All posts by z3u9t.icu

West Ham ended their Europa League with their first defeat of the competition as Dinamo Zagreb recorded a 1-0 victory at the London Stadium on Thursday evening.

David Moyes’ much-rotated and youthful-looking Irons outfit were badly let down by some of the team’s senior stars, most notably Andriy Yarmolenko, who disappointed with yet another lacklustre diasterclass.

His time in the claret and blue is surely creeping towards an end, if it wasn’t already. The 32-year-old dud has no right to still be at the club, particularly with him raking in the second-highest amount of wages at £115k-per-week.

Furthermore, having picked up 106 caps for Ukraine, he would have been expected to be a leader as many of the club’s academy prospects featured, including Jamal Baptiste, Sonny Perkins and Harrison Ashby.

It was the former Borussia Dortmund star who was at fault for the Croatian’s only goal of the game. He did absolutely nothing to thwart Mislav Orsic as he cut inside to make the Hammers’ young backline pay with a sensational strike from range.

‘Still can’t kick with his right foot’ and ‘lazy’ is exactly how football.london reporter Tom Clark described Yarmolenko after the game, whilst it is a rather telling tale that it was Moyes’ 17-year-old striker shouting at the veteran to actually move whilst still on the pitch.

His lack of influence was reflected by the fact that he recorded fewer touches (24) than any starter for either team. Even West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola managed 27 touches, with substitute Said Benrahma (36) also eclipsing the Ukraine international with ease, too.

Similarly, the versatile 6 foot 2 attacker managed only nine successful passes, comfortably the worst of the Irons’ starting XI. Again, Benrahma doubled this tally in half the time, having come on after the break. He also failed with all three of his crossing attempts, echoing Clark’s comments on his poor delivery on the right flank.

As revealed by the Evening Standard’s Jack Rosser, who even dubbed him “shocking”, Yarmolenko was even booed off by sections of the London Stadium faithful.

On a night where the result did not matter, that reaction is damning.

Not only was the 32-year-old lazy and uninterested but he was also weak and rather lightweight, having lost four of his seven duels (57%), on top of losing possession 11 times from his 25 touches – once every 2.3 touches, as per SofaScore.

With January fast approaching, it could be time to finally offload the wretched £18m signing. He badly betrayed Moyes and the fanbase this week.

AND in other news, David Moyes dealt triple West Ham blow as injuries pile up…

Leeds United have been offered Olympique Lyonnais star Maxwel Cornet, as reported by the Daily Mirror.

The Lowdown: Leeds United look ahead to 2021/22

As the Whites aim to get their ducks in a row ahead of the 2021/22 season, there has been much discussion surrounding their potential transfer activity at left-back.

Though Marco Bielsa has not yet ventured into the current transfer window, the Elland Road side have been linked with moves for Adama Traore and Borna Barisic respectively, while left-backs Barry Douglas and Ezgjan Alioski could both leave.

However, it now seems that a new potential signing could be on the horizon in the form of the 24-year-old Ivorian.

The Latest: Cornet offered to Leeds

Leeds United are said to have been offered the chance to sign Cornet as they step up their hunt for a left-sided defender [Mirror].

Some reports have suggested that the versatile ace could be available for around £20 million, a fee which the Whites are currently not willing to pay [Mirror].

Cornet actually made his name as a winger before moving to a left-back position this season, so he appears to be a perfect like for like replacement for Alioski.

The Verdict: Cornet would be a shrewd addition

Fundamentally, signing someone of Cornet’s quality could be a real coup for the Whites as they look towards the new season, providing they can negotiate the fee down to something they are happier with.

Posing an intense attacking threat, the Ivory Coast internationalist has scored 51 goals and laid on a further 29 assists in 251 games for Lyon [Transfermarkt].

While many of those came during his time further up the pitch, he still supplied 10 goal contributions in 39 games across all competitions this season playing mostly in defence; four goals and six assists [Transfermarkt].

As Bielsa’s men look to improve upon a solid 9th placed Premier League finish last year, bringing in someone with Cornet’s end product could considerably enhance the quality of their high-octane brand of football.

Leeds United should be pulling out all the stops to get the deal over the line.

In other news, Real Madrid are said to be eyeing up a key Leeds United man.

Former Tottenham Hotspur captain Graham Roberts has told The Transfer Tavern that the club simply cannot appoint Maurizio Sarri as their new manager.

Spurs sacked Jose Mourinho on Monday and are now in the market for a new manager.

Various names have been linked, foremost among them Julian Nagelsmann, the young RB Leipzig boss who currently has his side second in the Bundesliga.

Sarri has been linked as a potential replacement for Mourinho and that has gone down remarkably badly with the ex-Spurs star.

The Italian managed Chelsea in the 2018/19 season and is currently without a job after leaving Juventus following the 19/20 campaign. During his time at Stamford Bridge, he guided the club to the Europa League title, along with a third-placed finish in the Premier League.

And Roberts does not believe that any ex-Chelsea figures can be appointed anymore, after seeing Mourinho crash and burn during his time in north London.

Speaking exclusively to TT, he said: “You have to laugh because in the press last week, they said Maurizio Sarri, who used to be at Chelsea, Tottenham are looking to bring him in. I went, you’re having a laugh, aren’t you?

“You can’t bring any more Chelsea people in, it just isn’t going to work, so that’s papers trying to stir things up again.”

Tottenham Hotspur correspondent Sean Walsh has now shared a major midweek update on Antonio Conte’s future at the Premier League club, and it’s exactly what supporters need to hear.

The Lowdown: Conte eyeing PSG?

The Italian, who reportedly has a clause in his current Spurs deal which would allow him to leave at the end of this season, has been at the centre of claims linking him with a move to Ligue 1 giants Paris-Saint Germain.

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Former Lilywhites manager Mauricio Pochettino is allegedly set to depart the French capital despite their Ligue 1 title win, prompting rumours of a possible Conte move to succeed the Argentine.

Le Parisien claimed last week that the 52-year-old is seriously interested in a PSG switch, even apparently telling their club chiefs that he is considering the job.

Amid these worrying developments, Walsh has now taken to social media with a positive update Spurs supporters may need to hear.

The Latest: Walsh makes major midweek Conte claim…

According to the reporter, who covers the north Londoners for 90min, Tottenham are ‘confident’ Conte will stay despite the PSG updates.

He goes on to say that former Real Madrid head coach Zinedine Zidane is actually their top target, not Spurs’ man.

Walsh explained (via Twitter): “Understand that #THFC are confident that Antonio Conte will stay this summer despite reports linking him to PSG job. PSG’s top managerial target remains Zinedine Zidane.”

The Verdict: Great news for Spurs fans

Zidane, currently out of work and a proven Champions League-winning manager, is arguably a shoe-in for the Parc des Princes given his availability and how the fans there would idolise the France legend.

He would certainly be an easier appointment than Conte and one with just as much pedigree.

Taking this into account, Walsh’s update certainly makes sense and PSG director Leonardo may be best placed leaving Spurs’ manager and prioritising a move for Zidane.

In other news: Source: Tottenham edge closer to ‘top signing’, he really wants to join Conte! Find out more here.

Numerous fans of West Ham United have been reacting to a post on Twitter in which Declan Rice looked back on the Hammers’ weekend draw with Arsenal.

Despite having raced into a 3-0 first half lead against Mikel Arteta’s side on Sunday, own goals from both Tomas Soucek and Craig Dawson, as well as an 82nd-minute Alexandre Lacazette strike, saw West Ham take just one point from the fixture, with the match ending 3-3.

Following the result, Rice took to Twitter to share his thoughts on the stalemate, claiming that it was a “disappointing end to such a bright performance”, before turning his attention to the remainder of West Ham’s Premier League campaign, calling for fans to “stay positive” and reassuring them that he and his team will “keep giving our all for the end goal”.

However, in reaction to Rice’s post on Twitter, plenty of West Ham fans flocked to have their say on the matter, with many appearing to ignore the England international’s advice on staying positive as they lambasted West Ham’s capitulation against the Gunners.

So, what exactly did these West Ham United fans have to say in reaction to Declan Rice’s post on Twitter?

“Playing well Dec but have a word with Moyes and get him to actually analyse a game before it happens. All this sitting in just invites pressure and hasn’t worked for quite a few games now. Need results against Chelsea and Leicester now.”

@westhamhour

“Embarrassing but 3 points against Wolves.”

@willearle_

“You need to get into the game more and settle it down somehow when we can’t get the ball, like the last 60 minutes. Not sure what the answer is just yet but it needs a discussion with David Moyes. We need you on the ball, not being bypassed. Games can’t keep going like this.”

@wasntme23

“Not good enough.”

@con_whu

“Need to keep more offence and stop trying to protect a slim lead – never works for us.”

@ClaretnBlueLife

“Very. Let’s hope we can step up in the remaining games.”

@Deal770M

“I’m gutted Dec.”

@WHUFC_Dan78

“Don’t let us bottle this I beg man.”

@finley_mclellan

“Rubbish.”

@Drj751

In other news: these West Ham fans flocked to a claim from ExWHUEmployee – find out more here!

A fresh twist has emerged in Tottenham Hotspur’s managerial saga once again and this one is sure to leave many excited…

What’s the word?

According to talkSPORT, the Lilywhites’ hierarchy is still believed to favour a move for former coach Mauricio Pochettino after the blows suffered to Paulo Fonseca and then Gennaro Gattuso.

It’s thought that their new director of football Fabio Paratici is now targeting ex-Wolves boss Nuno Santo but the rest of the club’s leading figures would rather tempt the Argentine back from Paris Saint-Germain, some 18 months after he was originally sacked by Daniel Levy.

The Athletic revealed last month that the two parties had held talks over a sensational return but it proved difficult due to PSG’s stance of keeping hold of their manager, leading to them triggering an extension in his contract to all but end Spurs’ advances.

Now, though, it seems it could well be back on.

Another twist

This is merely just another twist in the tale and whilst many in North London will be growing concerned and probably frustrated by the arduous process, the prospects of Pochettino still being in the running will delight many supporters.

Some were left underwhelmed by Fonseca coming in and plenty were firmly opposed to the arrival of Gattuso, so much so that a social media campaign against him was trending and that clearly caught the eye of Spurs’ big wigs, who quickly ended their pursuit.

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Over the eight weeks since Jose Mourinho has been sacked, some six or more names have been in the running. It all started with Julian Nagelsmann, who opted to join Bayern Munich from RB Leipzig instead.

Brendan Rodgers was then considered but he quickly ruled himself out of the running, understandable considering his trophy-winning project at Leicester City.

One name Spurs appeared to be close to was ex-Chelsea boss Antonio Conte before talks between the two sides broke down. And then, of course, there are the recent blows to Fonseca and the controversial former AC Milan midfielder.

It’s so crucial, more so now than ever, that Levy gets this appointment spot on. Many have already protested about his decisions in recent months and right now, it seems Spurs are in freefall after their worst Premier League finish since 2009.

Pochettino solves plenty of the worries, though, and is evidently amongst the favourites with the fanbase, as seen by reaction to the initial links a month ago.

This is yet another twist in the tale but at least it’s an exciting one after several setbacks. It should leave lots of fans buzzing in N17.

AND in other news, Imagine him & Son: Paratici could seal “bargain buy” with Spurs swoop for £36m monster…

Steve Bull believes that Wolves would be able to offer Tottenham midfielder Moussa Sissoko regular first-team football.

The Frenchman has been an important part of the club since joining from Newcastle in 2016, making more than 200 appearances in a Spurs shirt.

However, £30m man Sissoko now has just two years remaining on his contract and doesn’t appear to be a part of the club’s long-term plans having already been linked with a move to Napoli this summer.

He made 42 appearances in all competitions last season and was a regular starter in the Premier League up until Christmas.

But when Jose Mourinho opted to bring in an extra attacking player, Sissoko was sacrificed and therefore made just one league start in Tottenham’s final 17 fixtures.

With Oliver Skipp expected to be a part of the first-team next season, the 31-year-old could slip even further down the pecking order, meaning a summer exit from north London is highly likely.

Asked whether Sissoko would be a good addition for Wolves, Bull exclusively told The Transfer Tavern:

“Ideal, and I think he would get [regular first-team football]. Someone like that in the side, massive presence and he isn’t scared of putting his foot in.

“He could probably teach a few of the youngsters, ‘listen follow in my footsteps and I’ll get you up there.’ “

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that attacker Roberto Firmino is in contention to face Arsenal this evening after missing three matches prior to the international break with a knock – prompting many Reds supporters to go wild for this news.

Firmino arguably hasn’t displayed the same brilliant form at times over 2020/2021 as supporters have seen him produce in the past, with talkSPORT pundit Jamie O’Hara recently suggesting he should become a bit-part player for the Reds.

However, as Klopp’s side aim to finish a disappointing title defence as strongly as possible, with Liverpool still in contention for a Europa League spot, Firmino’s possible presence could come as a boost in the form of another option.

As the Reds boss confirms he is indeed in contention to face Arsenal, many Liverpool fans buzzed over this news – with one supporter wowed whilst calling the update ‘another boost’.

These fans, ahead of the clash tonight, will be hoping the Brazilian can add to his six goals and seven assists in all competitions if he is in fact selected by Klopp.

Find all of their reactions to this injury update down below.

Liverpool fans go wild for Firmino update

“Wow congratulations Liverpool family another boost”

Credit: @AuwalRAbdullah1

“YESSSSS”

Credit: @ayyaz_97

“SIUUUU”

Credit: @JAMESFF9

“Can’t wait to see you my man”

Credit: @EmamuAly

“Yessss Bobby”

Credit: @M_borlarjoko

“Finally football can be enjoyable again.”

Credit: @Romevoice

“glad to see him back”

Credit: @oetjoktheo12

“Can’t wait to see him teasing Arsenal like he usually do”

Credit: @nzemaxima

“Arsenal sweating rn”

Credit: @eric_kish

In other news: Liverpool fans also reacted as James Pearce relayed news, find out more here.

Watford are considering a move to bring Jens Petter Hauge to Vicarage Road this summer.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to Italian journalist Daniele Longo (via Sempre Milan), who claimed that AC Milan are open to offers for the 21-year-old left-winger this summer – and that the Hornets are strongly considering placing a bid for the Norway international.

The Rossoneri are also said to be open to a loan deal for the £9m-rated youngster, something that could also open the door to a temporary move to Vicarage Road for the former FK Bodo/Glimt star.

Giaretta must move

While Hauge has not enjoyed the best of times since making a £4.5m move to Milan last October – with the 21-year-old scoring two goals over his 18 Serie A appearances for Stefano Pioli’s side so far this season, as well as averaging a disappointing SofaScore match rating of 6.62 – there is still plenty of promise waiting to be tapped in the winger.

This is evident from his performances prior to his switch to Italy, as, over his 18 Eliteserien fixtures for FK Bodo/Glimt in 2020, Hauge had scored a whopping 14 goals, registered nine assists and had created seven big chances, in addition to averaging a SofaScore match rating of 7.81.

So, while there are obvious differences in standard between the Norwegian first tier and Serie A – not to mention the Premier League – there is clearly an exceptional talent hidden inside Hauge that Pioli has not managed to uncover during the winger’s time at Milan.

Indeed, with Carlo Pellegatti stating his belief that Hauge is similar in style to none less than Tottenham Hotspur’s Son Heung-min, as well as claiming that the 21-year-old is a player who possesses “ancient flavour”, it would appear highly advisable for Cristiano Giaretta to make a move for the Milan youngster this summer.

If the gamble does pay off, and Xisco Munoz can help the winger refind his form, the benefits for Watford could well be massive – both in terms of goals, creativity and, one day, financially.

In other news: Giaretta confirms huge Watford transfer news that will surely have Xisco buzzing – opinion

Ex-Premier League footballer Dean Windass believes that Conor Hourihane joining Sheffield United is a great move.

The Yorkshire outfit announced on Monday that Hourihane had joined the Blades on loan from Premier League outfit Aston Villa.

The 30-year-old 23 assists.

Hourihane has plenty of previous Championship experience as he has played for Ipswich Town, Barnsley, Aston Villa and Swansea City, and Windass believes that joining Sheffield United is a great move for the midfielder.

He told The Transfer Tavern: “What a great signing that’ll be for Sheffield United – good experience, played in the Premier League, knows his way around a football pitch, good midfielder player, good passer, can get you a goal as well.

“Sheffield United need somebody like that now, you can’t just keep relying on Billy Sharp all the time. Yeah they’ve struggled in the Championship at the start but I’m sure they’ll be alright in it.”

Sheffield United currently find themselves in 23rd position in the Championship table, with a poor start to the season seeing them pick up just two points from a possible 15.

However, after a summer of recruitment, everybody will be hoping that the Blades can turn their fortunes around and start pushing up the league standings.