Tottenham legend Harry Kane could well make a stunning return to Spurs next year, following news of a £54 million release clause in his Bayern Munich contract.

Thomas Frank opens door for Harry Kane to re-join Tottenham

Since bidding an emotional farewell to North London over two years ago, agreeing to join Bayern in an £86 million deal, the 32-year-old has spearheaded Vincent Kompany’s side to a Bundesliga title and German Super Cup, scoring 98 goals across all competitions in the process.

Kane is tantalisingly close to reaching a landmark 100 goals for Bayern, and could well do so against Werder Bremen this evening.

England and Tottenham’s all-time record goalscorer has been a revelation for the Germans, but with just under two years remaining on his contract, and Kane himself not getting any younger, the prospect of him leaving in 2026 is a real one.

Alan Shearer

260

Harry Kane

213

Wayne Rooney

208

Mohamed Salah

188

Andrew Cole

187

Sergio Agüero

184

Frank Lampard

177

Thierry Henry

175

Robbie Fowler

163

Jermain Defoe

156

Interested sides have the option of triggering his clause once it becomes active, potentially in January (BILD), but reports have since suggested that a summer move is far more likely.

Tottenham have ‘first refusal’ rights on any deal for Kane, putting them ahead of other suitors, but it is conditional on both Bayern and the centre-forward agreeing to the move (The Telegraph).

When asked about Kane’s release clause earlier this week, Spurs boss Thomas Frank made his thoughts crystal clear.

Tottenham are reportedly ready to move for Kane, if they are given encouragement that he’d be open to re-signing.

Taking this into account, a new update from journalist Ben Jacobs may come as some very good news for Frank’s side.

Harry Kane's stance on leaving Bayern Munich next summer

The reporter told GiveMeSport that Kane may consider an exit from Bayern after the 2026 World Cup, and if he is to go anywhere, then it is back to the Premier League.

Out of any English destination, Tottenham is surely the standout appeal to Kane. His history at the club and love for Spurs cannot be discounted, and the perfect way to sign off on what has been a glittering career would be to win silverware there.

Man City were once chasing Kane before they opted for Erling Haaland, and Pep Guardiola personally wanted him (Fabrizio Romano). However, the prospect of a move to Eastlands or Liverpool is now off the table, with the latter just completing a British-record deal for Alexander Isak.

Arsenal have just signed Viktor Gyokeres as well, and Chelsea are famed for targeting much younger players as part of their recruitment strategy.

Taking this into account, Spurs is really the only viable destination, and the prospect of a reunion is hugely exciting.

Kevin De Bruyne has undergone successful surgery in Antwerp after suffering a serious hamstring injury during Napoli’s clash against Inter last weekend. The Belgian midfielder, who was forced off just moments after scoring, is now expected to be sidelined for around four months, ruling him out for the rest of 2025 and leaving Napoli short in midfield depth.

De Bruyne’s hamstring blow confirmed after Inter clash

Napoli have confirmed that Belgian superstar De Bruyne underwent surgery on his right hamstring in Antwerp following the injury he sustained during the 3-1 victory over Inter. The Belgian was forced off midway through the first half, moments after opening the scoring from the penalty spot.

Scans later revealed a “high-grade lesion to the biceps femoris muscle” in his right thigh, the same area that had troubled him during his Manchester City days. The 34-year-old was immediately flown to Belgium for further evaluation and, as per Napoli’s official statement, “the operation was a complete success.”

“Everything went well, brilliantly in fact,” said De Bruyne’s trusted physiotherapist Lieven Maesschalck, confirming that the player will begin the first phase of rehabilitation at the ‘Move to Cure’ facility in Antwerp, the same centre used by several top Belgian internationals.

The midfielder, who joined Napoli this summer after leaving Manchester City on a free transfer, is now expected to miss at least four months of action, effectively ruling him out until early 2026.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesDe Bruyne’s recurring hamstring troubles return

This marks the second major hamstring operation of De Bruyne’s career. In August 2023, he underwent a similar procedure after suffering a severe tear in his right leg. However, doctors have clarified that this latest injury is “not in the same location,” which could slightly reduce the overall recovery timeline.

Napoli’s medical staff, together with head coach Antonio Conte and the player himself, agreed on surgery after initial conservative treatment options were ruled out. Conte was reportedly adamant about prioritising De Bruyne’s long-term recovery over a rushed return, given Napoli’s intense winter fixture list and the player’s importance to the squad.

For De Bruyne, the setback is particularly painful after an encouraging start to life in Italy. He had scored four goals in eight Serie A appearances and was quickly establishing himself as the creative fulcrum of Conte’s midfield.

Napoli’s midfield depth

This latest injury comes at a time when Napoli are already battling a growing list of absentees. Stanislav Lobotka, Amir Rrahmani and Romelu Lukaku are also sidelined, leaving boss Conte with limited midfield options. The club may now need to rely heavily on Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa in the coming months, with youth prospects expected to feature more prominently in Serie A fixtures.

For De Bruyne personally, the timing is unfortunate but not disastrous, as his recovery timeline aligns with the run-up to the 2026 World Cup, meaning he should be fit and match-ready for Belgium’s campaign in North America if all goes to plan.

Meanwhile, Napoli echoed that optimism in their official statement: “As planned, Kevin De Bruyne underwent surgery today in Antwerp following a high-grade injury to his right thigh biceps femoris muscle. The operation was a complete success. De Bruyne will continue the first phase of his post-surgical rehabilitation in Belgium.”

The club, however, stopped short of providing a specific return date. Internally, staff expect the midfielder to return to full training by February, depending on how quickly he responds to physiotherapy.

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AFPConte forced into tactical reshuffle ahead of crucial months

Napoli return to Serie A action this weekend when they host seventh-placed Como, but De Bruyne’s absence will force Conte into an early tactical rethink. The club’s medical department will continue to monitor De Bruyne’s progress remotely, with Napoli planning to send physiotherapists to Belgium for weekly check-ins. A gradual return is expected, starting with light ball work by January before reintegration into team training the following month.

With Napoli still leading Serie A with 21 points, maintaining their form without their marquee summer signing will be crucial. For De Bruyne, the focus now turns to recovery, and ensuring his comeback strengthens both his club’s title push and Belgium’s World Cup preparations.

Paris Saint-Germain’s 1-1 draw with Lorient on Wednesday evening was overshadowed by a devastating sight as Desire Doue had to be stretchered off the pitch in tears. The 20-year-old appeared to suffer a serious right thigh injury just after the hour mark, which has caused significant concern in the PSG camp as he is one of the key players in Luis Enrique's setup.

• PSG’s night turns sour as Doue collapses in agony

  It was supposed to be another routine night for the French champions after their commanding 3-0 win over Brest last weekend. Doue had been in dazzling form, scoring in back-to-back games and looking every inch the superstar PSG fans had been waiting for. The first half offered little drama, with chances at a premium at both ends. Joel Mvuka tested Lucas Chevalier in the PSG goal, while Yvon Mvogo denied Nuno Mendes and Ibrahim Mbaye at the other end. 

  The best of the match was saved for the second half. Just four minutes after the restart, PSG struck first. Doue whipped in a precise cross from the right, which was met by Mendes’ header. Although Mvogo initially saved it, the Portuguese full-back slammed in the rebound. But their joy was short-lived. Barely two minutes later, Arsene Kouassi’s cross caused chaos in PSG’s box, with Chevalier unable to fully clear his lines. The rebound fell kindly to Igor Silva, who made no mistake to equalise. Then came the nightmare moment. Around the 60th minute, Doue went down clutching his hamstring and collapsing in agony. The young Frenchman pounded the turf in frustration as tears streamed down his face. PSG’s medical team rushed to his aid, but the injury was serious and he had to leave the pitch on a stretcher.

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• (C)Getty Images
  

  Leaving on crutches spark fears of a long layoff

  According to reports, Doue was seen leaving the Stade du Moustoir on crutches. It’s a gut-wrenching blow for a player who had only just returned from a calf injury suffered while on international duty with France in September. His manager, Luis Enrique, cut a sombre figure after the match.

  "It's always bad news when there are injuries," said the PSG boss. "It's a strange injury; I don't know exactly his condition. I hope it's not a serious injury."

  Doue’s rise over the past year has been nothing short of spectacular. Last season, the gifted winger scored 16 goals and registered 16 assists across 61 matches, playing a pivotal role in PSG’s historic treble when they clinched the Ligue 1 title, French Cup, and most importantly, the club’s first-ever Champions League trophy. He was unstoppable in the European final against Inter, scoring twice and providing an assist in a man-of-the-match display. After a promising start to this campaign, Doue seemed to be hitting top gear once again. Just last week, he scored two stunning goals in PSG’s 7-2 thrashing of Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, followed by another in the 3-0 win at Brest over the weekend. Everything was going in the right direction until Wednesday night’s cruel twist of fate.

• Another injury crisis for PSG

  This latest setback compounds PSG’s mounting injury concerns. Fellow French international Ousmane Dembele, fresh off his Ballon d’Or win, only recently returned from a hamstring injury himself, having been sidelined for several weeks. With Doue now facing an uncertain recovery timeline, Luis Enrique’s squad depth will once again be tested. It is believed that Doue could be facing another lengthy spell on the sidelines, potentially ruling him out of PSG’s next Ligue 1 clash against OGC Nice and their blockbuster Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich. Fortunately, the Parisians have a wealth of attacking options to call upon, with the mercurial Khvicha Kvaratskhelia likely to step into the left-wing role. 

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• AFP
  

  PSG’s title race still alive

  Despite the disappointment of dropping points against Lorient, PSG’s position at the top of Ligue 1 remains secure, thanks to a favourable result elsewhere. Marseille squandered the chance to go top, conceding a stoppage-time equaliser in a chaotic 2-2 draw with Angers. Teenage sensation Robinio Vaz had scored twice to give Marseille the lead, but Ousmane Camara’s 96th-minute strike stunned the Velodrome and allowed PSG to stay ahead in the standings. Meanwhile, Monaco leapfrogged Marseille into second after a wild 5-3 win at Nantes. For now, PSG breathe a sigh of relief, but the real test will come in Europe, where Bayern Munich await on November 4.

كشف الإيطالي كارلو أنشيلوتي مدرب منتخب البرازيل عن كلماته للبرازيلي فينيسيوس جونيور مهاجم ريال مدريد، بشأن واقعة الكلاسيكو مع المدير الفني تشابي ألونسو، ورد الأخير على ذلك.

واستبدل تشابي لاعبه فينيسيوس خلال مباراة ريال مدريد وبرشلونة بكلاسيكو الدوري الإسباني، قبل 20 دقيقة من نهاية اللقاء، وانفعل البرازيلي على مدربه.

وتحدث أنشيلوتي خلال مؤتمر صحفي اليوم، ونشرت صحيفة “ماركا” الإسبانية تصريحاته، والتي أعقبت إعلانه عن قائمة منتخب البرازيل للمواجهات الودية أمام السنغال وتونس بفترة التوقف الدولي لنوفمبر الجاري.

وقال أنشيلوتي: “لدينا علاقة جيدة جدًا مع فينيسيوس، كما هو الحال مع جميع اللاعبين، عندما يحدث أمر ما، نُبقي بعضنا البعض على اطلاع ونطلب النصيحة”.

اقرأ أيضًا | تشابي ألونسو: غيرت تاريخ ليفربول في لحظة.. وقصة أرنولد تختلف عني

وأضاف: “تحدثنا مع فينيسيوس عن رد فعله، أخبرته برأيي، أنه أخطأ، وقد تفهم الخطأ وأعتقد أنه اعتذر، تم حل المسألة”.

وأكد: “فينيسيوس لاعبٌ مهمٌّ للغاية بالنسبة لنا، لاعب قادر على الإسهام بشكلٍ كبير، ونحن نُقدّره كثيرًا، لا أعتقد أن هناك أي مشكلةٍ هنا، لا مع ناديه ولا مع مُدربه، أما بالنسبة لحياته الشخصية، أنا لست والده أو شقيقه، أريد فقط أن أكون مدربه، حياته الشخصية هي شأنه الخاص”.

وحول كلمات أنشيلوتي عن فينيسيوس، رد تشابي في تصريحات نشرتها صحيفة “آس” الإسبانية: “بالنسبة لي، كان من المهم أن نتحدث عن الأمر يوم الجمعة، وقد حُسم الأمر، هذه الأمور واردة، ولا نريد أن تتكرر، لقد حُسم الأمر”.

MatériaMais Notícias

O  Botafogo tem oficialmente mais um representante na disputa dos Jogos Pan-Americanos. Nesta quinta-feira (28), o Uruguai confirmou a convocação do meia Diego Hernández.

RelacionadasBotafogoEx-treinador do Botafogo revela conselho para Lucas Perri aceitar proposta do GloriosoBotafogo28/09/2023BotafogoBotafogo tende a ter novidade no setor ofensivo para o próximo confronto no BrasileirãoBotafogo28/09/2023

O atleta está na lista de 18 nomes que representarão a equipe celeste na competição. Curiosamente, o jovem é o único representante que atua no Brasil.

+ Garanta a sua vaga no curso que formou craques como Pet, Dante e Léo Moura! Cupom: LANCE1000

O Alvinegro decidiu liberá-lo pois vê na competição uma chance de dar rodagem a Hernández. O meia foi designado por Bruno Lage para entrar em campo em quatro partidas, mas recentemente não é relacionado.

A seleção uruguaia se apresenta no dia 9 de outubro. Com isso, o meia deve desfalcar o Glorioso por até seis rodadas do Brasileiro.

Both teams are looking to shake off a lean run in red-ball cricket as the 2025-27 cycle of the World Test Championship gets underway

Mohammad Isam16-Jun-2025Big picture: Galle set for spin-heavy scrapEven before South Africa could fire up the final celebratory after their triumph at Lord’s, the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for 2025-27 is set to begin some 9,000 km away in Galle. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, both looking to snap out of extended Test slumps, will kick off the new cycle, however, the looming threat of rain could dictate terms over the next five days.Sri Lanka return to red-ball cricket four months after a 2-0 home defeat to Australia, also in Galle. Bangladesh, meanwhile, have managed just two international wins since the start of the year and are visibly short on confidence. Despite fielding a squad with six uncapped players, Sri Lanka will believe this is an opportunity to get back on track, especially against a side that’s just as brittle.This series also marks the end of an era. Angelo Mathews will retire from Test cricket after this series, following in the footsteps of Dimuth Karunaratne, who bowed out after the Australia series earlier this year. Sri Lanka’s top order collapsed in that series, despite being one of the most productive Test batting units in 2024. Kamindu Mendis, one of their mainstays last year, has crossed fifty just once since January. To cover their bases, the selectors have brought in four uncapped batters – Lahiru Udara, Sonal Dinusha, Pavan Rathnayake, and Pasindu Sooriyabandara – all of whom have shown promise in domestic cricket and for Sri Lanka A.Prabath Jayasuriya was the third-highest wicket-taker among spinners in the last WTC cycle•AFP/Getty ImagesIn the spin department, Tharindu Rathnayake, the ambidextrous spinner with 337 first-class wickets, has earned a call-up, as has Akila Dananjaya, who could feature in a Test for the first time since 2019. Their main task will be to support Prabath Jayasuriya, who has carried Sri Lanka’s spin attack almost single-handedly in the past year. The fast-bowling department looks steadier, with allrounder Isitha Wijesundara and Kasun Rajitha in the running to make the XI.For Bangladesh, the concerns run just as deep. After splitting a Test series against Zimbabwe in April, their top-order remains erratic. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has just two half-centuries in his last ten Tests, while Mushfiqur Rahim hasn’t passed fifty in his last 13 innings. Though Shadman Islam and Anamul Haque shared a century stand against Zimbabwe, neither has delivered consistently. With no reserve openers in the squad, Shanto may be pushed to open if needed. Mominul Haque has struggled to convert starts, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz – despite his issues with the short ball – remains their leading run-scorer in recent Tests.Related

'It's quite sad'- Mathews calls for more Tests for Sri Lanka

Shanto eyes 'lots of runs in first two or three days' in Galle

Dhananjaya de Silva: SL missed 'big chance' to make WTC final

Storm, steel and silverware: how Angie and SL took over the world in 2014

Could Jaker Ali be Bangladesh's secret sauce?

Spin will be central to Bangladesh’s hopes in Galle, with Mehidy and Taijul Islam leading the charge. They’re backed up by Nayeem Hasan and uncapped left-arm spinner Hasan Murad. Ebadot Hossain returns to the squad for the first time in two years, while Hasan Mahmud and Nahid Rana offer pace options to complement an attack picked for the spin-friendly conditions.Sri Lanka-Bangladesh Tests have often lacked drama, with one side dominating. But with both teams rebuilding and their batting misfiring in 2024, this one might be more competitive. In the end, as always in Galle, it may just come down to which spin attack holds up better.Form guideSri Lanka: LLLLW (last five Tests, most recent first)
Bangladesh: WLWLLIn the spotlight: Dinesh Chandimal and Mehidy Hasan MirazDinesh Chandimal was excellent in 2024. He hit two fifties against Australia in February, followed by solid returns in domestic first-class cricket and a brief PSL stint last month. Batting at his new position at No. 3, Chandimal remains a key threat. He averages 67.06 in 12 Tests against Bangladesh, with five centuries.Mehidy Hasan Miraz was Bangladesh’s standout performer in the Zimbabwe series, scoring a century and taking five wickets in their Chattogram win, after a ten-wicket haul in the Sylhet Test. One of Bangladesh’s few consistent players over the past two years, he has grown into the allrounder’s role in Shakib Al Hasan’s absence. In Sri Lanka, he’ll shoulder added responsibility with the ball in spin-friendly conditions.Mehidy will shoulder the allrounder’s responsibility, but will he be match-fit?•AFP/Getty ImagesTeam news: Three spinners for Bangladesh?Sri Lanka have to make four changes from the side that played against Australia in February. Karunaratne has retired, Lahiru Kumara is injured while they have dropped Ramesh Mendis and Nishan Peiris. There could be a debut for Udara, while Milan Rathnayake and Dananjaya could form a two-spin, two-pace attack.Sri Lanka (likely): 1 Pathum Nissanka, 2 Lahiru Udara, 3 Dinesh Chandimal, 4 Angelo Mathews, 5 Kamindu Mendis, 6 Dhananjaya de Silva (capt), 7 Kusal Mendis (wk), 8 Milan Rathnayake, 9 Prabath Jayasuriya, 10 Akila Dananjaya, 11 Asitha FernandoBangladesh are unlikely to fiddle with their top and middle order positions. They could tinker with their bowling attack by including three spinners, which will leave them with just one pace bowling option. There’s a slight concern around Mehidy, though, since he was reported to have a fever.Bangladesh (likely): 1 Shadman Islam, 2 Anamul Haque, 3 Mominul Haque, 4 Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), 5 Mushfiqur Rahim, 6 Jaker Ali (wk), 7 Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 8 Nayeem Hasan, 9 Taijul Islam, 10 Hasan Murad, 11 Hasan MahmudPitch and conditions: Rain threat loomsSpinners consumed wickets in Galle, where both the Sri Lanka-Australia Tests were played earlier this year. But in between that there have also been two 600-plus first-innings totals over the last nine months. Pitches are likely to be conducive to slow bowling in this Test too. There’s rain forecast on all five days in Galle.Stats and trivia: Galle and spin Bangladesh have now played 21 successive Tests without a draw, equaling their longest run from 2001 to 2004. Their last drawn Test in this cycle was against Sri Lanka three years ago. Galle’s reputation for being a spin haven can be expressed in numbers too. Spinners have taken 373 wickets at Galle, the most at any venue since 2020. A wicket falls to spinners roughly once every ten overs at this venue. Awaiting their Test debuts, Tharindu Ratnayake has 337 first-class wickets while Lahiru Udara has 16 centuries in first-class cricket.Quotes”The best thing we can do for Angelo is win the match for him and give him a good farewell. Unfortunately we couldn’t do that for Dimuth. Personally I’m hoping we can do it for Angelo.”

Charli Knott helps add hefty total before Adams four-for seals emphatic 42-run win

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay12-Jun-2025

Ella McCaughan celebrates her century•Getty Images

Ella McCaughan became the first women to make a Vitality Blast T20 hundred as Hampshire completed a double over Essex with a 42-run victory at Chelmsford.The tournament’s leading run scorer plundered 106 in 60 balls complete with 16 fours as she passed 1000 runs in the format.It was a day for records to tumble, McCaughan sharing a stand of 173 for the second wicket with Charli Knott (72 not out from 55), the highest for any wicket in the competition, as the visitors reached 195 for 2. The hosts were left to rue dropping McCaughan on 4, while Knott was missed on both nine and 49 on a poor day for the hosts in the field.Lissy McLeod (30) and Scrivens (29) flourished briefly in reply, but Hawks skipper Georgia Adams’ 4 for 26 made sure the hosts came up well short, despite some late aggression from Sophia Smale (24 from 16).Essex conceded 215 to the Hawks in the reverse fixture at the Utilita on a day when Maia Bouchier made 92, so they were delighted to get the England opener early, a leading edge ballooning to mid-on.By then though Lauren Winfield-Hill had dropped MCaughan off an outside edge and the experienced wicketkeeper then gave Knott a life, missing a routine stumping.Both batters were quick to cash in on their reprieves. McCaughan was destined to pass 50 for the fourth time in five innings, proving all-but impossible to bowl at. Anything pitched up was hit back over the bowler’s head, while anything short was pulled or cut square as the boundary rope was peppered with regularity.Knott soon joined in the revelry, hitting several classic cover drives, her fifty coming in 39 balls, just five slower than McCaughan’s 34, though she should have departed for 49, Cordelia Griffiths failing to get hands on her sweep to backward square.By the time McCaughan holed out at deep mid-off in the last over off skipper Grace Scrivens (2-32) Hampshire were in touching distance of 200.Scrivens employed the scoop and drive to launch the host’s reply and with Winfield-Hill putting her tardy glovework aside to provide support they reached 46-0 by the end of the powerplay.Daisy Gibb though made the breakthrough in the next over, Winfield- Hill lobbing a gentle catch to Knott at cover and Scrivens followed soon afterwards, spooning one from Mary Taylor to backward point.Lissy McLeod took up the baton hitting successive fours off Gibb, but Griffiths holed out at deep mid-off as the rate required rose.Big-hitting Madeline Penna was harshly judged lbw to a Taylor full toss and Macleod’s departure courtesy of Freya Davies’s direct hit was effectively the death-knell for Essex.

There was a time not long ago when seeing a Newcastle United player in an England shirt felt like a rarity.

Yet on Tuesday night, as Anthony Gordon completed 90 minutes against Wales, fans on Tyneside had reason to smile.

For a club once seen as an outsider to international recognition, Newcastle’s growing representation in the England setup marks a remarkable transformation.

Now, barring injuries, almost half a dozen Newcastle players could find themselves in the national fold.

Dan Burn appears to have established himself as England’s third-choice centre-back behind Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi, while the likes of Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall are widely expected to receive future call-ups once they recover from their respective injuries.

Yet for all the current excitement, there’s one player Newcastle fans are forced to admire from afar.

A midfielder who came through their academy, left reluctantly, and is now flourishing in the England squad.

Anderson’s successes with England

Elliot Anderson’s story is one that continues to sting for many Newcastle supporters.

The 22-year-old, born in the Northeast and developed through the club’s academy, was sold to Nottingham Forest last summer as part of Newcastle’s desperate effort to stay within the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules.

The deal, which saw goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos move the other way, was described at the time as purely financial – neither the player nor the club wanted to part ways.

Since moving to Forest, Anderson has blossomed into one of the Premier League’s most complete young midfielders.

Last season, he made 37 league appearances, scoring two goals and registering six assists.

Minutes Played

2,728

Goals

2

Assists

6

Progressive Carries

52

Progressive Passes

143

His mix of energy and tactical awareness quickly made him one of Thomas Tuchel’s most reliable players.

His rise has continued on the international stage.

After switching allegiances from Scotland to England, Anderson has earned three senior caps, picking up two man-of-the-match awards in his first two games.

In England’s recent 1–0 win over Wales, he played 69 minutes before being replaced by Jordan Henderson, completing 77 passes (an impressive 96% accuracy) from 92 touches.

He also produced two key passes, won four of six ground duels, and made one interception.

Tuchel’s use of Anderson as Rice’s midfield partner for Declan Rice has proven to be a masterstroke.

The former Newcastle man’s ability to retain possession, play progressively, and read danger makes him an ideal modern central midfielder.

He thrives in tight spaces, dictates rhythm, and has a sharpness that’s elevated both Forest and England’s midfield balance.

For Newcastle, it’s hard not to imagine how Anderson might have looked alongside Bruno Guimarães or Sandro Tonali at St James’ Park.

But while they lost a gem in the short term, the club might just have the next one already developing in their ranks.

The England player of the future at Newcastle

At just 19 years old, Lewis Miley is being tipped as Newcastle’s next homegrown star.

Standing at 1.89m with a market value already approaching £20m, as per Transfermarkt, the central midfielder combines intelligence, technique, and maturity well beyond his years.

Last season, Miley made 14 Premier League appearances, scoring once, and has now featured 49 times across all competitions for Newcastle, including in the Champions League.

His calmness in possession and range of passing have drawn comparisons to some of England’s finest midfielders. BBC Sport’s Pat Nevin has gone as far as to describe him as “the next young English superstar.”

Despite his age, Miley already plays with the control of a seasoned professional.

He averages 48 completed passes per 90 minutes with an 88% pass accuracy, ranking among the best in his age group.

His defensive contribution is equally strong – 4.00 tackles per 90 and 1.43 blocks per 90 show a midfielder unafraid to do the dirty work.

Statistically, he even matches up well against Anderson.

While Anderson edges him in attacking metrics – 4.72 progressive passes, 1.72 progressive carries, and 2.87 shot-creating actions per 90 – Miley’s efficiency and composure are exceptional for a teenager.

His higher passing accuracy and greater defensive output underline why Eddie Howe sees him as central to Newcastle’s long-term plans.

There have been signs of growing pains this season, as he’s occasionally struggled to influence matches from deep.

Yet Howe and senior teammates like Joelinton have been quick to defend him, pointing to the experience he’s gaining as invaluable for his development.

A summer loan to Crystal Palace or Ipswich was considered but ultimately rejected.

Miley’s ability to combine tidy passing with defensive resilience makes him the archetype of the modern English midfielder.

Like Anderson, he’s comfortable playing between the lines, but he offers more control and balance in possession – something England’s midfield may need in the years to come.

For Howe, the lesson is clear: when you nurture talent properly, the next generation might already be waiting in your own backyard.

Not Gordon: Newcastle's "world-class" star will be PIF's next £100m sale

Newcastle have developed organically several elite-level Premier League players.

ByAngus Sinclair Oct 10, 2025

For the second successive game in the Premier League, Chelsea have been defeated. After last week’s defeat against Manchester United, Enzo Maresca’s side lost 3-1 at Stamford Bridge to South Coast outfit Brighton and Hove Albion.

The first half went the way of the home side. After plenty of early pressure, the Blues finally found the back of the net. Enzo Fernandes was the man to break the deadlock, firing his side into the lead with a header from inside the six-yard box.

However, things started to go wrong for Chelsea in the second half. Just eight minutes into the second 45 minutes, Trevoh Chalobah saw red. He was sent off for the denial of a goalscoring opportunity after he brought down Brighton attacker Diego Gomez.

Down to ten men for the second time in as many games in the top flight, the Blues needed to try and hold onto their lead. Unfortunately for Maresca’s side, they failed to do that. It was Danny Welbeck who equalised, also scoring a header from close range.

Maxim De Cuyper fired the Seagulls ahead in the 2nd minute of stoppage time, yet again heading home from inside the six-yard box. To cap it off, Welbeck slotted home from close range in the 100th minute.

It was a calamitous collapse from the Blues, with Chalobah one of the men who put in a disappointing performance.

Why Chalobah was one of Chelsea's worst performers

Normally one of Chelsea’s most consistent players, it was a day to forget for centre-back Chalobah. The England international made a costly mistake, which led to his side being reduced to ten men once again.

In terms of the foul, it was not great defending from Chalobah. The Cobham academy graduate brought down Gomez on the edge of the penalty box, which, after a review by the VAR officials, was deemed to be a denial of a clear goalscoring opportunity.

What is most frustrating is the fact that the centre-back had played well up until his sending off. Chalobah had once again shown great quality on the ball and had a 92% passing accuracy, completing 36 out of 39 attempted passes.

Yet, the red card put his side in trouble. Football London journalist Bobby Vincent gave the defender a 3/10 rating for his efforts, and admitted that it was a ‘clear foul’ by the Blues number 23.

However, the defender is not solely to blame for the defeat. There was another Chelsea player who performed below the level you might expect.

The Chelsea player who was as bad as Chalobah

Overall, Chelsea’s afternoon at Stamford Bridge was one to forget. Despite the control they had in the first half, largely thanks to Fernandez’s header, the Blues let things slip, and, from the 53rd minute, always had an uphill battle to hold onto their lead.

Well, another player who struggled against the Seagulls was 21-year-old Brazil international Andrey Santos. The former Strasbourg loanee was making his first start in the Premier League, but played a part in the red card.

Unfortunately, it was Santos’ poor pass back to Chalobah, which meant the England star was chasing Gomez back towards his own goal. Santos, under pressure, looked to play the ball back in the direction of goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, but misplaced it and put Gomez in on goal, putting Chalobah in a position where he could only foul the attacker.

Like the Chelsea number 23, it was not the worst performance overall from the Brazilian wonderkid. He completed 94% of his passes, created one chance, and won 100% of both his duels and tackles.

Santos key stats vs. Brighton
Stat	Number
Touches	22
Pass accuracy	94%
Passes completed	16/17
Ground duels won	2/2
Tackles won	2/2
Number of times ball lost	2
Key passes	1
Stats from Sofascore

Vincent highlighted that good performance early on from Santos. Although he gave him a rating of 4/10 for his efforts, he said he “played well in the first half”, but did point out the “costly mistake” he made for the red card.

That moment showed his inexperience and perhaps suggests he is not ready to start in the top flight. There is no doubt that Santos is a wonderful talent, but perhaps the intensity of the Premier League got to him. Over time, he will surely become a key player at Stamford Bridge, but that may not be just yet.

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Jack Salveson Holmes

Sep 26, 2025

Liverpool's record signing Alexander Isak has been called out by a club legend, with the struggling striker told that he's doing a lot of 'huffing and puffing' but not making himself 'a menace' for the Reds. The Premier League champions signed Isak for a British record fee of £125 million ($169.3m) from Newcastle United in the summer but the Swedish forward is struggling for form at Anfield.

£125m striker yet to justify massive price tag

Isak was the standout performer for Newcastle during his previous three seasons in the Premier League, as he consistently scored for the Magpies and even helped win a historic Carabao Cup last year, scoring as they beat Liverpool in the final. The forward also helped the club finish fifth in the table, which secured them a place in the Champions League this year.

The 26-year-old arrived at Anfield in a grand manner on deadline day, but his first few months at Liverpool have proven turbulent. On Merseyside, the striker has scored just one goal in eight appearances across all competitions and he recently also suffered an injury setback, which ruled him out of the club's latest Premier League clash against Brentford. Isak's dip in form has also affected the Reds' performances, with Arne Slot's side now on a four-game losing streak in the English top-flight.

AdvertisementGettyHeskey voices concern over Isak

Former England Liverpool forward Emile Heskey shared his opinion on the club's record signing, as he told : "The thing for me is when you are not scoring goals, you need to still contribute to games. We've seen ups and downs with Mo Salah, who has scored so many goals. But when he does not score, he will want to be contributing more. My view was, the fundamental thing you can do is work hard, run around, and frustrate defenders. The defence starts at the front. I was told this at Leicester, I was told this at Liverpool, because they had the best defender who played up front – Ian Rush. And he was just a menace to defenders. Fundamentally, you have to get that right, and everything else will follow."

Heskey added: "It looks like his fitness is not quite where it should be. It looks like he’s huffing and puffing a bit, so he just needs to get his fitness up a bit to put in the graft that is needed at the highest level. It’s fascinating because at the highest level, you believe you get more time on the ball so you need to do less work. But in fact, you have to do more work. When I was playing, Cesc Fabregas was the one who did the most running. Now, Arsenal were having  60-70% of the ball, so why was he doing the most running? Because he wanted it more than the others."

'Work even harder'

Heskey also shared some valuable suggestions for Isak, as he added: "The only way to get that match fitness back is in training, and obviously when thrown into games, work even harder. I saw Andy Robertson talking about them needing to work harder to get the best out of themselves. They’re great players. They’ve shown it time and time again. It’s there, they need to unlock it by working harder."

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AFPThree home games in a row for Liverpool

Slot will hope that his side recover from this setback and work on their shortcomings to regain their form from the start of the season, where they won seven matches in a row. A series of home matches against Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, Aston Villa in the Premier League and Real Madrid in the Champions League provides the Reds with the ideal opportunity to get back to winning ways.

On Wednesday, Slot's men host Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup and the Merseysiders aim to seek revenge after going down twice already against the Eagles in the 2025-26 campaign.