8m-rated full-back looked to have gained Conte’s favour over the club’s last ten league outings – starting all but two of these fixtures, being given the nod from the off in the last seven consecutive top-flight matches.

It is not difficult to understand why this was the case, as the £74k-per-week defender was beginning to show the sort of form that convinced Spurs to part with £14.7m to bring him to north London back in August 2020 – with the Irishman having scored two goals and registered four assists over his last 11 Premier League fixtures.

However, following Gold’s latest update, it would now appear as if the former Wolverhampton Wanderers full-back’s campaign has been brought to a premature end, something that – considering just how close the race to secure a top-four spot currently is – will undoubtedly come as a huge blow to Conte and his side.

AND in other news: Conte could land Spurs’ next Poyet as contact made for “sensational” £83.5m “talent”

Everton are nearing on the signing of Rangers full-back Nathan Patterson, according to The Times’ Paul Joyce. 

The lowdown

The Toffees may be set to get their man at the third attempt after seeing two bids for him rejected in the summer.

The 20-year-old is already establishing himself as a starter for Scotland but he has been restricted to just two Scottish Premiership starts this season behind Rangers captain James Tavernier.

Patterson, who is primarily a right-back but can also play as a right midfielder or on the left, has been described as a ‘brilliant attacking talent’ by former Leeds forward Noel Whelan.

The latest

Joyce tweeted on Sunday evening that ‘Everton [are] closing in’ on a deal to sign Patterson.

The young defender could become the Toffees’ second arrival of the January transfer window after the signing of full-back Vitaliy Mykolenko from Dynamo Kyiv.

The verdict

In Patterson, Everton look to have landed a long-term successor to Seamus Coleman at right-back, with the skipper turning 34 this year. Indeed, The Athletic’s Mark Carey says that the youngster boasts a similar profile to the Irishman.

Patterson is clearly a great prospect but Tavernier’s level of performance and output makes him so difficult to dislodge at Ibrox, and the Toffees appear to have smartly capitalised on that predicament.

Provided that this deal can be completed, Benitez can then turn his attention to adding a midfielder and a forward to his ranks.

In other news, many Everton fans slammed this man’s performance against Brighton

Manchester United have held talks with former Roma boss Rudi Garcia over becoming their interim manager, according to journalist Andy Mitten.

What’s the story?

In a live interview on Sky Sports, the United We Stand editor revealed that the Old Trafford hierarchy have ‘spoken’ to the 57-year-old as the search for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s successor gathers pace.

Mitten said: “He’s spoken to Manchester United, that’s what I can tell you. So, he’d absolutely be interested in the interim manager’s job. He did well at Roma; he took over there when they’d been finishing seventh and eighth, took them to second twice.

“People told him that he was going to have problems with the big-name players, Francesco Totti and (Daniele) De Rossi; they were on side with him within weeks.

“He brings young players through, and he can be a controversial character, a divisive character, but he likes attacking football, and he’s gone into big clubs who have not been doing well.”

Man Utd fans will be concerned

News that Garcia is in talks to take over the reins in the red half of Manchester will leave large sections of the club’s fanbase with serious concerns.

The Frenchman masterminded a famous domestic double when he was in charge of Lille back in 2010/11, guiding a star-studded side including Eden Hazard, Yohan Cabaye and Gervinho to the Ligue 1 title and French Cup.

However, Garcia has failed to collect any silverware since, taking charge of Marseille, Lyon and Roma without any major success of note.

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He did guide Les Gones to the Champions League semi-final back in 2020, though, overseeing Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the quarter-final stage in a game that highlighted his tactical nouse.

Garcia joins the likes of Mauricio Pochettino, Brendan Rodgers and Ernesto Valverde to be heavily linked with replacing Solskjaer, but he’s unlikely to be a popular choice amongst supporters due to a lack of major honours under his belt.

Whether the Glazers make a formal offer for the experienced tactician remains to be seen, although recent reports have suggested Michael Carrick could be set for an extended spell in the dugout.

And, in other news…Man United source drops huge manager update that’ll surely leave fans fuming