Ange must unleash Spurs "monster" who’d walk into Liverpool’s team

Tottenham Hotspur host Liverpool in the Premier League this afternoon, still bouncing from the frenetic Carabao Cup victory against Manchester United on Thursday evening.

That performance has set up a semi-final showdown with Arne Slot’s squad in the New Year, and this weekend’s clash could be used as a yardstick down the line to determine how the exciting outfits match up.

Liverpool are two points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand but have ceded ground in each of their past two matches and look more susceptible with Ibrahima Konate sidelined through injury.

Spurs team news

Though Sunday’s visitors have one or two concerns, Tottenham have suffered a spate of setbacks in recent weeks that have limited their options considerably.

Guglielmo Vicario is still out, and thus Fraser Forster, 36, will reprise his place between the sticks once again after his horror show against the Red Devils.

Compounding this problem, star defenders Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are still out until the New Year, and while Ben Davies is nearing a return, this one might come too soon.

While Spence made a good impression, he’s probably not going to start for this one, with Destiny Udogie believed to be fit once again after missing out in midweek. The robust left-back could be key against a Reds side that may just be eyeing him somewhat jealously.

Destiny Udogie could be crucial vs Liverpool

Udogie is set to be fit for this crunch clash, and it’s a good thing too, with his strengths perfect for the high-stakes fixture against the Liverpool machine.

Destiny Udogie – Premier League Statistics

Match Stats*

2023/24

2024/25

Matches (starts)

28 (28)

16 (16)

Goals

2

0

Assists

3

1

Touches*

67.2

63.3

Pass completion

87%

89%

Key passes*

0.9

0.8

Dribbles*

0.9

0.6

Ball recoveries*

6.0

4.6

Tackles + interceptions*

3.7

3.8

Total duels (won)*

5.4 (50%)

5.8 (56%)

Stats via Sofascore (* = per game)

Some may claim that Udogie hasn’t been at his best this season, but the data would suggest that he’s continuing to make headway in England’s top flight and, let’s not forget, has only recently turned 22.

Described as a “monster” by journalist Travis Levison due to his physical and athletic qualities, Udogie is the perfect player to nullify a player like Mohamed Salah, who is 32 but still one of the most potent threats in Europe.

Salah’s athletic regression is a by-product of Father Time, but he’s catered his game to accommodate his age. It will take someone such as Udogie to come out on top.

Indeed, the Italian ranks among the top 7% of Premier League full-backs this year for progressive passes, the top 18% for progressive carries and the top 14% for tackles and blocks per 90, as per FBref, making good on the claims from reporter Hunter Godson that he is a “sickeningly good” young talent who would walk into “nearly every team in the world already”, including the Reds.

Liverpool’s Andy Robertson may return to the starting line-up after being sent off against Fulham one week ago (missing out against Southampton on Wednesday) but the 30-year-old is starting to show signs of withering and given that Liverpool will be hunting for a left-back in 2025, might pay extra close attention to Udogie’s performance.

Of course, it’s not likely that Spurs’ talent will be going anywhere soon, though that’s not going to stop Tottenham from showcasing Udogie in all his qualities, perhaps proving to be the difference-maker on a testing afternoon.

Levy must axe Spurs "horror show" who Postecoglou "really wanted" to sign

The experienced international has not been good enough for Spurs.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Dec 20, 2024

Slot must axe 5/10 dud who’s "the biggest threat to Liverpool’s title push"

For the first time in ten years, Manchester United scored two goals at Anfield. Could it be a defining moment in Liverpool’s title charge? Perhaps, but they’re still streets ahead of the pack.

The narrative heading into this match was that Ruben Amorim’s men didn’t stand a chance. Liverpool were going to rock up amid a snowy storm and dismantle their arch-rivals. That did not happen.

Instead, United delivered their best display of the Amorim era yet to deal Arne Slot’s side a mini blow in the title race following a 2-2 draw.

Cody Gakpo equalised following Lisandro Martinez’s thumping opener and when Mo Salah found the net from a penalty, it looked as though Liverpool would run away with it.

That was far from the case as Amad Diallo, the scorer of a late winner against Manchester City a few weeks ago popped up again in a big moment, scoring with just ten minutes remaining.

While Salah and Gakpo will get plaudits for their displays, not many others in red will have pleased the manager on Sunday.

Liverpool's worst performers against Man United

This was meant to be a breeze. It was a straightforward win. Oh, how we were wrong.

Man United were written off but to their credit were brilliant, notably causing all sorts of problems for Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back.

The England international has been linked with Real Madrid of late but as Roy Keane said on Sky Sports, this was a performance that more warranted a move to Tranmere Rovers.

Alexander-Arnold was caught out numerous times with Martinez’s goal coming from his side of the pitch.

Furthermore, the 26-year-old was dribbled past twice, failed to complete an accurate cross and also failed to win a single duel. Not ideal.

Curtis Jones was another who “really struggled” in the words of Gary Neville during commentary. Hauled off just after the hour mark he did so having failed to produce a key pass, have a shot or attempt a single dribble. The numbers didn’t make for good reading.

That said, there was another player, someone who could cost Liverpool the title if he continues playing like he has done this season.

Andy Robertson's performance in numbers

The Scot has been a brilliant servant to Liverpool, chiefly throughout the Jurgen Klopp era. He will go down as a Reds icon when he finally leaves and sadly, that must be soon.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast's Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Should he stay any longer he may well damage his legacy at Anfield. He’s played 321 times for Liverpool but if they are serious about winning the league, they must ensure there aren’t too many games added to that tally.

The likes of Milos Kerkez and Antonee Robinson have both been linked and they would no doubt be an upgrade on the 30-year-old who is a shadow of his former self.

As European football expert Zach Lowy put it, he has become the “biggest threat to Liverpool’s title push” and he showed as much against United.

Robertson vs Man Utd

Minutes played

90

Touches

58

Accurate passes

36/42 (86%)

Key passes

2

Crosses

2/6

Long ball accuracy

0/4

Blocked shots

1

Clearances

0

Interceptions

3

Tackles

1

Duels won

1/4

Possession lost

11x

Stats via Sofascore.

Robertson lasted the full 90 minutes but in doing so, completed just two of his six crosses, won only one of his four duels and gave away the ball 11 times from 58 touches.

It was the Scotland international who didn’t get close enough or react fast enough to get out to Amad for the late equaliser and his woes compounded when he fed Ryan Gravenberch a horrible pass that bobbled out of play as Liverpool looked to mount a late charge for a winner.

Handed a 5/10 player rating by the Express’ Charlie Gordon, he picked out the “costly mistake” for his role in Amad’s goal as the defining moment of Robertson’s afternoon.

For so long the two full-backs have been incredibly trustworthy for Liverpool but this was a match to forget for the both of them. While Trent is likely to depart, Roberson must do too. A younger alternative is required.

Suarez repeat: La Liga giants want Liverpool star in next Trent disaster

Liverpool are battling to keep some of their prized players at Anfield this year.

By
Angus Sinclair

Jan 3, 2025

Napoli send chief negotiator to London to discuss transfer for Tottenham star Dejan Kulusevski as Antonio Conte dreams of reunion with Sweden international in Serie A

Antonio Conte dreams of a reunion with Spurs winger Dejan Kulusevski, with Napoli's chief negotiator sent to London to discuss possible transfer.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Conte wants to reunite with Kulusevski in Serie A
  • Napoli send chief negotiator to London to work on deal
  • Conte and Kulusevski previously worked together at Spurs
Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    According to a report from AreaNapoli (via Sport Witness), Napoli head coach Conte is eager to reunite with Kulusevski and bring him back to Serie A. The club's chief negotiator has already travelled to London to initiate talks with Tottenham Hotspur regarding a potential transfer.

  • Advertisement

  • Getty Images Sport

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Napoli's sporting director, Giovanni Manna, is reportedly working to bring Kulusevski back to Serie A and has already traveled to London to initiate talks with Tottenham. While the exact transfer fee remains unclear, Spurs are anticipated to set a high price for the Swedish winger—potentially high enough to force Napoli to reconsider their pursuit.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Napoli is not the only Serie A team reported to be interested in signing Kulusevski this summer, with AC Milan also keeping tabs on the player. However, Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou is determined to keep the player at all costs beyond the summer. Kulusevski's contract at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium lasts until 2028.

  • ENJOYED THIS STORY?

    Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

  • AFP

    WHAT NEXT FOR NAPOLI?

    Conte's troops currently find themselves in the midst of a heated Serie A title race. Napoli are currently in second position on the table, just three points behind Inter. They will face Empoli in their upcoming league outing, which will take place next Monday, April 14.

No repeat of Lionel Messi fiasco! Inter Miami sent 'better bring your best team' warning from MLS & CONCACAF Champions Cup rivals Vancouver Whitecaps

Inter Miami have been advised to avoid a repeat of last season's Lionel Messi fiasco and "bring your best team" to Vancouver in 2025.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Argentine icon sat out 2024 trip to Canada
  • Expected to feature prominently this time around
  • Both teams confident ahead of semi-final clash
Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Herons are counting down the days to a CONCACAF Champions Cup semi-final showdown with opponents from Canada. They will be facing the Whitecaps on April 24 away from home, before a return date heads to South Florida on May 1.

  • Advertisement

  • Getty

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    With major silverware beginning to fall within reach, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi is expected to figure prominently throughout a continental clash. Vancouver natives are certainly hoping that he does, having seen the Argentine left at home alongside Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez for a MLS fixture in 2024.

  • WHAT VANCOUVER CEO SAID

    Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster has told the : |I know that there was huge frustration from everyone who bought a ticket, and I totally get that. And I would have felt the same way. It’s absolutely okay if they vented on us… because we understood that there was nothing we could have done better and nothing we could have done differently, because it was purely a decision of (Miami).

    "What this club, and I mean every employee, and especially our team, is doing this year, is unbelievable. This is not one of 34 regular season games. This is the semi-final of the Champions League. For that, we have fought so hard, we eliminated two Mexican teams. No other MLS team has done that. I have a recommendation for Miami – you better bring your best team, because otherwise you might not make the final, and I wouldn’t be sad about that."

  • ENJOYED THIS STORY?

    Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

  • Getty/GOAL

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Vancouver saw off Mexican outfit Pumas in the quarter-finals and believe that they have what it takes to claim the notable scalp of Messi and Co. Schuster added: "The commentators (for the Pumas match) said, ‘Look, you cheer a little bit for the outsider, for the underdog … the Vancouver Whitecaps are the best team in the league, so they’re not really an underdog in this game’.

    "It’s not only me saying that. There were a few other guys who have been here today in Chicago from the league that said, ‘You guys, you really can beat everyone in this league.’ So Miami better bring the best team. But if not, that’s not my problem."

Tottenham now in talks over move for "incredibly fast" new defender

Tottenham Hotspur have now made contact over a move for an “incredibly fast” defender, according to a report.

Tottenham looking to strengthen their defence

Spurs have struggled defensively at times this season, with their frailties at the back particularly on show in the 6-3 home defeat against Liverpool. Shipping goals is to be expected when playing Ange Postecoglou’s attacking brand of football, which the manager is unwilling to compromise on, but he may be a little concerned by some of the performances.

As such, Spurs could look to strengthen in the January transfer window, and they have identified a number of defensive targets, with the need to bring in a new centre-back heightened by the injury crisis currently ongoing at N17.

Tottenham make January approach to sign £149,000-per-week Barcelona star

The Lilywhites could secure a bargain.

2

By
Emilio Galantini

Dec 31, 2024

The Lilywhites have held initial talks over a move for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, while they are also in the mix to sign Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu, who is very likely to leave the La Liga club in the January transfer window.

Now, a new report has revealed another name on Postecoglou’s list of targets this winter, with The Boot Room confirming that contact has been made with intermediaries to discuss a deal for Borussia Monchengladbach’s Ko Itakura.

Spurs are looking to bring in at least one new defender this month, and they have identified Itakura as a possible target, although the potential move is still seemingly in the early stages.

Another option for Tottenham is Abdukodir Khusanov, with talks also being opened about a deal for the Lens defender, so it is clear that Postecoglou is not short on targets this winter as he looks to rectify his side’s defensive issues.

Tottenham Hotspur’s upcoming fixtures

Date

Newcastle United (h)

January 4th

Liverpool (h)

January 8th

Tamworth (a)

January 12th

Arsenal (a)

January 15th

Everton (a)

January 19th

Spurs targeting another quick defender

Postecoglou already has one unbelievably quick defender at the club in the form of Micky van de Ven, and he is clearly interested in bringing another one to the club, given that contact has been made over a deal for Itakura.

The Monchengladbach defender was lauded for his pace during his time with FC Groningen, with analyst Hans Kraay Jr saying: “One of the best central defenders in the Eredivisie . He can play football well, he can head well and he is incredibly fast. He is such a good player.”

Not only is the Japan international a solid defender, but he is also a threat going forward, ranking in the 91st percentile for non-penalty goals per 90 over the course of the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

The 27-year-old is showing signs he could be more than capable of making a move to one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs, so it is promising news that Tottenham are in the race for his signature as we enter the January transfer window.

Huge upgrade on Zirkzee: Man Utd actively chasing £50m "future superstar"

You’d like to think that Ruben Amorim made some kind of stirring speech in the overtures of Manchester United’s Premier League clash against Liverpool.

The Portuguese manager struggled to gel with the stricken Old Trafford squad when replacing Erik ten Hag, whose worn-out system was well past its sell-by date when he was finally put out of his misery in October.

Manchester United manager RubenAmorim

Newcastle United thrashed the Red Devils in their backyard to put the final nail in the coffin in 2024, a fitting and admittedly poignant end to the year. If Amorim believes in such symbolism, he’ll be inspired by his side’s start to January—and then some.

Anfield was silenced through United’s spirit, energy and optimism. The visitors were well worth their point on the fourth and perhaps unlucky not to have struck an incredible victory. Then, latterly, Arsenal failed to topple ten-man Man United in the third round of the FA Cup, with Altay Bayindir starring between the sticks and saving Kai Havertz’s spot kick in the shootout.

Man United – Remaining January Fixtures

Date

Competition

Opponent

16/01/25

Premier League

Southampton (H)

19/01/25

Premier League

Brighton (H)

23/01/25

Europa League

Rangers (H)

26/01/25

Premier League

Fulham (A)

30/01/25

Europa League

FCSB (A)

Oh, there’s a long road ahead, with some important and winnable (quote-unquote) fixtures coming up. Manchester United have restored something that has been lost for quite some time. It’s intangible, something that takes root when individual parts come together to create something more than its 11-man makeup.

Change will be required in some areas, though, with Joshua Zirkzee perhaps already expendable.

Joshua Zirkzee's Man United future

INEOS backed Ten Hag in the summer market, forking out £36.5m for Zirkzee, who had been crowned the 2023/24 Serie A Player of the Year with Bologna.

Manchester United star Joshua Zirkzee

Bologna qualified for the Champions League and were generally considered a wonderful surprise package, but Zirkzee has found that the pace and intensity in England stands as a stark difference to that of Serie A football.

As such, rumours have already piled up that the 23-year-old is headed for a premature exit, with Caught Offside even claiming that he has informed his agent to search for a new club. There are things to like about the Dutchman but with four goals from 29 matches, he definitely hasn’t been up to speed – quite literally in numerous instances.

Should Zirkzee leave, United will need a replacement, and Amorim seems to have the perfect player in mind.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Man United chasing Champions League star

GIVEMESPORT revealed at the weekend that Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani is at an impasse with Tottenham Hotspur, for Daniel Levy is characteristically hesitant about accepting an obligatory buy option in a loan package stretching to the end of the season.

This could allow Man United – and Juventus who are both actively chasing a move – to steal ahead in the race for the wantaway forward. A loan deal could give the Red Devils some financial breathing room while improving the squad for the business end of the season, though a £50m fee would need to be paid come summer.

It’s all gone a bit wrong in Paris for the France international, but he’s still an immensely talented forward who could thrive in this new Old Trafford system.

What Randal Kolo Muani would bring to Man United

The Athletic’s David Ornstein has already confirmed that Man United have held exploratory talks regarding a deal for Kolo Muani, but as we can see, interest is fierce for his signature and hesitation may be fatal.

Randal Kolo Muani for PSG

Striker Kylian Mbappe hailed Kolo Muani, 26, as the “complete” forward, but with just 11 goals from 54 appearances at PSG since signing, it’s clear that he needs to search for pastures new, unfavoured by Luis Enrique.

Much of his time at the club has been spent on the bench – or coming off it during the second half. Kolo Muani does, though, maintain a fluent positional sense that could see Amorim deploy him across a number of frontline roles, something that could pay dividends for a United side looking to improve their dynamics up top.

Randal Kolo Muani: Career Club Stats by Position

Position

Apps

Goals

Assists

Centre-forward

145

50

34

Right winger

20

5

3

Left winger

12

5

1

Attacking midfield

2

0

1

Stats via Transfermarkt

It’s something that has foiled Zirkzee’s early efforts to succeed in the Premier League, for the 6 foot 4 talent is not consistent enough. He’s powerful and able to manipulate the spaces in and around the final third, though it’s clear that United need more energy and Kolo Muani could provide that in an environment that values his skills.

In 2022/23, for example, Kolo Muani scored 23 goals and added 17 more assists for Eintracht Frankfurt, principally fielded as a centre-forward and hailed by talent scout Jacek Kulig for being “on fire” in the Bundesliga.

German legend Lothar Matthaus also remarked that he “has the mark of a future superstar” during his time in the country, tearing opponents to shreds.

Zirkzee impressed with his intelligence and link-up play for Bologna last term but he still only scored 12 goals across 37 outings. The Netherlands international isn’t wasteful in front of goal, rather, he struggles to find clear-cut chances with all that regularity.

Of course, we can look at Kolo Muani’s numbers in France and surmise that United would be taking something of a risk, bringing him over the Channel.

France'sRandalKoloMuanireacts

But this is a player who tore German football to shreds when he was valued. The Frenchman’s energy and pace is exactly what Amorim’s system needs, still ranking among the top 12% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for assists and the top 9% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

The time is now. Sir Jim Ratcliffe won’t want to watch Kolo Muani spearheading a Tottenham Hotspur resurgence over the coming months and needs to get this one done.

Saved by Bayindir: Amorim must upgrade on 4/10 Man Utd dud who won 0 duels

Ruben Amorim led his Manchester United side to an FA Cup triumph over Arsenal.

5

By
Ethan Lamb

Jan 12, 2025

VIDEO: 'F*ck sake' – Wrexham chief rinsed by Red Dragons stars including Paul Mullin & James McClean as he seeks support for London Marathon attempt

Wrexham director Humphrey Ker has been jokingly taunted by Wrexham stars such as Paul Mullin and James McClean ahead of his London Marathon attempt.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Thousands taking to the streets in English capital
  • Reynolds & McElhenney's fellow director taking part
  • Wrexham stars making playful jokes at Ker's expense
Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    Ker, who has worked alongside Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney at SToK Racecourse since a remarkable takeover was completed by Hollywood actors in 2021, is due to race 26 miles across the English capital on Sunday.

  • Advertisement

  • WATCH THE CLIP

  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    He has been busy fundraising, with prominent figures in North Wales vowing to provide sponsorship money for good causes. Many have, however, seen the funny side of 42-year-old Ker agreeing to join thousands of other professional and amateur runners in taking on a marathon challenge for 2025.

  • ENJOYED THIS STORY?

    Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

  • Getty

    WHAT HUMPHREY KER & WREXHAM STARS SAID

    Ker has, in a light-hearted video, given fans a glimpse of the support – or lack of – that he boasts behind the scenes at Wrexham. The likes of Mullin and McClean have joked that the club’s community director may “die” while attempting to successfully navigate the streets of London.

Nottingham Forest join race to sign £34m+ ace who could replace Awoniyi

In a move that could go a long way towards sealing their top four place, Nottingham Forest have now reportedly joined the race to sign a new forward worth over £34m this month.

Nottingham Forest transfer news

Those at the City Ground are in a better place than ever in the Premier League to sign some top talents. With the potential of Champions League football to offer, the likes of Baris Alper Yilmaz are suddenly realistic targets as Forest look to cement their place among the Premier League’s best in the remainder of the season, as their recent 1-1 draw against Liverpool proved they’re capable of doing.

As the January transfer window and their shock inclusion in the Premier League title race roll on, Nottingham Forest may well be one of the most interesting sides to watch across European football, especially if they win the race to sign one particular forward this month.

According to Firenze Viola as relayed by Sports Witness, Nottingham Forest have now joined the race to sign Luiz Henrique from Brazilian side Botafogo, who value their forward at €40m (£34m) plus add-ons this month.

Club now open to selling Nottingham Forest target with 23 goals last season

2024 was a very fruitful year for the striker.

By
Barney Lane

Jan 17, 2025

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are reportedly joined by Crystal Palace and Fiorentina in the race to sign the Brazilian this month and see him as a player who could provide key depth behind their frontline.

Henrique would likely play the same role as Awoniyi from the bench and could even replace the former Bundesliga star who has been linked with a move to West Ham United this month.

If the forward does depart then Forest’s depth could become exposed, making the arrival of Henrique all the more important before the end of the January transfer window.

"Direct" Henrique could replace Awoniyi

With the ability to play on both wings and in the leading role, Henrique could quickly become a key man at Nottingham Forest and replace Awoniyi should the forward depart this month. And whilst £34m+ is quite the fee for what would be a back-up player, Forest will certainly need the depth if they are to cause a few upsets in the Champions League next season.

Luiz Henrique for Botafogo.

Still just 24 years old, there’s also no reason why Henrique can’t eventually go on and replace Chris Wood, Callum Hudson-Odoi or Anthony Elanga under Espirito Santo. Scoring 13 goals and assisting another nine in all competitions for Botafogo in his last season in Brazil, Henrique was praised for his “direct” play by South American football expert Nathan Joyes.

Whether those at the City Ground will get the chance to see that “direct” ability for themselves remains to be seen, but Henrique is certainly one to watch.

Patrick Dorgu's name change! Man Utd wing-back makes special request to use title with special 'God answers prayers' meaning

Patrick Dorgu has made a special request at Manchester United that has led to a name change on Premier League team sheets.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Dane joined Red Devils in winter window
  • Rightly proud of his Nigerian roots
  • Change to domestic & European team sheets
Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The highly-rated Denmark international joined the Red Devils in a £25 million ($33m) deal during the winter transfer window of 2025. The 20-year-old has been deployed as a wing-back by Ruben Amorim.

  • Advertisement

  • Getty

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    He has made 12 appearances, with United continuing to chase down Europa League glory – having reached the semi-finals of that event. Fans and commentators in domestic and continental competition have seen a revision to squad lists at home and abroad.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    That is because, as flagged by , the youngster has asked for his full name to be included on official documentation. As a result, he is now referred to as Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu.

  • ENJOYED THIS STORY?

    Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

  • Getty

    TELL ME MORE

    The Dane’s middle name hails from the Igbo region of Nigeria, where his family are from, and means ‘God answers prayers’. He is eager to recognise and respect his roots, with United more than happy to grant that request.

5/10 Chelsea dud proved why Maresca should have spent big on deadline day

Chelsea returned to winning ways on Monday night, coming from behind to beat West Ham United 2-1 in a close-fought encounter at Stamford Bridge.

Jarrod Bowen put Graham Potter’s side ahead on his return to West London before goals from Pedro Neto and an own goal from Aaron Wan-Bissaka secured all three points for the Blues.

The victory puts Enzo Maresca’s side back into the Premier League’s top four, edging them closer to a return to Champions League football should they maintain the same position between now and the end of the season.

Chelsea manager EnzoMarescalooks dejected after the match

With just 14 games to go, it looks as though the Italian will have to extract the most out of the current crop of players, especially after the closure of the transfer window after the full-time whistle last night.

It was a busy day behind the scenes in the Bridge, with real hope that the boss has made the right decisions, subsequently improving their chances of securing a top-four spot come the end of May.

Chelsea’s dealings on transfer deadline day

It may have been a busy day at the Bridge yesterday, but most of the action came in the form of departures, with youngster Mathis Amougou the only player entering the door to bolster Maresca’s side.

However, numerous players completed moves away from the club, with Ben Chilwell joining fellow top-flight side Crystal Palace on loan until the end of the campaign – but the deal doesn’t include any option to buy upon its completion.

Carney Chukwuemeka departed on loan to join Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund, but unlike a deal for Chilwell, it does include an option to buy should they want to trigger it in the coming months.

João Félix was the third player to leave on a temporary basis, linking up with AC Milan, just six months after returning to the club on a permanent basis, with Conor Gallagher moving in the opposite direction.

However, the lack of investment may be a mistake, especially considering the performance of one player during the victory against their London rivals last night.

The player who proved why Chelsea had to spend in January

Maresca opted to start winger Jadon Sancho off the left wing during the win against the Hammers at Stamford Bridge, but the 24-year-old produced a performance to forget despite claiming all three points.

The Englishman was starting his second consecutive match after being recalled to the starting lineup against Manchester City last weekend but was unable to show why the Italian made the right call in sticking with him.

Sancho only featured for a total of 52 minutes during the victory, an indication of how little impact he made during his time on the pitch at the Bridge.

He was subsequently replaced by Neto, the man who netted the first goal, undoubtedly compounding the Englishman’s misery after failing to impress himself.

The attacker only managed a total of 20 touches, completing just eight passes in the process and losing possession seven times – looking wasteful with the ball at his feet upon the rare occasion it fell his way.

Sancho’s stats for Chelsea against West Ham

Statistics

Tally

Minutes played

52

Touches

20

Passes completed

8/10 (80%)

Possession lost

7x

Crosses completed

0/3 (0%)

Shots taken

2

Shots on target

0

Stats via SofaScore

Sancho also failed to find a teammate with any of his three attempted crosses, only registering two efforts on goal, but failed to direct any of his shots on target – looking as wasteful in front of goal as he did when finding a teammate.

As a result of his showing in the capital last night, he was handed a measly 5/10 match rating by journalist Bobby Vincent – further highlighting how little impact he had during the crucial win.

Given his display, the decision not to go after a new winger in the January window now looks to be a mistake, with the Blues potentially missing out by not strengthening Maresca’s options in that area.

They had been linked Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho and Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel but while the former stayed at Old Trafford, the latter headed on loan to Spurs.

If the Italian does want any more new attackers, he will have to wait until the opening of the summer transfer window, with their chances of securing automatic qualification for the Champions League potentially hanging in the balance.

Chelsea must axe "ridiculous" star who's worth millions more than Ferguson

Chelsea could reinvest the funds in Evan Ferguson

By
Joe Nuttall

Feb 2, 2025

Game
Register
Service
Bonus