Leeds United are no different to any other English club, in that their fans absolutely love to see an academy graduate thrive in the first team.

So, for Daniel Farke, he must surely stick by the notion that 'you do not fix what isn't broken' with regard to one of his current starters.

Deadline Day marked a busy one for the Whites, who scrambled to add some much-needed depth to their squad before the window slammed shut.

Succeeding in doing so, they welcomed three new faces to bring their summer acquisitions up to nine, as a fine number to offset the 15 departures they had overseen.

One of their starring acquisitions at the eleventh hour came for just £5.5m, as they tempted Glen Kamara to trade Ibrox for Elland Road in order to aid their promotion charge.

How good is Glen Kamara?

The Finland international had starred for Rangers ever since moving in 2019 but admitted that "I feel I just needed a change in my career and Leeds is the perfect place to kick-start my career again" in his first interview with his new club.

After all, he had accomplished most of what was possible in Scotland, having won the Scottish Premiership and the Scottish Cup, as well as featuring in the Champions League. The 27-year-old is now set to bring a wealth of experience to Yorkshire, with the hope that he can recapture the form that saw him lauded during the 2021/22 campaign.

Maintaining a 7.01 average rating in the league, his six goal contributions and 1.3 key passes per game outlined his creative credentials, but paired it with a 91% pass accuracy and one tackle per game too, adding some solidity as well, via Sofascore.

All signs point towards Kamara being instantly thrown into the starting lineup given what he has achieved in the Scottish top flight, but it should not be that easy for him to usurp the exceptional Archie Gray after his start to the season.

How is Archie Gray playing?

Having only made his competitive debut in Leeds' Championship curtain-raiser with Cardiff City, the 17-year-old impressed many with his mature and combative midfield display in a 2-2 draw.

He has since featured in every single game across all competitions thus far, and earned special praise from club legend Jermaine Beckford on Sky Sports (via Leeds Live): "He played with such maturity, he was so confident on the ball. He didn't rush, he didn't panic at all. Everything about his game today was absolutely spot on, and if today is anything to go by, this kid has such a bright future ahead of him.

"He's in the right place to learn, he's got a little bit of everything in him. Phenomenal player, he did really well today."

Leeds United's youngest-ever Championship debutants

Age at debut (via Transfermarkt)

Tom Elliott

16 years 02 months 25 days

Simon Walton

16 years 10 months 25 days

Ryan Edmondson

16 years 11 months 16 days

Aaron Lennon

17 years, 4 months, 13 days

Archie Gray

17 years, 4 months, 25 days

Although his 6.6 average rating perhaps does not emphasise the scale of Gray's influence, who is the son, great nephew and grandson of three former Whites stars, his 84% pass accuracy and 1.4 tackles does showcase that quality in possession and toughness in the tackle that has earned praise, via Sofascore.

The partnership he has struck up with Ethan Ampadu marks one of the few shining lights to emerge from a term where they have just one league win thus far, as the Wales international acts as more of a dictator to allow his teenage teammate to spread the play.

As such, the 22-year-old maintains an 86% pass accuracy alongside 1.2 key passes, 2.4 tackles and 2.2 clearances per game in the league, via Sofascore.

Another pundit, Michael Dawson, outlined the kind of creativity that this foundation allows Gray to showcase: "The ball from Archie Gray is absolutely sensational. He picks the ball up just on the right-hand side in his own half and hits a long diagonal pass to Sinisterra, who runs at Harry Clarke and he lets him get in the box, chop inside and whip the ball into the far post."

Although Kamara may be the outstanding option on paper, Gray has certainly merited a sustained period of first-team football to continue solidifying a fine partnership with the former Chelsea general.

Under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool have created a formidable squad that has plundered illustrious success for several years now, with the astute work plied in the transfer market providing the German manager with apt tools to craft a dynasty.

The fruits of his labour have eclipsed anything the Reds could have dreamed of, with the whole gamut of silverware secured since his appointment in 2015 – barring the Europa League, which Liverpool will certainly be eyeing up this term.

While the likes of Mohamed Salah, Andrew Robertson, Gini Wijnaldum and Sadio Mane are just a few of the astute dealings to have turbo-charged an ascent to the forefront of the European game, the club's academy – which is by no means the most prolific in England – has also played its part.

Indeed, Trent Alexander-Arnold is one of the most devastating creative gems in the game and has been instrumental in the illustrious feats, having risen through the academy and now admirably standing as the club's vice-captain.

Curtis Jones has also been a burgeoning figure of late and just recently completed his 100th appearance for the club, having posted 11 goals and assists apiece.

The Anfield side have not really seen too many starring talents slip away, but, unknown to most, a certain Premier League star named Anthony Gordon once plied his formative years on the red half of Merseyside.

Did Anthony Gordon play for Liverpool?

Former Liverpool academy player Gordon has risen to prominence on the Premier League scene over the past several years, impressing for a struggling Everton side and forging 78 displays – scoring seven goals and supplying eight assists – before moving away earlier this year.

It all could have been so different; having been released from the Reds' youth ranks when he was only 11-years-old, Gordon was offered a place at Everton's Finch Farm academy and nurtured his precocious talents as a newfound blue.

Speaking to Everton's club website, Gordon revealed his thoughts on the heartbreak of receiving the chop at Liverpool, saying: "It was another chance for me to grow. But that was hard. It affected me mentally and dented my confidence. I had to pick myself up and go again.

“When I got to Everton, I never looked back.”

The 22-year-old is an electric player with scorching pace, and while his cutting edge still needs refining, he definitely boasts the attributes requisite for success at an ambitious outfit such as Liverpool, which is probably why high-flying Newcastle United decided to swoop for his signature.

How much is Anthony Gordon worth now?

With Everton toiling, Gordon decided that the allure of joining a fast-rising team such as Newcastle was an opportunity too enticing to turn down, and he forced his way out of his long-time club in January 2023, completing a £45m transfer to Tyneside.

The England U21 international – who has scored six goals from 16 appearances and won the Player of the Tournament at the 2023 U21 Euros this summer as England gleaned gold – has been praised for his "fearless attitude" by Premier League icon Alan Shearer.

And given that he now boasts a delightful blend of energy and athleticism, he's found a regular spot in the Magpies' starting XI this season, beginning all five fixtures in the English top-flight and scoring against, of course, Liverpool.

Why is Anthony Gordon worth that much?

While Gordon flattered to deceive for much of the 2022/23 campaign after making the move to Tyneside, taking until the final game of the season against Chelsea to break his duck, the wily winger's talents were evident, even if the confidence wasn't quite there at first.

The fleet-footed phenom was even branded "shambolic" by reporter Ryan Taylor for his substandard impact in the early days of his career with Newcastle, but his qualities were always there and now finding his feet, Gordon looks set to nurture his skills and continue to play an important role for Howe's side.

Now with a pre-season and starring role for the Young Lions behind him, the £60k-per-week star looks set for a role of significance for a Newcastle side that will play Champions League football this season, something that Klopp's Liverpool will have to do without after falling by the wayside last year.

As per FBref, he ranks among the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for tackles and the top 11% for blocks per 90 – illustrating his tenacity and application across the pitch, evident after dispossessing a languid Alexander-Arnold and dribbling into the box to score at St. James' Park earlier this season. Indeed, during that game, he rather had "Trent on toast", as per Statman Dave.

Having also demonstrated his creativity with a "brilliant ball in" – as was said by CBS Sports' Ben Jacobs, who was remarking over his assist for debutant Sandro Tonali as Newcastle wreaked havoc against Aston Villa in August, there is an all-encompassing skill set still yet to reach its peak.

Liverpool do boast the likes of Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez as forwards capable of playing in Gordon's preferred left channel, but surrounded by a vibrant crop of talent at Anfield, there is no reason why the Liverpudlian's development might not have blossomed under Klopp's wing, amid so much world-class talent.

While Liverpool's attack is indeed burgeoning rapidly and looks as formidable as any across European football, Gordon's pace and directness would have been perfect as a youngster rising to the fore at Anfield.

While most of a Reds affiliation despise the former Everton star, it all could have been so different, and even if Klopp and co decided his future would have been best served away from Merseyside, to think they could have cashed in lucratively is a blow for a club that has done its transfer work so diligently over modern years.

MatériaMais Notícias

Na manhã deste domingo, o Vasco venceu o Madureira por 2 a 0 noEstádio Conselheiro Galvão, em partida válida pela decisão da Taça Guanabara sub-20. Os gols da partida foram marcados porLaranjeira e Arthur. Com isso, o Gigante da Colina será campeão com apenas um empate no jogo de volta, que será realizado na quarta-feira, às 10h, em São Januário.

A FERJ já divulgou a tabela com o início da Taça Rio sub-20 e o Cruz-Maltino iniciará sua campanha contra o Resende, sábado, dia 17, às 15h,no Estádio Nivaldo Pereira.

RelacionadasVascoGrasseli muda o esquema, Vasco faz um bom primeiro tempo, mas segue com dificuldades na criaçãoVasco10/10/2020VascoApesar da derrota, Alexandre Grasseli destaca entrega dos jogadores do Vasco no clássicoVasco10/10/2020VascoFernando Miguel analisa lance do segundo gol: ‘Os detalhes têm pesado contra a gente nesses últimos tempos’Vasco10/10/2020

VASCO NA FRENTE

Com gols de Laranjeira e Arthur, @VascodaGama vence o @MadureiraEC_BR, por 2 a 0, na primeira partida da final da Taça Guanabara sub 20. Na quarta, acontecerá o segundo jogo, em São Januário.
📸 Divulgação pic.twitter.com/y3XOaSPNoA

— FERJ (@FFERJ) October 11, 2020

No primeiro gol, Riquelme fez ótima jogada individual, tocou na medida para Laranjeira girar, e estufar a rede. Já na etapa final, o Vasco ampliou com boa jogada de Caio Lopes, que deixou Arthur na cara do gol para ampliar o marcador e dar uma boa vantagem para a equipe na decisão.

O Vasco foi a campo com a seguinte escalação: Fintelman, Saulo, Vitor, Yuri e Riquelme; Weverton, Caio Lopes e MT (Roger); Arthur (Marcos Dias), Figueiredo e Laranjeira. Técnico: Alexandre Grasseli.

The offspinner savoured a career-best 4 for 33 against a fancied Afghanistan team at the Bulawayo Athletic Club

Liam Brickhill in Bulawayo08-Mar-2018

“This was my dream,” Ehsan Khan, the offspinner, said as he led a victorious Hong Kong team from the field at the Bulawayo Athletic Club. Ehsan’s 4 for 33 is his career best, and to make it even sweeter it came against a Full Member.”Thanks to almighty Allah, I got the Man-of the-Match award. I’m so happy that it came against Afghanistan, a Test nation. As a team, we always stick together, and we believed that we could beat them.”Ehsan’s spell started with two wickets in his very first over – Rahmat Shah and Ihsanullah – and there was no let up in pressure. He was helped by the conditions in Bulawayo. Every team that has played here has remarked about the amount of turn on offer.”There was a lot of turn,” Ehsan said. “In Hong Kong, we have the same wickets, with the turn. So we knew how to bowl on this wicket. I just stuck to one line. I didn’t do anything special, just bowled one line. I just bowled in the right area, and the result came.”While their win over a fancied Afghanistan team might have surprised many, captain Babar Hayat wasn’t one of them, and he insisted that Hong Kong’s success was the result of hard work and the progress made over the last few years.”These guys have been performing well for the last three or four years,” Hayat said. “The combination of Nadeem and Ehsan has performed well in the past. We’ve been working really hard for the last two years, and we’re capable of getting into the Super Six. Today, we showed that we are capable. We are still in [with a good chance].”Hong Kong’s victory was all the more remarkable given their performance in their first match against Scotland. Two days ago, they had been bowled out for just 91 at this ground. While their bowlers still made inroads in that match, Hong Kong just didn’t have the runs to defend. This time, they did.”In the game we played against Scotland, we didn’t bat well,” Hayat said. “But we did bowl well, and we took six wickets. We knew if we scored at least 200 [against Afghanistan], that would be difficult for them.””Today we showed we can beat any team,” Ehsan said, echoing Hayat’s sentiments. “I’m so happy. The guys have really worked hard, and after the first match, which we lost, we still stuck together.””As captain, this win means a lot to me,” Hayat said. “Back home, our fans and families and friends have been texting, and getting support from them meant a lot.”

For some supporters, looking good on the pitch is just as important as playing well. And with the hope that iconic memories will be made during international tournaments, it is imperative that England are donned in a classic jersey.

Some of the biggest names in the game have worn the infamous England shirt. With that in mind, Football FanCast has taken a look at England’s 10 greatest kits of all time.

10

2013 Home

There may not be many significant memories to accompany this kit, however, this shirt marks the 150th anniversary of the FA Cup. And Nike commentated the historic anniversary with a shirt styled to look like a classic.

A simple white shirt, paired with navy shorts and white socks, the 2013 kit could be looked back on as one of the most stylish kits England have had over the last decade with the navy and golden trim offering a timeless look.

However, the memories created in this kit on the pitch were simply not there to match the design of the kit with no major tournament taking place in the summer of 2013.

9

1996-98 Home

England hosted the 1996 Euros in a summer which saw one player, in particular, hit the headlines. Indeed, Paul Gascogine’s stunning goal against Scotland at Wembley Stadium which was accompanied by an iconic celebration.

The Umbro kit will always be remembered for this goal and can be seen worn by many during each major tournament.

However, there have to be question marks as to whether this is one of England’s most stylish shirts. Perhaps not England’s finest kit on the eyes, but it is certainly one which will be remembered fondly by many following the Euros 96 tournament – despite the manner in which it ended for the Three Lions.

8

2001-03 Away

In an era when Umbro did not always provide England with the most fashionable of kits, this one proved a hit. The first away shirt to feature on this list, the kit came with some neat design features which included the England flag on the cuffs.

But it was at the 2002 World Cup which many will remember this kit for with David Beckham netting from the spot in this kit against Argentina. The penalty marked a moment of redemption for the midfielder four years on from than infamous red card in the previous World Cup against the same opposition.

7

1984-87 Home

This Umbro kit is one which will certainly go down in the history books, however, for England, it is not a kit which will provide a happy memory. Indeed, Diego Maradona scored two of the World Cup’s most famous goals against England when they were wearing this kit – two goals which are remembered for very different reasons.

But from a stylistic point of view, this is definitely a kit which Umbro can look back on with pride. A simple design was elevated by subtle stripes and a classic navy V-neck collar.

6

1990-92 Third

Now, this is a kit where the memories on the pitch certainly do not match up to the design of the kit. That is because England did not actually wear this kit during Italia ’90. In fact, this kit was only worn once, and it came a year after the tournament.

Yet, this remains one of England’s most iconic kits having featured in that infamous New Order ‘World In Motion’ music video. A song which has become synonymous with the Three Lions during major tournaments, this kit has managed to write itself into English football history – despite only being worn once.

5

2021 Home

Contrary to the last selection on our list, this is a kit where the memories on the pitch were certainly there to match the design.

It was yet another summer of what could have been with the Three Lions reaching the Euros final at Wembley where they came up against Roberto Mancini’s Italy. But once again, it was not to be for the Three Lions. Heartbreak in the final is perhaps the reason this kit cannot feature much higher than fifth.

But it certainly is one that will go own in the history books and had the design to match with a classic look as a result of the navy trim and centred crest.

What could have been…

4

2001-03 Home

Another kit which will bring back many positive memories for England fans, this Umbro number was one Michael Owen will look back on fondly too.

Beating Germany so heavily was one of the bigger results secured in this strip, however, it cannot be forgotten that the infamous David Beckham free-kick came wearing this kit, too.

Although it may be seen as one of the simpler designs on this list, it is one which has proven to be a classic with the memories certainly there to back the clean design.

3

1980-84 Home

The only kit to feature on this list made by Admiral, this is one which was so fondly remembered that it was recreated – as such – by Nike in 2018 as a pre-match shirt for the World Cup in Russia.

And it was a kit which was such a hit that it was kept for a total of four years with the 1982 providing an unbeaten record for the Three Lions – albeit not proving enough for them to get their hands on the trophy.

Indeed, England beat France, Czechoslovakia and Kuwait but were unable to come away with anything more than a draw against West Germany and France which saw them fail to progress though to the second stage.

2

1990-92 Home

Perhaps many people’s champion in terms of design, the Italia ’90 classic is one which will be remembered with fond memories. The likes of Gascogine and Gary Lineker donned this shirt in Italy with some fantastic goals scored in doing so.

And it is a shirt which has become a hit with England fans of today with many choosing this as their shirt of choice during the major tournaments.

Ultimately, England were not quite able to deliver wearing this shirt, but they certainly came close to World Cup glory and they did so in style.

1

1965-74 Away

It almost goes without saying, but the most iconic England kit is the red kit which saw the likes of Bobby Moore lifting the World Cup trophy. Indeed, Moore won 56 of his 108 caps in this shirt, more than any other player.

The kit itself is incredibly simplistic given it is now around 60 years old. No sponsor, no nonsense, just a plain red jersey which is famously known for the long sleeves look.

18 players netted their first England goals in the shirt, with Sir Geoff going on to hit 24 in his international career. Twenty players scored their last England goal in the shirt, including Jimmy Greaves’ 44th, against Spain, in 1967. Also, 49 players were capped for the first time in this shirt, with four going on to win over sixty caps; Peters (with 67), Dave Watson (with 65), Kevin Keegan (with 63) and Emlyn Hughes (with 62).

And, many of you might remember that Geoff Hurst wore a shirt without a number on the back when he appeared as a substitute against Sweden. (All stats from England Football Online).

Perhaps there are more exciting kits to be produced over the years, however, does this deserve the spot at number one purely based on the historic memories? Yes, absolutely.

Resilience. Fortitude. Defensive aptitude. Three things that are simply intrinsic to Sean Dyche's philosophy as a manager, and they are three things that he is seeking to implement at Everton.

The Toffees are struggling, and have been doing so for a while now. Last season, they escaped relegation with a narrow victory over Bournemouth on the final day of the Premier League campaign; the year before, a late purple patch ensured that the unthinkable prospect of bowing out did not occur.

At present, the Goodison Park side look set for a battle against the bottom once again, though there are signs that this squad could be successful, despite losing four of their opening five matches of the campaign, blanking across each of those defeats.

Having finished the 2022/23 season as the division's second-lowest scorers, the onus was understandably on bolstering the frontline this summer, but this was done at the expense of enhancing the defence, despite Yerry Mina and Conor Coady's departures.

The exciting Jarrad Branthwaite is back in the fold after a successful loan spell with PSV Eindhoven, praised for his "complete" skill set by the former Boeren manager Ruud Van Nistelrooy, but more importantly, James Tarkowski still plies his trade in front of Jordan Pickford's goal.

How much did Everton pay for James Tarkowski?

In 2022, a Dyche-led Burnley crashed out of the Premier League and lost their star centre-back Tarkowski, who had chosen not to enter discussions for a contract renewal and departed on a free transfer, choosing Everton as his destination.

Signed by Frank Lampard, Tarkowski penned a lucrative £100k-per-week contract with the Merseyside outfit, who didn't have to pay a transfer fee, and joined to add some power and leadership to a backline that had just spent the 2021/22 year toiling with little reward, albeit avoiding the drop.

Burnley (and indeed Dyche) had been renowned for their cohesion and solidity in the top flight, for years belying their meagre financial pool and proving that teams of lesser lucrative standing can thrive in the modern Premier League.

Tarkowski was integral in this manner, and proved to be one of the most underrated players in the league after several years of hard work.

How much was James Tarkowski worth at Burnley?

Tarkowski was a staple of the Clarets' success, playing 219 matches, scoring seven goals and supplying five assists, with former teammate and centre-half partner Ben Mee claiming that he "epitomises" the work the club did.

At the end of the 2016 winter transfer window, Burnley signed the defender from Brentford for an undisclosed fee, when he was valued at just £3m, according to Football Transfers.

He swiftly asserted himself as one of the Premier League's standout pure centre-backs, working well under Dyche's wing, who prioritises direct, defensive football.

His performances caught the eye of a few divisional rivals, with fast-rising West Ham United bidding in excess of £20m for his services in 2020, only to see their offer rebuffed.

David Moyes would follow that up with a staggering £30m bid, but again, Tarkowski's importance to the Burnley project was clear and he was kept in Lancashire; Leicester City are believed to have made a similar approach.

Burnley demanded a – perhaps exorbitant – fee of £50m for the two-cap England international, and whether they made the correct decision having sunk into the second tier two years later is up for dispute, but it is certainly a testament to Tarkowski's ability.

How much is James Tarkowski worth now?

Having joined the Goodison Park fold around 14 months ago, the 30-year-old has now forged 46 displays, quickly earning the adulation of the devout Everton support with his tenacious performances.

Indeed, though Everton struggled, the defensive axis of Coady and Tarkowski proved to be "hugely important", in the words of Lampard, having let in just seven goals from as many matches – the lowest tally of any team in the Premier League at the time.

Such showings shot his market value up to £29m – according to Football Transfers – having fallen to just £7m in the final days of his career with Burnley.

While he is now valued at just £17m, this is largely due to Everton's dreadful performances for a sustained period, facing yet another relegation battle.

Candidly, it's alarming to think where the outfit would be without the 6 foot colossus' presence at the back.

How good is James Tarkowski?

Despite a 4-0 defeat to Aston Villa, Everton's defence has actually held up pretty well this season, with the other three losses all coming by a goal to nil.

Tarkowski has recorded an impressive average match rating of 6.98 – as per Sofascore – having completed 79% of his passes, made 6.2 ball recoveries, 2.6 clearances and 2.4 interceptions per game in the league thus far, also winning a whopping 69% of his aerial duels.

Once praised as "outstanding" by Dyche, the former Oldham Athletic youngster is one of the most consistent members of the struggling Everton squad, and he will continue to serve as an iron wall this term, hoping that his offence-minded peers click into gear.

A robust and reliable player, Tarkowski ranks among the top 1% of centre-backs across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for blocks, the top 12% for aerial wins and the top 18% for clearances, as per FBref, highlighting his prowess and importance to the Blues backline.

The Everton ship was once ensconced in security and stability, but now faces rough waters for a third successive year.

Amid all the turmoil and tumult, perhaps Tarkowski's leadership, defensive skill and application – exactly what Dyche strives for – could prove to play another big role this year.

As the experienced gaffer said, "anyone can take the ship in calm waters" but "you have to be resilient in tough times."

Tarkowski embodies that, and if the Toffees are to get unstuck, the defensive ace will be at the centre.

علق محمد أبو الوفا عضو مجلس إدارة اتحاد الكرة، على تعادل منتخب مصر أمام غينيا بيساو في مباراة اليوم بهدف لمثله، في تصفيات كأس العالم 2026.

وحل منتخب مصر ضيفًا على غينيا بيساو، في ملعب الأخير “24 سبتمبر”، في إطار مواجهات الجولة الرابعة من عمر منافسات مرحلة المجموعات لتصفيات كأس العالم.

وقال محمد أبو الوفا في تصريحات عبر قناة “إم بي سي مصر 2”: “كنت أتمنى أن نحقق المكسب، وكنا نأمل الحصول على الثلاث نقاط لكي نقترب بشكل كبير للتأهل لكأس العالم، ولكن ما زالت الفرصة متواجدة، أعتقد المباريات المقبلة ليست صعبة”.

طالع أيضاً.. أسامة نبيه بعد تعادل مصر مع غينيا بيساو: كان في الإمكان أفضل مما كان

وعن تصريحات حسام حسن بعد المباراة، أفاد: “لا أحد يكره الفوز لمنتخب مصر إلا كل حاقد ولا يستحق الرد عليه، لا يوجد أحد عاقل أو سوي يريد الخسارة للمنتخب”.

وأتم: “كل ما يخص محمد صلاح يوجد فيه حساسية شديدة جدًا، يوجد تحامل على الجهاز الفني واتحاد الكرة فيما يخص صلاح بشكل كبير”.

Sri Lanka would still be hurting after the hiding their bowlers were handed by Bangladesh, but their in-form top-order is capable of testing India’s resolve

The Preview by Andrew Fidel Fernando11-Mar-20182:07

Chopra: Pant needs to develop another gear

Big PictureFlags have been planted, intents have been declared, early momentum has been divided up, and now, with one win apiece for each competitor, a little tension has built. It has been a more high-scoring first round than many expected, given the Khettarama pitch’s reputation for spin-aligned treachery. As the square wears through the course of the tournament, perhaps the scoring will slow. But for now, bowlers from all three sides are nursing bruised economy rates.The diagnosis for both the Sri Lanka and India attacks is roughly the same: a shortage of international experience. Where the likes of Lasith Malinga (in his pomp) or Jasprit Bumrah are capable of reacting swiftly to a batting onslaught, and moving to an effective Plan B or C, these bowlers have tended to wilt under duress. A boundary early in an over has often drawn mistakes soon after. Powerplays and death overs have proved unusually productive for adventurous batsmen. Only legspinner Yuzvendra Chahal has been both economical and penetrative. He has gone at seven an over, when rates of around 10 have been the norm so far among the frontline bowlers.Such was the beating Sri Lanka’s bowlers received at the hands of Bangladesh that it is their attack that arrives a little more bruised into Monday’s encounter. Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Pradeep and Akila Dananjaya were all attacked at the top of the innings and at the death. Thisara Perera had initially fared better, but his own figures were not much prettier than the frontliners’ by the end. India’s bowlers, meanwhile, have at least one strong performance behind them in the tournament, but that was against a Bangladesh side that was batting some distance below their best (by their own admission). Sri Lanka’s top order, which has been impressive in four successive T20s, may again test India’s resolve.Form guideSri LankaLWWWL (last five completed matches, most recent first)
India WLWLWIn the spotlightIt was against India that Akila Dananjaya had reignited his career. His 6 for 54 in an ODI in Pallekele almost won the match for Sri Lanka, in what was otherwise a dispiriting two months. Though he has not been quite as menacing since, he has had the knack of routinely keeping tidy figures – rarely could he be said to have had a bad day. In the first two matches of this tournament, though, he has gone wicketless, and has conceded 73 runs off seven overs. With the tracks at Khettarama taking less turn that usual, this match will be a test of his fortitude.In ODIs, Rohit Sharma has been excellent in Sri Lanka, but in T20s, his record on the island is a little thin. In eight innings at Khettarama, he has breached 30 only once – and that was against a modest England outfit in the 2012 World T20. Against Sri Lanka, however – and though the hosts will come with a closely-deliberated plan against him – Rohit is rarely down for long.Team newsWith captain Dinesh Chandimal suspended for two games due to a serious over-rate offence, Thisara Perera will lead the side. Dhananjaya de Silva is likely to slot into Chandimal’s position. There is also a chance of Suranga Lakmal replacing either Dushmantha Chameera or Nuwan Pradeep.Sri Lanka (possible): 1 Kusal Mendis, 2 Danushka Gunathilaka, 3 Kusal Perera (wk), 4 Dananjaya de Silva, 5 Upul Tharanga, 6 Dasun Shanaka, 7 Thisara Perera (capt), 8 Jeevan Mendis, 9 Akila Dananjaya, 10 Dushmantha Chameera, 11 Nuwan PradeepIndia are likely to retain the XI that won them the game against Bangladesh.India (possible): 1 Shikhar Dhawan, 2 Rohit Sharma (capt), 3 Suresh Raina, 4 Manish Pandey, 5 Rishabh Pant, 6 Dinesh Karthik (wk), 7 Vijay Shankar, 8 Washington Sundar, 9 Shardul Thakur, 10 Yuzvendra Chahal, 10 Jaydev UnadkatPitch and conditionsThere is a chance that evening showers could interrupt play. A pitch favourable for batting is expected.Stats and trivia Chasing sides have won all three games so far. The two highest successful pursuits at this venue are now Bangladesh’s chase of 215 on Saturday, and Sri Lanka’s chase of 175 against India, in the tournament opener. Both sides have a batsman who has made half-centuries in each game so far. Shikhar Dhawan has hit 90 off 49 balls and 55 off 43; Kusal Perera has made 66 off 37 and 74 off 48.Quotes”Guys who have come in to the team have got the experience in the IPL. They are not nervous and look settled. We didn’t really execute well in the first game, but we got better in the second game. It is going to get better from here.”India seam bowler Jaydev Unadkat believes IPL experience is valuable, even if the India bowlers have not played many internationals

Liverpool have rejected a "verbal bid worth more than £100m" from Al-Ittihad for Mohamed Salah according to a report from David Ornstein.

What is the latest Mo Salah transfer news?

It's been an interesting summer for the Reds as they've had to deal with plenty of interest in their key players from the Saudi Pro League.

For instance, Fabinho was sold to Al-Ittihad for £40m earlier on in the window, while former club captain Jordan Henderson ended up reunited with Steven Gerrard at Al Ettifaq after completing a transfer for around £12m.

Evidently not content with that, the powers in the Middle East have now gone after the jewel in Liverpool's crown. Indeed, earlier this month, Ben Jacobs reported on Twitter that Al-Ittihad want to hand Salah a three-year deal with the promise of making him "one of the best-paid players" in the world.

Read the latest Liverpool transfer news HERE…

In a further update on the station, Ornstein has now reported on his Twitter that a "verbal bid" has been launched on deadline day, although it was knocked back by the Reds.

In full, he said: "Liverpool reject verbal bid worth more than £100m + substantial add-ons from Saudi Pro League to sign Mohamed Salah for Al Ittihad. Proposal made on amicable call to Mike Gordon last night.

He added that Liverpool view the whole situation "as case closed", but the Saudi Pro League "do not".

In a report for The Athletic, he elaborated more on the offer, writing: "The proposal, worth in excess of £100million plus substantial add-ons worth up to £150m, was given no consideration and turned down immediately.

"It was an approach made on behalf of Al Ittihad during an amicable call to Liverpool director Mike Gordon on Thursday night.

"The Anfield club, however, reiterated the 31-year-old is not for sale and consider the case closed.

"That view is not shared by the Saudis, though, who are expected to maintain a strong interest."

What has Klopp said about Salah leaving?

Understandably, amid all the rumours, manager Jurgen Klopp was recently asked about what he felt about the idea of Salah leaving and it seems as though the club are pretty unified on where they all stand.

Indeed, he told the press: "If there is something coming up, well I don't think [there is], or I don't know, then I can think about that. But I said already, if there would be something [from Al-Ittihad] it would be a no."

And then when asked if he felt Salah was still committed to Liverpool, Klopp insisted he was, saying: "100 per cent."

To be fair, the club have no great need to offload the player and are in a strong negotiating position as Salah signed a new contract in July 2022 that ties him to the club until 2025.

As per, The Guardian, he will make £350,000 a week while his pay packet also includes a number of performance-related clauses. With that in mind, the 31-year-old may be content to stick around at Anfield despite the promise of an even bigger contract awaiting him in Saudi.

Despite all this, though, it feels as though Al-Ittihad are more than willing to test Liverpool's resolve in the final hours of the summer market and it will certainly be interesting to see if anyone at Anfield cracks or if they hold firm.

Everton saw a bid to sign Juventus defender Federico Gatti rejected in the summer window, and a fresh report has revealed the chances of him joining in January.

Who is Federico Gatti?

Gatti is naturally a centre-back who has plied his trade at the Allianz Stadium since joining from Frosinone back in January 2022, but despite having another four years remaining on his contract, he’s been heavily linked with a switch to the Premier League, in particular to Goodison Park.

Back in April, SerieBNews reported that the Toffees were considering an offer for the 25-year-old, and it wasn’t long before Tutto Juve delivered a further update claiming that Sean Dyche had submitted an enquiry for his target to discover his potential availability.

Italy’s international held positive talks with club chiefs in the closing stages of the window, but a deal failed to come to fruition before the deadline as a result of an agreement not being reached with Massimiliano Allegri’s side, and the following update provides a more in-depth look at the situation.

Are Everton signing Federico Gatti?

According to Tuttosport (via Sport Witness), Gatti actually “received an offer” from Everton over the summer, but Juventus immediately turned down the several “advances” that were made by chiefs on Merseyside.

The Serie A side had no intention to part ways with their prized asset and don’t want to lose him in the next window either, therefore, they are looking to prove their point “definitively and concretely” by getting him to sign a new long-term contract.

Regarding fresh terms, “discussions have begun” and the player committing his future is something that his club hope to get finalised by the end of September, meaning that a move in the new year is highly unlikely.

How good is Federico Gatti?

According to Los Angeles FC and Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini, Gatti is a centre-back that plays with “tons of passion”, though alongside his hunger to succeed, Juventus’ star also possesses bags of potential so he could have been a fantastic addition for Everton.

The Rivoli native is currently recording a 93.5% pass success rate which is higher than any of the Dyche's players have achieved so far this season, highlighting his calmness and composure on the ball, alongside averaging four clearances per league game.

Standing at 6 foot 4, Allegri’s £30k-per-week titan is even capable of making a positive impact at the opposite end of the pitch having racked up 13 contributions (11 goals and two assists) in 121 appearances since the start of his career, showing the threat he provides when it comes to set pieces.

Whilst Dyche might want to take a second bite of the cherry for Gatti in January, Juventus seem poised to tie him down so it will be even more difficult to prise him away should he put pen to paper on a new deal. They will of course use that to increase his price tag, and with the lack of funds at Goodison a swoop is likely to be unaffordable for the club's hierarchy next time around.