Arsenal host Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday – a massive game in any season. We've written all about it here as the two giants clash.

Both teams will turn to their stars to swing this one, of course. For Arsenal, that largely means Bukayo Saka, who is rapidly blossoming into one of the Premier League's very best players.

But what can we expect? We at Football FanCast have had a little delve into the history books to see exactly what Saka has done before against United, as well as his overall record and recent form. Here's what you need to know.

What is Bukayo Saka's goal record vs Manchester United?

Saka actually has three goals in his career against United, which is the most he's got against anyone at professional level (he does have five against Tottenham U18s but we won't count that here). No, it's not the largest number but then he is yet to turn 22.

And Saka also started out as a left-back with the Gunners, of course. He's still a player coming into his own as a forward, even if he's now managing to do it at a very high level. And so three goals in seven games against United is actually a fine record.

In fact, it looks a lot better when you judge him purely as a right-sided player. Saka only has three starts against United in his natural position – and he's scored in all three.

So, when purely judging the youngster by his current role, his record looks perfect. United beware.

Games

7

Starts

5

Goals

3

What is Bukayo Saka's assist record vs Manchester United?

As of now, Saka only has a single assist against United. It came in his first-ever game against them, funnily enough, back in 2019. He played as a left-sided midfielder on that day – a role he's yet to play against them since.

Of course, Saka continues to improve his creative output year-on-year. He picked up 11 assists in the Premier League last season, suggesting he's well on his way to becoming a force in that regard.

Saka may not have many to his name against United but all signs point to that changing before long.

Games

7

Starts

5

Assists

1

What is Bukayo Saka's head-to-head record vs Manchester United?

Saka's record against United is a very positive one – he usually gets the better of the Red Devils. In all, he's faced them seven times in his career, winning four.

He's only lost to United twice, in fact, with both of those coming away from home. At the Emirates, Saka's record is actually perfect with three wins from three (he missed a 0-0 draw in 2021 through injury).

It's also worth mentioning that Saka has only ever faced United in the Premier League. There are zero cup ties between them up to this point, so you can easily translate these figures into points.

Of a possible 21 points against United, Saka has picked up 13. That's hardly a disappointment against a side consistently fighting towards the very top of the table.

Wins

4

Draws

1

Defeats

2

What is Bukayo Saka's recent record vs Manchester United?

From an Arsenal perspective, Saka's recent record against United is fine. They've traded wins at home over the last two season, each winning on their own ground. Two wins, two defeats, then – nothing to shout about but not exactly a disaster, either.

But individually, Saka is becoming a real thorn in United's side. He's scored in each of his last three appearances against the Red Devils, picking up two wins and a defeat.

And that'll be a worry for Erik Ten Hag going into Sunday. Saka is finding a way to score against United every time he plays against them – as we mentioned above, these last three games are also his only starts as a right-sided player against United. He's scored in all of them.

At the very least, it's something Ten Hag will have to plan for. Maybe that means a change of left-back, maybe it means finding a way to double-up on Saka defensively. All that's clear is that he's got to do something or Arsenal's star almost certainly finds a way to goal.

Who does Bukayo Saka have the most goals against?

Saka is still very early into his career, especially as an attacking threat. He started as a left-back or left-midfielder and was seen more as a solid option who provided width for the team.

It's only really in the last two seasons that Saka has developed into a genuine goal threat. That's why his three goals against United stand as the most he's scored against anyone at the professional level.

After all, those three goals are essentially three goals in four games as the Saka we now know. Beyond United, there are 11 different teams where Saka has scored twice – so don't expect that tally of three to stand for long as his career high.

A goal on Sunday would extend it instantly, after all.

How did Bukayo Saka do in the Premier League last season?

Saka enjoyed a sensational campaign last season as Arsenal finished second. He set new career-bests for both goals and assists, putting himself up there with the absolute best in the league.

For goals, Saka scored 14. This beat his previous best of 11, set the season before, and was good enough for joint-10th in the Premier League, alongside Aleksandar Mitrovic. It also meant he was the Gunners' third-top scorer, one behind Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli.

What really set Saka apart, though, was his 11 assists. That was good enough for joint-fourth in the league, with Michael Olise. Only Kevin de Bruyne, Mohamed Salah and Leandro Trossard (split between Arsenal and Brighton) finished above the player. And even then, only just – Salah and Trossard each had one more than Saka.

25 goal contributions is a fantastic season for just about anyone and it's comfortably Saka's best effort to date. His previous best of 18, set the season before, looks relatively average in comparison. The wonderful thing for Arsenal, of course, is that he only turns 22 on September 5th – he could very well set yet another personal best in this campaign and you may well expect another one next season.

How many goals has Bukayo Saka scored in 2023?

Saka has scored 14 times in the 2023 calendar year so far – but not all of those were for Arsenal. Of course, the majority have been and he opened his account for the year by scoring against Manchester United on January 22nd.

Goals against Manchester City and Aston Villa followed in February before strikes against Everton and Crystal Palace (a brace) in March. Then come the non-Arsenal goals. Saka bagged one for England against Ukraine in March before returning to the Premier League for two more against Southampton and Wolves.

A hat trick in June against North Macedonia for England, the first of his career, boosts his numbers quite a bit, while he's already grabbed two this season.

So overall, 14 goals but four of those were for England. 10 for Arsenal, if you need help counting.

How many Premier League goals does Bukayo Saka have?

Saka has now played 138 Premier League games – doesn't time fly? The Arsenal star is quickly developing into a true goalscorer in the Premier League after his 14-goal haul last season.

That nearly doubled Saka's career total in the Premier League, taking him to 31 goals. He's since added two in this campaign, too, and currently sits on 33 in the competition. Expect that number to be much higher after this season.

As for assists, Saka has 26 – again, a number that's going to climb much higher over the next few seasons. 11 came in the last Premier League campaign and we expect him to register a similar amount this time around.

Games

138

Goals

33

Assists

26

How many goals does Bukayo Saka have for Arsenal?

In all, Saka has exactly 40 goals for Arsenal across all competitions. 15 of those came last season and 12 the season before that – so the player is improving year on year.

He already has two in his opening four games this season, for instance. Saka is well on his way to breaking his own personal best, then, and will almost certainly pass the 50 goals mark before long.

As for competitions, Saka has 33 in the Premier League, five in the Europa League, one in the FA Cup and another in the EFL Cup. So one other thing to look out for this season is his first Champions League goal. It's coming.

When is Arsenal vs Manchester United?

Arsenal will host Manchester United on Sunday, September 3rd at 16:30 UK time. Both teams are eager for what would be a massive win to kickstart their seasons.

That said, each have won two of their opening games and sit in decent positions. Their wins just haven't been all that convincing and a win in this one would feel like a strong statement from either side.

MatériaMais Notícias

A Quarta Fase da Copa do Brasil para o CRB começou na última quinta-feira e não foi do jeito que o torcedor esperava. Diante do Juventude, a equipe apresentou erros defensivos e acabou derrotado por 2 a 0.

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Agora, o técnico Marcelo Cabo terá muito trabalho para remontar a equipe e buscar a reação na próxima semana, no estádio Rei Pelé.

O que o CRB precisa?

Com o revés por 2 gols, o Galo precisa se lançar ao ataque. Para levar a vaga no tempo normal, o Galo precisa vencer por três gols. Caso o time devolva a derrota por dois gols, a disputa será nos pênaltis.

Retrospecto

Nesta temporada, CRB e Juventude se enfrentaram em duas oportunidades e o Jaconero levou a melhor em todas, tanto na Série B como na Copa do Brasil.

It was a familiar storyline for Sunderland against Coventry City last weekend.

Countless shots, missed chances and a lack of potency meant that the Black Cats dropped points from yet another Championship game in a 0-0 draw.

This means that Sunderland have taken just four points from their opening four games in what has been a frustrating start to the campaign.

Tony Mowbray has made it clear what he believes the issue, saying: “We don't have a killer number nine and I'm not sure we will by the end of the window – they are not falling off trees are they?"

However, contrary to the manager’s comment, it is claimed that Sunderland are on the verge of signing a striker before the transfer window closes on 1st September.

What’s the latest Sunderland transfer news?

According to Ukrainian outlet TaToTake (via Zorya Londonsk), Zorya Luhansk’s Nazariy Rusyn has agreed personal terms with Sunderland ahead of a move to the Stadium of Light.

The report states that the forward has agreed a three-year deal with the option of a further 12 months.

It has also been suggested that the striker will cost around €2.5m (£2m) plus add-ons.

Rusyn has spoken on his uncertain future, denying that he has signed a contract with Sunderland but revealing that the move is nearing completion.

Speaking to Sport.ua (via SB Nation), he said: “As my agent Vadim Shabliy said, there is an agreement that I will legalize business relations with Sunderland for a period of four years with an extension for another season. This option suits me.

“On August 29, I have to submit the necessary documents for obtaining an English visa. I hope that soon all the formalities will be completed and it will be possible to gather in foggy Albion.”

Who is Nazariy Rusyn?

Last season was overwhelmingly Rusyn’s most productive and effective spell of his career. In 30 games for Luhansk, the 24-year-old scored 13 times and crafted six assists.

As well as this commendable goal-scoring, another attractive trait for Rusyn is his positional versatility.

Indeed, last term he played 15 matches as a left-winger, 13 as a centre-forward, and a further two as a right-winger.

His interchangeable and adaptable nature means he is an eye-catching asset for the Sunderland hierarchy, who are targeting more offensive firepower.

The attacker has been described as “excellent” by Dynamo Abroad podcast co-host ‘Dima,' and once this transfer is confirmed, Rusyn could potentially make for a formidable attacking partner for Bradley Dack.

The Englishman joined Sunderland earlier this summer, reuniting with Mowbray who previously coached him at Blackburn Rovers.

During Dack’s career, over 119 Championship appearances, the attacker has netted 32 goals and created 11 assists.

His numbers would be even more impressive, but injuries have stalled his progress and consistency. Two separate long-term knee issues mean he has missed 89 games in the last four years, but a move to Wearside could be the perfect antidote for a fresh start for the playmaker.

Combining with him a rampant attacker such as Rusyn would no doubt be beneficial too. They both boast exciting natural talent and a penchant for goal contributions.

Mowbray happens to be a huge fan of the 29-year-old and has said: “I love watching Dack when he gets wrapped up in it. Working, running, going playing where the ball is, playing like a kid in the playground really, and he's got such natural talent.”

Therefore, with these two effervescent threats linking up, it could be an exciting new era for the Sunderland attack.

Having played 12 Tests and 39 ODIs for Australia, the 36-year old fast bowler decided to quit a few days before the resumption of Sheffield Shield, as New South Wales look to younger quicks

Daniel Brettig05-Feb-2018Doug Bollinger, the rumbustious New South Wales fast bowler, has chosen to retire at the age of 36 as the Blues look towards more youthful pace options for the resumption of the Sheffield Shield later this week.Having first turned out for his state as far back as 2002-03, Bollinger played 12 Tests and 39 ODIs for Australia, with handsome records in each format. With 290 wickets for NSW, he is the one of the state’s most prolific fast bowling wicket-takers. Tall, fast and capable of swinging the ball both ways, Bollinger was also a popular cult figure, remembered for antics such as mistakenly kissing the sponsor’s badge on his shirt rather than the Australian coat of arms after taking a Test wicket in New Zealand in early 2010.That tour was part of a summer in which he took 37 wickets in seven Tests against West Indies, Pakistan and New Zealand, and formed a vital part of the Australian attack, notably enjoying repeated success against Chris Gayle. However, his time in the team ended abruptly: he injured his side while performing well in the Chandigarh Test against India later that year, and then bowled poorly in the Adelaide Ashes Test of the 2010-11 summer after entering the match short of full fitness.Bollinger did return to the fold as a back-up for Mitchell Johnson during the 2013-14 summer, and made his last Australian appearance in a Twenty20 against South Africa in November 2014. He has since been a consistent part of the NSW and Sydney Sixers sides, but has now decided to finish up at the same time the state looks to a younger generation.”I was pretty raw and they gave me a really good chance at cricket,” Bollinger said of his first state coaches Steve Rixon and Trevor Bayliss. “My first captain for NSW was Steve Waugh, which was unbelievable. I played under some great captains and players for NSW and Australia including Steve, Michael Clarke and Ricky Ponting.”To play for 15 or 16 seasons with the SCG as my home ground has been amazing. It’s been a great ride. I met so many wonderful people and achieved the ultimate ambition of playing Test cricket for Australia. Now it’s time for the next stage of my life with my wife Tegan and my children Skye and Liam. I couldn’t have achieved everything I have without them.”Andrew Jones, the NSW chief executive, said Bollinger had enjoyed a remarkable career considering his late entry into the game as a teenager. “Doug was a larger than life presence on and off the field,” Jones said. “Whether it was charging in full throttle for another delivery, celebrating a wicket with unrestrained joy or being the personality of the dressing rooms, he was always imposing himself on the game.”Finishing his career as ninth on the list of NSW first-class wicket takers and playing all three forms of the game for Australia is a remarkable achievement given he did not play cricket until he was 15, joining local club Seven Hills-Toongabbie RSL in Sydney’s west. For someone who simply wanted to play with his mates in the park, Doug’s 290 wickets for NSW make him the state’s third most successful fast bowler of all time behind Geoff Lawson and fellow left armer Mike Whitney. Doug will always be an important part of the NSW Cricket family.”James Sutherland, the Cricket Australia chief executive, said he hoped that Bollinger would stay involved in the game following his retirement as a player. “Doug has had a fantastic career, and we congratulate him on his achievements at international and domestic level,” Sutherland said. “He was a fierce competitor on the field who gave his all every time he represented his country.”He was a skilful bowler who claimed more than 100 international wickets and enjoyed success against the best in the world. Doug has made a tremendous contribution to cricket in Australia across more than 15 years – we thank him for his service, and hope he remains involved in the game following his playing career.”Mickey Edwards, 23, Charlie Stobo, 22, Harry Conway, 25, and Gurinder Sandhu, 24, are the young pacemen in the NSW Shield squad to face Western Australia from Thursday, alongside the experienced Trent Copeland.

Journalist Paul Brown has shared some detail behind a "serious" last-gasp deadline day Fulham bid to sign Tottenham star Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

Fulham deadline day signings

Despite the links to a plethora of stars very late in the window, Fulham did little business yesterday but did manage to seal a dramatic late loan move for AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure.

The Senegal international, who plays as a left-back, joins Adama Traore, Raul Jimenez, Calvin Bassey, Steven Benda, Alex Iwobi and former Leicester City defender Timothy Castagne as Marco Silva's main summer signings.

Fulham were also boosted by star midfielder Joao Palhinha remaining at the club, as his proposed move to Bayern Munich collapsed in the eleventh hour.

The Portugal international had even travelled for a medical with Bayern, but the Whites ultimately didn't give the green light to the move, possibly because they couldn't source a late replacement.

Hojbjerg, who was a mainstay for Spurs under Antonio Conte last season, has found game time difficult to come by in Ange Postecoglou's new-look Tottenham system.

The Dane, as a result, was being chased by Fulham during the latter stages of the summer window – with journalist Brown sharing what he's heard on the matter to GiveMeSport.

Indeed, it is believed Fulham were the "last club" to make a "serious" last-ditch offer to sign Hojbjerg, but the move didn't come to fruition.

The former Southampton star is now left in "limbo" as a result of this, as explained by Brown to GMS:

“Hojbjerg is also one who isn't going to be allowed to leave. I think Fulham were the last club to make a serious offer, but they no longer need to decide what to do about how they replace Joao Palhinha, and I'm not sure he was their first choice there.

“So, he's currently in limbo. It is interesting that Ange Postecoglou also said today that he's not going to be freezing anyone out. If any of the fringe players they're trying to sell end up staying beyond the deadline, they will be reintegrated.

“He's not quite as strict on squad numbers as other managers and he is willing to work with a slightly bigger squad, while he says that right now it's not a problem in terms of numbers in training or anything like that.

How good is Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg?

While Palhinha staying reduces the need for Hojbjerg, in a hypothetical universe, he may well have been a capable deputy for the ex-Sporting CP ace.

The Denmark international ranked as one of Spurs' best-performing players per 90 last term, according to WhoScored, with Hojbjerg also registering the highest pass accuracy (88.6%) of any Tottenham player with over 10 starts.

He chipped in with nine goal contributions in the league, four goals and five assists specifically, and former Spurs keeper Paul Robinson praised Hojbjerg for his performances at the back end of last year.

"I’ve been surprised by how much he has stepped up this year," said Robinson to Football Insider.

“I thought he was the one who would make way for Yves Bissouma. The club spent a lot of money on Bissouma. I think Hojbjerg recognised that and stepped up.

“He is playing to a level that we have never seen before. He is playing his best football in a Spurs shirt."

كشفت تقارير صحفية إسبانية، أن نادي برشلونة الإسباني يبحث عن مساعد مدرب، من خلال استعادة أحد لاعبيه في الصيف، تحت قيادة المدرب المنتظر هانزي فليك.

برشلونة يقوم بالاستكشاف والتفاوض لتعيين مساعد لـ هانزي فليك، يمكنه تحدث اللغتين الألمانية والإسبانية بشكل مثالي، ليكون حلقة وصل مباشرة مع الفريق.

طالع أيضًا.. موندو تكشف مشاعر تشافي مع اقتراب فليك من قيادة برشلونة

صحيفة “آس” الإسبانية، أكدت أن برشلونة يبحث التعاقد مع أحد لاعبيه السابقين، تياجو ألكانتارا ليكون مساعدًا للمدرب هانزي فليك في الجهاز الفني بسبب إيجاده اللغتين الإسبانية والألمانية.

ويتنافس مع تياجو الثنائي مارك بارترا لاعب برشلونة السابق، وخافي مارتينيز الذي يلعب في الدوري القطري، لكنه مثل بايرن ميونخ من قبل.

الهدف الأساسي هو أن يكون هناك تواصل جيد بين المدرب والإدارة وكذلك اللاعبين، ولكن الصحيفة الإسبانية، شددت على أن تياجو ألكانتارا هو أول لاعب اتصل به برشلونة، ولكنه يبلغ من العمر 33 عامًا فقط، ويمكنه مواصلة اللعب بعد الرحيل عن ليفربول.

تياجو ألكانتارا لعب لـ بايرن ميونخ 7 سنوات من 1013 حتى 2020، وقضى جزءًا من مسيرته المهنية تحت قيادة هانزي فليك، قبل الانضمام إلى ليفربول.

خافي مارتينيز، قضى 9 سنوات في بايرن ميونخ، وهو لاعب إسباني مخضرم، ولكنه حتى الآن لا يزال يلعب في قطر القطري، رغم أنه قد يعتزل في نهاية الومسم الجاري، مما يسمح له بالتواجد بمقاعد بدلاء البلوجرانا.

راكيتيتش أيضًا لديه اهتمام من برشلونة لشغل منصب المدرب المساعد بسبب إيجاده الإسبانية والألمانية، حيث لعب من قبل في صفوف شالكة، لكن حتى الآن لم يحسم النادي الأمر.

7.5James Anderson (17 wickets at 27.82)
Even on days when the ball refused to swing – and there were many of them – Anderson demanded respect because of his control and skills. The pace has long gone and, as a result, his potency is reduced but he hardly bowled a poor ball all series – his economy rate was 2.11 – and in delivering more overs than any other seamer (223.3; only Pollock and Walsh, of seamers, have bowled more overs in a series this century), he led from the front. Again and again, his captain relied upon him. Again and again, he set a standard which others couldn’t maintain.Dawid Malan (383 runs at 42.55)
Something of a breakthrough series. If a maiden century in Perth was the highlight, he passed 50 on three other occasions and generally coped with the quick bowling as well as anyone. There were moments – especially in Brisbane and Perth – when he failed fully to take advantage of his strong foundations but, with a slightly more open stance, he looked a composed and elegant player.6.5Craig Overton (61 runs at 20.66; 6 wickets at 37.66)
The figures are unremarkable but Overton showed impressive spirt with bat, ball and in the field. Having claimed Steven Smith as his maiden Test wicket in Adelaide, he produced a gutsy 41 not out – the highest score of the England innings – to give his side a bit of belief in an important partnership with Chris Woakes and then took an outstanding catch at long-leg. He dismissed both openers in the first innings at Perth, too, but was diagnosed with a cracked rib after landing awkwardly when diving for a caught and bowled chance. While he tried to continue – remaining committed in the field, too – his figures suffered and he was obliged to sit out the rest of the series. The suspicion lingers that his brother, Jamie, may have the greater future at this level due to his extra pace, but Craig made a good impression.6Joe Root (378 runs at 47.25; 2 wickets at 29)
While Root reached 50 five times (no one on either side reached 50 more often, but three of them came after the series was decided) and only Malan made more runs, he will know his failure to convert those starts into match-defining totals cost England dearly. There were moments, not least in Perth and Sydney, when leading this England team in the field looked almost impossible. And there were moments, not least at the start of the Adelaide Test, where his senior bowlers did him few favours. But Root soldiered on and, at times (notably in Brisbane), looked innovative and bold in his captaincy. He deserves credit for ensuring the spirit in the camp never deteriorated as it did in 2013-14, but the side required a mountain of runs from his bat if they were to win and he was unable to deliver.Head-on: Jonny Bairstow marks his century by nuzzling his helmet•Getty Images

5.5Jonny Bairstow (306 runs at 34; 10 catches and a stumping)
Made one fine century at Perth, when the series was still live, but failed to reach 50 in the rest of the series. Hampered in the first two Tests by the decision to bat him at No. 7 – and therefore with the tail – he was also caught up in the ‘buttgate’ nonsense. His keeping continues to improve and he showed some character in the second innings in Sydney. Sense remains that he is capable of more, though.4Chris Woakes (114 runs at 16.28; 10 wickets at 49.50)
While Woakes bowled with decent pace – he had the fastest average speeds of the England bowlers – and control, he failed to generate the lateral movement that might have troubled Australia. There was no doubting his effort – he ran 35 miles in the field in Perth – but a propensity to bowl just a little short perhaps didn’t help him find the swing that he might have done. And while he produced a couple of decent innings – notably 36 at Adelaide – he was never able to produce a match-shaping contribution. A recurrence of the side strain that ruined his Champions Trophy campaign ruled him out of the Sydney Test and rounded off a disappointing series.Stuart Broad (136 runs at 15.11; 11 wickets at 47.72)
With his pace reduced and his ability to generate movement (particularly movement away from right-handers) diminished, this was a tough series for Broad. He worked as hard as ever and bowled few poor deliveries, but he simply lacked the pace to unlock these surfaces. It’s now been two years since he took a Test five-for.3.5Mark Stoneman (232 runs at 25.77)
Stoneman’s tour appeared to change after he was confronted by a barrage of short-balls in Perth. Until that point, he had appeared well-organised and competent in making two half-centuries and reaching 25 in four of his first five innings. After that barrage, however (which included a crashing blow on the helmet), he managed only 42 in his final four innings of the series and started to look just a little reluctant to come forward and, as a result, tentative outside off stump. The New Zealand tour could make or break him.James Vince ended a disappointing series with another nick behind•Getty Images

3.5James Vince (242 runs at 26.88)
Vincible. And a reminder that ‘potential’ is the most over-used word in cricket. Vince flirted and teased and promised plenty but ultimately didn’t deliver. There were times when he looked every inch the Test batsman – not least when making 83 in Brisbane or 55 in Perth – and other times when he was, perhaps, unfortunate (such as receiving an unplayable delivery in Perth or being given out leg before in Melbourne despite hitting the ball). He clearly has time on the ball and the range of stroke to succeed at this level. But he has now played 12 Tests and has just those two half-centuries to show for them. Patience is wearing thin.3Tom Curran (66 runs at 33.00); 2 wickets at 100.00)
Faultless in terms of effort and admirable in terms of his ability to deliver his variations, Curran certainly didn’t let himself or the team down (except, perhaps, when over-stepping when bowling to David Warner). And, in terms of effort and delivering the best version of himself – and we can’t really ask for more – you could make a case for giving him 10/10. A lack of pace rendered him toothless, though, and suggested his international future may be predominantly in white ball cricket. Thrashed a few runs in the first innings in Sydney and showed some character in the second. But looked at least a place too high in the order when batting at No. 8.2.5Alastair Cook (376 runs at 47.00)
One huge innings cannot mask Cook’s inability to shape the series when it mattered. In reaching 40 only once and producing a match-defining contribution only after the Ashes had been relinquished, Cook was like a man who missed the wedding but filled his boots at the reception. And he did little to arrest the suspicion that his is a career in decline. His double-hundred in Melbourne was a terrific effort but it did come on a pitch so slow that it was censured by the ICC and against an attack missing Mitchell Starc. If returns like his – Cook has reached 40 once in his most recent 13 Test innings – are deemed good enough, England are in real trouble.2Mason Crane (1 wicket at 193)
Picked as a quick-fix solution to England’s long-standing spin issues Crane showed exactly what he is: a talented young man with a bright future. But he’s also one who is still learning his trade and it’s a particularly difficult trade, at that. So while he bowled some nice deliveries in Sydney, he also bowled quite a lot of poor ones and underlined the impression he is still a player in development. Despite the ugly figures, however, he stuck to it better than a couple of those who have been tried previously and remains one for the future.Mason Crane celebrates his maiden Test wicket•AFP

1Jake Ball (1 wicket at 115)
Rushed back from injury for the first Test, Ball soon took the wicket of David Warner but thereafter struggled and conceded nearly four-and-a-half an over in the match. Maybe short of overs and rhythm going into the game, all the pre-series talk of his suitability for conditions was soon forgotten as he was then ignored for the rest of the series. His modest batting – he looked almost defenceless against a bouncer barrage in Brisbane – did him few favours.0.5Moeen Ali (179 runs at 19.88; 5 wickets at 115)
He turned up on time and always wore the right kit but that was about as good as things got for Moeen. Unable to contribute with either bat or ball, Moeen had a horrible series and was probably fortunate to retain his place. Hampered by a side strain ahead of the first Test, he then sustained a cut finger during it with the combination clearly hampering his performance with the ball for the first half of the series. He’s not the first spinner to fail in Australia, of course, but there were few runs, either. He struggled against the short ball and the turning ball (Lyon dismissed him seven times in the series) and, having started the series at No. 6, ended it having not passed 40 once.

Wolverhampton Wanderers could finally make their efforts in the summer transfer window count, as the club eye a market move in what would be Gary O’Neil’s first signing.

The Englishman has got off to a less desired, but somewhat expected start to life at Molineux, still waiting to get his first point on the board after two games played in the 2023/24 Premier League season.

The Old Gold’s prognosis was negative before the campaign got underway, after suffering a trialling summer due to increased pressures of Financial Fair Play (FFP), leading to the departure of former manager Julen Lopetegui just five days before the opening fixture.

Things could be on the up at Wolves under O’Neil, with reference to a potential signing that the club could finally make after a testing time financially.

Who could Wolves sign this summer?

From failed bids for midfielder Alex Scott, who eventually captured by Bournemouth, to directionless interest for players that were way beyond the club’s financial reach, Wolves have been put to the test this summer.

However, there could be a light at the end of the tunnel for O’Neil, with a new update linking Burnley midfielder Josh Brownhill to Molineux.

As reported by TEAMtalk, Wolves have made an approach to sign Brownhill from the newly promoted side, who was purchased at Turf Moor in 2020 from Bristol City for a fee of £9m.

The speculation has been reinforced by transfer insider Dean Jones, who spoke exclusively to GIVEMESPORT about the “interesting” prospect of the 27-year-old joining Wolves.

“Wolves’ interest in Brownhill is interesting, and while I have seen some fans suggesting that he would likely just be a backup option, I don’t get the feeling that is so much the plan.

This is a player O’Neil knows well from his playing days, and further than that, he looked into signing him when he was Bournemouth manager.

When a new manager comes in, he wants to make his mark on the squad, and one way to do that is to add players with a certain character that reflects what you are looking for in the overall squad.

So, I think it’s an interesting link and makes sense as we see this latest version of Wolves' first-team squad emerge.”

What is Josh Brownhill’s playing style?

Described by former Wolves striker Steve Bull as a “top-class” talent back in 2021, Brownhill could solve a lot of questions regarding the club’s midfield.

Deployed as a central midfielder, the Englishman is versatile in his positioning in the heart of the squad, with the ability to play in both defensive and offensive roles in the middle.

Last term in the Championship, the Warrington-born machine registered 15 goal contributions, scoring seven and assisting eight in 41 appearances for the Clarets, highlighting his strengths in the final third.

For Wolves, his introduction could come at the perfect time, following the club’s farewell to midfield duo Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho, who had graced the field of Molineux through the highs of the Nuno Espirito Santo era.

At 36-years-old, Moutinho had built up a stellar reputation in the Midlands, seeing him dubbed “wonderful” by journalist Liam Keen for his passing ability, an area that will be missed in his absence.

In signing Brownhill, O’Neil could bring a sense of the Portuguese veteran back to Wolverhampton, with the player possessing a very similar skill set to the classy midfielder.

Renowned for his strengths in playing the pivot in the engine room with a balance between defensive and offensive duties, Moutinho averaged 2.58 tackles and 6.67 progressive passes per 90 for Wolves last term, as well as averaging 1.82 key passes per 90 to showcase his edge in the final third, via FBref.

Such numbers were followed closely by the averages recorded by the Burnley whiz during the club’s journey to the top-flight, with him averaging 2.29 tackles, 4.78 progressive passes and an impressive 1.81 key passes per 90 in the Championship.

With 79 Premier League appearances already under his belt in his career, O’Neil could equip his side with his own version of Moutinho by signing Brownhill, who could be the missing piece to rebuilding the squad tarnished by heavyweight exits over the summer.

Liverpool have been linked with a move for a Premier League rivals' top target, and according to reports have now re-entered negotiations to secure his signature.

Who are Liverpool going to sign?

According to a print edition of Corriere dello Sport (via Paisley Gates), Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is hoping to secure the signature of Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat this month, though face intense competition from Manchester United.

Read the latest Liverpool transfer news HERE..

The Merseyside outfit missed out on both Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia to Chelsea and now face a scramble to restore their midfield, with Fabinho and Jordan Henderson both completing transfers to Saudi Arabia this summer.

Amrabat is expected to command a fee of around €30m (£26m) and has been a prime target for the Red Devils for several months now, so Liverpool's hopes hang on swaying the Moroccan's head Anfield way.

How good is Sofyan Amrabat?

Amrabat caught the eye and then some on the international stage last year, starring as the fulcrum to Morocco's exploits at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they became the first African nation to record a final-four finish.

Hailed as the "best central midfielder in the tournament" by reporter Carlo Garganese, the 26-year-old completed 85% of his passes, also making 2.3 tackles and 1.4 clearances per game in his string-pulling role in the centre of the midfield.

The standout attribute of Amrabat's game is his ball-playing composure, ranking among the top 6% of midfielders throughout Europe's top five leagues over the past year for pass completion, the top 11% for passes attempted and the top 11% for progressive passes per 90, as per FBref.

The £32k-per-week machine would thread the different facets of Klopp's Liverpool system together as the metronomic heartbeat, dictating the play and controlling the tempo.

He has already proved himself against the most formidable of Premier League opposition too, having been praised to have taken Declan Rice "to school" – as claimed by writer Muhammad Butt – in last year's Europa Conference League final, and while West Ham United secured a narrow victory on the night, the La Viola titan completed 91% of his passes, winning nine of his 20 duels and making four tackles.

With Amrabat's powerhouse-like presence in the middle, perhaps the burgeoning Curtis Jones could continue his rise to the fore, with the 22-year-old Englishman cementing a regular starting spot for himself at the business end of last term, coinciding with the Reds' late purple patch.

Indeed, Jones started the final 11 matches of the campaign and avoided defeat each time, winning seven, and was praised as the "complete #8" by one analyst & scout.

He ranks among the top 6% of midfielders for goals, the top 4% for pass completion, the top 14% for progressive carries, the top 3% for touches in the attacking box and the top 12% for tackles per 90.

What this illustrates is a roundedness, an all-engulfing hunger to his game, that allows Jones to thrive across the different elements to a thriving midfielder, and while he is just as slick in his passing as Amrabat, his forward-thinking approach suggests he would benefit from a creative focal point behind him.

Once dubbed an "absolute midfield monster" by WhoScored analyst Ben McAleer, Amrabat could be the fiery presence to reignite Liverpool's central verve, and his acquisition could fully unlock a rising star in Jones, who will be hoping to make a big impact this season.

Essex have signed Australia Test quick Peter Siddle for the first five games of their Championship title defence.As in 2017, when Essex supplemented a largely homegrown pace attack with an overseas pro, Siddle will bring an experienced edge during the opening weeks of the season. Essex’s unexpected Championship success was spearheaded by Jamie Porter and former South Africa spinner Simon Harmer, who took 147 wickets between them, but they benefited from significant contributions by Neil Wagner and Mohammad Amir.Siddle, who previously signed to play T20 for Essex in 2012 before being ruled out with injury, will be expected to fulfill a similar role alongside England Lions bowler Porter and a crop of young seamers including Sam Cook, Aaron Beard and Paul Walter.”I am delighted to sign for Essex,” Siddle said. “I have heard very good things about the club and the quality of the playing squad and look forward to contributing strongly towards the title defence during the first few weeks of the season. I’ve enjoyed my previous experiences of county cricket and can’t wait to get underway at Chelmsford.”Siddle, 33, has taken 211 Test wickets and his style of bustling, skillful seam-bowling is well suited to English conditions; on Australia’s 2015 Ashes tour, he claimed match figures of 6 for 67 to help set up victory at The Oval. His last Test appearance was more than a year ago, however, and he has been troubled by persistent back injuries.He has previously enjoyed successful Championship spells with Nottinghamshire and Lancashire. A recent Big Bash League winner with Adelaide Strikers, he is currently only expected to play four-day cricket at Chelmsford.Anthony McGrath, who was recently appointed as Essex’s head coach after Chris Silverwood left to take up a role with England, said that he had spoken to his former Yorkshire team-mate Darren Lehmann, now in charge of Australia, about signing Siddle.”Peter is someone with proven quality at the highest level,” McGrath said. “He is vastly experienced and is a player who won’t just deliver on the pitch but will help our younger bowlers as well.”He recently played in one of the best International teams around, and we are looking forward to picking his brains and seeing what else we can produce as a bowling unit with his help. Darren Lehmann spoke glowingly about him as a person and a bowler when I spoke to him recently, so we are looking forward to him joining us and making a real impact in the opening weeks of the season.”