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The RCB captain feels responsibility for managing workloads would lie with the players themselves, a view shared by coaches Ashish Nehra and Gary Kirsten

Saurabh Somani in Bengaluru16-Mar-2019Virat Kohli has quietened speculation over whether IPL franchises have been asked to “manage” the workloads of India players who are likely to be part of the World Cup squad, saying no instructions have been issued to cap the number of games a player would take part in.”You cannot put a cap on anything,” Kohli said in Bengaluru, at an event to launch a new app for Royal Challengers Bangalore, his IPL franchise. “If I’m able to play 10, 12 or 15 games, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the other guy can only play that many. My body might demand I play a certain number of games and I need to be smart about that and rest. Someone else’s body might be more capable than mine or less, that is a very individual thing. And everyone wants to play the World Cup, so people will be smart about it because you don’t want to miss out on such a big event.”Kohli emphasised that the responsibility for managing workloads lay with the players themselves.”From a responsibility point of view, all the Indian players will have the responsibility during the IPL to keep a watch on their fitness and their workloads,” he said. “And to continue the frame of mind we have created in the Indian team – strive towards excellence and improve every day. Each player will take this tournament as an opportunity to go to the World Cup in a good frame of mind.”While Kohli said it was left up to players when they would want to play or rest, Ashish Nehra, the former Indian bowler and joint coach of RCB, said playing in the IPL would give players an advantage leading up to the World Cup, and that prolonged rest before the tournament could be counterproductive.”If somebody tells Virat Kohli that you are not playing this IPL, come fresh for the World Cup, I don’t think it’s the right way,” Nehra said. “If he’s only practising, that practice is different [from match play]. The IPL is a pressure tournament, it is as good as international cricket, that’s why everybody wants to play. So you are going to the World Cup through that pressure. If I’m a bowler, I keep bowling yorkers or good-length balls, it’s the same thing I have to do in the World Cup.”There’s a three-week gap between the IPL final and India’s first game [at the World Cup]. If you’re not injured, three weeks is enough time. If someone tells me, ‘You bowl in the IPL final today and then for the next three weeks you don’t bowl, and then bowl straightaway against South Africa’ – I would not like to do that. Active rest is very important, not just for fast bowlers but for everyone.”It doesn’t matter how tired Virat Kohli is… he might stay away from the nets for maybe a week, or ten days at the most. The last 11 days, he will want to have seven-eight sessions. The more you play the better you get. I can understand if the IPL final is on the 12th and the first World Cup game is on the 16th, you might feel [Jasprit] Bumrah or Bhuvneshwar [Kumar] or Mohammed Shami [might need to be rested]. Some bowlers come up to me and say, ‘We are fresh; the more we play the better we feel.’ Some won’t say that. Everyone is different.”Gary Kirsten, RCB’s other coach, agreed with Nehra.”We do understand all the international players, apart from the Indians, will be called back to their internationals teams anyway through the IPL,” Kirsten said. “We have to accept there’s not much we can do about that. We understand the demands that an international player has. We’ll be very reasonable in that space.”And Ashish has made a good point: if you get yourself match-ready during the IPL, that’s going to hold you in really good stead during the World Cup. I think it’s an advantage to the Indian players, actually. Because the IPL is such a pressurised tournament, it’s great preparation for the World Cup.”

Our writers debate whether the Copa America hosts have the kind of talent befitting a nation of their size

FIFA president Gianni Infantino offered some insight into US soccer earlier this week, crticising MLS, lack of stars in the market and the nation's footballing federation for failing to invest in the game – and calling for a review of the way player development happens in America.

His comments made headlines on both sides of the Atlantic, sparking conversations about the US soccer system, and the inherent barriers in the setup that theoretically could block potential talent from coming into the fore.

Speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference, Infantino said, “The ‘Messi effect’ if we want to call it that way, you see (Lionel) Messi and Inter Miami filling stadiums, and not MLS stadiums but NFL stadiums," adding that “bringing in top talent would ultimately reap dividends at grass roots level in North America, encouraging young players to believe they could forge a career in soccer … They see it in basketball, American football, in baseball and ice hockey. But in soccer, it’s still kind of far away. You have to go to Europe”

But was he right? Does US soccer, especially on the men's side of the game, have a star? And how do the USMNT, soon to host the Copa America this summer and World Cup in 2026, go about identifying and growing the talent befitting of such a nation?

To answer those questions and more, we turned to the GOAL US editorial staff to break it all down…

Getty ImagesDoes American Soccer have a true star?

Ryan Tolmich:

The short answer and the long answer: both yes.

Christian Pulisic, by any measure, is a global star. He's arguably been the best player for one of the world's five most famous clubs, and he already has Champions League on his resume. There are maybe 20 players on the planet more marketable than the American, who has proven himself both on and off the field.

The long answer is that this isn't just about Pulisic. To say the U.S. lacks star power discounts the women's side, where the USWNT has carried the torch for years. Soccer is one big ecosystem in the US, and icons such as Mia Hamm have inspired boys and girls to kick a ball for years.

To say that American soccer doesn't have a star is unfair and, even if you do discount Pulisic, it's clear that help is on the way to add even more names to the highest levels of the game.

Jacob Schneider:

It would be unfair to say Pulisic is not a star. However, it's hard to envision him as "American Soccer's true star" simply because he has never had his moment. Every U.S. star has defining moment — Donovan vs Algeria, Bradley vs Mexico, Dempsey vs Ghana… we're still waiting on Christian to have his true moment on the international stage.

Tom Hindle:

It all depends on how you define “star.” If stardom is about kit sales, marketability, and a player for fans to get behind, then surely they do in Pulisic. He was the one good player on a bad US team for a while, and has grown with it. I think he’s also done enough for his country – World Cup goal, Gold Cup winning PK – to endear himself to supporters. He also – and I can’t define this exactly – feels quite American.

But if stardom is about stratospheric talent, and having a footballer who can win you any game on any day, then I’m not sure the US is there yet. Pulisic is a very good winger for a pretty good Milan team, and a difference-maker for a good USMNT. That’s probably not stardom in the eyes of the world.

If we're talking the women's game, though, that's a different story… The USWNT are world class at pretty much every position.

AdvertisementGettyDoes MLS need to keep players for soccer to grow?

RT:

This has long been a topic of discussion, particularly because of MLS commissioner Don Garber's "league of choice" statements. In recent years, though, MLS has settled into its place in the global ecosystem.

The reality is that there is precisely one league that keeps hold of its best players: the Premier League. Every other club in the world, save for maybe four or five, is always preparing to be raided by England's top flight. There's a pecking order, but the reality is that the highest levels are more top-heavy than ever.

Aside from that, several of the world's best national teams thrive without a "top" league. Brazil, Argentina, the Netherlands, Portugal – they all are regularly raided by the "Big Five" and all do just fine on the international stage.

MLS is often criticized for exporting American players, but the reality is that doing so is still the best way for the USMNT to succeed. The aim of many kids is to play in the Champions League under those bright lights, and seeing stars like Pulisic doing that will do just as much if not more than seeing them stay at home and play every weekend.

JS:

Absolutely not. Being a league where young players want to come as a stepping stone to bigger and better things is not inherently bad. MLS is exactly where it should be in terms of growth, and if anything, should be working toward sending more and more players to Europe.

TH:

Yes, and there is so much talent here. Zoom out, and American soccer’s whole story is its pining for legitimacy on a global scale. MLS is making strides in that sense, but it’s still a case of a setup that is “better than you might expect” and not “top level competition.” I see the argument about kids wanting to play in Europe, but MLS isn't good enough – yet – to allow that happen consistently. Get the best talent to stay home, your league gets better, your national team grows with it. The US doesn't have the pedigree to rely so heavily on other countries to pinch their best players. These things take time.

Getty ImagesIs the U.S. soccer held to unfair standards by outside forces?

RT:

Absolutely, and it's clear to see why: the money.

Every stakeholder in soccer looks at the U.S. market and sees dollar signs, and each has their own idea of how to earn more. Leagues want to hold in-season matches stateside. Federations book friendlies regularly. Clubs go on preseason tours while opening U.S. academies. FIFA has given the U.S. tournament after tournament to help grow the game.

Each party has its own ideas, but few are in the best interest of the American game itself. It's all a gold rush to take advantage of a growing market. And, because of that, everyone will have an opinion of what the U.S. could do better.

La Liga playing games stateside wouldn't help grown U.S. soccer; it would help La Liga. Clubs such as Barcelona place academies in the U.S. to mine American talent, not as some form of charity to help build up the U.S.

Viewed through that lens, it's clear that most of the outside criticisms are just that — criticism, not actual ideas to build upon.

JS:

Absolutely yes, hands down, yes. Today, for example, there was a post from a European journalist noting that Cavan Sullivan – after signing his landmark MLS Homegrown deal – looks like a player who will be a "party boy" and will end up in a second-division in 10 years time. You don't see that discourse happening around the next European star from Germany, Spain, England or France.

Because he's American, there's an expectation by many that he'll follow in the footsteps of some failed athletes from other sports who have gone down such routes — Johnny Manziel, for example. American soccer is held to unfair standards from players, to managers such as Jesse Marsch and Gregg Berhalter, to the way it celebrates its own soccer culture. Marsch and Berhalter are looked upon as automatic failures the moment anything goes south, and they're critiqued at a level that English managers are not. It's so silly.

By the way, it's called .

TH:

Sure, but I think they play their own part in it. American soccer is a broken system in many ways, with pay to play models affecting the amount of talent that the country develops. Meanwhile, the lack of investment in MLS, and the lack of a proper grassroots structure for development simply has the nation lagging behind its expectations. You can't ignore the fact that the US is lacking in the infrastructure to become a truly great footballing nation.

Yes, the rest of the world is always looking for a reason to “stick it” to the US in some way. Is that fair to the 23 people on the national teams’ rosters, the managers abroad or the thousands of kids getting involved in the game? No. But that's the way it is.

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Getty ImagesHow can the U.S. create more stars?

RT:

It's simple: keep investing.

Time, money, effort – they all need to be invested. Things don't just need to be done; they need to be done the right way. The floodgates are just starting to open with this generation of American stars, but more investment is needed to drive the evolution.

The continued growth of MLS academies has been massive, but they can only cover so much ground. A thriving lower league helps. So would be a youth scene that chases development over money. And then there's the college system, a safety net to help the late bloomers.

The simple answer is to stay the course and keep building. The U.S. has started to see the fruits of last decade's labor. Continued investment and growth could pay dividends for decades to come.

JS:

U.S. Soccer is like a pay-to-win video game. The more money you toss in it, the better odds you have of getting some sort of advantage. U.S. Soccer lacks access, from minority communities to metropolitan cities. There is such limited access. The game is too expensive, academies are too expensive, coaching badges are unreasonably hard to get — those all turn so much talent away.

We lack access. We overcharge. We aren't inclusive. It's a flawed system, to put it the kindest way possible.

TH:

Move away from a broken system that blocks the kids from playing football. In pretty much every GOOD footballing nation, their country’s representatives come from all walks of life, socioeconomic and culturally, and they remove barriers for those who can kick a ball at a decent level. US soccer must get everyone involved … and then that player pool might just have a few gems to work with.

KKR have lost five straight matches, while Rajasthan Royals are one loss away from crashing out of the race for the playoffs

The Preview by Vishal Dikshit24-Apr-20197:05

Tait: KKR spinners not doing well is their biggest dilemma

Big pictureOnly a few weeks ago, there was a big gap between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals on the points table. While Knight Riders were riding on one big knock after another from Andre Russell, Royals were losing one match after the other. All that has changed. They are now placed alongside each other on the table, with Knight Riders placed sixth and Royals seventh, with eight and six points respectively.Form guide (last three matches, most recent first)

Knight Riders: Lost to Sunrisers by nine wickets, lost to Royal Challengers by 10 runs, lost to Super Kings by five wickets.
Royals: Lost to Capitals by six wickets, beat Mumbai by five wickets, lost to Kings XI by 12 runs

Knight Riders’ journey has been very disappointing, chiefly because of their initial tempo. They have lost five consecutive matches now – they have failed to take early wickets, they are dropping catches, and they have leaked runs at the worst rate for any team this season (9.10). As for the reliance on Russell, his knocks of 65 off 25 balls, 45 off 21, and 50 not out off 44 have also resulted in losses, and there is a lot of back and forth about his batting position, especially after the loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad. Knight Riders know they have to get their act together before the qualification train leaves them behind.Time is running out for Royals too, as it’s a must-win for them. To add to that, they have learnt that individual centuries don’t necessarily win you T20s, and their foreign contingent is shrinking rapidly, not to mention Ashton Turner’s three ducks in a row in the IPL (and five in all T20s). Royals were already without Jos Buttler, who left early because of the birth of his child, and will lose Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer too after Thursday. How they will balance the XI for their last three games is another headache, but for now they need to ensure they at least beat Knight Riders with a near full-strength squad.Royals also need to up their batting game in the death overs; they have the third-lowest scoring rate in the period this IPL and need their big hitters to step up.BCCIIn the newsStokes has been far from impressive this season, but Buttler is Royals’ second-highest scorer so far and Archer is their second-highest wicket-taker as well as their most economical bowler among those who have bowled more than five overs. Royals’ best hope will be if Stokes and Archer fire together before they are forced to change the combination.For Knight Riders, Joe Denly, a part of England’s World Cup squad, has flown back home early. He even played a one-day match after reaching England, scoring a half-century for Kent on Tuesday.Previous meeting These two teams met just over two weeks ago in Jaipur, and Knight Riders thrashed Royals – without Russell having to bat. Hosts this time, Knight Riders will draw confidence from that match as they look to notch up the wins again.Likely XIsKolkata Knight Riders: 1 Chris Lynn, 2 Sunil Narine, 3 Robin Uthappa, 4 Nitish Rana, 5 Shubman Gill, 6 Dinesh Karthik (capt & wk), 7 Andre Russell, 8 Piyush Chawla, 9 Kuldeep Yadav, 10 Harry Gurney, 11 Prasidh KrishnaRajasthan Royals: 1 Ajinkya Rahane, 2 Sanju Samson (wk), 3 Steven Smith (capt), 4 Ben Stokes, 5 Ashton Turner, 6 Stuart Binny, 7 Riyan Parag, 8 Jofra Archer, 9 Shreyas Gopal, 10 Jaydev Unadkat, 11 Dhawal KulkarniBCCIStrategy Punt Royals could think of getting Ish Sodhi back in the XI. In all T20s, he has conceded only 30 runs off 29 balls against Lynn, and 17 off 23 against Karthik (including a dismissal). Make Sunil Narine open the bowling, not just the batting. He has dismissed Rahane thrice in 52 balls in T20s, while conceding only 69 runs. Despite being an occasional wristspinner himself, Steven Smith doesn’t have a great record against the breed in the IPL since 2015. He has managed only 214 runs against them off 191 balls, and been dismissed four times. Royals should look to bowl Archer to Shubman Gill as soon as the batsman comes out to bat. Four of Gill’s five dismissals this season have come against fast bowlers and he has scored only 74 runs off 73 balls against them, with a dot-ball percentage of 37.Stats that matterThe last time Royals beat Knight Riders was way back in 2015. Of course, Royals didn’t play in the 2016 and 2017 seasons, but they have lost their last four clashes against Knight Riders. Worse, they have won only one of their eight matches in Kolkata in all these years of the IPL. Karthik’s average of 16.70 is his second-worst in any IPL season and his worst since IPL 2016. It’s a steep fall after averaging nearly 50 in 2018. Rahane is 87 runs away from the 5000 mark in T20s and Stokes needs two sixes to reach 100 in the format. Gurney needs one more wicket and Sodhi needs three more to reach 150 in T20s. Steven Smith needs two more runs to get to 2000 in the IPL. Knight Riders’ next win will be their 100th in T20s. Knight Riders and Royals have leaked runs at the same rate during the middle phase (overs seven to 15) this IPL: 8.8.

West Bromwich Albion made it back-to-back 4-1 wins by overcoming a leaky Blackburn Rovers side at the Hawthorns comfortably, Brandon Thomas-Asante's double in the one-sided affair helping the Baggies pick up a win and consolidate fifth position in the current Championship standings.

Tom Fellows got in on the act in the resounding victory too, opening the scoring to justify Carlos Corberan sticking with the 20-year-old winger in the starting lineup after starring in the FA Cup versus Aldershot Town.

The homegrown Baggies product is attracting interest from plenty of higher-up suitors as a result of his recent positive displays, with West Brom powering ahead with multiple incomings in the building to soften the blow of Fellows potentially exiting this month.

West Brom want to sign German talent

Football Insider revealed on Saturday that West Brom are eager to bring Hertha Berlin talent Derry Scherhant to England this January, with Ipswich Town also sniffing around for the German youngster according to the report.

Played both down the flanks and as a centre forward this season out in Berlin, Scherhant could be a wise buy if Fellows does depart the Hawthorns for pastures new.

Previously linked with a shock move to Germany where Scherhant currently resides, Fellows is now subject to interest from Everton in the Premier League according to Fabrizio Romano on social media.

Still yet to tie Fellows down to a new contract, Corberan could swoop in for this 21-year-old transfer target if the Baggies end up becoming powerless over the ongoing situation with their in-demand winger and he ends up walking away.

How Scherhant fits into the West Brom team

Once referred to as an "emerging talent" by football journalist Mike McGrath when the attacker was on the radar of Newcastle United, Scherhant wouldn't simply move to West Brom and wait for an opportunity on the sidelines as one for the future anymore.

Able to be versatile and play down either flank, Scherhant's main joy to date at Hertha Berlin has been when he's deployed as an out-and-out centre forward – notching up an impressive 26 goals playing in that role for the Berlin II team from just 45 appearances in that position.

Scherhant even has five goals from five this campaign for the reserve side before being bumped up to the first-team set-up, proving himself to be a deadly finisher in the German capital.

Yet, when drafted into the play in the senior side, the 21-year-old has commonly played down the left-hand side on top of his striker duties.

23/24

5

5

1

22/23

12

8

2

22/21

34

16

8

Stats by Transfermarkt

With Josh Maja out of action for some time, and Daryl Dike also prone to a lengthy injury layover, Corberan could well utilise Scherhant as a backup striker option to Brandon Thomas-Asante as well as using him as another body down the wings.

The Spanish manager in the Hawthorns dug-out does enjoy having a versatile and flexible squad to call upon when numbers are light, with the likes of Jed Wallace playing across a whole host of attacking positions this season.

Scherhant, who stands at 6 foot 1, could well tick that box for Corberan too, with the 21-year-old even capable of slotting in at right wing and doing a job there if Fellows does move on.

Corberan's men will just have to hope Scherhant isn't tempted by a move to the Tractor Boys over the Baggies, with the West Midlands outfit scared that Ipswich will come out on top again in a transfer tussle as they did by landing Jeremy Sarmiento on loan to West Brom's dismay.

Still, with Fellows rumoured to be off, West Brom will need to push on and add some needed depth to their side in order to maintain a playoff spot in the Championship.

The Red Devils stunned their local, all-conquering neighbours thanks to fearless displays from their latest academy graduates

Never write Manchester United off. Never. No one gave them a chance against the all-conquering Manchester City, especially when it emerged that Erik ten Hag was about to be sacked. But after a horrendous Premier League campaign, United took the game to their noisy neighbours and won their first FA Cup in eight years. And they did it thanks to their fearless youngsters Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, who were nurtured so well by Ten Hag.

United looked up for it from the first whistle, when Rashford forced Kyle Walker into a lung-busting sprint. Walker won it, but it set the tone, and the next time City were on the backfoot, United pounced. Garnacho seized on a mix-up between Stefan Ortega and Josko Gvardiol to give the Red Devils a shock lead.

The Argentina international was electric, setting up Rashford for a goal that was ruled offside, and the pair combined again for the exquisite second goal, completed by a deft pass from Bruno Fernandes to Mainoo.

City improved after the break after Guardiola made a series of substitutions, but United, marshalled by their superb centre-backs Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, looked to have weathered the storm.

Then out of nowhere, a slip-up from Andre Onana gifted Jeremy Doku a goal that breathed life into a strangely out-of-sorts City. Of course United weren't going to make this easy, but they survived, giving Ten Hag one hell of a send-off.

GOAL rates United's players from Wembley…

Getty ImagesGoalkeeper & Defence

Andre Onana (5/10):

His calm footwork allowed United to have long periods of possession and settled their nerves. And his shot-stopping was initially spot-on, making two fine saves to deny Walker. He then undid all that fine work by being beaten by Doku at his near post, but he just about got away with it.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka (7/10):

A superb performance in what could be his last game for the club. Had a calm first half, was put to the test when Doku came on but passed it with flying colours.

Raphael Varane (7/10):

The perfect farewell to what has been an underwhelming time with United. His anticipation and positioning was spot-on, helping keep Haaland quiet.

Lisandro Martinez (8/10):

What a difference it makes when your best centre-back is available. The Argentine dovetailed with Onana as United played out from the back with a confidence barely seen this season, and he was at his combative best.

Diogo Dalot (8/10):

A fine performance even at left-back. Contained Bernardo Silva and put his body on the line, making plenty of blocks and clearances.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesMidfield

Sofyan Amrabat (6/10):

The Moroccan has had a fine end to an otherwise poor season and this was no exception. His lack of pace was still visible, but his awareness and intelligence compensated for it.

Kobbie Mainoo (7/10):

Rounded off a fine debut season by outshining Rodri in the middle. Excellent on the ball and feisty off it. And produced the calmest of finishes to complete a wonderful team goal.

Scott McTominay (6/10):

One of United's quieter players, seeing little of the ball. But his hard work contributed to a famous win.

Getty ImagesAttack

Alejandro Garnacho (9/10):

The youngster loves the big occasion and he thrived on the Wembley stage with a superb display, working tirelessly and doing the damage in the final third.

Bruno Fernandes (8/10):

An all-action performance, capped by his sumptuous pass to Mainoo for the second goal.

Marcus Rashford (7/10):

Lively from the off and dovetailed brilliantly with Garnacho, lighting the fuse for Mainoo's goal. A nice end to a nightmare season.

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Getty ImagesSubs & Manager

Jonny Evans (6/10):

Kept the ship tight after replacing Martinez, and finishes the season with another medal for his large collection, most of which was won under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Rasmus Hojlund (5/10):

His main task was to chase balls forward and hold the play up. He did a decent enough job.

Victor Lindelof (N/A):

Hauled on in added-time to see out the win.

Mason Mount (N/A):

Brought on in stoppage-time, making for a nice ending to a season in which he has barely featured.

Erik ten Hag (8/10):

Went into the game knowing he'd been sacked behind his back and came out swinging. Made a bold call to drop Casemiro but was right to bring back Rashford. His players played for him and gave him the perfect send off.

Shannon Gabriel, Evin Lewis back in contention; no room for Kieron Pollard, Marlon Samuels or Sunil Narine

ESPNcricinfo staff24-Apr-20191:02

Is West Indies’ World Cup squad too light on spin?

West Indies have named allrounder Andre Russell, who has played just one ODI since 2015, in their preliminary squad for the World Cup, but there was no room for Kieron Pollard or Marlon Samuels. Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel returns, two years since his last ODI, while Evin Lewis and Kemar Roach were included having sat out the recent series against England with injury.Also overlooked was Sunil Narine, the spinner whose previous ODI appearance came in 2016. He may require surgery on a finger ligament injury but remains keen to return for West Indies at some point. “I don’t feel my finger is quite ready for ODI cricket,” he told ESPNcricinfo.Chris Gayle, who has signalled his intention to retire from ODIs after the tournament, is set for a fifth World Cup, while spinning allrounder Fabian Allen won selection ahead of Devendra Bishoo. Alzarri Joseph was not considered after suffering a muscle tear and dislocation of his right arm while at the IPL.While questions about who might be included centred on a possible recall for Pollard, following his form at the IPL, or even a comeback from the retired Dwayne Bravo, the return of Russell was the most significant decision by the new selection panel headed by Robert Haynes.Andre Russell flicks for six•BCCIRussell has been hampered by a knee injury since returning to cricket last year following an anti-doping ban. He made one ODI and three T20I appearances on Bangladesh’s tour to the Caribbean in mid-2018, but has since played most of his cricket on the franchise T20 circuit – most recently at the ongoing IPL, where he has been a talismanic presence for Kolkata Knight Riders.West Indies will play an ODI tri-series against Ireland and Bangladesh, before the World Cup, and could still make changes to their 15 before the final May 23 cut-off. They recently named their squad to travel to Ireland, featuring fringe candidates such as Jonathan Carter, Shane Dowrich and Roston Chase.”Based on the new selection policy approach which allowed us to consider a number of players that have not regularly appeared in the side over the last two years, we had a wide base of talent from which to choose,” Haynes said.”There were a number of tough calls we had to make to settle on our squad of 15, including ensuring there was some continuity in the side, but we believe we have chosen a strong squad of players taking into consideration such factors as experience, fitness, team balance, current form and conditions.”In keeping with tournament regulations, we submitted our squad prior to the deadline date of yesterday. All players named for the tri-nations series could, however, stake a claim to be in the final 15-member squad that will be submitted after the tri-series and before the final deadline next month.”Gabriel has only played 18 ODIs and missed the opportunity to stake his World Cup case last month, when he was handed a four-match ban for on-field comments made to Joe Root in the St Lucia Test. However, Haynes referred to the extra pace he offers as being important if the white ball does not swing.Roach also missed the series against England, after suffering a stress reaction in his back, but returns to what is otherwise a largely settled squad that pulled off a 2-2 draw against the No. 1-ranked side.West Indies preliminary World Cup squad: Jason Holder (capt), Fabian Allen, Darren Bravo, Carlos Brathwaite, Sheldon Cottrell, Shannon Gabriel, Chris Gayle, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope (wk), Evin Lewis, Ashley Nurse, Nicholas Pooran, Kemar Roach, Andre Russell, Oshane Thomas

Just three points away from an Ipswich Town side who are stalling for the first time this season in the Championship, Southampton have a better chance than ever to move into the automatic promotion spots. It could quickly prove to be a vital month for Russell Martin, who will hope to see his side's excellent form continue to complete what would be a miraculous recovery in the race to go up.

Before they can even think about the top flight, however, the Saints must reportedly turn their attention to keeping hold of a key player this month amid an approach from a Premier League side.

Southampton transfer news

Southampton already suffered some big exits at St Mary's during the summer transfer window, with James Ward-Prowse and Romeo Lavia completing moves to West Ham United and Chelsea respectively. And they would have been hoping for that to be it for frustrating departures, as the January transfer window swung open, but reports suggest that may not be the case.

EFL Championship done deals: Every January 2024 transfer

As the January transfer window closes, FFC has you covered for every in and out involving your club in the EFL Championship.

ByLuke Randall Feb 1, 2024

According to Wayne Veysey of Football Insider, Wolverhampton Wanderers have made an approach for Che Adams in a recent development. Adams is on course to leave Southampton for free upon the expiry of his contract this summer and the Saints are reportedly weighing up whether to sanction the Scot's exit, with Wolves preferring a loan move to a permanent deal this month.

Given that they are set to lose Adams for free this summer, however, a loan move would not benefit Southampton, who have one more chance to cash in on the striker this month. As the window progresses, the forward could certainly be one to keep an eye on.

Promotion worth more than Adams fee

Whilst Adams' goals total of just seven in 24 appearances in all competitions this season is hardly a number that sets the world alight, the Scotland international's experience can still provide Martin's side with a vital boost.

And if he can find his best form at the business end of the campaign, then Southampton will have themselves a striker capable of starring at the highest level. Of course, it will be tempting to cash in this month, but the Saints would be wise to hold off for the sake of leapfrogging Ipswich in the race to go up, which would even make losing the striker for free bearable.

Adams has earned plenty of praise over the years, including from fellow Scot Ally McCoist, who has heaped praise on his compatriot: "First and foremost, we now have a striker who is a first pick every week for a very good team in the English Premier League. It’s been a long time since a Scotland manager has had that luxury.

"Adams has started his international career really positively and has scored in the last two games against Moldova and Denmark. Apart from that, his general play has been terrific. But take it from me, as a striker you want to be hitting the back of the net and those goals will have done him the world of good."

Luka Modric has agreed to stay at Real Madrid and Toni Kroos is expected to sign a new deal, ending speculation over their futures at the club.

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Midfield pair looked unlikely to stayMadrid president keen to keep bothExtensions being finalisedWHAT HAPPENED?

Two of Real Madrid's most iconic players in the last decade will reportedly now stay in Spain for another season. Modric and Kroos are both out of contract this summer but wish to remain part of Carlo Ancelotti's squad. report that president Florentina Perez is seeing to it personally that extensions are agreed with the pair.

AdvertisementWHAT THE REPORT SAID

The report says the club president has intervened and is the one putting the finishing touches on the deals to keep the two players. Perez held different meetings with the duo and has agreed a one-year extension with Modric, while Kroos has been offered a new deal.

(C)Getty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Although their minutes on the pitch have been restricted this season, Modric and Kroos bring an irreplaceable level of experience and leadership to Real Madrid. Their guidance and winning mentality will ensure Los Blancos continue to compete at the highest level.

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GettyWHAT NEXT FOR MODRIC AND KROOS?

With their futures seemingly sorted, all eyes turn to the Champions League final on 1 June. Real Madrid are vying for a record-extending 15th victory in the final, while Modric and Kroos can secure their fifth and fourth titles respectively.

Southampton could momentarily send shudders through the Championship with a lunchtime win against Swansea City today, leapfrogging a strong Ipswich Town side to second spot with a victory before the Tractor Boys then have the opportunity to respond on Monday night.

Russell Martin won't travel to face off against the Swans with any past sentiment attached still, previously managing the Welsh club in a stint, with another win the only goal in his head to get to a staggering 20 games unbeaten in the division.

Martin will just pray that key first-teamer Kyle Walker-Peters potentially leaving the Championship promotion hopefuls this January doesn't derail the current positivity in his group, with this replacement being lined up if the Southampton number two does leave.

Kyle Walker-Peters replacement lined up

Football Insider have reported recently that Martin's Saints are keen on signing wantaway West Ham United figure Ben Johnson this month, the defender offering Southampton some versatility at the back that could be necessary with Walker-Peters exiting.

TalkSPORT journalist Alex Crook has opened up to GIVEMESPORT over the past few days regarding Walker-Peters' future at St. Mary's, the right-back yet to sign a new contract on the South Coast with Chelsea and the Hammers keen on trying to tempt the 26-year-old away.

With Martin opening up about all the speculation and telling any potential suitors to "go away" yesterday, it could be a tetchy week or so left for Southampton in the transfer window to try and keep hold of their star man.

Yet, with Johnson available on a loan deal reportedly until the end of the season, this could well be a shrewd buy in the short term regardless of whether or not Walker-Peters does depart.

How Johnson fits into the Southampton team

Unlike Walker-Peters who excels in venturing forward – the Saints number two successfully completing three dribbles in Southampton's 4-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday last weekend – Johnson is far more at ease just sitting back and completing his routine defensive duties well.

With the plethora of attacking options available to Martin already at St. Mary's, alongside rumoured purchases for the likes of Manuel Benson and David Brooks in the pipeline, losing Walker-Peters' attacking output wouldn't be the end of the world.

Johnson's addition to the team this January could see the promotion chasers improve their back four to help when the defence is tested in pivotal games to come, with the adaptable Hammers defender bettering Walker-Peters when it comes to basics such as duels, blocks and clearances over the last year.

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According to FBRef, the 23-year-old betters Walker-Peters aerially with Johnson winning 1.48 aerials on average per 90 minutes compared to the current Saints man's lesser 0.56.

Moreover, Johnson comes out on top between the two in clearances and tackles managed per 90 minutes with 2.30 clearances and 2.14 tackles registered on Johnson's end in contrast to Walker-Peters falling flat with 1.44 clearances and 1.48 tackles.

Able to play at left-back and at the heart of defence if needed, Johnson's flexibility makes him a smart and worthwhile replacement for Walker-Peters if the latter man is tempted by a big move away.

Described as "superb" on social media by former Hammers striker Trevor Sinclair when given a rare opportunity in the first-team in 2021 – making 57 top-flight appearances over seven seasons for the Londoners – Johnson will hope a move to the South Coast means he'll finally be a starting player elsewhere and not just a utility figure.

Potentially denting promotion rivals Leeds in the process by winning the 5 foot 9 titan's signature, alongside strengthening the Saints at right-back with or without Walker-Peters present, it's a no-brainer move for Martin's men to make this January.

Ayoub El Kaabi delivered the perfect ending to his spectacular season at Olympiacos as he fired the Greek side to Europa Conference League success.

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Final went to extra time after goalless 90 minutesEl Kaabi scored late winner to seal Olympiacos winFirst-ever European success for a Greek teamTELL ME MORE

The Morocco star popped up late on with the winning goal as Olympiacos ran out 1-0 winners after extra time against Fiorentina. To add some extra spice to the victory, they claimed their first-ever European trophy at the home of domestic rivals AEK Athens.

It seemed clear from the first half that it would be a low-scoring affair as both teams dropped their intensity after a lively start that saw them exchange attacks. Fiorentina soon took over as the more threatening team and had a goal ruled out for offside just nine minutes in, but their attempts on goal were fairly weak from then on.

Ex-Fiorentina star Stevan Jovetic created a chance to break the deadlock and his former team's hearts with a shot from the edge of the box for Olympiacos in extra time but a strong save kept it out. Jonathan Ikone will feel his shot towards the Greek side's goal should have been the decider in the second half of extra time, but he was comfortably denied and then catastrophe struck for his team.

After 116 minutes, El Kaabi sealed the Greek giants' first continental trophy when he got onto the end of a cross and headed beyond Pietro Terracciano. The competition's top scorer, it was his 11th goal and easily the most valuable.

A painfully long wait followed as the goal was reviewed by VAR but it was given the all clear and Olympiacos went wild as they sealed the title.

AdvertisementGettyTHE MVP

You have to hand it to El Kaabi. He had a frustrating evening and was a spectator for large spells of the first 115 minutes. But when the ball came flying into the Fiorentina box, he threw himself at it and managed to divert it into the net to make Olympiacos history.

GettyTHE BIG LOSER

He hasn't had the most fruitful of seasons since joining Fiorentina from Roma in the January transfer window, but Vincenzo Italiano would have expected much more from Andrea Belotti. The striker barely threatened throughout the game and was taken off just before the hour mark to end a flat performance from the Italy international.

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WHAT COMES NEXT?

Olympiacos will celebrate their continental success well into the night and will compete in the Europa League next season thanks to the victory on home soil in Greece on Wednesday.