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Triple Olympic gold medal-winning rower Drew Ginn has taken on one of the newly created positions at Cricket Australia

Daniel Brettig16-Jun-2019Triple Olympic gold medal-winning rower Drew Ginn and longtime Justin Langer collaborator Ben Oliver have been formally commissioned as the new high performance executives for Cricket Australia, taking joint control of an area that sprawled into such vast territory under the former czar Pat Howard that the governing body deemed it too large for one person to run.Howard was sacked by the new chief executive Kevin Roberts shortly after he replaced James Sutherland, in the wake of the damning Ethics Centre review of Australian cricket culture that was ordered after the Newlands ball tampering scandal last year. A lengthy search for Howard’s replacement has seen the role filled temporarily by the executive in charge of community cricket, Belinda Clark, as CA stopped and then redefined the recruiting process as being for two jobs rather than one. Ginn will be based in Melbourne and Oliver in Brisbane with the pair starting on July 29.While Howard joined cricket “cold” in 2011, following a career in rugby union, pharmacy and property development, Ginn has moved across from his background in rowing and the Olympic movement via two years as the head of high performance with Tasmania. He will take control of a role primarily responsible for the running of domestic competitions, Australian youth teams, player, coach and umpire pathways including club cricket, talent ID and sports science.”I am looking forward to joining Cricket Australia and having the opportunity to work more broadly across the National system,” Ginn said. “The past two years with Cricket Tasmania have been immensely rewarding.”This is a chance to continue the work I have enjoyed locally and to now work closely with many great people involved in leading our domestic, national and youth competitions along with the leaders of our State programs, and those leaders in our Cricket Australia pathway programs, and our sports science and sports medicine areas.”Peter Roach, the head of cricket operations, will report to Ginn. Roach has also taken over control of scheduling, an area of some difficulty for CA in recent times after India insisted on an ODI tour in mid-January next year. The Big Bash League, Sheffield Shield and domestic one-day tournament programs for next summer are still to be announced.Oliver, a former first-class player for Victoria and Tasmania, held roles with CA, Cricket Victoria and the ICC before working closely with Langer as the high performance manager for Western Australia since 2012. Together, they established a program that was the envy of other states, notably by their use of a squad closely unified between the WA state team and the Perth Scorchers BBL club – a model subsequently used unashamedly by Tasmania and the Hobart Hurricanes.”I have devoted most of my adult life to cricket, in both playing and high-performance roles, and I am extremely proud and humbled to continue that association as EGM, National Teams,” Oliver said. “I look forward to working with Justin Langer and Matthew Mott and their national men’s and women’s teams, as well as national selectors and all those involved in team operations and logistics.”Cricket Australia head office•Getty ImagesAmong the first items on Oliver’s to-do list will be a look at the national selection panel, which will be shorn of the national talent manager Greg Chappell, currently with the Australian team on World Cup assignment, when he retires at the end of the Ashes series. Having already lost Mark Waugh, who was not replaced last year, that would leave only Langer and the chairman of selectors, Trevor Hohns, as formal members of the panel.Howard’s tenure featured no end of issues, as he sought to work as a change agent to pursue goals outlined in the 2011 Don Argus-led review of Australian team performance, which followed the hefty loss of the Ashes 3-1 at home to England in 2010-11. His hard-nosed and confrontational style did not always go down well across the Australian system, particularly when added to his lack of a cricket background.Alongside numerous issues of workload management for fast bowlers in particular, Howard’s term saw the 2013 homework scandal in India that contributed to the sacking of Mickey Arthur to be replaced by Darren Lehmann in 2013, the death of Phillip Hughes in 2014 and subsequent work to change concussion protocols in the game, winning the World Cup in 2015 on home soil and then suffering a dramatic Ashes defeat in England later that same year.Another run of losses in late 2016, including Test series defeats by Sri Lanka away and South Africa at home, led to Rod Marsh’s resignation as selection chairman and a refocus on the demands for strong performance by the Australian team – Howard and Sutherland visited the team dressing room in Hobart to push that message directly. Results did improve, including a narrow series defeat against a highly fancied India in India in 2017, and the regaining of the Ashes at home in 2017-18, before the Newlands scandal in South Africa led to many changes, including the end of Howard’s time in the job.Clark was left to run the department while a replacement could be found, and it was her opinion that the executive general manager’s role had to be split in two. “Australian cricket owes Belinda a debt of gratitude for the exceptional job she has performed throughout a challenging time for Australian cricket,” Roberts said. “She is one of our game’s greatest trailblazers and servants at all levels and we are delighted that she will resume her role as EGM of Community Cricket in late August after handing over to Ben and Drew and having a well-earned break. It is a critical role and a job she loves.”

Pakistan’s hopes of qualifying are purely mathematical, with the team needing a victory of at least 316 runs to pip New Zealand to fourth spot

The Preview by Umar Farooq04-Jul-20193:16

Nafees: It was the best World Cup for Bangladesh batsmen

Big PictureThere is realistically no chance of either side making the semi-final, to the extent that this needn’t be a talking point. This match is, for all intents and purposes, a dead rubber. But both sides would want to hold their heads up that little bit higher at the end of their campaign.Pakistan did win four important games against top opponents but a crushing opening defeat against West Indies mean they have an inferior net run rate to New Zealand, for which they will pay the price even if they beat Bangladesh. Pakistan’s performance has been difficult to read throughout. They started with that shocking defeat at the hands of West Indies. Following that, they were hit and miss, but damaging defeats to Australia and India meant they needed assistance from other results much too early in the tournament. That luck ran out with England completing two wins at the end to guarantee their own progress, quashing Pakistan’s flickering hopes in the process.Their only chance to make it into the semi-final is to bat first and win the contest by a margin of at least 316 runs, a feat never before achieved in ODI cricket. If Bangladesh win the toss and bat, Pakistan are out before a ball has been bowled.Bangladesh, meanwhile, have had an excellent World Cup, never quite being blown away by any side, and claiming the scalps of several fancied teams. Eliminated now, the task at hand will be to finish off with a win against Pakistan, which will give them four wins out of eight completed matches, and ensure they finish as the best of the rest – the highest-placed team not to make the semi-finals. Their batting has centred on the brilliance of Shakib Al Hasan’s purple patch. He is the second leading run-scorer so far with 542 runs at 90.33 at a strike rate of 100.30 against pacers and 91.50 versus spinners. He is the only allrounder to get both 1000 runs and over 30 wickets in World Cups. No other Bangladesh player has even completed one of those feats.It is the pacers who have let Bangladesh down in the tournament somewhat. The Bangladesh quicks have picked up only two wickets in the 79 overs they have bowled in the competition inside the first 20 overs. Mustafizur Rahman is the best in the lot taking 15 wickets in the tournament, but none of them have come in the first 15 overs. The batting has helped the side along but, with their World Cup campaign set to end, the question is whether their bowling can complement that effort.Form guideBangladesh LWLWL (Last five completed matches, most recent first)
Pakistan WWWLLIn the spotlightIn six out of seven innings at this World Cup, Mohammad Hafeez has been caught out. Several of these dismissals have been soft, cheap ones, and on two occasions he was dismissed by Aaron Finch and Kane Williamson. The 38-year-old batsman started his ODI career in 2003 and has gone on to play play 217 ODIs with a batting average of 32.93. Originally an opener, his batting position has been a matter of debate and scrutiny for many years now and he has found himself dropped down the order. With Shoaib Malik out of the side, Hafeez is the senior-most player, and has been given a long run at the No. 4 spot. He did well there with a match-winning 84 against England, but since that innings he has been dismissed three times under 30. In what could be his swansong, he will look to leave with a favourable impression.Jimmy Neesham grins as Shaheen Afridi, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Fakhar Zaman, and Mohammad Amir look on•Getty ImagesThe Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza needs to lead his bowling attack from the front. Only one wicket in seven matches is a major concern for a bowler who had taken 265 wickets in 209 matches before the start of 2019 World Cup – the highest wicket-taker and most capped player of his side. In the death overs, his economy is 13.80 and he is one of six bowlers (to have bowled a minimum of 20 overs) who average above 50 and have conceded more than six runs per over this World Cup. Bangladesh need a lift, and in what is probably Mashrafe’s last match at a World Cup, this is the chance to go out on a high note.Team newsMushfiqur Rahim got struck on the elbow during a nets session on Thursday, but there is no big threat yet. “I’ve had no chance to see the physio yet. Generally, that sort of area most people are okay,” their coach Steve Rhodes said. “I don’t remember too many people breaking elbows or forearm of the bottom hand. So I’m hoping that he’ll be okay.”Otherwise, Mahmudullah is likely to return after recovering from his calf injury, which means Sabbir Rahman will have to make way despite a run-a-ball 36 against India. Rubel Hossain should play again, which means Mehidy Hasan could be confined to the bench once more.Bangladesh (probable): 1 Tamim Iqbal, 2 Soumya Sarkar, 3 Shakib Al Hasan, 4 Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), 5 Liton Das, 6 Mahmudullah, 7 Mosaddek Hossain, 8 Rubel Hossain, 9 Mohammad Saifuddin 10 Mashrafe Mortaza (capt), 11 Mustafizur RahmanWahab Riaz picked up a minor hand injury in a fielding session before the Afghanistan game. He was cleared to play that game, but now with this match set to be a dead rubber, Pakistan may decide to give him a rest. Mohammad Hasnain, who has not featured at all this World Cup, could be allowed a game for an experience that Pakistan will hope will serve them well in the years to come.Pakistan (probable): 1 Imam-ul-Haq, 2 Fakhar Zaman, 3 Babar Azam, 4 Mohammad Hafeez, 5 Haris Sohail, 6 Sarfaraz Ahmed (capt & wk), 7 Imad Wasim, 8 Shadab Khan, 9 Mohammad Amir, 10 Wahab Riaz/Mohammad Hasnain, 11 Shaheen AfridiStrategy punts Pakistan must look to add Asif Ali for the final game. He might have struggled in England, averaging 26, but his strike rate is still the best among Pakistan players – 126.80 in seven games he has played. He was dropped after two games but with him in the playing XI, Pakistan can score big. It is, faint though it might be, the only chance they have of inflicting a big defeat against Bangladesh that can push up their net run rate. Bangladesh should bowl Shakib intensively in the first 20 overs, where he has taken four wickets in 28 overs while his team-mates have managed only three wickets put together. During the first 20 overs in this World Cup, Bangladesh have taken the fewest wickets (seven), at the worst average and economy rate – 106.7 and 5.30 respectively. They have picked just 13% of their wickets inside the first 20 overs, the lowest for a team this edition, and there’s no time they need Shakib more.Pitch and conditions

Here’s the pitch for #BANvPAK. Same one that was used for #PAKvSA nearly two weeks ago. You could say it has a *slight* tinge of green. #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/HdclAjcJGn

— Melinda Farrell (@melindafarrell) July 4, 2019

The pitch to be played on for this game was used for the Pakistan-South Africa clash, which was more than 10 days ago. That should give the track, which had a strong green tinge, some freshness. Weather is not expected to play spoilsport, although it’s likely to be hot and sunny, like it has been in London this week.Stats and triviaMustafizur Rahman needs two more for 100 wickets in ODIs. Imam-ul-Haq has gone eight innings without an ODI hundred. Should he fail to reach three figures at Lord’s on Friday, it would be the longest he has ever gone without a century.Bangladesh have taken 46% of their wickets at the death, the most by a team in this edition. However, those wickets have come at a cost. From overs 41-50, Bangladesh have the second worst economy rate (8.50) and the worst balls-per-boundary ratio (6.3) in this World Cup.Quotes”A few of the [Bangladesh players] went straight out onto the dressing room balcony and looked at the marvellous scene in front of them with a beautiful carpet of grass and big stands everywhere, and they were taking it all in.”
“Pakistan did lose the last four matches [against Bangladesh], but it is a World Cup match. So both teams look stronger, so hopefully we will do well as a team.”

Rangers are closing in on the signings of Jefte and Oscar Cortes, and an update from journalist Derek Clark has now revealed what's next after the pair arrive in Glasgow.

Rangers transfer news

Things appear to be going well for Philippe Clement and his side at the moment, with Saturday's 1-0 win away to St Mirren ensuring they keep the pressure on Celtic in the Scottish Premiership title race. They are only five points behind their rivals with a game in hand, suggesting that things could go to the wire this season.

New signings in the coming days could only benefit Rangers in their title surge, and a host of different players have been linked with moves to Ibrox before the month reaches its conclusion.

One individual who is reportedly a big target is Fluminense left-back Jefte, with an agreement believed to be in place to seal the signing soon. The Brazilian is considered an upgrade on Borna Barisic, and left-backs could be needed if he and/or Ridvan Yilmaz move on to pastures new this month.

Meanwhile, Lens attacker Cortes looks set to arrive on loan for the remainder of the season, with an option to make his move a permanent one in his contract. A report from The Daily Record claims that Clement "is on the brink of landing his third January signing", adding that he is "already said to be en route to Glasgow so he can formalise the relationship".

Another player who has been backed to join Rangers numerous times in recent months is Hearts attacker Lawrence Shankland, who has been one of the Scottish Premiership's best players this season, topping the scoring charts with 14 goals to date in the competition.

Rangers to make another signing

Taking to X, Clark claimed that Rangers expect to make another signing before deadline day ends on Thursday night, after bringing in Jefte and Cortes.

"Told Rangers hopeful of bringing in one more after Jefte and Cortes. Expect departures although hearing Cifuentes not too keen on move to Turkey."

It is encouraging to see Rangers looking to make so many signings at this stage of the transfer window, suggesting Clement is not content to wait around and build for the future, instead believing the title charge is well and truly on this time around.

Tore Andre Flo

£15.3m

Michael Ball

£8.3m

Mikel Arteta

£6.7m

Arthur Numan

£6.5m

Giovanni van Bronckhorst

£6.3m

It looks as though outgoings are also hugely likely, especially Jose Cifuentes, even though the above report suggests that a move to Turkey may not be at the top of his agenda. Whether either or both of Barsic and Yilmaz move on as well remains to be seen, but if that does happen, a second left-back may even need to be looked at on top of Jefte.

Fabrizio Romano says Rangers have “deal in place” to complete another signing

An agreement has been reached to sign the player in question.

ByHenry Jackson Jan 28, 2024

It does feel as though things could move quickly when it comes to both incoming and outgoing business this month, especially given how late it is in the window, and it is a period that will end up looking key come the end of the season.

After a battering at hands of Colombia, Christian Pulisic and the USMNT bounced back by going toe-to-toe with the Selecao.

In 11 days, there will be no room for moral victories for the U.S. men's national team. Once the Copa America kicks off, results are king – no matter how you get them.

No matter what it takes, the only thing that will matter is actual, tangible success.

But on Wednesday night, in their final pre-Copa friendly, the U.S. earned a result that will allow them to leave Orlando with their heads held high. They didn't beat mighty Brazil, but they didn't back down and, in that context, it felt like a job well done.

After conceding an early goal to Rodrygo, Christian Pulisic's stunning free-kick helped the USMNT earn a 1-1 draw in Orlando. The score doesn't tell the whole story, though. The U.S. didn't sit and bunker; they showed no fear staring down an elite Brazil team.

After the recent 5-1 humbling at the hands of Colombia, this was exactly the performance the USMNT needed. A win would have been nice but, even without it, it feels like the U.S. is back on track after going toe-to-toe with one of the competition's favorites.

"We want to be able to beat teams like this, but we do think it's a positive step," Berhalter said. "Our record against Brazil hasn't been great and to have the guys put all the results away and just focus on working together, playing hard and doing their role was refreshing because that's what we're going to need to be successful moving forward."

GOAL rates the USMNT's players from Camping World Stadium…

GettyGoalkeeper & Defense

Matt Turner (7/10):

Needed to do better on the ball for Brazil's opener. Made a whole bunch of saves when called upon, though, which is the trade-off with a goalkeeper like Turner.

Antonee Robinson (7/10):

Got up and down that left-hand side, as he always does. Was extra helpful with that given Brazil's wingers refusing to track back.

Tim Ream (6/10):

Great on the ball, but looked a bit slow off of it. That can be expected when you play a team like Brazil, though.

Chris Richards (6/10):

Had one fantastic tackle that was correctly rewarded by VAR. Was solid otherwise as well.

Joe Scally (7/10):

Brazil targeted him all game long and he stood strong every time. One heck of a defensive performance that will help make his case at right-back.

AdvertisementGettyMidfield

Yunus Musah (5/10):

Fell asleep on Brazil's opener. Did well going forward, but needs to be more aware defensively if he wants to be a No.6 at this level.

Weston McKennie (5/10):

Wasn't as aggressive as we're used to, particularly on Brazil's goal. Didn't get on the ball as much as the USMNT would like either.

Gio Reyna (7/10):

Surprisingly did a lot of good defensive work, in addition to his attacking contributions. Didn't quite create "the" chance, but had a few decent moments.

GettyAttack

Christian Pulisic (8/10):

What a goal. Pulisic drew the free kick and then smashed it in himself to headline another big performance against a big team. Could have had a second, too, if not for a big save by Alisson.

Ricardo Pepi (5/10):

Just didn't quite do enough. Never really got much of a chance, which won't help as he pushes for a starting spot.

Tim Weah (7/10):

Did what he always does: go vertical. Weah simply makes opponents uncomfortable, which he did plenty against this ridiculously good Brazil team.

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GettySubs & Manager

Folarin Balogun (6/10):

Got loose one time, but couldn't quite create enough space to prevent his shot from being blocked.

Johnny Cardoso (7/10):

Was an emotional game for the Brazilian-raised midfielder. Made his presence felt in midfield both on and off the ball.

Brenden Aaronson (6/10):

Forced a big save out of Alisson. Struggled with the physicality of Brazil a bit, but was decent enough.

Tyler Adams (6/10):

Important minutes for Adams, who continues to build towards full fitness as the Copa looms.

Shaq Moore (N/A):

Played just a few minutes with the U.S. looking to lock up the win.

Gregg Berhalter (8/10):

A hugely important game for Berhalter. Got the tactics right and clearly had the team ready to play without fear. On another day, the U.S. leaves this game as winners, and Berhalter deserves his credit for that.

The Liverpool academy has raised many Premier League greats in its time. The likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen are all names which spring to mind.

Whilst the latter spent some of his youth in North Wales, at Mold Alexandra, the vast majority of his development came whilst the striker was at Liverpool.

Although towards the end of his senior career he seemingly tarnished his ties with the Reds after accepting a move to Manchester United in 2009, Owen is still the only Liverpool player to ever win the Ballon d'Or whilst at the club.

The attacker was chosen for the accolade ahead of the likes of Raul of Real Madrid after scoring an incredible 31 goals throughout 2001 and picking up five winners' medals along the way.

Since the striker's rise to fame, Liverpool's academy has gotten even better and managed to produce some astonishing talent.

Alexander-Arnold and Gerrard are likely the two brightest prospects from the academy but, in recent weeks, Conor Bradley and Curtis Jones have each shown their qualities.

Conor Bradley and Curtis Jones' seasons in numbers

Both Jones and Bradley have had equally good campaigns this season, with the pair often cementing their place in Jurgen Klopp's starting XI.

Although Jones has been among the Reds' first-team for a few years now, the 2023/24 campaign is where the midfielder has really managed to show his quality.

Jones has managed a total of 27 appearances in all competitions this season and has garnered a total of five goals and three assists during that time.

Additionally, according to Sofascore, the midfielder has managed a total of 0.5 key passes in the Premier League which may not seem the best but, when compared to Matheus Nunes of Manchester City, it really puts the numbers into perspective.

The Portugal international has played six fewer top-flight games than Jones and has only managed to make 0.8 key passes per game. Furthermore, Nunes only has around 43.4 touches per game, whereas Jones has 47.

This outlines how well the Liverpool youngster has played and shows how much he has developed this season.

Bradley is another Liverpool academy graduate who has performed to a high standard this season. Coming off the back of a solid League One campaign with Bolton last season, the Northern Ireland international returned to Merseyside raring to fight for a spot in the first team.

This was, however, cut short as the youngster managed to get an injury during the Reds' pre-season games. But, the right-back returned at an ideal time as Alexander-Arnold seemingly sustained an injury which ruled him out for around three weeks.

During his absence, Bradley fulfilled the role perfectly and managed to play in nine games and contribute to six goals during that time.

Not only does this show that Liverpool have an incredible talent at their disposal, but it also means that they now have an understudy for Trent. The defender will likely be in and around the Reds' starting lineup for many years to come.

The Bradley alternative Liverpool could unleash after Trent's injury

Trent is once again injured which leaves Liverpool with something of a right-back dilemma ahead of their next games.

ByZak Anderton Feb 13, 2024

Another academy graduate who is yet to make his senior debut but is causing waves in Liverpool's youth set-up is that of Lewis Koumas.

Coaching staff wowed by Liverpool teen

Koumas is a prolific attacker in Liverpool's younger teams and has managed a total of 15 appearances thus far. During that time, he has contributed to 15 goals with 12 of those coming as his own.

Described as "fantastic" by Liverpool's U21 coach, Barry Lewtas, it wouldn't be a surprise to see the youngster making his senior debut for the Reds sooner rather than later.

After all, according to Football Insider, the teenager has blown away staff behind the scenes with coaches said to be 'wowed' by his efforts in recent weeks.

The attacker can play on either wing but predominantly plays on the left-hand side of the pitch. With the youngster playing at left-wing or indeed up top in a central striking role, it makes him an ideal future partner for Bradley, a player capable of whipping a mean delivery into the penalty box.

The pair have been developed together in the Reds' academy and will be looking to represent the club together on a senior level.

Although Koumas is yet to make his debut for Liverpool's first-team, he has appeared on the bench twice this season, with one of those times even coming in the Premier League during Liveprool's most recent game against Burnley.

This not only shows the faith Jurgen Klopp has in the youngster but outlines how well the Reds' academy is doing in regard to producing talent. The thought of him progressing alongside Bradley is certainly a salivating one.

Both openers hit substantial fifties at rapid pace, while none of the New Zealand pacemen found success on the first day

The Report by Andrew Fidel Fernando08-Aug-2019New Zealand left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel claimed 5 for 41, as his fast-bowling teammates toiled, of the first day of the tour match in Katunayake. Making a claim for places in the Sri Lanka Test squad, meanwhile, was opener Danushka Gunathilaka, who top-scored for the Sri Lanka Cricket Board President’s XI, with 98 off 97 balls, putting on 154 in 26 overs alongside Sadeera Samarawickrama, who hit 80 off 90.Sri Lankan Test tracks have become increasingly loaded in favour of spinners in the past few years, with seamers at times appearing largely superfluous. New Zealand got a taste of what may come at Galle next week, as Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Neil Wagner all went wicketless, having bowled nine overs apiece. Aside from Ajaz, offspinner Will Somerville was the only New Zealand bowler to make a breakthrough, finishing with an analysis of 1 for 70 from his 13.5 overs.Legspinner Todd Astle and left-arm spinning allrounder Mitchell Santner bowled six overs apiece and did not take a wicket, as the Board XI racked up 323 for 6 in the day. Thanks largely to the breakneck opening stand between Gunathilaka and Samarawickrama, the Board XI’s run rate was 4.9 – with only Santner, among New Zealand’s bowlers, going at less than four an over.Late in the day, Ashan Priyanjan also struck an unbeaten half century. He, like Samarawickrama, is seemingly not in contention for a Test squad place, having been left out of the preliminary squad.The teams eventually went off for bad light after 65.5 overs. Earlier in the day, play had been delayed for two hours on account of a wet outfield.

Harry Kane has reportedly been given clear instructions from the FA in case any England players suffer racist abuse during Euro 2024.

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England's match against Serbia labelled as "high risk"UEFA have a three-step protocol to tackle racismFA has handed Kane instructions to followWHAT HAPPENED?

As England gear up for Euro 2024, the FA has taken comprehensive steps to ensure that the team is prepared not only for their matches but also for potential off-field issues, including racism. According to Kane, the captain of the Three Lions, has been entrusted with a crucial role in this initiative and has been asked to comply with the referee's instructions if any player is subject to racism.

AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE

In light of historical incidents and concerns, UEFA has reiterated its three-step protocol to handle any racist behaviour during matches. This protocol was presented to all participating nations, including England, with a special briefing taking place at St George's Park. According to the protocol, the first step will involve the referee in stopping the game if he is made aware of any racist behaviour and an announcement will be made through the PA system urging fans to cease such actions immediately.

If the initial announcement fails, the referee will suspend the match for a reasonable period, typically five to ten minutes, during which both teams will retreat to the dressing rooms. A second announcement will be made, stressing the seriousness of the situation. If racist behaviour persists after the game resumes, the final step is to abandon the match entirely. A UEFA delegate will be present to assist in making this critical decision, ensuring all other measures are exhausted and considering the security implications for players and spectators.

DID YOU KNOW?

England's opening match against Serbia has been classified as high-risk due to past incidents involving Serbian fans. To mitigate potential issues, alcohol restrictions will be in place, with only low-strength beer available to fans. This decision follows several troubling episodes, including Serbia's match against Bulgaria in November, where the stadium was partially closed due to racist behaviour.

Serbian fans have a history of such incidents, as seen during the last World Cup in Qatar when they displayed fascist slogans and directed racist chants towards ethnic Albanians. Similar behaviour occurred in 2019, leading to a behind-closed-doors match against Portugal. Additionally, in 2017, Partizan Belgrade's Brazilian midfielder Everton Luiz faced severe racist abuse from FK Rad fans, which left him in tears.

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Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?

Italian referee Daniele Orsato, a seasoned official with a wealth of experience, will oversee the England vs. Serbia match. His role will be central in implementing UEFA's three-step protocol should any racist incident occur. Orsato's decisions will be critical in ensuring the game proceeds smoothly or taking necessary actions if the situation demands.

Moreover, the FA has undertaken a proactive approach including monitoring the situation closely from the stands and providing support to the players. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham recently announced that the organization is funding police efforts to prosecute individuals who engage in racist abuse on social media against English players.

RB Leipzig and Spain star Dani Olmo has hinted at a potential return to Barcelona while addressing speculation over his future.

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Olmo linked with RB Leipzig exitBarcelona want the forward this summerOlmo talks about the links and hints at Barca returnGetty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?

Olmo came up through the ranks at Barcelona having been in the club's youth system from 2007 to 2014 before he made a move to Croatian side Dinamo Zagreb. After five successful seasons with the club, he got his move to RB Leipzig in 2020 and has impressed with the German side since, while also becoming a mainstay in the Spanish national team squad. As such, multiple clubs have shown interest in the 26-year-old, including Barca, and when asked about the speculation he refused to shoot down a potential return to Camp Nou.

AdvertisementWHAT OLMO SAID

Speaking to the media, Olmo said: “My future? My future will be known before July 14. I’m calm, focused on the Euros, on playing, contributing and that’s it.

"Would I return to Barcelona? Returning to Barca is an option that can occur. We will see after the end of Euros.”

(C)GettyImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Barcelona have been without a natural left-winger since the decline of Ansu Fati due to injuries and the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Raphinha and Ferran Torres have deputised on the left wing. However, new boss Hansi Flick has demanded a proper left-winger ahead of his debut season and Olmo has been one of the names put forward alongside Khvicha Kvaratshelia and Nico Williams.

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WHAT NEXT FOR OLMO?

The Spaniard will next be in action during Spain's final group-stage match at the Euros against Albania on Monday, June 24 and may even get a start with La Roja already having qualified for the knockout stages.

Tottenham Hotspur will enjoy a sojourn away from competitive action this weekend with their Premier League opponents, Chelsea, attending to obligations in the Carabao Cup final.

It's a double-edged sword. Influential full-backs Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie both missed out last weekend as Ange Postecoglou's side slumped to defeat at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers and with both stars likely to have missed out this weekend, a break isn't a bad thing.

That said, Spurs need fluency after fluctuating in results and performance, last securing successive victories in the league before Christmas Day, and after Manchester United's shock Old Trafford loss against Fulham, fifth-placed Tottenham could now create some breathing space.

Securing top four is the incentive but Postecoglou's project is definitely moving in the right direction, with some exciting improvements to the first team and some incredible development within the academy ranks.

Tottenham's development squad have so many talented youngsters pushing for prominence, and while the likes of Jamie Donley perch at the top, Tyrese Hall might just be the club's most precocious starlet.

Tyrese Hall could be a bigger talent than Jamie Donley

Hall might only be young but he has been riding the crest of a wave recently as he continues to sparkle brightest among many high-quality peers, having joined the club from London rivals Chelsea during his formative years.

Stepping up to thrive at U18 level across the 2021/22 campaign – while still a schoolboy – Hall is clearly destined for the top level and now he must just ply his trade industriously to continue the growth that has whipped relevant circles into a frenzied buzz.

This season, the 18-year-old has scored six goals and supplied five assists in all competitions, principally in the U18 Premier League but recently being promoted to the Premier League 2 and supplying two assists on his debut.

While Jamie Donley is the creme-de-la-creme of Wayne Burnett's development squad right now, having posted six goals and 12 assists from 17 matches this season, the 19-year-old might just find himself leapfrogged if Hall continues in his ascendancy.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast's In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

Hall has received a glowing endorsement from Tottenham insider Superhotspur, who outlined his best attributes, writing that he is 'a player with great ability on the ball' and that he is 'capable of creating chances out of very little, and he with his consistently impressive weight and vision for a pass, he is also capable of making those all important forward passes.'

Such qualities spring a certain Phil Foden to mind; just imagine, for one moment, if Spurs have such a player on their hands.

Phil Foden's season in numbers

Manchester City are not quite firing on cylinders after winning the treble last season, but the Etihad side are still the best team on the continent and are competing for the biggest honours, with Foden's elite contributions among the most important.

With Kevin De Bruyne sat on the sidelines for large portions of the campaign, the 23-year-old has proved his worth and then some, unceasingly productive.

Stat

#

Matches

26

Starts

24

Goals

9

Assists

7

Pass completion

89%

Shots per game

2.8

Key passes per game

2.0

Dribbles per game

1.4

Ball recoveries per game

3.6

Duels won per game

4.0

Moreover, to illustrate this point, the mesmeric England international ranks among the top 5% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for goals scored, the top 7% for assists, the top 19% for shot-creating actions, the top 2% for pass completion, the top 8% for passes attempted and the top 20% for progressive passes per 90, as per FBref.

More succinctly: he is a world-class player. Praised for his "immense" quality by The Times' Henry Winter, Foden continues to thrive at the heart of one of the finest football teams across Europe in a generation, a dynamic dancer through the lanes, balletic in his gait and deadly in the final third.

Hall, while naturally a more defensive-heavy midfielder, has a similarly prodigious sheen to his play and he might just find himself earning comparisons as he continues to rise to the fore.

Manchester City eyeing Hall

On the topic of Man City, Guardiola's side have been reported to be big admirers of Hall by Football Transfers, who have revealed that scouts had been dispatched earlier in February to observe him in action.

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The Barnet-born teenager's seamless transition through the levels has suggested that he is of a standard that would not be out of place at the nest of City's system, and while a move might be forthcoming, Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy must be steadfast in repelling the advances.

Spurs are currently at the Premier League 2's summit and are creating a mouth-watering youth fold of immense ability, and while Hall would – and should – be confident in his ability to follow the likes of Oscar Bobb, Rico Lewis (and Foden) in Greater Manchester, opting to remain in London might prove to be the more prudent route in the end.

Hall's composed finish against the young Citizens – a clutch of players that the Manchester City powers-that-be wish for him to join – was sadly not enough to prevent a cup exit as the adversaries turned the game on its head.

But it's just another example of his stunning potential, and while Hall is safely ensconced in his fledgling phase as a U18 star (he need not worry about a promotion to the senior squad at this stage), there is no question that the teenager is among the finest midfielders of his age bracket and the vested interest of Manchester City can attest to that.

Spurs must fight fiercely to retain Hall's services, guiding the flickering flame of his development and ensuring that he is clad in Tottenham white when, if all goes to plan, he breaks into the senior set-up and catches the eye.

Broad warns there will be no respite in England’s attempt to discomfort Smith on his return

George Dobell in Manchester02-Sep-2019Stuart Broad is excited to see the resumption of the “awesome” competition between Steve Smith and Jofra Archer when the Ashes resumes in Manchester on Wednesday.While Broad welcomed the return of Smith after the worrying injury he sustained at Lord’s, he warned that Test cricket was a “brutal sport” and there would be no respite in England’s attempt to discomfort him.Smith was obliged to miss the Leeds Test after sustaining a delayed concussion injury when hit on the neck by an Archer bouncer at Lord’s. While Smith resumed his innings after a short period off the pitch, he appeared somewhat skittish and soon fell leg before having left a straight ball. Underlining his confused state, he called for a review of the decision but then walked off before it was confirmed.Also read: ‘We felt a bit like we got the Ashes stolen’ – LangerBut while some have suggested he may be somewhat nervous when facing Archer, Smith has pointed out that the bowler has not actually dismissed him in the series. All of which has left Broad looking forward to another gripping passage of play between the pair.”Firstly, it’s great that Steve is ok and coming back into Test cricket,” Broad said. “No one wants to see anyone miss cricket through a head injury. It was a nasty hit. It’s great to have him back.”But Test cricket is a brutal sport. Sides go hell for leather against each other. So I’m sure that, when Steve comes in, Jofra will be in Joe Root’s ear wanting the ball. And I’ll be excited when he does.”It was a really tasty bit of cricket at Lord’s. Smith was on 70 or 80 and playing beautifully, but suddenly Jofra went from bowling 84mph to bowling 95mph. He was really charging in. That’s the intensity – the theatre – Test cricket brings.”That sort of cricket is awesome to watch on the telly or from the stands but when you’re stood at mid-on it’s pretty special. Hopefully we can have a battle like that again.”The dream is someone nicks him off first ball and Jofra doesn’t get to bowl at him. But Smith does average 60-something. So there will probably be a period in this game where those two come together again and, touch wood, I’m on the pitch to view it.”Jofra Archer bowls during a net session at Old Trafford•PA Images via Getty ImagesBroad has had his own experience of trouble against the short ball. He was memorably struck in the eye while batting against India at Old Trafford, the scene of this week’s Test, in 2014. Top-edging his attempted pull off Varun Aaron, he sustained a badly broken nose and admitted he suffered nightmares as a consequence. He used psychologists to help recover but, before the injury, he averaged 23.95 with the bat in Test cricket with one century and 10 half-centuries. Since then, he has averaged 13.18 with just two half-centuries.While he believes Smith is unlikely to suffer such extreme consequences, it has left Broad grateful for the improved protection offered by modern helmets.”Smith has a bit more skill than me with the bat so it probably won’t affect him,” Broad said. “I don’t think I’ve ever played in a series where so many people have even hit in the head. I can’t even describe why. Obviously both sets of fast bowlers are bowling well and looking in good rhythm. The pitches have maybe played slightly untrue and a bit two-paced: one will skid through and one will slow down. It feels like the doctors are running out every 10 overs.”But it’s part of Test cricket. You bowl a bouncer not to hit someone in the head, you bowl a bouncer to maneuverer footwork and change momentum of bodyweight. But your best bouncer is directed over leg stump and at the head, unfortunately. But fortunately the helmets are much better now.”While Archer’s confrontation against Smith may gain the headlines, Broad’s private competition against David Warner has been just as absorbing. Broad has dismissed him four times in the three Tests and feels he is reaping the rewards for bowling a fuller length. But he warned that the pitches for the final two Tests could be better for batsmen and praised Warner’s batting in the first innings in Leeds.”It’s been a great battle so far,” Broad said. “I’ve really enjoyed it. I had to look quite closely pre-series as, until this series, he had probably had the better of me.”I’d always focussed on his outside edge thinking that running the ball across him would bring in the slips. But the bloke has incredible hand-eye coordination, so if you miss your line at all it seems to disappear through the covers.”I had a change of mindset in this series and have tried to bring the stumps into play more against him. I’ve looked to nip it back onto off-stump and then, if the ball holds its line, it brings the outside edge in and that actually limits the scoring options slightly.”Also, the pitches have been in our favour with the new ball. I don’t want to take too much credit that I’ve out-thought him or anything. It’s been a really good time to bowl with that new ball.”But Test cricket always moves on and this pitch will be very different to Lord’s or Headingley. And on that first morning at Headingley it was probably as good a time to bowl as you’ll ever get in Test cricket: cloudy, heavy, swinging, seaming. He might have played and missed a lot but he got through that period and got a pretty crucial fifty. He’ll take confidence from that.”