All posts by z3u9t.icu

Arthur Masuaku’s season appears to be over, handing West Ham further injury troubles…

What’s the latest?

The 27-year-old left-back has played only two matches since picking up a knee injury back in December and now the ever-reliable ExWHUemployee has delivered a worrying update on his progress.

Speaking on a recent episode of ‘The West Ham Way’ podcast, he said:

“Masuaku, as I said last week, he played a couple of games for us after a knee operation and I think he may have been rushed back too soon because his knee has fluid around it and it has had to be drained off.

“He hasn’t trained as far as I know this week, so he may not play again this season. I don’t know for certain, I’m guessing a bit on that one. But he may be out for the rest of the season.”

Huge blow

The Hammers have players piling up on the treatment table and these fresh developments aren’t getting any better for David Moyes and their hopes of qualifying for Europe.

Declan Rice, Mark Noble, Aaron Cresswell and Michail Antonio have all faced time on the sideline in recent months and West Ham’s form has slipped.

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It’s three defeats in their last four matches, which has seen them move out of top-four contention and into fifth place heading into the final three games of the season, all of which are winnable ties against teams with very little to play for.

Brighton and Southampton are safe, whilst West Brom were relegated back to the Championship on Sunday evening.

Not having Masuaku available comes as yet another huge blow, especially as it was initially hoped he would return before the season’s conclusion.

Despite only playing 12 times in the Premier League this season, the DR Congo international was a regular starter for Moyes, often playing at left wing-back, which allowed Cresswell to act as a third centre-back and when the pair have been out, the 58-year-old has had some tricky selection nightmares to contend with.

Masuaku ranks amongst the Irons’ top six performers for the season, with an average WhoScored rating of 6.89, so to not see him again this season would be a crushing setback.

AND in other news, ExWHUemployee delivers major boost over returning Irons star ahead of Brighton clash…

Aston Villa may have beaten 3-1 by Chelsea on Boxing Day, but there was at least one positive – the return of Bertrand Traore from injury. 

Traore played the final 17 minutes at Villa Park, having been brought on to replace Danny Ings.

It was his first league outing since the the 2-1 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur on 3 October, back when Dean Smith was still in charge.

The Burkina Faso international missed 10 matches with a thigh injury.

The £78,000-per-week winger is yet to start any Premier League game this season and has only played 70 minutes in total in the competition.

He will hope to change that when Villa take on Brentford in their first game of 2022.

Traore’s return could be a big boost for Villa

Last season, Traore recorded 13 direct goal involvements for The Villans (seven goals and six assists), a tally bettered only by Ollie Watkins (19) and Jack Grealish (16), so it’s no surprise to see supporters delighted by his comeback.

The official Aston Villa Twitter account tweeted that it was ‘great to have you back, Bert’, and here’s how fans responded.

These Villa supporters are big fans of Traore

“One thing I noticed yesterday was how our forwards always took one touch too many before shooting, resulting in blocked shots. Bertie has magic in his feet and always seems to shoot before you expect him to – that’s something we desperately need against top opponents”

Credit: @AVFC1874ca

“Needs to start against Brentford for me, still lacking a bit of creativity”

Credit: @abirdy82

“Our best winger who’s actually not injured”

Credit: @mrsteadman29

“I’m too old to have favourites. But our Bert is my favourite.”

Credit: @imspartacus15

“My favourite player”

Credit: @OusmanJ96710226

“Our best winger… we’ve missed him”

Credit: @chardrocknroll

In other news, Luke Hatfield shares a ‘worry’ about this Villa star.

Steven Gerrard took charge of his first Premier League game yesterday with Aston Villa and put in a fantastic attacking performance to beat Graham Potter’s Brighton in a 2-0 win.

Villa broke down Brighton’s well-regimented system in the final ten minutes of the game, with forward Ollie Watkins scoring in the 84th minute and captain Tyrone Mings killing the game in the 89th minute to take the first win in five for the side.

One player that put in a fantastic performance for his team was 20 year old, Jacob Ramsey.

The 15k-per-week midfielder started in the lineup for Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon and was praised for his performance by Ian Wright, who claimed to be ‘excited’ about the youngster on Match Of The Day.

“I’m quite excited about [Jacob] Ramsey, with Gerrard and Gary McAllister there, what he’s going to become, I really am excited by that,” Wright said.

Former legendary Liverpool midfielder, Steven Gerrard has obviously seen a spark in Ramsey by adding him into his starting lineup in his first game managing the side.

Gerrard will be looking for players he can develop and establish when creating a new era at Aston Villa, and for a midfielder like Ramsey, working under a legend and pro in his position is the ideal scenario to help him become the next big thing for the club.

Former Villa manager, Dean Smith, famously developed and nurtured the talents of £100m Manchester City player, Jack Grealish, taking him from a teenager in the Championship to an England international who has become a household name.

There is no reason why Gerrard wouldn’t be inspired by the successful development and influence his predecessor had on players like Grealish. With his current crop of players and the right coaching and development of Ramsey, he could become the new manager’s very own Grealish.

Villa are currently in a battle to climb the league table after a shaky start in their Premier League season so far, that saw Dean Smith sacked just before the international break after five consecutive losses.

Gerrard was appointed to steady the ship and secure points for the side to stop them from falling too far into a relegation battle, and with a three-pointer on Saturday, he’s on the right path.

In other news: Gerrard could target Curtis Jones in January

Everton could form a formidable defensive partnership after being linked with a move for Inter centre-back Stefan de Vrij ahead of the upcoming January transfer window.

According to 90min, the Toffees are one of several Premier clubs keen to secure the 29-year-old’s services, with Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur also listed as potential suitors.

It’s claimed that De Vrij has been offered to the Magpies after they joined football’s financial elite following their recent takeover, but Everton and Spurs still retain an interest.

With the Dutch international having just 18 months left to run on his current contract – and Inter needing to lower their wage bill – the £45m-rated colossus could be available for a bargain fee this winter.

Since his arrival at San Siro back in 2018, De Vrij has established himself as one of Europe’s most dominant centre-halves, making 139 appearances for the Nerazzurri in all competitions.

And the highlight of his career came last season when the 6 foot 2 beast played a pivotal part in Inter’s first Serie A title success in 11 years, ending Juventus’ run of nine consecutive victories.

Amongst De Vrij’s list of admirers is former Lazio teammate Mauricio, who lauded his quality to ESPN (via Football Italia), saying: “Stefan is a great defender and deserves to be at a big club. He’s very tall, he’s strong and fast, he runs a lot – he’s a monster! He’s a calm defender who never gets agitated.”

Recent reports have claimed that Benitez could have up to £35m to spend in the January window after splashing out just £1.6m on Demarai Gray over the summer, and De Vrij could be the ideal candidate to bring in using that money.

Everton have kept just three clean sheets all campaign, conceding three or more goals on three occasions, including a 5-2 thrashing at the hands of newly-promoted Watford.

Therefore, defensive reinforcements may well be prioritised by the Merseyside outfit, and De Vrij would make for the perfect partner for the highly-rated Ben Godfrey.

The 23-year-old is still very much learning his craft at Goodison Park, but his versatility, mobility and tackling ability highlight a promising future, while De Vrij’s experience, passing range and concentration would superbly compliment the youngster.

As a result, their partnership would have the potential to transform Everton’s fortunes this season, and Marcel Brands should carefully consider sanctioning a move for a player that the club’s supporters would surely love based on his wonderful list of expertise.

And, in other news…Huge boost: Everton receive selection uplift ahead of BFC, Rafa will be delighted 

Leeds United’s Illan Meslier has shown his qualities this season, and Alex McLeish has emphasised the need for the club to keep a hold of him.

McLeish discusses Meslier

Speaking to Football Insider, McLeish said: “You don’t want to lose a big talent. He’s a talent who’s playing as an ever-present in the Premier League.

“If you’re going to lose him and he’s not rewarded with a new contract, then you’ve got to go there and buy somebody for £30-40million. We know what that does to the club’s coffers, we know that the Premier League players invite big-money offers.”

Leeds have a potential future star

Marcelo Bielsa clearly sees Meslier as his number one choice and he has had a fairly decent season, managing to make 99 saves and keep eight clean sheets (Premier League). The best way to develop a young talent is to embed them into consistent matches straight away and it this method is bearing fruit so far.

Kevin Campbell praised the Frenchman this season as he said: “Leeds’ recruitment staff have done an exceptional job getting him in. He is one for the future and for now. Only 20? Wow. Brilliant signing.”

It is quite amazing that he is playing in the division and trusted by Bielsa as he is only 21 years-old. If the £10.80m-rated star is trusted at such a young age it is scary to imagine the potential he has and the quality he will show as he gets older.

In other news, Leeds are interested in this young star!

Leeds United will not have to face Thiago Silva in their Premier League clash with Chelsea on Saturday afternoon, acting as a late boost to the Whites.

Marcelo Bielsa side’s host the Blues this weekend, in what has the potential to be an intriguing tactical battle at Elland Road.

Chelsea will pose a huge threat to the Whites, with Thomas Tuchel not yet suffering defeat in 11 matches in charge, taking them up a level after Frank Lampard’s departure.

Leeds will be aiming for a response after their disappointing 2-0 defeat away to West Ham, with Bielsa without Pascal Struijk and Pablo Hernandez due to injury, as reported by The Athletic‘s Phil Hay on Twitter.

Chelsea suffer Silva injury blow

Chelsea have also suffered a major late injury blow, however, with the Yorkshire Evening Post confirming that Silva will miss out at Elland Road after a new issue in his recovery from a previous problem.

The 36-year-old hasn’t featured for the west Londoners since their 1-0 win at Tottenham early last month, but was expected to feature very soon. YEP’s report details the Brazilian has ‘suffered a setback’ in his recovery, and will now not make his return this weekend.

Transfer Tavern take

Silva’s absence means Chelsea look likely to continue with their three-man defence of Cesar Azpilicueta, Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger.

Tuchel’s men haven’t conceded in their last four matches, in all competitions, proving that they are still thriving without the Brazilian legend in the team, but it will certainly make Patrick Bamford and co’s task easier not having to face a player with such experience and leadership qualities.

Silva is described in the report as having a ‘huge impact’ at Stamford Bridge, and so his absence may prove to have an equally large influence on Saturday’s proceedings.

In other news, Paul Robinson has urged Leeds to make a move Odsonne Edouard. Read about it here.

Leeds United correspondent Beren Cross has provided a positive injury update regarding star striker Patrick Bamford.

The Lowdown: Bamford’s season to forget

Bamford has managed just seven starts in 2021/22 due to ankle, hamstring and foot problems, with the 28-year-old completing 90 minutes on just four occasions.

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He netted 17 times last season compared to just two goals during the current campaign, with his latest setback coming last month.

The forward ruptured his plantar fascia against Wolves on March 18, but it looks as if he is making positive progress ahead of a return prior to the end of the season.

The Latest: Cross shares Thorp Arch update

Jesse Marsch has previously stated that he is ‘optimistic’ Bamford would be able to return for the final two games against Brighton and Brentford, fixtures which could be huge in the club’s attempts to avoid the drop.

Cross shared a story regarding Bamford on Wednesday morning, suggesting he ‘is due out on the pitches again this week’, describing a return to the training ground as the ‘breath of fresh air’ Marsch needs.

The Verdict: Fingers crossed

Hopefully, Leeds will manage to pick up some unlikely points over their next three games with Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea, three of the current top four, to take them close to the magic 40-point mark.

They currently have a five-point gap over Everton and are three points clear of Burnley, so there’s every chance Leeds will still need something against Brighton and Brentford.

Bamford could well be involved if that is the case, and it looks as if he is on track for a May 15 return, should he take to the Thorp Arch training pitches over the coming days.

In other news: Radz and 49ers will now reward Marsch if he keeps Leeds up by moving for 29-goal forward. 

In an exclusive interview with Football FanCast, former Hull City midfielder Dean Windass has made a claim regarding striker Harry Kane, and Manchester City’s reported interest in him.

A recent report from Bild has suggested that the Citizens could target the England captain next summer as they look to sign a replacement for Sergio Aguero, with the Argentinian widely expected to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of this season.

The 27-year-old has been in sensational form for Tottenham Hotspur so far this season, contributing 10 goals and 11 assists in his 16 appearances (ahead of Wednesday’s game with Fulham) in the top-flight, resulting in a superb average rating of 7.90.

However, despite his impressive goalscoring return for Spurs in recent years, Kane is still yet to win a trophy with the North London club, something he admitted he would have to do if he was to stay with Spurs for the long-term.

Therefore, if City can beat Spurs in the Carabao Cup final later this year, then perhaps it will open the door to Kane joining the Citizens in the summer.

Here’s what Windass had to say about the Spurs striker when speaking exclusively to Football FanCast…

“They’re in the final of the Carabao Cup, it’s not enough for Harry Kane. He’s got to win FA Cup finals, he’s got to win the Champions League. That will be his goal, it’s not financial for him anymore. It’s not as though he’s chasing the money.

“These players nowadays can play two or three years in the Premier League and don’t have to work again. It’s not financial, he just wants to win trophies. So to be fair, [how sure am I that he’ll move to the Etihad?] 95% he will end up at Man City.”

Windass clearly feels that Kane will want to move to a club where he’s likely to win trophies and considering Pep Guardiola has delivered two Premier League titles, one FA Cup and three Carabao Cup trophies during his time with the Citizens, a move to the Etihad certainly seems a safe bet if the England striker wants to win trophies.

It will be interesting to see whether City do make an official approach for the Tottenham man during the summer and whether Daniel Levy and Mourinho would be willing to let the £108 million rated man leave the North London club.

And, in other news… Guardiola must swoop for “unbelievable” £90m-rated beast; he can break Aguero’s Man City record

This has been a season to forget for Wolves and after being mauled 4-0 by Burnley a couple of weeks ago, it only went from bad to worse.

The Old Gold didn’t bounce back with a win against neighbours West Brom but it was still an encouraging performance nonetheless.

With injuries rife in the Wolves squad, Nuno Espirito Santo took the decision of handing out opportunities to some of the club’s younger players.

On the chalkboard

Their attack had a refreshing feel to it last weekend against the Baggies. Nuno fielded Fabio Silva in attack and behind him was a vibrant trio of Adama Traore, Owen Otasowie and Vitinha.

Traore has returned to form in recent weeks with a goal and two assists in his last five outings, while Silva is now among the goals too. That said, it was Vitinha who arguably stole the show in the middle of the park.

Daniel Podence was rightfully dropped from the starting XI after two dismal showings and was replaced by the dynamic loanee.

Vitinha has rarely been seen this season, starting just three times in the top flight since swapping Porto for Wolverhampton. He has played only 361 league minutes but you sense that number will dramatically increase between now and the end of the season.

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The Old Gold have an option to buy the 21-year-old and they’d be foolish if they turned it down.

Nuno needs to take the opportunity in the remaining weeks of the season to unleash him more often. If Vitinha hasn’t already proven he deserves to be at Molineux next term, this should be the chance to end any counter-arguments.

He appears to have all the tools necessary to become a star at Molineux. Compared to Joao Moutinho, the youngster has creativity in abundance.

Against West Brom last weekend, he produced four key passes, more than anybody else on the field. Vitinha also completed 90% of his passes and registered three dribbles, proving how impressive his ball-carrying can be.

Speaking recently, Nuno commented: “We are pleased with Vitor. He’s a young player, but full of talent and quality.”

We shouldn’t be surprised by his performances, however. He starred for Portugal in the group stages of the Under-21 European Championships during the last international break, creating chances and dribbling past players at a similar rate.

Blessed with clever feet and an eye for a pass, he could be the key to providing more goal-scoring opportunities to a laboured forward line at Molineux.

AND in other news, Forget Kilman: Wolves should unleash “outstanding” rarely-seen 18 y/o instead…

Southampton fans are gutted after it was confirmed Ryan Bertrand will leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season.

The £9m-valued former Chelsea man (Transfermarkt) made the move to St. Mary’s Stadium from Stamford Bridge permanently in 2015 after a six-month loan spell and has gone on to be fantastic servant for the Saints since then. All in all, he has made 240 appearances in all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing 20 assists (Transfermarkt).

However, his performances have frustrated supporters in more recent times, and with his contract set to run out at the end of this term, he reportedly turned down a new deal at Southampton (Hampshire Live). As such, the club have confirmed that he will be leaving at the end of the campaign.

The news was shared on the club’s official Twitter page, and it attracted plenty of attention from the fans. They took to the social media platform to share their thoughts.

Let’s see what the fans had to say about the Bertrand news below

“Knew it was coming, doesn’t make it any easier. Was our best player for 2 or 3 seasons and easily our most consistent along with Steve Davis. A great shame but it’s probably the right time. Hope he does really well and gets a decent contract somewhere.”

Credit: @L1minus10

“Gutted but he’s been incredible for us wish him all the best”

Credit: @thorpey_10

“Real shame, great player. Proper grafter.”

Credit: @Hoylesey59

“Gutted to read this. Good luck for the future @ryanbertrand3 thanks for everything”

Credit: @SFC_Debs

“I’m really sad to read this. He’s been a fantastic player for us & I shall miss him. Best of luck to you, Bertie.”

Credit: @SaintCirce

“Gutted at this announcement as he remains one of my favourite players in recent years. A great player with a good character and was very reliable at left back. Will miss him certainly.”

Credit: @LiberalSaint85

In other news, Southampton are interested in this Serie A winger.